Review: "Love on the Range" by Jessica Nelson

Reviewed by *Katie McCurdy for Legacy of a Writer

3/5 Stars

THE BOOK:

Could romance be their greatest adventure?

Any other socialite would view being packed off to a remote Oregon ranch as a punishment. But Gracelyn Riley knows that this is her opportunity to become a real reporter. If she can make her name through an interview with the elusive hero known as Striker, then she'll never have to depend on anyone ever again.

Rancher Trevor Cruz can't believe his secret identity is being endangered by an overly chatty city girl. But if there's one thing he knows, it's that Gracie's pretty little snooping nose is bound to get her in trouble. So he'll use her determination to find "Striker" to keep an eye on her…and stick close by her side.

MY REVIEW:

This is, yet again, another one of those books where I almost gave it a 4 star rating. I went back and forth for a while on what to rate it, but finally decided to give it 3 stars.

Love on the Range was a nice, one-time read that gave a very interesting view of ranching in the early 1900s when hoop skirts and horses were being replaced with short dresses and automobiles. I really enjoyed a peek at what ranch-life was like for people during this changing time in history.

Gracelyn was such a fun character! She had this bubbly way about her that I found instantly attractive and sweet and because she was such a talkative type...it led to some humorous scenes that I couldn't help laughing over. Trevor made for a good hero--kinda quiet, but still super-sweet and gentle. His proposal scene at the ending was great--really loved it!

And, of course, the mix of Striker, and who he is, adds a lot of drama and intrigue into the plot. If I had to name one thing, however, that caused me not to completely enjoy this book, it'd probably be the plot. It just seemed to take a while for anything to happen. All the action took place within the last few chapters, and before that the story is just slowly building. But that's just me. :-)

The writing was good! Very crisp and clean and the descriptions of the Oregon territory around Gracelyn was refreshingly vivid. One or two action scene I felt rather "jerky", but fun to read nonetheless. Love on the Range is a very nice read from a promising debut author! I look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.

* I received this book from the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.