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Leanin' N #1
Commitment Ranch
Not everyone gets a second chance at love.Ford Nixel has two law offices, two fancy condominiums, and all the right connections. He definitely thinks he has everything he wants.The last thing he needs is his Uncle Ty’s stake in the Leanin' N, a ranch that’s been in the family for generations. Ford hasn’t even been to the ranch in over a decade, not since he left his boyfriend Stoney behind and headed back to college alone.Ford arrives at the Leaning N to find Stoney, now a single father, right where he left him. A fist fight, a snowstorm, and a stolen kiss in the barn later, and Ford knows none of the heat between them has dissipated, but can they make their second chance work?This is a second edition. The publisher has changed.
246 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2016
184 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
381 books629 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 27, 2016
For the first half of the book, I wasn’t a fan of either Ford or Stoney. Both were very immature, making each others’ lives, and their own, miserable. It was miscommunication galore.
But things improved considerably in the second half, and I ended up genuinely enjoying the book. The big reveal about what actually happened when Stoney and Ford broke up went a long way in making up for the drama! The reveal wasn’t OTT, but it kept with the Dreamspun Desires harlequin themes.
I may not have been so happy with how Stoney acted around Ford, but I was definitely swooning over how Stoney took such good care of Quartz, his nine-year-old son. It made some of his actions understandable, given that his first priority is providing for Quartz.
On the other hand, it took me well into the book to warm up to Ford. He did a pretty good job maintaining his persona of the cold and detached lawyer. It takes him a while, but Ford does eventually start letting his guard down.
I liked seeing how it was Stoney who brought Ford out of his self-constructed shell. The two MCs may have been at each other’s throats for most of the first half, but it became pretty clear that they still cared for one another. Once I got to see them without all the anger and hurt, I could easily understand why Ford and Stoney belonged together.
Steam-wise, this is a very tame book. I was a tad let-down, because this author usually delivers in the smexin’ department, and because the sexual tension between the MCs was killer.
I very much enjoyed ranch setting. The secondary characters who call the ranch home all added to the story, and provided some comedic relief. Plus, I’m a sucker for a countryside winter!
Overall, I liked ‘Commitment Ranch’. The beginning was rough, but it steadily got better. If you’re looking for a book with a lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers trope, give this book a try.
But things improved considerably in the second half, and I ended up genuinely enjoying the book. The big reveal about what actually happened when Stoney and Ford broke up went a long way in making up for the drama! The reveal wasn’t OTT, but it kept with the Dreamspun Desires harlequin themes.
I may not have been so happy with how Stoney acted around Ford, but I was definitely swooning over how Stoney took such good care of Quartz, his nine-year-old son. It made some of his actions understandable, given that his first priority is providing for Quartz.
On the other hand, it took me well into the book to warm up to Ford. He did a pretty good job maintaining his persona of the cold and detached lawyer. It takes him a while, but Ford does eventually start letting his guard down.
I liked seeing how it was Stoney who brought Ford out of his self-constructed shell. The two MCs may have been at each other’s throats for most of the first half, but it became pretty clear that they still cared for one another. Once I got to see them without all the anger and hurt, I could easily understand why Ford and Stoney belonged together.
Steam-wise, this is a very tame book. I was a tad let-down, because this author usually delivers in the smexin’ department, and because the sexual tension between the MCs was killer.
I very much enjoyed ranch setting. The secondary characters who call the ranch home all added to the story, and provided some comedic relief. Plus, I’m a sucker for a countryside winter!
Overall, I liked ‘Commitment Ranch’. The beginning was rough, but it steadily got better. If you’re looking for a book with a lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers trope, give this book a try.
June 30, 2020
Old friends get a second chance in romance and business !
The Lean’N Ranch is Uncle Ty’s and Stoney’s,
who has a 9 yr. old son, Quartz.
Ford and Stoney were lovers before college, but then Ford left to become a lawyer. Now, 10 years later, Ford
is summoned home by his uncle.
Uncle Ty is ill and a deal is struck to have Ford run the ranch with Stoney, but Stoney and Ford haven’t straightened out their issues. Now, they will have to.
Quartz is a great kid, Stoney is a big, hunky, true cowboy, Ford needs to go back to his law office, and big change is coming.
There are misunderstandings, humor, affection renewed, which leads to sexy times, and terrific characters all throughout, with a fascinating story being told.
I’m looking forward to the next (2nd) story in the series.
Enjoy !
=====
The Lean’N Ranch is Uncle Ty’s and Stoney’s,
who has a 9 yr. old son, Quartz.
Ford and Stoney were lovers before college, but then Ford left to become a lawyer. Now, 10 years later, Ford
is summoned home by his uncle.
Uncle Ty is ill and a deal is struck to have Ford run the ranch with Stoney, but Stoney and Ford haven’t straightened out their issues. Now, they will have to.
Quartz is a great kid, Stoney is a big, hunky, true cowboy, Ford needs to go back to his law office, and big change is coming.
There are misunderstandings, humor, affection renewed, which leads to sexy times, and terrific characters all throughout, with a fascinating story being told.
I’m looking forward to the next (2nd) story in the series.
Enjoy !
=====
September 18, 2016
3.25 stars
This one just didn't come together for me.
This one just didn't come together for me.
November 14, 2016
Maybe I should have just read the book...
I have to admit for me the book was probably a 4 star read but the audio version just didn't quite work as well this time around.
Ok so what I liked about the story. It was a second chance story and I'm pretty much a sucker for them. It was B.A. Tortuga and I like her stories. Her characters are real and down to earth and often times damaged and have an inner strength that just refuses to quit. I liked Ford...probably a little bit more than Stoney which was unusual for me because normally Stoney would be the one I'd be rooting for, but for most of the book I just felt like Stoney was being a idiot.
Years earlier in college Stoney and Ford were a couple. They went back to Ford's home on the Leaning N for spring break and for reasons that neither of them truly understood fully, Ford returned to school and Stoney stayed at the Leaning N. The next thing that Ford knew Stoney apparently had a son with his cousin Brit who died shortly afterwards in a river accident. Now Ford's Uncle Ty is calling him out of the blue and telling him to come home and Ford does. He's a successful lawyer with a law practice that he loves but Uncle Ty's family and if he needs him, Ford will go. I have to admit right about now is where I'd love to go into why I was less enamored with Stoney but I truthfully can't do that without giving out pertinent plot details so I'm just going to move on to other things at this time.
There were several secondary characters but the one that I really liked was Geoff the cook. He was a character with the potential for a really good story of his own. Then there was Andy the interior decorator this character was so stero-typed it might have made me roll my eyes a time or two...seriously flamingly gay, effeminate interior decorator...I kid you not..but still he was just enough over the top to pique my interest and make me feel like more of him could be fun.
The last two characters that I want to touch on are Uncle Ty...shame, just shame on you because truthfully you were a big contributor to the problems between Ford and Stoney and I have yet to see or understand why it was necessary. So no in a nutshell I did not like Uncle Ty. He wasn't a bad man but I feel like he owed explanations that he didn't seem to have or want to give...so he stays on my sh!t list.
