Susan F. (scoutmomskf) - , reviewed on 9/29/2022 + 2540 more book reviews

Good enemies-to-lovers book. Chelsea's family is embroiled in a battle with the Thurstons over the oil rights on the Grandin's land. But when Nolan spots Chelsea from across the street, her name is the last thing on his mind. When the two meet, there is no denying the sparks that fly between them. Despite their feuding families, they go out on a date together. Each of them tells their families that the idea is to pump the other for information that can help in the battle.

Chelsea is tired of being underestimated by her father and grandfather. She has devoted her life to the family ranch, but her father intends to leave the running the ranch to her only brother, Vic, because he is a man. It doesn't matter that Chelsea knows more about what goes into it than Vic does. Chelsea's male family members are prime examples of the patriarchal mindset, and it is increasingly evident that Vic can do no wrong. Chelsea believes that if she can acquire information that will save the ranch, her family will have to admit her worth.

Nolan left Royal when he was eighteen because he felt unappreciated. Instead, he found his calling doing location searches for production companies. Nolan returned to Royal to support his brother, Heath, and attempt to make amends for leaving to follow his dreams. Nolan doesn't understand Heath's reasons for pushing so hard about the oil rights, though Heath tries to explain.

I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Chelsea and Nolan. Because each had entered the relationship with ulterior motives, neither believed anything could come of it. This allowed them to be themselves instead of trying to be what the other person wanted. It wasn't long before they ditched the spying plan and enjoyed being together. I loved seeing them get to know each other, especially how Nolan brought out Chelsea's adventurous side. As their attraction intensified and grew into deeper feelings, both struggled to reconcile those feelings with their duty to their families. I rooted for them to find a way to do what was right for them.

I almost despaired of that happening when family interference caused a rift between them. Fortunately, they realized the truth of their feelings before it was too late. There was a very emotional scene at the end as they found a way to live their lives apart from their families' conflict. I hope to see more of them in future books, and I can't wait to see how the conflict ends.

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