Review: Another great read from Z. A. Maxfield
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 17, 2013
This was a nice, understated romance of two men finding love and finding themselves. Malloy, the ranch foreman, is pretty much a loner. As a teenager he was saved by the Jenkins family and has since lived and devoted his life to them and the ranch. He has no real other relationships to speak of and as foreman, keeps his distance from the others he bunks with.When out and proud Crispin shows up on the ranch as the new hand (and friend of the Jenkins family), Malloy is tasked by Mr. Jenkins with making sure he not only acclimates to working on the ranch, but making sure nobody gives him trouble. Crispin's arrival seems to throw the other hands, Eddie and Jim off-kilter and Malloy soon finds himself reacting to the man in ways he never before considered.The two men had difficult past issues to deal with, but neither of them is broken by it. I loved Crispin's nervous babbling and caring nature. He has a heart of gold, especially when it comes to working with the animals. Malloy's quiet discovery and acceptance of his feelings for Crispin and what it means for his future was a pleasure to read. The differences in the dynamic of the work vs. private relationship they have was really enjoyable as well.There is some humor in with the drama and there is room for the story to continue, although there is a happy ending for the two men. The supporting characters all had dimension and reasons to be there. Looking forward to Eddie and Jim's story next.