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Falls Chance Ranch #2
Three Traders
517 pages, Free Online Fiction
Published December 1, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 26, 2012
My friend Eve asked, "So...there's nothing sexual in these books until a fade-to-black sex scene at around the 300,000 word mark (counting from book 1)? :/"
That is correct. And there you have the reason why this book shouldn't be attempted by anyone wanting excitement, naked men, or hot sex. This should have a reader advisory: Caution - Must love horses.
The series is definitely not about the sex. In book two there are three (maybe four) overtly sexual scenes total, all of which are described in broad, general, fade-to-black terms. Hence why I can't tell if one scene is or is not supposed to be sexual (I say yes. In this book you can read a hand on the shoulder as speaking volumes.)
It was a bit like reading books when I was 13 again, knowing that something was going on but the text doesn't spell it out. If you didn't know you were looking at a sex scene you wouldn't be able to discern it just from what is said. You have to use subtext and phrases like "and later they found a different use for the suntan oil" (and yes, that counts as one of those four scenes).
Book two is about training Bandit's colts before the polo scouts come by the ranch, the secrets held by the old abandoned mine beneath the nearby town of Three Traders, and if the ranch will be able to harvest the hay despite the storms that keep blowing in :D
Doesn't that sound like an amalgam of every American horse book you read where you were a kid? (A British one would have thrown a gymkanah in there somewhere).
The point of the book is enjoying the life of the ranch, and the slow-growing relationship between the men, and by that I mean seven men, because the absent figures of David and Philip are as much as part of the story as the present Flynn, Jasper, Paul, Dale and Riley (plus assorted family).
I was gripped by this book, and felt exactly like I did when I was eight and reading under the covers. I am wrecked this morning, having stayed up till after 2 to finish it. Worth it. 4.5 stars.
That is correct. And there you have the reason why this book shouldn't be attempted by anyone wanting excitement, naked men, or hot sex. This should have a reader advisory: Caution - Must love horses.
The series is definitely not about the sex. In book two there are three (maybe four) overtly sexual scenes total, all of which are described in broad, general, fade-to-black terms. Hence why I can't tell if one scene is or is not supposed to be sexual (I say yes. In this book you can read a hand on the shoulder as speaking volumes.)
It was a bit like reading books when I was 13 again, knowing that something was going on but the text doesn't spell it out. If you didn't know you were looking at a sex scene you wouldn't be able to discern it just from what is said. You have to use subtext and phrases like "and later they found a different use for the suntan oil" (and yes, that counts as one of those four scenes).
Book two is about training Bandit's colts before the polo scouts come by the ranch, the secrets held by the old abandoned mine beneath the nearby town of Three Traders, and if the ranch will be able to harvest the hay despite the storms that keep blowing in :D
Doesn't that sound like an amalgam of every American horse book you read where you were a kid? (A British one would have thrown a gymkanah in there somewhere).
The point of the book is enjoying the life of the ranch, and the slow-growing relationship between the men, and by that I mean seven men, because the absent figures of David and Philip are as much as part of the story as the present Flynn, Jasper, Paul, Dale and Riley (plus assorted family).
I was gripped by this book, and felt exactly like I did when I was eight and reading under the covers. I am wrecked this morning, having stayed up till after 2 to finish it. Worth it. 4.5 stars.
November 7, 2012
Someone told me that when she began to read this second book that she felt like she was reading the first book again. Maybe this is true for the first pages, but not after that. There are importants events in this second book. And there are fun things. Like when Flynn asked Dale to write a one hundred words text on how he felt about apples, I laughed a lot when I read what Dale wrote.
My only negative point is that the authors seem to see the spanking as a panacea to all problems, a kind of magic wand against all evils.
Since I was the sub of two dominants for years, I am not at all disturbed when I read about spankings. But then, spankings have to be useful and not done all the time for anything that is not perfect.
When Flynn and Jasper spanked Dale the day after he almost died and not for very good reasons from my point of view, I was angry with the authors. As submissive as I could be, as ready to accept any punishements when deserved, I think there is circumstances when cuddling is much more appropriate and effective than any forms of punishement, and you should forget your dam paddle anywhere.
My only negative point is that the authors seem to see the spanking as a panacea to all problems, a kind of magic wand against all evils.
Since I was the sub of two dominants for years, I am not at all disturbed when I read about spankings. But then, spankings have to be useful and not done all the time for anything that is not perfect.
When Flynn and Jasper spanked Dale the day after he almost died and not for very good reasons from my point of view, I was angry with the authors. As submissive as I could be, as ready to accept any punishements when deserved, I think there is circumstances when cuddling is much more appropriate and effective than any forms of punishement, and you should forget your dam paddle anywhere.
February 20, 2023
First read February 4 - 9, 2012
Finished! These stories are addictive, really. Although this second book was more fairytale-like than the first one, it was delightful to follow Dale's struggles with his new life and how he had to work to settle in it. The writing style is very engaging and the authors manage to pull this reader fully into the life of these men. Thank god there are two more books.
ETA: Re-read April 17 - 26, 2013
Again - as good as the first time, only the fuss around the fax didn't sit well with me, that was one situation where the spanking didn't work. Nevertheless, the commitment scene was still as wonderful as I remembered:)
ETA: Re-read March-May 2017
This time it took me quite some time to finish, but it was still a great read! I like all the characters very much, I still think the scene around the fax was over the top (esp. because without that information both wouldn't be there for their spanking, right?) and I now have to add that the whole stuff around the funeral was also too much. Therefore 4.5 stars.
Finished! These stories are addictive, really. Although this second book was more fairytale-like than the first one, it was delightful to follow Dale's struggles with his new life and how he had to work to settle in it. The writing style is very engaging and the authors manage to pull this reader fully into the life of these men. Thank god there are two more books.
ETA: Re-read April 17 - 26, 2013
Again - as good as the first time, only the fuss around the fax didn't sit well with me, that was one situation where the spanking didn't work. Nevertheless, the commitment scene was still as wonderful as I remembered:)
ETA: Re-read March-May 2017
This time it took me quite some time to finish, but it was still a great read! I like all the characters very much, I still think the scene around the fax was over the top (esp. because without that information both wouldn't be there for their spanking, right?) and I now have to add that the whole stuff around the funeral was also too much. Therefore 4.5 stars.
August 14, 2012
This Is A Serious Addiction Now
I'll start by saying this: Logically I should not love these books. Apparently, though, I don't give a damn about logic. Having devoured this book and the first one, Falls Chance Ranch, I have now read almost 1,000 pages about this group of men. Dale, Flynn, Riley, Jasper and Paul have burrowed their way into my heart.