Last of all is Quartz? Really? You named the kid after a rock? No, sorry I just don't get stuff like this and that's all I'm saying about that because more importantly and I think this goes more to the audio portion of the book. Quartz irritated the hell out of me. I did not like this kid...specifically I didn't like his voice.
Don't get me wrong. I like John Solo and I stand by that. I like the voices he used for Stoney, Ford, Uncle Ty, Miranda, Andy and even Geoff (although between you and me, I'm pretty sure Geoff was stoned for most of the story...just sayin') and the fact that he can keep the voices straight and Stoney never sounds like Uncle Ty who never sounded like Miranda just impresses the hell out of me. Even minor characters who maybe only have a line or two in the whole book don't sound like anyone else. But I just could not warm up to Quartz and it was very much due to the voice. I found his voice to be whiny and I'm sorry, whiny voices grate on my nerves.
I also have to admit this is the second book that I've read with a kid in it that I ended up not being enamored of and I love kids...I really do, guys, I'm really thinking I might be broken here. I either have to find me a book kid to love or avoid them at all cost for awhile, I'm just not sure which.
Ok so in summary 4 stars for the story, 3 stars for the audio book because of the whiny kid (I'm so sorry Mr. Solo, I truly tried but I just couldn't like this kid). So at the end of the day it's 3.5 stars for the audio book.
********************
An Audio ARC of "Commitment Ranch" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit for me the book was probably a 4 star read but the audio version just didn't quite work as well this time around.
Ok so what I liked about the story. It was a second chance story and I'm pretty much a sucker for them. It was B.A. Tortuga and I like her stories. Her characters are real and down to earth and often times damaged and have an inner strength that just refuses to quit. I liked Ford...probably a little bit more than Stoney which was unusual for me because normally Stoney would be the one I'd be rooting for, but for most of the book I just felt like Stoney was being a idiot.
Years earlier in college Stoney and Ford were a couple. They went back to Ford's home on the Leaning N for spring break and for reasons that neither of them truly understood fully, Ford returned to school and Stoney stayed at the Leaning N. The next thing that Ford knew Stoney apparently had a son with his cousin Brit who died shortly afterwards in a river accident. Now Ford's Uncle Ty is calling him out of the blue and telling him to come home and Ford does. He's a successful lawyer with a law practice that he loves but Uncle Ty's family and if he needs him, Ford will go. I have to admit right about now is where I'd love to go into why I was less enamored with Stoney but I truthfully can't do that without giving out pertinent plot details so I'm just going to move on to other things at this time.
There were several secondary characters but the one that I really liked was Geoff the cook. He was a character with the potential for a really good story of his own. Then there was Andy the interior decorator this character was so stero-typed it might have made me roll my eyes a time or two...seriously flamingly gay, effeminate interior decorator...I kid you not..but still he was just enough over the top to pique my interest and make me feel like more of him could be fun.
The last two characters that I want to touch on are Uncle Ty...shame, just shame on you because truthfully you were a big contributor to the problems between Ford and Stoney and I have yet to see or understand why it was necessary. So no in a nutshell I did not like Uncle Ty. He wasn't a bad man but I feel like he owed explanations that he didn't seem to have or want to give...so he stays on my sh!t list.
Last of all is Quartz? Really? You named the kid after a rock? No, sorry I just don't get stuff like this and that's all I'm saying about that because more importantly and I think this goes more to the audio portion of the book. Quartz irritated the hell out of me. I did not like this kid...specifically I didn't like his voice.
Don't get me wrong. I like John Solo and I stand by that. I like the voices he used for Stoney, Ford, Uncle Ty, Miranda, Andy and even Geoff (although between you and me, I'm pretty sure Geoff was stoned for most of the story...just sayin') and the fact that he can keep the voices straight and Stoney never sounds like Uncle Ty who never sounded like Miranda just impresses the hell out of me. Even minor characters who maybe only have a line or two in the whole book don't sound like anyone else. But I just could not warm up to Quartz and it was very much due to the voice. I found his voice to be whiny and I'm sorry, whiny voices grate on my nerves.
I also have to admit this is the second book that I've read with a kid in it that I ended up not being enamored of and I love kids...I really do, guys, I'm really thinking I might be broken here. I either have to find me a book kid to love or avoid them at all cost for awhile, I'm just not sure which.
Ok so in summary 4 stars for the story, 3 stars for the audio book because of the whiny kid (I'm so sorry Mr. Solo, I truly tried but I just couldn't like this kid). So at the end of the day it's 3.5 stars for the audio book.
********************
An Audio ARC of "Commitment Ranch" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2018
Darum geht's:
Onkel Ty ist schwer krank und braucht Hilfe bei der Familienranch. Obwohl der erfolgreiche Anwalt Ford Nixel keine große Lust dazu hat, reist er doch nach hause und versucht, ein neues Konzept für die Ranch zu erarbeiten. Seit 10 Jahren war er nicht mehr auf der Ranch, seit sein damaliger Freund Stoney ihn verlassen hat, um mit Fords Cousine eine Familie zu gründen und dadurch knapp die Hälfte der Ranch zu übernehmen. Ford hatte sich gekränkt und enttäuscht von der Familie und der Ranch zurückgezogen. Nach Onkel Tys Hilferuf muss er sich nun aber doch mit der Vergangenheit und mit Stoney auseinandersetzen.
So fand ich's:
Die Autorin erzählt manchmal sehr knapp und nur in Andeutungen und hat es damit mehr als einmal geschafft, mich in der ersten Hälfte des Buches zu verlieren. Verträge, Pacht vom Landwirtschaftsministerium, ein neues Konzept für die Ranch - das alles wurde nur sehr oberflächlich angedeutet und Ford stürzte sich auch ohne große Erklärungen in die Geschäfte, die er offensichtlich durchschaute, doch ich wurde da abgehängt. Für die Lovestory war das nicht wirklich wichtig, aber wenn man das schon im Buch thematisiert, dann ist es mir lieber, ich verstehe auch, worum es geht. Auch die Dialoge enthielten immer mal eine zwischendurch reingeworfene wörtliche Rede, bei der ich mir nicht sicher war, wer das gesagt hatte. Dadurch stockte der Lesefluss, ich musste überlegen, und wurde ein bisschen aus dem Buch herausgerissen.
Die Namen Stoney und Quartz waren ein bisschen gewöhnungsbedürftig. So süß kann gar kein Junge sein, dass ich ihn mit Quartz ansprechen möchte, da sträubte sich echt alles in mir. Vor allem, wenn der Vater des Jungen auch noch Stoney heißt. Bisschen viel Geologie im Spiel hier ;-)
Das größte Manko an der Geschichte war aber, dass ich den Grund für das Zerwürfnis zwischen Ford und Stoney nicht nachvollziehen konnte. Onkel Ty traf in der Vergangenheit ein paar merkwürdige Entscheidungen und da er seine Perspektive nicht beisteuern darf, sind mir die Beweggründe für seine Geheimniskrämerei nicht klar geworden. Und besonders, als er mit angesehen hat, welche schlimmen Folgen das hatte, hätte er den Mund aufmachen müssen - irgendwann in den letzten 10 Jahren. Als Ford und Stoney sich dann - endlich - aussprechen, nachdem sie eine ganze Weile wutschnaubend bzw. mit schlechtem Gewissen umeinander herumgetanzt sind, war das Zerwürfnis nämlich in kürzester Zeit aus der Welt. Ach so ist das, na dann, OK. Eine kurze Erklärung und schon war das Problem vom Tisch. Wieso das über 10 Jahre in der Luft hängen und viel Verdruss verursachen musste, habe ich nicht verstanden.
