Saddle Up

Two very different men, both scarred—one literally, one figuratively—by troubled pasts, find love in Arthur’s passionate but overlong third Clean Slate Ranch contemporary (after Roped In). Miles Arlington signs up to be a chef at the Bentley Ghost Town saloon, hoping to get away from his stalker ex, Dallas. On the ranch, Miles moves in with Reyes Caldero, a “super-hot, super-quiet Latino cowboy” who’s also a wounded ex-firefighter. Miles initially wants a platonic relationship with Reyes, but as the men go on frequent horseback rides, they become closer. Reyes is thoughtful and a gentleman; he wants Miles to make the first move. Miles eventually gives in to his desires. The guys share deep, passionate kisses; have hot sex; and cuddle. However, their storybook romance is jeopardized by their dark pasts: the manipulative Dallas turns up and threatens Miles, and Reyes fears he will lose Miles when he reveals his very worst secret. The story feels a bit padded, but its messages about truth and trust will resonate with fans of the series. (Oct.)