So, why shouldn't I love these books? Well, they're repetitive. There are a lot of spankings and a lot of Dale's issues are explored again and again. Realistically, I should be sick of hearing about them. Why am I not sick of hearing about them??! Because I LOVE Dale. He's a pretty complex character and also pretty loveable, so I'm invested in seeing him succeed emotionally. I want to see him let himself be loved and cared for.
This book, like the first one, is almost completely character driven. There's a little excitement with the mine and an abandoned town but for the most part it's all about the men and how they settle into their new relationship. It's like talking to friends who tell you about their day-to-day lives and somehow, even though it's nothing dramatic, it's still interesting because you care about them.
By the time this book ended I knew that I was beyond hooked on these guys. So, whether or not it makes sense I would probably read an unlimited number of books about these men and all the love they share. As it is, I moved directly on to the third book with a smile on my face.
I'll start by saying this: Logically I should not love these books. Apparently, though, I don't give a damn about logic. Having devoured this book and the first one, Falls Chance Ranch, I have now read almost 1,000 pages about this group of men. Dale, Flynn, Riley, Jasper and Paul have burrowed their way into my heart.
So, why shouldn't I love these books? Well, they're repetitive. There are a lot of spankings and a lot of Dale's issues are explored again and again. Realistically, I should be sick of hearing about them. Why am I not sick of hearing about them??! Because I LOVE Dale. He's a pretty complex character and also pretty loveable, so I'm invested in seeing him succeed emotionally. I want to see him let himself be loved and cared for.
This book, like the first one, is almost completely character driven. There's a little excitement with the mine and an abandoned town but for the most part it's all about the men and how they settle into their new relationship. It's like talking to friends who tell you about their day-to-day lives and somehow, even though it's nothing dramatic, it's still interesting because you care about them.
By the time this book ended I knew that I was beyond hooked on these guys. So, whether or not it makes sense I would probably read an unlimited number of books about these men and all the love they share. As it is, I moved directly on to the third book with a smile on my face.
May 22, 2013
Second Read - 5/19/13 - 5/22/13
Again, like my reread of the first book, I seemed to love this even more the second time around. I LOVE Dale. Well, I really love all of them! Esp. Riley :) And I have a soft spot for Tom and Jake :D Now on to a re-read of Mustang Hill.
First Read - 7/19/12 - 7/21/13
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
**Spoilers for those who haven't read the first Falls Chance Ranch book**
We left the end of book one as Dale became an official part of the relationship between Riley, Flynn, Jasper and Paul. Three Traders picks up right where the first book left off. Dale has come back to Falls Chance Ranch following his first time back in New York City after his recuperative therapy at the ranch and his epic breakdown. Dale thinks that his dissatisfaction with his old life will keep his three weeks in NYC quitting his job and moving to Wyoming from changing him, but he quickly finds that that isn't the case. He's slipped back into old patterns of obsessive and perfectionistic behavior. Besides, he comes to learn (or Flynn tries to drill into him) that moving to the ranch to be with the men is really like starting over. Before, he was a client and focused solely on bettering his own behavior and learning new methods to cope in life, but entering as part of a relationship opens up whole new areas Dale has no experience with in life, namely commitment. And that is a whole different beast for Dale, still a bit shell shocked by normal, every day interactions and his own head games.
On top of this Dale, Riley and the guys stumble upon a bit of a mystery that needs to be solved, linking the ghost town of Three Traders to the ever present reality of the ranch's past owners, David and Philip, two spirits of the ranch land that Dale desperately needs to feel connected to in order to tell himself that he belongs on the ranch and in the family.
I need to admit something. Last week, when I reviewed the first book I talked extensively about how amazing the slow pace works for this story -- to wade through the deep characterizations as well as Dale's numerous mental health issues -- and partway through this book I felt a bit hypocritical. I started getting a bit dispirited while reading, thinking not more of the same problems! At the end of the first book i was so happy that these problems were treated so in depth and given so much time to work themselves out. It is something that is given a much more real to life pace. Part of this is that I'm reading these stories back to back, so there is significantly slower change like most serials that are meant to be read by installment.
Then, something magical happened. The pace of this story started to pick up with all kinds of wonderful little sub plots (the mines, the town, all the new characters coming to visit!) and I could see that this second book was going to be a story all of it's own. Yes, it continues the first, but it goes further. No matter how much I love these guys, I wouldn't have been able to handle another book one over again with the same issues. I don't know why I lost faith, perhaps because I continually don't know what to expect from these books, but I am so happily surprised by the turns this story took and I was present for every bit of it, unable to put it down for other things. Now that I've finished this second book, I can see how it has built steadily over time, a story arc for the book independently, and a separate overall story arc that is very ingrained into the story and so naturally slow at progressing (which I was so happy about above).
I finished this story feeling like the first book really served as a foundation, in a way a prequel to this story. Where the first book was an in depth exploration of Dale, this book really set out to explore their overall relationship, something that I was insanely curious about. The first book barely even touches on their relationship. Besides the fact that there is no sex, there's barely even any kissing or mention of private time. This book allowed us to peek a little more into what they do and how they interact behind closed doors now that Dale is properly a part of it. We get a lot more detail about the characters and their history, which really pleased me and helped me to get to know them better. They're also becoming a lot closer as a 5 person unit, with a whole new dynamic now that Dale has joined them, and I loved seeing them explore that and finally settle into it by the end of this book. It made me instantly want to see where the third book will go and once again, I doubt I'll get any other reading done in the next few days. I probably won't even be able to go to bed tonight without at least starting Mustang HIll .
This is definitely one of those reviews that I can't stop gushing in, but that's okay I suppose. I've been reading these books totally hooked, and to be honest, that doesn't happen much anymore. I read a lot of wonderful books but perhaps because I've read so much of this genre, I feel like something has to really be different and have a lot of charm for me to feel this wonderful feeling reading. It is something that I only remember from when I first started reading in this genre and reading about gay men in (happy) love felt so wonderful to me as a form of fiction and literature that I'd never read before. This series feels like that to me, and when I finished Three Traders, I felt like I just might like this book even more than the first.
Again, like my reread of the first book, I seemed to love this even more the second time around. I LOVE Dale. Well, I really love all of them! Esp. Riley :) And I have a soft spot for Tom and Jake :D Now on to a re-read of Mustang Hill.