Nachdem ich so meine Probleme in der ersten Häfte des Buches hatte, entwickelte es sich nach der Aussprache doch zu einer sehr angenehmen Lektüre. Ford und Stoney als Paar zu erleben, hat mir gut gefallen. Und auch Stoneys kleiner Junge Quartz war eine schöne, harmonische Ergänzung. Der etwas schräge Koch Geoff war allerdings mit Abstand mein Liebling unter den Nebenfiguren. Die Familie und das Leben auf der winterlichen Ranch haben Vorrang vor Erotik und Prickelfaktor, doch auch das passte zu der Erzählung perfekt dazu.
Weil ich so meine Anlaufschwierigkeiten hatte und auch manche Motivation für mich im Dunkeln blieb, bin ich nicht hundertprozentig mit der Gegschichte warm geworden. Da mir die zweiten Hälfte des Buches aber doch sehr viel besser gefallen hat, werde ich mir sicher auch die Fortsetzung, die ebenfalls auf der Ranch spielt, ansehen.
Onkel Ty ist schwer krank und braucht Hilfe bei der Familienranch. Obwohl der erfolgreiche Anwalt Ford Nixel keine große Lust dazu hat, reist er doch nach hause und versucht, ein neues Konzept für die Ranch zu erarbeiten. Seit 10 Jahren war er nicht mehr auf der Ranch, seit sein damaliger Freund Stoney ihn verlassen hat, um mit Fords Cousine eine Familie zu gründen und dadurch knapp die Hälfte der Ranch zu übernehmen. Ford hatte sich gekränkt und enttäuscht von der Familie und der Ranch zurückgezogen. Nach Onkel Tys Hilferuf muss er sich nun aber doch mit der Vergangenheit und mit Stoney auseinandersetzen.
So fand ich's:
Die Autorin erzählt manchmal sehr knapp und nur in Andeutungen und hat es damit mehr als einmal geschafft, mich in der ersten Hälfte des Buches zu verlieren. Verträge, Pacht vom Landwirtschaftsministerium, ein neues Konzept für die Ranch - das alles wurde nur sehr oberflächlich angedeutet und Ford stürzte sich auch ohne große Erklärungen in die Geschäfte, die er offensichtlich durchschaute, doch ich wurde da abgehängt. Für die Lovestory war das nicht wirklich wichtig, aber wenn man das schon im Buch thematisiert, dann ist es mir lieber, ich verstehe auch, worum es geht. Auch die Dialoge enthielten immer mal eine zwischendurch reingeworfene wörtliche Rede, bei der ich mir nicht sicher war, wer das gesagt hatte. Dadurch stockte der Lesefluss, ich musste überlegen, und wurde ein bisschen aus dem Buch herausgerissen.
Die Namen Stoney und Quartz waren ein bisschen gewöhnungsbedürftig. So süß kann gar kein Junge sein, dass ich ihn mit Quartz ansprechen möchte, da sträubte sich echt alles in mir. Vor allem, wenn der Vater des Jungen auch noch Stoney heißt. Bisschen viel Geologie im Spiel hier ;-)
Das größte Manko an der Geschichte war aber, dass ich den Grund für das Zerwürfnis zwischen Ford und Stoney nicht nachvollziehen konnte. Onkel Ty traf in der Vergangenheit ein paar merkwürdige Entscheidungen und da er seine Perspektive nicht beisteuern darf, sind mir die Beweggründe für seine Geheimniskrämerei nicht klar geworden. Und besonders, als er mit angesehen hat, welche schlimmen Folgen das hatte, hätte er den Mund aufmachen müssen - irgendwann in den letzten 10 Jahren. Als Ford und Stoney sich dann - endlich - aussprechen, nachdem sie eine ganze Weile wutschnaubend bzw. mit schlechtem Gewissen umeinander herumgetanzt sind, war das Zerwürfnis nämlich in kürzester Zeit aus der Welt. Ach so ist das, na dann, OK. Eine kurze Erklärung und schon war das Problem vom Tisch. Wieso das über 10 Jahre in der Luft hängen und viel Verdruss verursachen musste, habe ich nicht verstanden.
Nachdem ich so meine Probleme in der ersten Häfte des Buches hatte, entwickelte es sich nach der Aussprache doch zu einer sehr angenehmen Lektüre. Ford und Stoney als Paar zu erleben, hat mir gut gefallen. Und auch Stoneys kleiner Junge Quartz war eine schöne, harmonische Ergänzung. Der etwas schräge Koch Geoff war allerdings mit Abstand mein Liebling unter den Nebenfiguren. Die Familie und das Leben auf der winterlichen Ranch haben Vorrang vor Erotik und Prickelfaktor, doch auch das passte zu der Erzählung perfekt dazu.
Weil ich so meine Anlaufschwierigkeiten hatte und auch manche Motivation für mich im Dunkeln blieb, bin ich nicht hundertprozentig mit der Gegschichte warm geworden. Da mir die zweiten Hälfte des Buches aber doch sehr viel besser gefallen hat, werde ich mir sicher auch die Fortsetzung, die ebenfalls auf der Ranch spielt, ansehen.
September 13, 2016
This book is a Dreamspun Desires title, but also the first of a new series from this author, which is set on and around the Leaning N ranch. It's also what a nice, lovely, sweet romance should be, even if the steam factor is low. Which, truthfully, should not be a reason for you to skip this book.
Ford is a environmental lawyer with two law offices and no serious relationship. He's avoided his uncle and the Leaning N ranch for many years, ever since his ex-boyfriend Stoney got himself a job at the ranch and then apparently ditched him for his cousin to get a piece of the ranch.
I say apparently, because that's what Ford thinks happened.
When his uncle's health isn't so good anymore, Ford is summoned to the ranch and handed his share of the place, a slight majority over Stoney.
Meeting Stoney again isn't good for Ford's heart, and their shared history isn't good for either's peace of mind.
Stoney is still pissed that Ford left him without so much as a by your leave, and he's focused on keeping the ranch afloat and raising his kid Quartz, a young boy whose mother, Ford's cousin, died a few years back.
This book deliciously explores the lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers trope, and while fists may fly at first, a searing kiss behind the barn shows both men that their passion and love for each other may not be as dead as they proclaim it to be. Truths come out, and youthful assumptions are proven to be false. And Ford realizes he was an idiot.
This title isn't as OTT as many others in this harlequin-reminiscent series, even if there's a climactic high point that is the catalyst for their eventual truth dumps and subsequent HEA. Because, come on now, you knew there'd be one of those, right?
