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The Thorntons #3
If I Can't Have You
Abby Davison only wants to focus on her career as a nurse, as she has no time for dating after a bad breakup over a year ago. When her mother presses her about settling down, Abby tells her a little white lie: she’s dating Mark Thornton, the handsome and gruff rancher who both frustrates and makes her heart flutter every time they meet.
When Mark overhears Abby's lie, he decides to cut her a deal: to keep his silence regarding their make-believe relationship, she'll come to live with him on his ranch until his broken arm heals.
Despite her wounded pride and initial trepidation, Abby can’t help but begin to fall for the guarded Thornton brother as the days pass on his ranch.
The black sheep of the family, Mark makes no secret that he prefers horses over people. His brusque exterior, though, only conceals hidden depths and a wounded heart that Abby understands all too clearly.
As feelings start to bloom between them, neither is sure what is real and what’s make-believe. Yet the sizzling attraction between them is anything but fake, and with every kiss and every touch, they fall harder for each other.
But as their pasts begin to creep toward them, unearthing secrets both would rather keep buried, Abby and Mark must learn to trust each other — or risk losing the love both never knew they needed.
When Mark overhears Abby's lie, he decides to cut her a deal: to keep his silence regarding their make-believe relationship, she'll come to live with him on his ranch until his broken arm heals.
Despite her wounded pride and initial trepidation, Abby can’t help but begin to fall for the guarded Thornton brother as the days pass on his ranch.
The black sheep of the family, Mark makes no secret that he prefers horses over people. His brusque exterior, though, only conceals hidden depths and a wounded heart that Abby understands all too clearly.
As feelings start to bloom between them, neither is sure what is real and what’s make-believe. Yet the sizzling attraction between them is anything but fake, and with every kiss and every touch, they fall harder for each other.
But as their pasts begin to creep toward them, unearthing secrets both would rather keep buried, Abby and Mark must learn to trust each other — or risk losing the love both never knew they needed.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2017
About the author
Iris Morland
42 books1,085 followersA coffee addict and cat lover, USA Today bestselling author Iris Morland writes sparkling, swoon-worthy romances, including the Flower Shop Sisters and the Love Everlasting series.
If she's not reading or writing, she enjoys binging on Netflix shows and cooking something delicious.
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If she's not reading or writing, she enjoys binging on Netflix shows and cooking something delicious.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
March 4, 2021
3.5 Two Lost Are Found Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-Limited Time, FREE!!!
Words are the ultimate weapon. They can damage and wound us to the point where we will shut down and retreat from those who love us. They can be said by those who we thought cared for us leaving scars no one can see but are there. Actions, too are right up there with cutting to the quick...so when you have two people who have suffered deep pain either from those cutting words or heartbreaking actions, you have the perfect storm for both coming together behind a need both of them have.
Mark Thornton was pissed. He thought he was able to handle his stallion who wasn't quite broke yet...and suffered for it big time. He was thrown off the horse and landed in such a way as to break his arm. Just what he didn't need. He had a ranch to run. Then he had to have curvy, pretty Abby Davison be his nurse which just made things more complicated. In the past, he had said something unflattering to cover his interest in her; she heard him and called him on it. So there was no love lost on her side...
Abby Davison is just trying to get through her day at the hospital. She had to deal with Mark and it was not what she had wanted. He may be an ass but he sure is a handsome, brooding, sexy one. She was so distracted after taking care of him that she made the mistake of telling her pushy mom Mark was her new boyfriend. Well, her mom wouldn't stop trying to fix her up since she broke up with her ex. So before she knew it, the words were out.
Oh well, it was just her talking to her mom. She would tell her it didn't work out and that was that...
Except, that wasn't that was that... because Mark heard everything and he decided he was going to figure out a way to get closer to Abby. When Mark lets Abby know he heard Everything, somehow he presents a deal with her...he will be her fake boyfriend while she comes out to the ranch and helps him around the house and such while his arm heals. Mark plays it hardcore threatening he would tell her mom of her fib...So Abby bites the bullet and moves out to Mark's house.
Iris Morland sets up this third entry to her series just right. Although I had not read the earlier books, I was able to get the gist of all the dynamics of the Thornton Family and all the other characters. There was heart and concern in this story for two people who had their own insecurities and pain. They were able to push past these obstacles and found the HEA they deserved.
The Nearness of You (The Thorntons, #1)
The Very Thought of you (Thorntons, #2)
If I Can't Have You (The Thorntons, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dream a Little Dream of Me (The Thorntons, #4)
Someone to Watch Over Me (The Thorntons, #5)
Till There Was You (The Thorntons, #6)
I'll Be Home for Christmas(The Thorntons, #7)
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-Limited Time, FREE!!!
Words are the ultimate weapon. They can damage and wound us to the point where we will shut down and retreat from those who love us. They can be said by those who we thought cared for us leaving scars no one can see but are there. Actions, too are right up there with cutting to the quick...so when you have two people who have suffered deep pain either from those cutting words or heartbreaking actions, you have the perfect storm for both coming together behind a need both of them have.