First Read - 7/19/12 - 7/21/13
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
**Spoilers for those who haven't read the first Falls Chance Ranch book**
We left the end of book one as Dale became an official part of the relationship between Riley, Flynn, Jasper and Paul. Three Traders picks up right where the first book left off. Dale has come back to Falls Chance Ranch following his first time back in New York City after his recuperative therapy at the ranch and his epic breakdown. Dale thinks that his dissatisfaction with his old life will keep his three weeks in NYC quitting his job and moving to Wyoming from changing him, but he quickly finds that that isn't the case. He's slipped back into old patterns of obsessive and perfectionistic behavior. Besides, he comes to learn (or Flynn tries to drill into him) that moving to the ranch to be with the men is really like starting over. Before, he was a client and focused solely on bettering his own behavior and learning new methods to cope in life, but entering as part of a relationship opens up whole new areas Dale has no experience with in life, namely commitment. And that is a whole different beast for Dale, still a bit shell shocked by normal, every day interactions and his own head games.
On top of this Dale, Riley and the guys stumble upon a bit of a mystery that needs to be solved, linking the ghost town of Three Traders to the ever present reality of the ranch's past owners, David and Philip, two spirits of the ranch land that Dale desperately needs to feel connected to in order to tell himself that he belongs on the ranch and in the family.
I need to admit something. Last week, when I reviewed the first book I talked extensively about how amazing the slow pace works for this story -- to wade through the deep characterizations as well as Dale's numerous mental health issues -- and partway through this book I felt a bit hypocritical. I started getting a bit dispirited while reading, thinking not more of the same problems! At the end of the first book i was so happy that these problems were treated so in depth and given so much time to work themselves out. It is something that is given a much more real to life pace. Part of this is that I'm reading these stories back to back, so there is significantly slower change like most serials that are meant to be read by installment.
Then, something magical happened. The pace of this story started to pick up with all kinds of wonderful little sub plots (the mines, the town, all the new characters coming to visit!) and I could see that this second book was going to be a story all of it's own. Yes, it continues the first, but it goes further. No matter how much I love these guys, I wouldn't have been able to handle another book one over again with the same issues. I don't know why I lost faith, perhaps because I continually don't know what to expect from these books, but I am so happily surprised by the turns this story took and I was present for every bit of it, unable to put it down for other things. Now that I've finished this second book, I can see how it has built steadily over time, a story arc for the book independently, and a separate overall story arc that is very ingrained into the story and so naturally slow at progressing (which I was so happy about above).
I finished this story feeling like the first book really served as a foundation, in a way a prequel to this story. Where the first book was an in depth exploration of Dale, this book really set out to explore their overall relationship, something that I was insanely curious about. The first book barely even touches on their relationship. Besides the fact that there is no sex, there's barely even any kissing or mention of private time. This book allowed us to peek a little more into what they do and how they interact behind closed doors now that Dale is properly a part of it. We get a lot more detail about the characters and their history, which really pleased me and helped me to get to know them better. They're also becoming a lot closer as a 5 person unit, with a whole new dynamic now that Dale has joined them, and I loved seeing them explore that and finally settle into it by the end of this book. It made me instantly want to see where the third book will go and once again, I doubt I'll get any other reading done in the next few days. I probably won't even be able to go to bed tonight without at least starting Mustang HIll .
This is definitely one of those reviews that I can't stop gushing in, but that's okay I suppose. I've been reading these books totally hooked, and to be honest, that doesn't happen much anymore. I read a lot of wonderful books but perhaps because I've read so much of this genre, I feel like something has to really be different and have a lot of charm for me to feel this wonderful feeling reading. It is something that I only remember from when I first started reading in this genre and reading about gay men in (happy) love felt so wonderful to me as a form of fiction and literature that I'd never read before. This series feels like that to me, and when I finished Three Traders, I felt like I just might like this book even more than the first.
April 8, 2014
And the story continues. I'm surprised that there is only a synopsis for Book 1 in this series of four. I'm also amazed that the books are all free, the writing is fantastic, there is no descriptive sex and they are all 400 pages plus. I would gladly have paid good money to read these novels.
This second novel is reminiscent of the "Raiders of the lost arc" movies. There's lots of adventure and plot within.
Dale's character builds quietly, his strengths often recognised but not realised by the other characters and I only wish they'd leave him to mull and just get on with his obvious (to us the reader) awareness and spiritualism.
Cowboys...(tick)....Adventure...(tick)....Paranormal...(maybe)....Gay...(tick).
A continuation of Book 1 and the characters develop.
4 x stars as it was a continuation of the previous novel with different set of adventure stories. But so five stars for the writing, character development and horsiness.
This second novel is reminiscent of the "Raiders of the lost arc" movies. There's lots of adventure and plot within.
Dale's character builds quietly, his strengths often recognised but not realised by the other characters and I only wish they'd leave him to mull and just get on with his obvious (to us the reader) awareness and spiritualism.
Cowboys...(tick)....Adventure...(tick)....Paranormal...(maybe)....Gay...(tick).
A continuation of Book 1 and the characters develop.
4 x stars as it was a continuation of the previous novel with different set of adventure stories. But so five stars for the writing, character development and horsiness.
August 22, 2013
CONFLICTED Is it possible to really like a book and simultaneously be creeped out by it? Why yes, it is possible.
This is the second book of four in the Falls Chance Ranch series. I was quite enchanted after the first book as it was totally unexpected, refreshing and unique. This installment picks up where the last left off, and Dale Aden has come to live with Flynn, Jasper, Paul and Riley in a 5-way committed relationship consisting of 3 tops and 2 brats. This is a story about Dale adjusting to his new life and becoming part of the family. There is angst, comfort, and even a life threatening adventure. There are the tender moments among the men that will melt your heart. And there are spankings.
So why do I have conflicted feelings about this book? Because it is creepy! The ranch & extended family thing combined with Flynn’s psychology mumbo jumbo feels like a weird mashup of scientology and those Mormon splinter groups where the men have multiple prairie dress wearing wives. While I enjoy the cowboy romance between Dale and Flynn, the fact of the matter remains that Dale was emotionally manipulated into the whole thing. In the end, it makes the sweetness of the story less wholesome.
I am not sure why I am so bothered by this. I read slavefics and dubcon and it is fiction, so no-harm no-foul, right? Books create safe place to explore kinks and relationships that you may never seek out in real life. I guess I never thought I would be exploring life in a cult. In the end, I feel a bit seduced by Flynn, and that’s pissing me off.
This is the second book of four in the Falls Chance Ranch series. I was quite enchanted after the first book as it was totally unexpected, refreshing and unique. This installment picks up where the last left off, and Dale Aden has come to live with Flynn, Jasper, Paul and Riley in a 5-way committed relationship consisting of 3 tops and 2 brats. This is a story about Dale adjusting to his new life and becoming part of the family. There is angst, comfort, and even a life threatening adventure. There are the tender moments among the men that will melt your heart. And there are spankings.