The writing is gorgeous, and the author does a fantastic job with narrative and dialogue both. I was glued to the pages for the duration, what with the adorable kid, and the fabulous vegan cook, who really, really, really needs his own book, and two men who despite proclaiming their dislike for each other, and having a bunch of hang-ups that keep them apart, are perfect for each other.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Ford is a environmental lawyer with two law offices and no serious relationship. He's avoided his uncle and the Leaning N ranch for many years, ever since his ex-boyfriend Stoney got himself a job at the ranch and then apparently ditched him for his cousin to get a piece of the ranch.
I say apparently, because that's what Ford thinks happened.
When his uncle's health isn't so good anymore, Ford is summoned to the ranch and handed his share of the place, a slight majority over Stoney.
Meeting Stoney again isn't good for Ford's heart, and their shared history isn't good for either's peace of mind.
Stoney is still pissed that Ford left him without so much as a by your leave, and he's focused on keeping the ranch afloat and raising his kid Quartz, a young boy whose mother, Ford's cousin, died a few years back.
This book deliciously explores the lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers trope, and while fists may fly at first, a searing kiss behind the barn shows both men that their passion and love for each other may not be as dead as they proclaim it to be. Truths come out, and youthful assumptions are proven to be false. And Ford realizes he was an idiot.
This title isn't as OTT as many others in this harlequin-reminiscent series, even if there's a climactic high point that is the catalyst for their eventual truth dumps and subsequent HEA. Because, come on now, you knew there'd be one of those, right?
The writing is gorgeous, and the author does a fantastic job with narrative and dialogue both. I was glued to the pages for the duration, what with the adorable kid, and the fabulous vegan cook, who really, really, really needs his own book, and two men who despite proclaiming their dislike for each other, and having a bunch of hang-ups that keep them apart, are perfect for each other.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
July 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Stoney and Ford had been lovers in college until Stoney ran off and took a job at Ford’s families’ ranch. Ford didn’t go home for twelve years. Hating each other and then finding each other again. This is a common trope but B. J. Tortuga did an excellent job with it.
August 14, 2023
Ford has been called home to his uncles ranch, to help run the place. As a successful lawyer he avoided the place for years, as his former lover Stoney works there as a cowboy and owns half the place.
Stoney left him years ago, married Ford's cousin and fathered a child.
Ford still holds a grudge and really never forgave Stoney, but he will learn that things are not always as they seem.
Honestly, every romance reader will know what really is going on immediately, but it does take Ford a little longer to figure out the truth.
To save the ranch those 2 will need to work together and get along, which is usually a fun trope. I love enemies to lovers, even if the enemies part didn't last too long...
This was a nice story and an easy read, for my taste it lacked some depths, even with a lot of likeable characters it didn't really touch me, it was a fun read, but it will also be forgotten fast... Probably 3-3.5 stars for me.
Maybe I'll try the next part of the series, not completely sure yet.
Stoney left him years ago, married Ford's cousin and fathered a child.
Ford still holds a grudge and really never forgave Stoney, but he will learn that things are not always as they seem.
Honestly, every romance reader will know what really is going on immediately, but it does take Ford a little longer to figure out the truth.
To save the ranch those 2 will need to work together and get along, which is usually a fun trope. I love enemies to lovers, even if the enemies part didn't last too long...
This was a nice story and an easy read, for my taste it lacked some depths, even with a lot of likeable characters it didn't really touch me, it was a fun read, but it will also be forgotten fast... Probably 3-3.5 stars for me.
Maybe I'll try the next part of the series, not completely sure yet.
dnf
July 24, 2025July 24, 2025:
This is not my idea of a good book anymore. Perhaps when I first started reading MM books, but not anymore. These two men had the same personality and said the same things. There was no distinction. I hated them both. Such a big part of me wants to rant at all the things I found wrong, but I don’t have the energy. I’ll just leave it at I’m glad it was free when I got it.
Unfortunately, I did pay for book 3. I’ll get to that another time. Two DNFs in a row is not my goal right now. I’m deleting this book.
**Stupid character names: Stoney River and his son Quartz. Really? HUGE eye roll at those!! 🙄 Quartz would’ve been an acceptable name for one of the ranch’s horses, not a little boy.
This is not my idea of a good book anymore. Perhaps when I first started reading MM books, but not anymore. These two men had the same personality and said the same things. There was no distinction. I hated them both. Such a big part of me wants to rant at all the things I found wrong, but I don’t have the energy. I’ll just leave it at I’m glad it was free when I got it.
Unfortunately, I did pay for book 3. I’ll get to that another time. Two DNFs in a row is not my goal right now. I’m deleting this book.
**Stupid character names: Stoney River and his son Quartz. Really? HUGE eye roll at those!! 🙄 Quartz would’ve been an acceptable name for one of the ranch’s horses, not a little boy.
December 31, 2016
Audiobook Review
4.5 Hearts
Narrator: John Solo
John Solo does one of the sexiest baritone voices I have ever heard, and I loved that he used the huskiness for Stoney. Stoney is the sexy, silent type, wasting no words, and that combo really got me going. His character stole this book for me. I want more from him.
Ford was a nice, angsty character. A lawyer, so he overthinks everything, and a perpetual commitment-phobe, who hates Stoney for leaving him for his cousin and having a baby with her, but also had no intentions of settling down on the Ranch or in the sticks. His caustic attitude towards Stoney is very much intact, so when he is handed his uncle’s 55% stake in Leaning N Ranch, sparks fly once Ford and Stoney have to interact. This is actually a little bit of the ‘big misunderstanding’ that most people hate in gay romance. In this context, I actually didn’t mind it. It was a bit dramatic, but it carried the story.
These two characters are hot together, even while they bicker. And with John Solo making Stoney’s voice ‘fuck me’ hot, I was completely absorbed from beginning to end with every one of their interactions.
The other characters were well developed for this shorter story. I enjoyed that Stoney’s son, played an important part of this story, and Stoney’s lack of regret over his choices for his son is music to my ears.
Jeff’s character was a bit odd. I’m not sure what to make of him. I found the voice used for him a bit irritating, and I couldn’t really work out why his speech was so slow. I’m guessing the Vegan hippy (”Meat is Murder”) would speak like a stoner. His character worked well into the family environment, even if his voice didn’t work for me.
I’ve read a few BA Tortuga stories now, and I find the writing style flows well. The characters have a good depth, and they are reliable and solid. The plot arc was decent, and I enjoyed where the story went. Even the angst wasn’t over the top, and I found myself chuckling at some of it.
I am comfortable in the assertion that BA Tortuga knows how to write sex. I’ve not been disappointed with any of it to date. The emotional aspect of romance is there too, and I enjoyed the way these two characters developed over the story.
Recommended for all M/M Romance readers.
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest opinion
4.5 Hearts
Narrator: John Solo
John Solo does one of the sexiest baritone voices I have ever heard, and I loved that he used the huskiness for Stoney. Stoney is the sexy, silent type, wasting no words, and that combo really got me going. His character stole this book for me. I want more from him.
