Title: Auld Lang Syne
Author: Tia Fielding
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Heat Level: Hot
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥
Reviewer: Beatrice
Blurb: After leaving trouble behind, Jackson Way has found a home on the Triple-R, but he hasn’t found that one perfect horse – and men are pretty thin on the ground as well. Jack’s got a once-a-year hookup with a carnival worker, but it’s been quite some time since the carnival’s been by. When the ranch owner’s nephew comes to the Triple-R to work, Jackson has to admit, Blair McRae can tempt a man.
But Jackson’s not the only one with a past to make a man skittish, and Blair’s not willing to risk his bruised heart if Jackson’s not ready to let go of his past. Jackson had to work hard, be patient, and let go of the past to get his one perfect horse – is he willing to go to the same lengths to hold on to that one perfect man?
Review: I liked this. It’s nice to see characters defying stereotypes planted in this genre. Jack wasn’t a total alpha male – in fact he was quite submissive in bed – despite the general stereotype that seems to appoint ranchers (and the older man in the relationship) to be the dominant one. Blair wasn’t a wide-eyed kid despite his considerably young age; he’s not a blushing virgin and he’s seen his fair share of the dark side of the planet.
I also liked how the horses were incorporated into this story. They weren’t just animals that Jack and Blair worked with; they were separate beings with names and I really enjoyed reading all about Sirius’s antics. What a cute colt. He’ll definitely be a handful, but I do know that he’s Jack’s horse.
Through bad introductions and an awkward and fumbling “getting to know you” stage and a (somewhat) expected turn of events, these guys found love. Definitely recommended if you’re in need of a quick and fluffy read. I’m looking forward to reading Tia Fielding’s new novel that was just released yesterday.