Mark Thornton was pissed. He thought he was able to handle his stallion who wasn't quite broke yet...and suffered for it big time. He was thrown off the horse and landed in such a way as to break his arm. Just what he didn't need. He had a ranch to run. Then he had to have curvy, pretty Abby Davison be his nurse which just made things more complicated. In the past, he had said something unflattering to cover his interest in her; she heard him and called him on it. So there was no love lost on her side...
Abby Davison is just trying to get through her day at the hospital. She had to deal with Mark and it was not what she had wanted. He may be an ass but he sure is a handsome, brooding, sexy one. She was so distracted after taking care of him that she made the mistake of telling her pushy mom Mark was her new boyfriend. Well, her mom wouldn't stop trying to fix her up since she broke up with her ex. So before she knew it, the words were out.
Oh well, it was just her talking to her mom. She would tell her it didn't work out and that was that...
Except, that wasn't that was that... because Mark heard everything and he decided he was going to figure out a way to get closer to Abby. When Mark lets Abby know he heard Everything, somehow he presents a deal with her...he will be her fake boyfriend while she comes out to the ranch and helps him around the house and such while his arm heals. Mark plays it hardcore threatening he would tell her mom of her fib...So Abby bites the bullet and moves out to Mark's house.
Iris Morland sets up this third entry to her series just right. Although I had not read the earlier books, I was able to get the gist of all the dynamics of the Thornton Family and all the other characters. There was heart and concern in this story for two people who had their own insecurities and pain. They were able to push past these obstacles and found the HEA they deserved.
The Nearness of You (The Thorntons, #1) The Very Thought of you (Thorntons, #2) If I Can't Have You (The Thorntons, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dream a Little Dream of Me (The Thorntons, #4) Someone to Watch Over Me (The Thorntons, #5) Till There Was You (The Thorntons, #6) I'll Be Home for Christmas(The Thorntons, #7)A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
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March 27, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (3/26/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Abby Davison only wants to focus on her career as a nurse, as she has no time for dating after a bad breakup over a year ago. When her mother presses her about settling down, Abby tells her a little white lie: she’s dating Mark Thornton, the handsome and gruff rancher who both frustrates and makes her heart flutter every time they meet.
When Mark overhears Abby's lie, he decides to cut her a deal: to keep his silence regarding their make-believe relationship, she'll come to live with him on his ranch until his broken arm heals.
Despite her wounded pride and initial trepidation, Abby can’t help but begin to fall for the guarded Thornton brother as the days pass on his ranch.
The black sheep of the family, Mark makes no secret that he prefers horses over people. His brusque exterior, though, only conceals hidden depths and a wounded heart that Abby understands all too clearly.
As feelings start to bloom between them, neither is sure what is real and what’s make-believe. Yet the sizzling attraction between them is anything but fake, and with every kiss and every touch, they fall harder for each other.
But as their pasts begin to creep toward them, unearthing secrets both would rather keep buried, Abby and Mark must learn to trust each other — or risk losing the love both never knew they needed.
Blurb:
Abby Davison only wants to focus on her career as a nurse, as she has no time for dating after a bad breakup over a year ago. When her mother presses her about settling down, Abby tells her a little white lie: she’s dating Mark Thornton, the handsome and gruff rancher who both frustrates and makes her heart flutter every time they meet.
When Mark overhears Abby's lie, he decides to cut her a deal: to keep his silence regarding their make-believe relationship, she'll come to live with him on his ranch until his broken arm heals.
Despite her wounded pride and initial trepidation, Abby can’t help but begin to fall for the guarded Thornton brother as the days pass on his ranch.
The black sheep of the family, Mark makes no secret that he prefers horses over people. His brusque exterior, though, only conceals hidden depths and a wounded heart that Abby understands all too clearly.
As feelings start to bloom between them, neither is sure what is real and what’s make-believe. Yet the sizzling attraction between them is anything but fake, and with every kiss and every touch, they fall harder for each other.
But as their pasts begin to creep toward them, unearthing secrets both would rather keep buried, Abby and Mark must learn to trust each other — or risk losing the love both never knew they needed.
July 15, 2017
I was excited to see this book on my Kindle since I had lost track of my preorders, and I enjoyed the first two stories in the series. I always think unexpected auto-deliveries are like little gifts to myself. That said, I went into this expecting to like it. This is book 3 in the Thornton Series. It can be read alone, but I recommend reading the series in order. Mark intrigued me in the previous books. Being the silent brother who seemed a bit gruff and mysterious, I was very curious what made him this way. His previous run-in with Abby was less than a success, and I wondered how they would end up meeting again. I really thought Abby would make things hard for Mark. She seemed like the type of girl who wouldn’t put up with his attitude. After telling him off in the Rise and Shine cafe, she seemed like the type of girl who didn’t take crap from others.