Ford was a nice, angsty character. A lawyer, so he overthinks everything, and a perpetual commitment-phobe, who hates Stoney for leaving him for his cousin and having a baby with her, but also had no intentions of settling down on the Ranch or in the sticks. His caustic attitude towards Stoney is very much intact, so when he is handed his uncle’s 55% stake in Leaning N Ranch, sparks fly once Ford and Stoney have to interact. This is actually a little bit of the ‘big misunderstanding’ that most people hate in gay romance. In this context, I actually didn’t mind it. It was a bit dramatic, but it carried the story.
These two characters are hot together, even while they bicker. And with John Solo making Stoney’s voice ‘fuck me’ hot, I was completely absorbed from beginning to end with every one of their interactions.
The other characters were well developed for this shorter story. I enjoyed that Stoney’s son, played an important part of this story, and Stoney’s lack of regret over his choices for his son is music to my ears.
Jeff’s character was a bit odd. I’m not sure what to make of him. I found the voice used for him a bit irritating, and I couldn’t really work out why his speech was so slow. I’m guessing the Vegan hippy (”Meat is Murder”) would speak like a stoner. His character worked well into the family environment, even if his voice didn’t work for me.
I’ve read a few BA Tortuga stories now, and I find the writing style flows well. The characters have a good depth, and they are reliable and solid. The plot arc was decent, and I enjoyed where the story went. Even the angst wasn’t over the top, and I found myself chuckling at some of it.
I am comfortable in the assertion that BA Tortuga knows how to write sex. I’ve not been disappointed with any of it to date. The emotional aspect of romance is there too, and I enjoyed the way these two characters developed over the story.
Recommended for all M/M Romance readers.
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest opinion
February 3, 2020
Coming home can be hard when it doesn’t feel right – and in ‘Commitment Ranch’, Ford has several reasons to hate the idea of returning to the Leaning N. Ford’s uncle, Ty, owns just over half the ranch and Ford loves him like a father, but the run-in and bad breakup he had with Stoney twelve years ago has driven him away. Stoney being the owner of the other half of the ranch has kept Ford away. But now that his uncle is ill and can’t run the ranch any longer, it looks as if Ford will have no choice but to deal with Stoney, the issues between them, and old feelings neither Ford nor Stoney are willing to admit they have.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 15, 2018
Naaaaah sorry, this was not for me!
The back and forth/the second-chance-thing.
The weird: "You left me for my cousin and impregnated her, but I'll still smile at you, and I think I have feelings for you??"
And the whole: "I'm just a dumb cowboy, which is why I left you!"
The religious undertones (sorry, just not my jam).
But what sealed it for me: when Stoney (this fucking name!!!!) SLOGS Ford so hard, that Ford goes down and a few scenes later Stoney is is lecturing his son Quartz (seriously, these fucking names) on how not to react when Quartz reacts violently towards his teacher.
I didn't like the MCs and I didn't buy the romance, sorry.
The back and forth/the second-chance-thing.
The weird: "You left me for my cousin and impregnated her, but I'll still smile at you, and I think I have feelings for you??"
And the whole: "I'm just a dumb cowboy, which is why I left you!"
The religious undertones (sorry, just not my jam).
But what sealed it for me: when Stoney (this fucking name!!!!) SLOGS Ford so hard, that Ford goes down and a few scenes later Stoney is is lecturing his son Quartz (seriously, these fucking names) on how not to react when Quartz reacts violently towards his teacher.
I didn't like the MCs and I didn't buy the romance, sorry.
Read
September 10, 2017Well that was all fun and full of UST!
Glad I met Stoney and Ford along with the rest of the folk at the Leaning N. Time to move on to the next book now.
Glad I met Stoney and Ford along with the rest of the folk at the Leaning N. Time to move on to the next book now.
October 6, 2016
*3.5 stars rounded up to 4*
If a sweet, feel-good romance about a big city lawyer and a cowboy sounds like your kind of thing, then you don't need to look farther than B.A. Tortuga's Commitment Ranch. Throw in some drama, likable characters, and a too cute for words little boy and you've got yourself the makings of a book that will make you smile. Commitment Ranch is part of Dreamspinner Press's Dreamspun Desires line so you know going into this book what you're going to get. A bit of sexy times, a strong romance, and an HEA that will leave you all warm and fuzzy.
Ford Nixel has been called home the Leaning N ranch by his Uncle Ty. Ty is dying and he needs Ford's help in order to ensure that the ranch keeps going. Ford is all willing and able to help, only problem is his ex, Stoney, still lives and works on the ranch, and owns almost half of it. Oh, and his son lives there, too. Ford and Stoney's parting was not sweet, it was messy and ugly so you know there are going to be heaps of unresolved issues between these two guys. In true B.A. Tortuga style, these issues are handled rather quickly and without a whole lot of depth. Even though this book is over two hundred pages, there is a lot that is left unsaid. And there are parts that dragged and seemed rather unnecessary. The family dynamic on the Leaning N was really nice though, and all the secondary characters were pretty fabulous, especially Geoff and Quartz. I mean we have a vegan cook on a ranch full of people who love their meat and potatoes. I enjoyed the setting and the whole family dynamic. The dialog and phrases were a bit hokey at times, but mostly felt genuine and authentic.
This is the start to a new series, and I'm already looking forward to the second book and catching up with all these people. Commitment Ranch is a quick, easy read that will definitely make your heart full and happy. Give this one a chance!
*This review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
If a sweet, feel-good romance about a big city lawyer and a cowboy sounds like your kind of thing, then you don't need to look farther than B.A. Tortuga's Commitment Ranch. Throw in some drama, likable characters, and a too cute for words little boy and you've got yourself the makings of a book that will make you smile. Commitment Ranch is part of Dreamspinner Press's Dreamspun Desires line so you know going into this book what you're going to get. A bit of sexy times, a strong romance, and an HEA that will leave you all warm and fuzzy.
Ford Nixel has been called home the Leaning N ranch by his Uncle Ty. Ty is dying and he needs Ford's help in order to ensure that the ranch keeps going. Ford is all willing and able to help, only problem is his ex, Stoney, still lives and works on the ranch, and owns almost half of it. Oh, and his son lives there, too. Ford and Stoney's parting was not sweet, it was messy and ugly so you know there are going to be heaps of unresolved issues between these two guys. In true B.A. Tortuga style, these issues are handled rather quickly and without a whole lot of depth. Even though this book is over two hundred pages, there is a lot that is left unsaid. And there are parts that dragged and seemed rather unnecessary. The family dynamic on the Leaning N was really nice though, and all the secondary characters were pretty fabulous, especially Geoff and Quartz. I mean we have a vegan cook on a ranch full of people who love their meat and potatoes. I enjoyed the setting and the whole family dynamic. The dialog and phrases were a bit hokey at times, but mostly felt genuine and authentic.
This is the start to a new series, and I'm already looking forward to the second book and catching up with all these people. Commitment Ranch is a quick, easy read that will definitely make your heart full and happy. Give this one a chance!
*This review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
July 18, 2017
From the story to the narration this one hit all the high points. It's a great story - about making assumptions and going home again. I feel like this author is on a complete roll with me lately - and I'm devouring all of her books. The settings as well - Texas as she imagines it is the Texas I've had exposure too - good, bad, and everything in between. Sit right down and give a list'n' ...richly rewarding.