So why do I have conflicted feelings about this book? Because it is creepy! The ranch & extended family thing combined with Flynn’s psychology mumbo jumbo feels like a weird mashup of scientology and those Mormon splinter groups where the men have multiple prairie dress wearing wives. While I enjoy the cowboy romance between Dale and Flynn, the fact of the matter remains that Dale was emotionally manipulated into the whole thing. In the end, it makes the sweetness of the story less wholesome.
I am not sure why I am so bothered by this. I read slavefics and dubcon and it is fiction, so no-harm no-foul, right? Books create safe place to explore kinks and relationships that you may never seek out in real life. I guess I never thought I would be exploring life in a cult. In the end, I feel a bit seduced by Flynn, and that’s pissing me off.
January 2, 2013
At this point I'm pretty much addicted. Onto mustang hill tonight! The sex in this book was way more satisfying than I thought it would be. Very brief with little elaboration, very much in keeping with characters and story so far. A delight to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2013
Oh, how I love this story, Three Traders. This is a continuation novel of the Falls Chance Ranch novel that precedes this one. Rolf, along with Ranger, have created characters with depth that you come to associate as real people with depth and their relationships that continue to develop from the first story. I generally read very sexually explicit books but these aren't. These have more implied than explicit sexuality, but regardless I love this and in the context of the ranch, the polyamorous relationship between the men and their lifestyle, work included just seems so right and natural. Then there's the interaction and knowledge they have with the other living creatures, especially the horses that enrich the readers knowledge and pleasure so well.
Here, Dale returns from his role and damaging lifestyle as CEO of trouble shooting, problem solving for big business and high finance company, ANZ, to live with his partners and try to find his place in this life and relationship choice through the opportunity that came his way. His ties to big business are cut, but not completely severed.
That he and Riley are Brats...well Dale knows and accepts Riley as a brat, but takes a bit more for him to accept he is too, even though he knows he is. The Tops...Flynn, Paul, Jasper, all different, all loving, though firm in the domestic discipline and caring routines they impose on their brats. Flynn, guiding others through their problems with his psychology degree and knowledge, but still has needs and difficulties of his own, now being met through Dale as well as to a lesser extent Riley, who it has to be said is sometimes the catalyst of some of Flynns stresses. Paul, the patient, caring home maker. Jasper, quiet but a dependable calm rock in the relationship, who adds his fount of knowledge of the natural world to enrich and feed their lives with.
The story, the ranch, the characters, the events all meld into captivating the reader into an amazingly real experience, that feeling that you are there and part of the story. A rare skill with writing and one that has to be highly recommended.
There are elements of tension, excitement, fear even, dispersed throughout the book. An introduction to more of the extended family is a big theme in this book too. Who could fail to be impressed by the age range, characters and interactions of this group of diverse men. I found the music and waltz scene very endearing and freeing too. Heart in mouth moments from trapped underground to bottle Cossack dance steps on top of the shed all add to the stories realism and moments of high excitement, tension and fear.
I can't wait to read the next story Mustang Hill, and know when the series of books ends I will feel bereft. Very discerning readers will see occasional literacy errors but I assure you it won't distract from this beautiful creation and no qualms its 5 stars from me, and one I will definitely reread again. I would like to thank Rolf and Ranger for posting their stories free for readers to read, I for one appreciate this kindness.
Here, Dale returns from his role and damaging lifestyle as CEO of trouble shooting, problem solving for big business and high finance company, ANZ, to live with his partners and try to find his place in this life and relationship choice through the opportunity that came his way. His ties to big business are cut, but not completely severed.
That he and Riley are Brats...well Dale knows and accepts Riley as a brat, but takes a bit more for him to accept he is too, even though he knows he is. The Tops...Flynn, Paul, Jasper, all different, all loving, though firm in the domestic discipline and caring routines they impose on their brats. Flynn, guiding others through their problems with his psychology degree and knowledge, but still has needs and difficulties of his own, now being met through Dale as well as to a lesser extent Riley, who it has to be said is sometimes the catalyst of some of Flynns stresses. Paul, the patient, caring home maker. Jasper, quiet but a dependable calm rock in the relationship, who adds his fount of knowledge of the natural world to enrich and feed their lives with.
The story, the ranch, the characters, the events all meld into captivating the reader into an amazingly real experience, that feeling that you are there and part of the story. A rare skill with writing and one that has to be highly recommended.
There are elements of tension, excitement, fear even, dispersed throughout the book. An introduction to more of the extended family is a big theme in this book too. Who could fail to be impressed by the age range, characters and interactions of this group of diverse men. I found the music and waltz scene very endearing and freeing too. Heart in mouth moments from trapped underground to bottle Cossack dance steps on top of the shed all add to the stories realism and moments of high excitement, tension and fear.
I can't wait to read the next story Mustang Hill, and know when the series of books ends I will feel bereft. Very discerning readers will see occasional literacy errors but I assure you it won't distract from this beautiful creation and no qualms its 5 stars from me, and one I will definitely reread again. I would like to thank Rolf and Ranger for posting their stories free for readers to read, I for one appreciate this kindness.
August 12, 2024
Probably the most lighthearted book of the series, if only because it gets WAY heavier after this and not because there aren't deep themes in this book.
The plot is slow and very character driven again, it picks up right where book1 left off. Dale returns to the ranch after wrapping up his career, fully expecting for things to turn back to normal immediately... but it's not that easy. He has to face his doubts and what it means to be in a group marriage, all while having merry (and not so merry) adventures around the ranch and the nearby abandoned town of Three Traders and its coal and gold mine.
Content warnings include:
Some of my personal highlights:
- a VERY angry horse
- horse shenanigans in general
- many new and wonderful characters get introduced: Tom, Jake, Darcy, Wade, Luath, ... <3
- The Seduction of Paul TM, soft and smooth and exactly what he deserves <3
- Paul handling a huge ass rifle with every intent to shoot it at a person who dared to threaten his loved ones
- landslide and mine (mis)adventures that luckily end with nobody seriously hurt
- Dale having two near-death experiences and gets to feel how much he means to his husbands firsthand
- beautiful and extremely meaningful wedding rings!!!!
- bottle dancing on the roof and subsequently Dale's first "I just stepped off a roof and scared my husbands" instance
- a beautiful funeral
- glimpses into Flynn's past where he was VERY misbehaved with makes for hilarious stories
- gentle, wonderful and heartbreaking moments with Tom (and Jake)
- Dale desperately trying to figure out how to approach the topic of sex with his very appealing husbands while also being extremely British and not wanting to actually SAY anything, which of course is what the others want him to do before they even think of touching him
- first time at the hot springs!!
