Review: Stirring Spurs by M.A. Wardell (Rainbow Ranch #1)


Note: An advance reader copy (ARC) was provided by the author via Grey's Promotions.

Stirring Spurs is the first book in the multi-author Rainbow Ranch series. This novella is from M.A. Wardell, an author whose work I've been wanting to read for the past couple of years, and it, along with the rest of the books in the series, is set on an Oklahoma ranch owned by the four Adams siblings--Beau, Boone, Billie, and Bennett--and known for being "a sanctuary that celebrates diversity, creativity, and community". The series kicks off with Boone's story, and it's a feel-good, low angst romance where the ranch's resident cook shows the new horse whisperer a thing or two about love, acceptance, and family.

Boone Adams is the caretaker among his siblings, the younger twin who's got a sunnier disposition compared to the broodier Beau. Feeding those who matter most to him makes him happy, and that includes those who make up the staff of Rainbow Ranch. So, when Wylie Anderson arrives to help with a highly challenging horse, Boone can't help but hope to inject some sweetness and bring some sunshine into the man's life. Rainbow Ranch has Wylie feeling safe and accepted, a place where his queerness isn't something to be hidden. Can Wylie finally lay down roots and call Rainbow Ranch home--and Boone his?

This was a good introduction to the Rainbow Ranch series and to M.A. Wardell's writing. Wylie was a man who had been running away from the life he had left behind in Wyoming, and Rainbow Ranch was the first place where it felt like he could breathe and not be judged for who he was and who he loved. The Adams siblings had different personalities, but it was clear that their bond was strong, with each one working to strengthen the legacy they were creating. I liked Boone, and he seemed like exactly who Wylie needed. While Stirring Spurs was a quick read, it still packed a punch, which is why it receives four stars.

Release Date: 01 July 2025

Date Read: 29 June 2025

Learn more about M.A. Wardell.

Pre-order Stirring Spurs on Amazon.

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