September 6, 2022
This book is an enjoyable start to the Leanin' N Ranch series. Ford is a fancy lawyer with offices in New Mexico and Colorado, who broke up with his love, Stoney, twelve years ago when Stoney left college, took a job at Ford's family ranch, and later had a child with Ford's cousin. Now, his grandfather, who has health problems, has called Ford back to assume control of 55% of the ranch and to partner with Stoney who is a single father to his grandson and 45% owner of the ranch. When Stoney and Ford meet up again, sparks fly, but they have gone in such different directions that love seems impossible. There are also huge miscommunications between the two that need to be ironed out and new working roles that need to be defined. This book is all about family, friends, the successful evolution of the ranching business, a boy who needs love, and these two men find their second chance at a big love.
January 27, 2022
didn’t finish/didn’t work for me
Stopped reading at 35%. Had trouble getting engaged with the characters. Ty twice made unexpected changes without communicating. Stoney is a college dropout that slips into redneck cowboy mode at odd times. Both seem unbelievable to me.
I’m not a prude, but there’s a ton of cussing in here, and most of it out of place and gratuitous….even when describing food, or in front of the 6 year old, etc. is this the author’s way of trying to describe a rough and tumble ranch setting, where most of the staff is gay? Just seemed stupid to me..
Stopped reading at 35%. Had trouble getting engaged with the characters. Ty twice made unexpected changes without communicating. Stoney is a college dropout that slips into redneck cowboy mode at odd times. Both seem unbelievable to me.
I’m not a prude, but there’s a ton of cussing in here, and most of it out of place and gratuitous….even when describing food, or in front of the 6 year old, etc. is this the author’s way of trying to describe a rough and tumble ranch setting, where most of the staff is gay? Just seemed stupid to me..
July 15, 2023
I WANT TO LIVE HERE!!
This is MAGNIFICENT!!! First Book in this LEANIN' N SERIES!!! My feet are already jumping for Book #2. My favorite trope is second chance romance and this book has it in spades. Ford is coming home. Stoney his ex boyfriend still lives there. BA TORTUGA gives you all the grit of ranch life and all the love between the people who run it. Ford is struggling to fit in. It has a wonderful happily ever after. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
This is MAGNIFICENT!!! First Book in this LEANIN' N SERIES!!! My feet are already jumping for Book #2. My favorite trope is second chance romance and this book has it in spades. Ford is coming home. Stoney his ex boyfriend still lives there. BA TORTUGA gives you all the grit of ranch life and all the love between the people who run it. Ford is struggling to fit in. It has a wonderful happily ever after. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
November 4, 2025
I think I got this book on a stuff your kindle day and went in not expecting too much, but I was pleasantly surprised! This was such a great and wholesome read, I'm glad I gave it a chance. I'll definitely check out the rest of the series.
July 8, 2023
3*
Very sweet, not the most complex plot and or characters, but I had fun imitating the southern Texas drawl in my head.
Very sweet, not the most complex plot and or characters, but I had fun imitating the southern Texas drawl in my head.
May 14, 2021
A lovely story about family, found family, and cowboys.
September 11, 2016
Ford hasn't been back to the Leaning N in over ten years and hasn't planned on it. The few times he saw his Uncle since then has been in Town. Ford harbors a lot of grudges but those are mostly geared at his Ex, Stoney. He took him home one summer break, and Stoney never left. His uncle gave him a job, and Ford went back to College, graduated became a big shot lawyer and has homes and offices in Santa Fe and Aspen. Stoney is half owner of the leaning N and has a nine-year-old son by his cousin Brit.
But when his Uncle drops the bomb on him that he needs to move into town for his dialysis because it's too hard on him going back and forth anymore, so he wants Ford to buy out his share or he is going to sell it to Stoney giving him the extra controlling interest. He also lets him know that they need Ford's help to save the ranch as the business side is on the decline.
Ford doesn't want to lose the home he grows up in so he buys his Uncle's part and sets to work on some business ideas so he can hurry and get the heck out of there. His plan is to do it from Aspen.
But he finds plans don't always work the way you want them to.
If you are a fan of BA Tortuga, you will, of course, love this. This one. However, has a bit more class to the language than some of her rough and tumble rodeo cowboys and it just works. You still get that westerny feel especially from Stoney and the hands, but a more refined feel from Ford. Toss in a crazy Vegan chef that is tons of fun, a couple of lesbian wranglers, a flaming ex and a sweet, adorable child and you have a book you can't put down.
The barn scene where they are all sharing a joint is HOT!
I hope this is a series, and another book is on its way out. I would love to see Geoff's story as well as a couple f the others.
If you love cowboys,lawyers, lesbians, snowstorms, vegan chefs, cute kids, holidays, and one heck of a second chance story, you will love this!
But when his Uncle drops the bomb on him that he needs to move into town for his dialysis because it's too hard on him going back and forth anymore, so he wants Ford to buy out his share or he is going to sell it to Stoney giving him the extra controlling interest. He also lets him know that they need Ford's help to save the ranch as the business side is on the decline.
Ford doesn't want to lose the home he grows up in so he buys his Uncle's part and sets to work on some business ideas so he can hurry and get the heck out of there. His plan is to do it from Aspen.
But he finds plans don't always work the way you want them to.
If you are a fan of BA Tortuga, you will, of course, love this. This one. However, has a bit more class to the language than some of her rough and tumble rodeo cowboys and it just works. You still get that westerny feel especially from Stoney and the hands, but a more refined feel from Ford. Toss in a crazy Vegan chef that is tons of fun, a couple of lesbian wranglers, a flaming ex and a sweet, adorable child and you have a book you can't put down.
The barn scene where they are all sharing a joint is HOT!
I hope this is a series, and another book is on its way out. I would love to see Geoff's story as well as a couple f the others.
If you love cowboys,lawyers, lesbians, snowstorms, vegan chefs, cute kids, holidays, and one heck of a second chance story, you will love this!
September 4, 2016
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is BA Tortuga at her best. This story about a cowboy and a big city lawyer thrown together to save their family ranch is a wonderfully crafted, feel-good, sexy Western.
The remote Colorado ranch might just be the actual leading man in this story. The ranch’s motley collection of loosely connected family members, ornery cowboys, quirky ranch hands and a vegan ranch cook creates a fabulous backdrop for Ford and Stoney’s stormy relationship. This series focuses on a quieter side to ranch life, far away from the rodeo glamour in the Roughstock series. I enjoyed the more settled community on the working ranch and I love the potential Ford sees in the ranch as he starts to develop it.
Lovers in college, Ford has never forgiven Stoney for leaving him and stealing his family and the ranch in the process. Several years later, Ford’s ornery uncle leaves the ranch to the two men, forcing them to work as partners to keep the ranch going for the next generation. While this storyline has been used before, the author manipulates it beautifully - the situation is believable and the conflict between these two men feels real. There is more hurt than anger sitting between Ford and Stoney and I really enjoyed their relationship. The heat and regret between these two creates powerful chemistry between two strong, but very different men.
The need to save the ranch provides a focus, a timeline and a fast-paced, coherent storyline. Some of this author’s recent plots have wandered a little aimlessly, but this is structured and clear. As the start to a new series, all the wonderful characters at the Leaning N are introduced clearly and developed beautifully. There are many possibilities for new pairings in the future and I’m really looking forward to the next books in this new series.