The plot is slow and very character driven again, it picks up right where book1 left off. Dale returns to the ranch after wrapping up his career, fully expecting for things to turn back to normal immediately... but it's not that easy. He has to face his doubts and what it means to be in a group marriage, all while having merry (and not so merry) adventures around the ranch and the nearby abandoned town of Three Traders and its coal and gold mine.
Content warnings include:
Some of my personal highlights:
- a VERY angry horse
- horse shenanigans in general
- many new and wonderful characters get introduced: Tom, Jake, Darcy, Wade, Luath, ... <3
- The Seduction of Paul TM, soft and smooth and exactly what he deserves <3
- Paul handling a huge ass rifle with every intent to shoot it at a person who dared to threaten his loved ones
- landslide and mine (mis)adventures that luckily end with nobody seriously hurt
- Dale having two near-death experiences and gets to feel how much he means to his husbands firsthand
- beautiful and extremely meaningful wedding rings!!!!
- bottle dancing on the roof and subsequently Dale's first "I just stepped off a roof and scared my husbands" instance
- a beautiful funeral
- glimpses into Flynn's past where he was VERY misbehaved with makes for hilarious stories
- gentle, wonderful and heartbreaking moments with Tom (and Jake)
- Dale desperately trying to figure out how to approach the topic of sex with his very appealing husbands while also being extremely British and not wanting to actually SAY anything, which of course is what the others want him to do before they even think of touching him
- first time at the hot springs!!
August 27, 2012
Domestic discipline relationships, in real life, are not my thing. This book establishes a polyamorous domestic disciple relationship between 5 man. I think being between men allowed me to suspend judgement and appreciate the relationships between the characters in a way I wouldn't have been able to if one or more of the characters had been women. I work with teenagers, mostly girls, with learning disabilities, ADHD, Executive Functioning issues, etc. I have major perfectionist and control issues my self. I deeply empathized with Dale and his struggle to let go of the perfectionism and to trust others. I work a lot with my kids on opening up, asking for help, and being accountable. I still have a fundamental problem with spanking as a behavior correction outside of erotic play. Spankings aside, this is a lovely world to visit as a reader.
The authors have painted a complete world in few enough strokes that I was enjoying the story and not skimming to get through the world building. Each of the main characters has a distinct voice and personality. The main character, Dale, goes through a lot of internal work, coming to know himself, letting go of preconceptions about who he is supposed to be and what other people want from him. I found myself frequently putting the book down (leaving the website) to think more about how you teach someone to be vulnerable and accountable in a relationship. Obviously I don't think it should be done with a paddle. My favorite parts of the book were when the characters were gently pushing eachother's boundaries. This is a fairly quiet story with lots of introspection and dialogue.
The authors have painted a complete world in few enough strokes that I was enjoying the story and not skimming to get through the world building. Each of the main characters has a distinct voice and personality. The main character, Dale, goes through a lot of internal work, coming to know himself, letting go of preconceptions about who he is supposed to be and what other people want from him. I found myself frequently putting the book down (leaving the website) to think more about how you teach someone to be vulnerable and accountable in a relationship. Obviously I don't think it should be done with a paddle. My favorite parts of the book were when the characters were gently pushing eachother's boundaries. This is a fairly quiet story with lots of introspection and dialogue.
August 3, 2016
The second installment in the Falls Chance Ranch series ... a lovely continuation but I did get a smidge frustrated with Dale at times ... I must confess that despite my desire some days to have someone else be the grown-up for a few hours so I don't have to be responsible for everything, I can't comprehend how domestic discipline can work without degrading & demeaning the brat of the relationship ... despite my personal objections to domestic discipline, I still find these books compelling reading.
June 18, 2018
wonderful story telling - 4.5* rounded up because I can't imagine liking a story with this set-up more.
For me it started a bit slow but like a freight train it picked up steam and bowled me over. Picking up immediately after Falls Chance Ranch. Dale has made several major life changes and is struggling a bit with his new life. Riley and Dale act out a bit and it was hard at times to remember that they are not teenagers. However I still loved them. They spend a lot of time involved in the ghost town Three Traders. There is lots of ranchy stuff, discipline, adventures, and love. We get to see all five men and understand their relationships better. There is a sad family gathering with a happy ending.
The sex scenes were perfect. Not at all descriptive. Just enough to let us know where people stood in relationship to one another and no more. I really wish more books were like this.
For me it started a bit slow but like a freight train it picked up steam and bowled me over. Picking up immediately after Falls Chance Ranch. Dale has made several major life changes and is struggling a bit with his new life. Riley and Dale act out a bit and it was hard at times to remember that they are not teenagers. However I still loved them. They spend a lot of time involved in the ghost town Three Traders. There is lots of ranchy stuff, discipline, adventures, and love. We get to see all five men and understand their relationships better. There is a sad family gathering with a happy ending.
The sex scenes were perfect. Not at all descriptive. Just enough to let us know where people stood in relationship to one another and no more. I really wish more books were like this.
April 5, 2013
Splendid! More & more stunned by this writer's ability to develop characters, describe scenery & create a story that is captivating in its simplicity. It's usage of psychology is probably part of what intrigues me & the complexities of each of the 5 main protagonists' characters. Dale, Flynn, Riley, Paul & Jas are all so different & yet so alike in that they love each other unconditionally & without reservation.
This book picks up shortly after Dale wraps up his business with ANZ & returns full time to the ranch. He buys the ghost town (Three Traders) as a gift to the others & they soon discover that David (original owner of the ranch along with Phillip) probably was searching for gold in the mines there with his friend. There are some harrowing moments along with some heartbreaking ones & a wealth of insight into pretty much everyone's psyche. Jas still seems a bit of a mystery to me & might be the strongest protector of the bunch. There are scenes between Dale & Flynn & Riley & Dale that are touching & Dale comes out of his shell a bit more overall & settles into life on the ranch. It takes him longer than expected to settle back in but eventually he finds his place within the context of the relationship. There are several new secondary characters introduced & I'm especially fond of Tom, Jake & Luath who bring some lighthearted moments along with Riley, always. Oh Riley.... always in trouble.... he really is a magical blend of no nonsense insight, bluntness & brattiness. it's just delightful!
At any rate, on to the next one! These really have become quite addicting. :/
This book picks up shortly after Dale wraps up his business with ANZ & returns full time to the ranch. He buys the ghost town (Three Traders) as a gift to the others & they soon discover that David (original owner of the ranch along with Phillip) probably was searching for gold in the mines there with his friend. There are some harrowing moments along with some heartbreaking ones & a wealth of insight into pretty much everyone's psyche. Jas still seems a bit of a mystery to me & might be the strongest protector of the bunch. There are scenes between Dale & Flynn & Riley & Dale that are touching & Dale comes out of his shell a bit more overall & settles into life on the ranch. It takes him longer than expected to settle back in but eventually he finds his place within the context of the relationship. There are several new secondary characters introduced & I'm especially fond of Tom, Jake & Luath who bring some lighthearted moments along with Riley, always. Oh Riley.... always in trouble.... he really is a magical blend of no nonsense insight, bluntness & brattiness. it's just delightful!
