The Rancher’s Heart by Susan Lute is the third book in her heartfelt and romantic series, Strawberry Ridge. The books are about the 3 Lohmen brothers; Blake, Nathan and Jonas. This is Jonas’ story. He is the oldest brother and a lawyer. After their parents passed away many years earlier, Jonas moved to Denver and opened a law practice. There were some disagreements between the brothers and Blake was forced to leave. Only one brother, Nathan, remained on the family ranch in Colorado to keep it running. After Nathan had an accident, Blake and Jonas returned home to help and decided to stay. Jonas decided to move his law practice to Strawberry Ridge. Both of his brothers have found their wives and are making families with them. Jonas has always felt that lifestyle wasn’t for him. He believed that after his dad died, his mom was left alone and sad and that’s not something he wants to do to anyone.Sloane Michaels has been Jonas’ best friend since she moved to Strawberry Ridge in 6th grade. She took over her dad’s car repair business when he retired. She has secretly been in love with Jonas since they met. She has tried dating but none of the men compare to her feelings for Jonas. She knows he only sees her as a friend and so hasn’t made her feelings known. She would rather be in the friend zone than ruin everything by telling him what she feels for him. The two do things together and talk through their various issues. She has finally given up on being married to Jonas and having a family together. So Sloane signs up for a dating website and begins to date. Jonas learns about this and he has mixed feelings about it. He knew she dated but it bothers him. He recognizes that he has strong feelings for Sloane but doesn’t want to ruin their friendship by telling her. He also doesn’t feel ready in his life to be in a relationship because of all the issues he is working on with his struggling ranch and new law practice. After Sloane and Jonas have a falling out over their friendship, he worries about losing her and decides he has to let her know about his true feelings for her.This is a wonderful story with lots of romance and angst between the couple. It was easy to read and I loved the book. There are surprises and also some heartwarming moments. The book is well written. All of the characters are genuine and very interesting. I enjoyed seeing all the people we’ve met in the prior books return for this story as well. Susan did a nice series wrap up at the end as well. I’ve enjoyed spending time in Strawberry Ridge and I’m sad the series has ended. This is another 5 star book I’m happy to recommend.