This is BA Tortuga at her best. This story about a cowboy and a big city lawyer thrown together to save their family ranch is a wonderfully crafted, feel-good, sexy Western.
The remote Colorado ranch might just be the actual leading man in this story. The ranch’s motley collection of loosely connected family members, ornery cowboys, quirky ranch hands and a vegan ranch cook creates a fabulous backdrop for Ford and Stoney’s stormy relationship. This series focuses on a quieter side to ranch life, far away from the rodeo glamour in the Roughstock series. I enjoyed the more settled community on the working ranch and I love the potential Ford sees in the ranch as he starts to develop it.
Lovers in college, Ford has never forgiven Stoney for leaving him and stealing his family and the ranch in the process. Several years later, Ford’s ornery uncle leaves the ranch to the two men, forcing them to work as partners to keep the ranch going for the next generation. While this storyline has been used before, the author manipulates it beautifully - the situation is believable and the conflict between these two men feels real. There is more hurt than anger sitting between Ford and Stoney and I really enjoyed their relationship. The heat and regret between these two creates powerful chemistry between two strong, but very different men.
The need to save the ranch provides a focus, a timeline and a fast-paced, coherent storyline. Some of this author’s recent plots have wandered a little aimlessly, but this is structured and clear. As the start to a new series, all the wonderful characters at the Leaning N are introduced clearly and developed beautifully. There are many possibilities for new pairings in the future and I’m really looking forward to the next books in this new series.
September 11, 2016
▅▇█▓▒░A second chance story set against a snowy backdrop░▒▓█▇▅
Betrayal kept him away. Commitment brought him home.
Two cowboys, ex lovers, are forced to work together when one's uncle is diagnosed with kidney disease and now needs to move away from the daily activities of the ranch. The beginning of a new series, The Leaning N Ranch promises to bring everything cowboy to reality.
Stoney and Ford had history. Then Stoney opted out of university and decided to stay on at Ford's family ranch. Ford went on to become a lawyer, and was quite popular in his dealings. The betrayal he felt by Stoney kept him away from the only home he knew for ten years, especially after learning Stoney had a child with his cousin.
Ford has a decision to make, and wholeheartedly he chooses to elevate his home and make it into the business that can help his legacy. It meant partnering with Stoney who seemed to hate his guts. What would it take for these two to learn forgiveness and move on? And why was Stoney so adamant that Ford would never leave his city life?
Even with the second chance material, this was a very, very drawn out slow burn with little mentioned intimacy. There was clearly some chemistry, but the author based the story around the re-building up of the ranch, learning truths and surviving failed relationships. Sometimes we have to commit to move on.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
Betrayal kept him away. Commitment brought him home.
Two cowboys, ex lovers, are forced to work together when one's uncle is diagnosed with kidney disease and now needs to move away from the daily activities of the ranch. The beginning of a new series, The Leaning N Ranch promises to bring everything cowboy to reality.
Stoney and Ford had history. Then Stoney opted out of university and decided to stay on at Ford's family ranch. Ford went on to become a lawyer, and was quite popular in his dealings. The betrayal he felt by Stoney kept him away from the only home he knew for ten years, especially after learning Stoney had a child with his cousin.
Ford has a decision to make, and wholeheartedly he chooses to elevate his home and make it into the business that can help his legacy. It meant partnering with Stoney who seemed to hate his guts. What would it take for these two to learn forgiveness and move on? And why was Stoney so adamant that Ford would never leave his city life?
Even with the second chance material, this was a very, very drawn out slow burn with little mentioned intimacy. There was clearly some chemistry, but the author based the story around the re-building up of the ranch, learning truths and surviving failed relationships. Sometimes we have to commit to move on.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
September 16, 2016
3.5 Stars ~ Ford Nixel left the Leaning N and didn’t return, I think mainly because of a broken heart. He went back to college, hurt and alone, but got his education and became a very successful lawyer. Both his Uncle Ty and his ex, Stoney River, seemed to not have been truthful with Ford, though none of the characters are intentionally cruel or mean. In fact, they are all likable. In order to protect his daughter, Brittany, Uncle Ty sort of manipulates Stoney in his plan to keep Brittany and her baby safe.
Now, since Ford’s uncle is not well, he asks Ford to come to the ranch. Even though Ford knows he won’t be comfortable there, he goes because he loves his uncle and will do whatever he can because that’s what you do for family. Needless to say, when Ford and Stoney come face to face, things don’t go so well. There’s still a lot of anger and hurt between them.
It was like pulling teeth to get anyone to explain the truth to Ford. Regardless, Ford steps up and gets the ranch afloat with his business savvy. He really does this for his second cousin, Quartz, to keep the legacy of the Leaning N thriving.
I usually really enjoy BA Tortuga’s books, but Commitment Ranch got me a little frustrated. Even the blurb makes it seem like Ford is a spoiled rich guy and is to blame for what happened. But, the way I see it is, if it wasn’t for Ford, the Leaning N might have failed. There are a few things you can always count on when BA Tortuga gives us a tale, though: a fight, interesting characters, emotions, and cowboy love. This is the start to a new series. I do want to see where she goes with it, especially with Geoff, the vegetarian chef who cooks for the Leaning N.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
Now, since Ford’s uncle is not well, he asks Ford to come to the ranch. Even though Ford knows he won’t be comfortable there, he goes because he loves his uncle and will do whatever he can because that’s what you do for family. Needless to say, when Ford and Stoney come face to face, things don’t go so well. There’s still a lot of anger and hurt between them.
It was like pulling teeth to get anyone to explain the truth to Ford. Regardless, Ford steps up and gets the ranch afloat with his business savvy. He really does this for his second cousin, Quartz, to keep the legacy of the Leaning N thriving.
I usually really enjoy BA Tortuga’s books, but Commitment Ranch got me a little frustrated. Even the blurb makes it seem like Ford is a spoiled rich guy and is to blame for what happened. But, the way I see it is, if it wasn’t for Ford, the Leaning N might have failed. There are a few things you can always count on when BA Tortuga gives us a tale, though: a fight, interesting characters, emotions, and cowboy love. This is the start to a new series. I do want to see where she goes with it, especially with Geoff, the vegetarian chef who cooks for the Leaning N.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
January 26, 2018
I liked the main characters, but there were so many great secondary characters that the book just felt like family. I like the easy way this author has with her characters, but I especially liked that with the Dreamspun titles there are fewer sex scenes. One or two per book is enough for me. I looke forwasrd to reading more in this series.
September 5, 2016
Commitment Ranch (Leaning N #1) by BA Tortuga
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: dialysis and health concerns
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have read a lot of previous books by BA Tortuga and normally really enjoy them. This book was probably my least favorite that I've read in a while from Tortuga.
You have Stoney and Ford - with their history, you know that they will have some unresolved issues while working with each other. You have Ty, who is the owner and patriarch of the family.
The unresolved issues between Stoney and Ford are somewhat juvenile, in my opinion. Yes, it was strange the circumstance of Quartz and Stoney, but all three men, Ty, Stoney and Ford made it so much worse. Things stewed for years and it took a health concern for Ty in order to bring all three back together in a semblance of family.