At any rate, on to the next one! These really have become quite addicting. :/
October 2, 2012
An excellent follow on to Falls Chance Ranch. Relationships are developed and a whole cast of new characters wander through. Dale finds that there are no quick fixes and he finally frees that space within himself--Flynn is there to fill it. Paul and Riley also find their places along side Dale and Jasper, too. It is quiet, beautiful and a struggle at times.
I found myself frustrated trying to maneuver Flynn and failing, which you will understand is extraordinarily funny after reading. I kept wanting to push away the distractions, but real life isn't like that. I could use this book as a primer or self-help book--and it is calming. I'm looking forward to reading the continuation of their story in Book #3.
Favorite quote:
No, what we get is you." Jasper said gently. "Whole. Why would I want to be with just selected sections of you?" "The mess isn't something anyone wants! That's insane." Dale snapped. Jasper shook his head. Ch. 6
I found myself frustrated trying to maneuver Flynn and failing, which you will understand is extraordinarily funny after reading. I kept wanting to push away the distractions, but real life isn't like that. I could use this book as a primer or self-help book--and it is calming. I'm looking forward to reading the continuation of their story in Book #3.
Favorite quote:
No, what we get is you." Jasper said gently. "Whole. Why would I want to be with just selected sections of you?" "The mess isn't something anyone wants! That's insane." Dale snapped. Jasper shook his head. Ch. 6
May 27, 2020
Ok so I am a huge fan of this series(the DD part anyways), however after reading the first and second book I must say I am thoroughly disappointed that they completely glossed over the sex scene. I was so looking forward to the moment Flynn sunk himself into Dale, that I was almost panting for it. I mean if this was meant to be a book just about DD, why mention how hard Flynn's cock was while spanking Dale etc... it felt like false leading to be honest. I could of dealt with one hot sex scene with each of the 4 others, but after reading 2 books I only read one mention of a sex scene with no details what so ever.
I am on the 3rd book and while I see the connection and love between them all, it feels like a brotherly love rather than a lovers love.
Sadly if I didn't like the DD so much, it would have gotten even less stars, but the DD part is well written and the story flows well. I love the characters as well. If it involved a few hot sex scenes, it would be a 5 star series for me.
I am on the 3rd book and while I see the connection and love between them all, it feels like a brotherly love rather than a lovers love.
Sadly if I didn't like the DD so much, it would have gotten even less stars, but the DD part is well written and the story flows well. I love the characters as well. If it involved a few hot sex scenes, it would be a 5 star series for me.
June 22, 2013
I adore this series. It's incredibly slow, there's loads of detail about life on a ranch, and there's no on page sex. However, it's still utterly riveting. Mind you, I love the Little House on the Prarie books and pretty much everything by Thomas Hardy, so perhaps you do have to be the kind of person who likes a lot of detail about rural life to appreciate these.
But it's not just the setting that's a winner. It's the characters. All five men are utterly compelling and totally lovable, and the authors clearly have a huge amount of psychological insight to bring them and their unusual relationship dynamic to life. This is a discipline relationship at its most caring and nurturing, and there's no SM undercurrent to it.
But it's not just the setting that's a winner. It's the characters. All five men are utterly compelling and totally lovable, and the authors clearly have a huge amount of psychological insight to bring them and their unusual relationship dynamic to life. This is a discipline relationship at its most caring and nurturing, and there's no SM undercurrent to it.
February 27, 2020
This series honestly takes my breath away. The guys in these books have their own special place in my heart. They are all so different, but their relationship takes my breath away.
Add to the characters that I expect to just walk off my reader and into my door, comes a setting of scenery and surroundings that are so vivid that I am wondering why I'm not smelling the horses and the hay myself.
Add to the characters that I expect to just walk off my reader and into my door, comes a setting of scenery and surroundings that are so vivid that I am wondering why I'm not smelling the horses and the hay myself.
August 22, 2018
Loved it!
I could so vision in my head and Would've been neat if during the funeral, Jasper and Dale had seen David, Phillip and their friend at the gravesite ☺ giving them a tip of their hats in acknowledgement and thanks in their way. Or even when they brought the body out.
I could so vision in my head and Would've been neat if during the funeral, Jasper and Dale had seen David, Phillip and their friend at the gravesite ☺ giving them a tip of their hats in acknowledgement and thanks in their way. Or even when they brought the body out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2020
4.5 stars
March 11, 2014
so here i am, reading another DD (domestic discipline) fic, and struggling with it. in the best of all possible worlds, i would encounter this series and have it be slightly more polyamory-focussed, without a single paddle in sight. but this is not that world, and i rather have the series with spanking, than not have it at all. i am sure DD afficionados have even less quality choices than i do, and i don't begrudge them this. but i've never been more tempted to fan-fic a story by merely changing one aspect of it, so i can read it again and again without the hairs on my back standing up as soon as the lexan paddle comes out.
the characters are marvelously complex, the setting is beautifully realized, there is a hint of grown-up enid blyton around the mysteries of the ghost town and the abandoned mine, there are scary bits, and fully committed comfort, no matter what. and i love dale. he works so very hard, he is so self-effacing, and he has so far yet to go; my heart goes out to him, and i am never bored with him no matter how slow the pace (though the pace is not actually all that slow considering the sub plots).
i'm making my peace with the spanking under the general theme "if it works for you, your kink between consenting adults is ok". there are no consent issues here, unlike the start of the first book which is dubious. on the other hand, there are a couple of instances where i feel that even given that DD is the lifestyle these people have chosen, the paddling at that particular time is a mistake, and cuddling ought to have happened without prior spankage. it feels to me like flynn is just a little quick with spanking as the response to every violation of his multitude of quite authoritarian rules. also, i think that his ongoing conflicts with riley which cause serious grief between the two of them could use some judicious application of his well-honed creativity as a psychologist. this has been going on for what, 15 years? even if spanking is your primary go-to solution, repeating the same pattern over and over and not reaching the results one wants to see ought to make any psychologist ponder his methods. the problem is a thorny one, i sympathize, and it is made thornier by having a dom/sub relationship dynamic, but it is incongruous to me that somebody as competent as flynn is so completely stumped by it. it makes him seem less competent and rather more authoritarian than i trust in dominants.
that said, there is a lot of love and affection between the guys. a LOT. and not in a heavy-handed (no pun intended) way; no sappy romance, no graphic sex. i really like how sex is handled here; how relatively little weight it is given, how patient everyone is with dale who is clearly shell-shocked by so much that has been happening and that he has been learning about himself, and also how the very few sex scenes are written -- you actually have to pay attention to recognize anyone IS having sex, *snicker*. it's refreshing if a little quaint (the story often feels like it takes place in the 50s).
there are two more full books in the series, and i've read the third and will be reading the second as soon as i can download it.