I really enjoyed the story with all of the characters, especially Geoff. However, the chemistry and heat between the two main characters was luke warm at best. I don't think they were really meant for each other and if they were, it was more of a friendship turned relationship.
Overall, this was a lack luster start to a series. However, I do want Geoff to get his own story.
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: dialysis and health concerns
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have read a lot of previous books by BA Tortuga and normally really enjoy them. This book was probably my least favorite that I've read in a while from Tortuga.
You have Stoney and Ford - with their history, you know that they will have some unresolved issues while working with each other. You have Ty, who is the owner and patriarch of the family.
The unresolved issues between Stoney and Ford are somewhat juvenile, in my opinion. Yes, it was strange the circumstance of Quartz and Stoney, but all three men, Ty, Stoney and Ford made it so much worse. Things stewed for years and it took a health concern for Ty in order to bring all three back together in a semblance of family.
I really enjoyed the story with all of the characters, especially Geoff. However, the chemistry and heat between the two main characters was luke warm at best. I don't think they were really meant for each other and if they were, it was more of a friendship turned relationship.
Overall, this was a lack luster start to a series. However, I do want Geoff to get his own story.
September 21, 2016
Fans of the author know that she is good at providing unique and “real” characters in a western setting. In this story, Geoff, the chef, steals the show as the most interesting guy in the entire book. He’s way more interesting than either MC, unfortunately.
Ford, while a solid, nice guy, doesn’t stand out one way or the other as particularly moving. He got a little bit shafted by his uncle and a lot by his old-now-new beau, Stoney. For pride’s sake only, Stoney kept his reason for leaving Ford all those years ago to himself, and in my eyes, he never quite redeems himself to Ford for all that pain.
I’m a fan of the author’s unique, more stream-of-consciousness writing style, but this one seemed a bit all over the place. There were a few too many characters and side stories and the main romance sort of got lost in the shuffle.
I think that fans of the author, second-chance-romances, western/cowboy romances and single fathers will find this a satisfying if not terrific story. If you are unfamiliar with the author, I’d start with some of her better (IMHO) works like The Terms of Release (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...) and Ever the Same (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...).
As for this, it was sweet, with a lovely epilogue but not my favorite in this collection, nor by the author.
3 of 5 stars
Ford, while a solid, nice guy, doesn’t stand out one way or the other as particularly moving. He got a little bit shafted by his uncle and a lot by his old-now-new beau, Stoney. For pride’s sake only, Stoney kept his reason for leaving Ford all those years ago to himself, and in my eyes, he never quite redeems himself to Ford for all that pain.
I’m a fan of the author’s unique, more stream-of-consciousness writing style, but this one seemed a bit all over the place. There were a few too many characters and side stories and the main romance sort of got lost in the shuffle.
I think that fans of the author, second-chance-romances, western/cowboy romances and single fathers will find this a satisfying if not terrific story. If you are unfamiliar with the author, I’d start with some of her better (IMHO) works like The Terms of Release (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...) and Ever the Same (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...).
As for this, it was sweet, with a lovely epilogue but not my favorite in this collection, nor by the author.
3 of 5 stars
September 20, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I can’t possibly go into all the details involved in Commitment Ranch. There is a lot going on, and I’d be sitting here all day. I can tell you that, after the first three or four chapters, the story really takes off. There is a rather large cast of characters, including Quartz, Stoney’s son, Uncle Ty, Geoff the chef, the ranch hands, and Ford’s friend Andy. That’s a lot of people, but it’s not confusing in any way, and they all play important roles in the book.
I liked Ford. He’s not a bad guy. He’s good to his employees and he’s good at his job. He’s still bitter about what Stoney did to him, and that’s really my only issue. It’s been 12 years, and I would think he’d have moved on. Of course, I have never had a bad break up in my life, and I certainly haven’t had someone leave me, marry a relative, and have a baby with them, so maybe I don’t know so much about that. He loves his Uncle Ty, but he’s sort of resentful because he feels like Stoney is horning in on what should be his. I can’t blame him, though.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I can’t possibly go into all the details involved in Commitment Ranch. There is a lot going on, and I’d be sitting here all day. I can tell you that, after the first three or four chapters, the story really takes off. There is a rather large cast of characters, including Quartz, Stoney’s son, Uncle Ty, Geoff the chef, the ranch hands, and Ford’s friend Andy. That’s a lot of people, but it’s not confusing in any way, and they all play important roles in the book.
I liked Ford. He’s not a bad guy. He’s good to his employees and he’s good at his job. He’s still bitter about what Stoney did to him, and that’s really my only issue. It’s been 12 years, and I would think he’d have moved on. Of course, I have never had a bad break up in my life, and I certainly haven’t had someone leave me, marry a relative, and have a baby with them, so maybe I don’t know so much about that. He loves his Uncle Ty, but he’s sort of resentful because he feels like Stoney is horning in on what should be his. I can’t blame him, though.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
April 16, 2023
Couldn't really get into this story. It's a very ridiculous Big Misunderstanding. Stoney and Ford dated in college, until Stoney dropped out. He never told Ford he dropped out.
He broke up with Ford and got a job at Ford's Uncle's (Ty) ranch.
Then Ty's daughter and Ford's cousin, Brittany, has a baby and Uncle Ty asks the new ranch hand Stoney to list himself as the baby daddy. Nobody tells Ford that Stoney isn't the dad. It's not a secret at the ranch, but it's a secret from Ford. The unbelievable thing is, Stoney assumes uncle Ty told Ford. Why would he assume? After the breakup and the "affair" with Brittany, Ford wasn't on speaking terms with either stoney or uncle ty.
Anyway, after about 10-12 years, Ford is asked to come back to the ranch to help out the business. Of course Ford and stoney reconnect. I didn't really feel it though. We learn the stoney just has a habit of not talking. That's why he broke up with Ford rather than tell him about dropping out of college, and why he never talked to him about not really having an affair with Brittany.
The MCs just seemed like they could take it or leave it, like they didn't really care about each other. Especially Stoney, since he never cared enough to talk about anything.
He broke up with Ford and got a job at Ford's Uncle's (Ty) ranch.
Then Ty's daughter and Ford's cousin, Brittany, has a baby and Uncle Ty asks the new ranch hand Stoney to list himself as the baby daddy. Nobody tells Ford that Stoney isn't the dad. It's not a secret at the ranch, but it's a secret from Ford. The unbelievable thing is, Stoney assumes uncle Ty told Ford. Why would he assume? After the breakup and the "affair" with Brittany, Ford wasn't on speaking terms with either stoney or uncle ty.
Anyway, after about 10-12 years, Ford is asked to come back to the ranch to help out the business. Of course Ford and stoney reconnect. I didn't really feel it though. We learn the stoney just has a habit of not talking. That's why he broke up with Ford rather than tell him about dropping out of college, and why he never talked to him about not really having an affair with Brittany.
The MCs just seemed like they could take it or leave it, like they didn't really care about each other. Especially Stoney, since he never cared enough to talk about anything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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