4.25 stars, docking 0.75 cause the spanking gives me bad flashbacks. highly recommended for amazing characterisation, even if one dislikes spanking. or polyamory. or homosexuality. seriously.
the characters are marvelously complex, the setting is beautifully realized, there is a hint of grown-up enid blyton around the mysteries of the ghost town and the abandoned mine, there are scary bits, and fully committed comfort, no matter what. and i love dale. he works so very hard, he is so self-effacing, and he has so far yet to go; my heart goes out to him, and i am never bored with him no matter how slow the pace (though the pace is not actually all that slow considering the sub plots).
i'm making my peace with the spanking under the general theme "if it works for you, your kink between consenting adults is ok". there are no consent issues here, unlike the start of the first book which is dubious. on the other hand, there are a couple of instances where i feel that even given that DD is the lifestyle these people have chosen, the paddling at that particular time is a mistake, and cuddling ought to have happened without prior spankage. it feels to me like flynn is just a little quick with spanking as the response to every violation of his multitude of quite authoritarian rules. also, i think that his ongoing conflicts with riley which cause serious grief between the two of them could use some judicious application of his well-honed creativity as a psychologist. this has been going on for what, 15 years? even if spanking is your primary go-to solution, repeating the same pattern over and over and not reaching the results one wants to see ought to make any psychologist ponder his methods. the problem is a thorny one, i sympathize, and it is made thornier by having a dom/sub relationship dynamic, but it is incongruous to me that somebody as competent as flynn is so completely stumped by it. it makes him seem less competent and rather more authoritarian than i trust in dominants.
that said, there is a lot of love and affection between the guys. a LOT. and not in a heavy-handed (no pun intended) way; no sappy romance, no graphic sex. i really like how sex is handled here; how relatively little weight it is given, how patient everyone is with dale who is clearly shell-shocked by so much that has been happening and that he has been learning about himself, and also how the very few sex scenes are written -- you actually have to pay attention to recognize anyone IS having sex, *snicker*. it's refreshing if a little quaint (the story often feels like it takes place in the 50s).
there are two more full books in the series, and i've read the third and will be reading the second as soon as i can download it.
4.25 stars, docking 0.75 cause the spanking gives me bad flashbacks. highly recommended for amazing characterisation, even if one dislikes spanking. or polyamory. or homosexuality. seriously.
July 12, 2019
05/09/2016 - Started a reread whilst in the National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery. Didn't finish.
07/08/2015 - Dale Aden starts his new life at Falls Chance Ranch.
You know what, I liked this book more than I liked the first one, and I loved the first one.
There were still some minor formatting issues, but it didn't bother me as much as it did in the first one, probably because I was expeciting it so just ignored it for the most part.
The dynamic between the men was different in this one, probably because they were building a relationship between the five of them, rather than Dale being there as a client. Dale thinks that it'd be really easy, but he actually finds it harder than the first time around. I'm actually really glad that he didn't find it easy, because I think that would have been unrealistic. It emphasised just how important this relationship was to him - he didn't want to mess it up, and so he found himself stressing about doing it perfectly. The thing about relationships, however, is that there is no 'right' way, and that's something Dale really struggled with.
There was a subplot about Three Traders, the old mining town, and a gold mine that is perhaps still hidden there, but it really was just a subplot. The main focus is Dale and his relationship with the four other men of Falls Chance Ranch, and the other men's relationship with each other.
I liked that this book worked more on Dale's relationship with Jasper, Riley, and Paul, as well as with Flynn. The first book focused a lot on Dale's relationship with Flynn, and though the relationship with the others was explored, it was definitely strengthened and deepened in this book. In particular, I really liked seeing Dale interact with Jasper, who is quiet and elusive by nature, and also with Riley. Riley's character was definitely explored a lot more in this book, showing he had a hell of a lot of depth, and I really enjoyed that.
If you don't like books that are a slow burn, and very very character focused, this isn't a book for you. Also, it helps if you like horses too. The horses in this book have such strong personalities, especially Bandit, the stud stallion. It really made me think of the way my sister talks about her horses, and made me understand that a bit better. (I'm really allergic to horses so I can't really get up close to them in real life.)
Unlike the first book, there is sex in this book, but it's done subtly and (mostly) off the page. It's weird, these guys have such a private relationship that I would feel as though I was intruding if there was explicit sex! Haha. Once again, though, the fact there is so little sex means that every touch between them has so much more meaning, and if anything, it's much more erotic.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book, and I'm looking forward to seeing Dale's relationship deepen with all four of his men. :)
07/08/2015 - Dale Aden starts his new life at Falls Chance Ranch.
You know what, I liked this book more than I liked the first one, and I loved the first one.
There were still some minor formatting issues, but it didn't bother me as much as it did in the first one, probably because I was expeciting it so just ignored it for the most part.
The dynamic between the men was different in this one, probably because they were building a relationship between the five of them, rather than Dale being there as a client. Dale thinks that it'd be really easy, but he actually finds it harder than the first time around. I'm actually really glad that he didn't find it easy, because I think that would have been unrealistic. It emphasised just how important this relationship was to him - he didn't want to mess it up, and so he found himself stressing about doing it perfectly. The thing about relationships, however, is that there is no 'right' way, and that's something Dale really struggled with.
There was a subplot about Three Traders, the old mining town, and a gold mine that is perhaps still hidden there, but it really was just a subplot. The main focus is Dale and his relationship with the four other men of Falls Chance Ranch, and the other men's relationship with each other.
I liked that this book worked more on Dale's relationship with Jasper, Riley, and Paul, as well as with Flynn. The first book focused a lot on Dale's relationship with Flynn, and though the relationship with the others was explored, it was definitely strengthened and deepened in this book. In particular, I really liked seeing Dale interact with Jasper, who is quiet and elusive by nature, and also with Riley. Riley's character was definitely explored a lot more in this book, showing he had a hell of a lot of depth, and I really enjoyed that.
If you don't like books that are a slow burn, and very very character focused, this isn't a book for you. Also, it helps if you like horses too. The horses in this book have such strong personalities, especially Bandit, the stud stallion. It really made me think of the way my sister talks about her horses, and made me understand that a bit better. (I'm really allergic to horses so I can't really get up close to them in real life.)
Unlike the first book, there is sex in this book, but it's done subtly and (mostly) off the page. It's weird, these guys have such a private relationship that I would feel as though I was intruding if there was explicit sex! Haha. Once again, though, the fact there is so little sex means that every touch between them has so much more meaning, and if anything, it's much more erotic.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book, and I'm looking forward to seeing Dale's relationship deepen with all four of his men. :)
February 16, 2017
I don't know if I can really put into words how I feel about this book. This is the second time I am reading the entire series. I just can't seem to put the books down once I start.
My favorite aspect of every book in this series is the characters. I couldn't help but fall in love with them. It doesn't even matter if they are main ones or side characters. They are all needed and they are all part of the family.
Saying that, I also have to say that I am in love with the ranch. I have lived on farms and know how hard of work a small one can be. It is such a fulfilling life though. Growing and raising what you will eat and just the feeling of freedom. I really wish I could pick up and go back to that life. I miss it so much.
Finally, I love the sense of adventure. I originally felt like I never knew what Dale would find or what trouble would happen. Reading this for the second time, I have to say that it was just as good. Sure, I remembered most of the main events. That didn't stop me from enjoying them all over again. I was actually able to think more about situations this time though.
Overall, this set of books is one that I will always keep on hand to reread. I can see myself going through them over and over again. They are just too close to my heart to not have a permanent place for them on my reader. Thank you so much for the joy you have given me in writing these and offering them for free.
My favorite aspect of every book in this series is the characters. I couldn't help but fall in love with them. It doesn't even matter if they are main ones or side characters. They are all needed and they are all part of the family.
Saying that, I also have to say that I am in love with the ranch. I have lived on farms and know how hard of work a small one can be. It is such a fulfilling life though. Growing and raising what you will eat and just the feeling of freedom. I really wish I could pick up and go back to that life. I miss it so much.
Finally, I love the sense of adventure. I originally felt like I never knew what Dale would find or what trouble would happen. Reading this for the second time, I have to say that it was just as good. Sure, I remembered most of the main events. That didn't stop me from enjoying them all over again. I was actually able to think more about situations this time though.
Overall, this set of books is one that I will always keep on hand to reread. I can see myself going through them over and over again. They are just too close to my heart to not have a permanent place for them on my reader. Thank you so much for the joy you have given me in writing these and offering them for free.
September 23, 2023
Reread: The way this series has a grip on me. One of my absolute favorite MM+ series, I'm obsessed. And there are literally thousands of pages in the series with all the books + short stories which just means I get to immerse myself in their world for a good long while.
******
I am really enjoying this series. It doesn't seem like it should be, but it's like a comforting warm blanket, reading this. Being inside Dale's head as he tries to find his way as a brat and a member of a five person poly relationship is really interesting. The structure that Flynn, Jasper & Paul give is really reassuring for Dale (and for me). I loved meeting extended members of their "family"; the found family that Philip and David created is really beautiful.
For some it may seem like he just keeps going over the same ground over and over, but I think that makes it realistic. He is trying to learn new habits and behavior, and he's not just going to magically get it right the first time. It takes him a lot of one step forward two steps backwards, but he gradually starts to trust in his men more and more.
I can see myself re-reading this series in the future as a comfort read for sure. Just let the wisdom of the Tops wash over Dale (and me).
******
I am really enjoying this series. It doesn't seem like it should be, but it's like a comforting warm blanket, reading this. Being inside Dale's head as he tries to find his way as a brat and a member of a five person poly relationship is really interesting. The structure that Flynn, Jasper & Paul give is really reassuring for Dale (and for me). I loved meeting extended members of their "family"; the found family that Philip and David created is really beautiful.
For some it may seem like he just keeps going over the same ground over and over, but I think that makes it realistic. He is trying to learn new habits and behavior, and he's not just going to magically get it right the first time. It takes him a lot of one step forward two steps backwards, but he gradually starts to trust in his men more and more.
I can see myself re-reading this series in the future as a comfort read for sure. Just let the wisdom of the Tops wash over Dale (and me).
August 15, 2014
I really lost time reading this book, accidentally staying up until 3a hoping to finish it, but, with two chapters left, decided to get some sleep since I had an early morning.
The first two books in this series make a gorgeous story arc, with the first doing a good job of setting up characters and expectations, while the second allowed those characters to blossom.
The writing and pace carried me away, relaxed then exciting, as if it were duplicating the ranch life it was depicting. While the characters are involved in a polyamorous, discipline-based relationship, this is not a novel that dwells on the sexual side of that relationship, rather focusing on how the players interact.
I would definitely recommend the stories, provided you aren't squeamish about same sex relationship or a bit of discipline, though there aren't any other kinks or fetishes involved that come to mind.
The first two books in this series make a gorgeous story arc, with the first doing a good job of setting up characters and expectations, while the second allowed those characters to blossom.
The writing and pace carried me away, relaxed then exciting, as if it were duplicating the ranch life it was depicting. While the characters are involved in a polyamorous, discipline-based relationship, this is not a novel that dwells on the sexual side of that relationship, rather focusing on how the players interact.
I would definitely recommend the stories, provided you aren't squeamish about same sex relationship or a bit of discipline, though there aren't any other kinks or fetishes involved that come to mind.
February 2, 2013
I am loving this series! I wasn't sure about the first book but now that I stuck with it, I am totally hooked on these characters. I can't seem to put it down. I do have two complaints though. One is that spanking seems to be the cure-all for everything. As a psychologist I can't really agree with that on so many levels. I get where they are coming from on a BDSM front, but honestly there has to be a bit more to the therapy sessions than just corporal punishment. However, Dale is such a great neurotic character it seems to work for him. I also wish there was some actual sex... I know I seem to have become a smut addict but the tension melting off some of these guys is palpable and it is killing me. All I know for sure, is that I need at least 3 months at that ranch to unwind.
October 6, 2012
I loved it. Will definately come back and re-read the series. Setting/location is beautiful and mysterious. Characters are lovable, deep, sensitive, diverse, thought provoking and real. Relationship dynamics are very well laid out/developed. I admit it, I'm a sucker for the psychology behind, underlying and driving this series. But the romance is there too - in the characters and the landscape. Worth a look, and it's a free-read!
September 12, 2012
I'm completely and totally addicted to the series. I have fallen completely in love with Flynn, Jasper, Paul, Riley and Dale. I can't wait to read more about them and continue to be amazed that they have been published!
March 29, 2014
I usually like some smut in my romance, but I am thoroughly enjoying this series which has absolutely none. It's all about the relationships between the characters, the discipline lifestyle, and love. Oh, and horses and ranching.
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