I wish that had been true. In this book, Abby’s backbone seemed to be missing completely. From the very beginning, Abby was quite the push-over when it came to Mark. I expected him to be a bit of a jerk, someone who was hard to warm up to. I didn’t expect Abby to continue taking it while making excuses for his behavior because she was so intrigued with him. Mark seemed to fit his expected role. When we finally discover the cause of his behavior, it makes sense. However, understanding why a person is the way they are and blindly accepting poor treatment over and over are two different things. I would’ve loved this story if Abby had made Mark work for her forgiveness much earlier on. Instead, we spent so much time with her attempting to help him, him being a complete jerk, him apologizing, and repeating the process that sometimes I just wanted Abby to gain back her confidence and find someone else.
As with the rest of the series, there was drama that was a bit over the top. Nothing too drastic, but I found the parts with Derek to be just a bit much. However, we don’t generally read romance for it’s complete accuracy. Including Derek added depth to Abby and explained why she lacked confidence and continually forgave Mark. That said, I still wished she would stand up for herself earlier on.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. In the end, I wanted Mark and Abby to make it work – it just took me a while to get there. I liked the appearances by characters from the previous books in the series and am curious about the upcoming books for Trent and Lizzie as well as Seth.
This book contained references to previous cheating, however, no characters in this book cheat.
This book contained sex scenes, but they didn’t overpower the story.
I wish that had been true. In this book, Abby’s backbone seemed to be missing completely. From the very beginning, Abby was quite the push-over when it came to Mark. I expected him to be a bit of a jerk, someone who was hard to warm up to. I didn’t expect Abby to continue taking it while making excuses for his behavior because she was so intrigued with him. Mark seemed to fit his expected role. When we finally discover the cause of his behavior, it makes sense. However, understanding why a person is the way they are and blindly accepting poor treatment over and over are two different things. I would’ve loved this story if Abby had made Mark work for her forgiveness much earlier on. Instead, we spent so much time with her attempting to help him, him being a complete jerk, him apologizing, and repeating the process that sometimes I just wanted Abby to gain back her confidence and find someone else.
As with the rest of the series, there was drama that was a bit over the top. Nothing too drastic, but I found the parts with Derek to be just a bit much. However, we don’t generally read romance for it’s complete accuracy. Including Derek added depth to Abby and explained why she lacked confidence and continually forgave Mark. That said, I still wished she would stand up for herself earlier on.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. In the end, I wanted Mark and Abby to make it work – it just took me a while to get there. I liked the appearances by characters from the previous books in the series and am curious about the upcoming books for Trent and Lizzie as well as Seth.
This book contained references to previous cheating, however, no characters in this book cheat.
This book contained sex scenes, but they didn’t overpower the story.
November 26, 2018
So I did it again and fell off the well traveled path of my favorite genre and took a ride on the romance side. This book fell into my inbox thanks to Hidden Gems and it was by far the best part of Thanksgiving!! What really sold me on signing up for this book was that the female character was considered over weight and as a thicker girl myself I just need to know sometimes that bigger girls are totally capable of making men want them with a primal need.
I instantly fell in love with Abby. She’s guarded cause she’s broken hearted but yet she’s still super impulsive. Even though this was a third book in a series, it was easy to read as a stand alone. I do plan to go back and read the other books just because apparently these two have a bit of a past confrontation wise. I loved that it was such a fast read. I was actually pissed off at my husband and had no desire to read a romance book but this one sucked me in so hard and didn’t spit me out until it was over. I’ve hardly ever read a book in a day but this one I just couldn’t put down. I’m even more excited to know that this author not only has the Thornton series but the Younger series, which does cross paths in this book. The one Younger we met in this book was a tatted up piece of sex on a stick and I’m pretty sure that I may need to devote the whole first part of 2019 to getting drunk on Iris Morland books.
Plus, just a side note. I could not say this title without singing it out. If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5) I’m even ready to re-read this book and I don’t generally re-read books at all.
I instantly fell in love with Abby. She’s guarded cause she’s broken hearted but yet she’s still super impulsive. Even though this was a third book in a series, it was easy to read as a stand alone. I do plan to go back and read the other books just because apparently these two have a bit of a past confrontation wise. I loved that it was such a fast read. I was actually pissed off at my husband and had no desire to read a romance book but this one sucked me in so hard and didn’t spit me out until it was over. I’ve hardly ever read a book in a day but this one I just couldn’t put down. I’m even more excited to know that this author not only has the Thornton series but the Younger series, which does cross paths in this book. The one Younger we met in this book was a tatted up piece of sex on a stick and I’m pretty sure that I may need to devote the whole first part of 2019 to getting drunk on Iris Morland books.
Plus, just a side note. I could not say this title without singing it out. If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5) I’m even ready to re-read this book and I don’t generally re-read books at all.
November 25, 2018
This is the third book in the Thornton series but it can be read as a stand alone novel. Although I will say having read this book, which was the first I have read, I found myself wanting to go back and read the earlier books in the series. After Mark suffered a betrayal by the woman he loved, he basically shut himself off from everyone. So it even surprises Mark when he basically blackmails Abby to be his girlfriend and live in helper. But since pretending to date Mark works to Abby's benefit she agrees to the deal. But what happens when real feelings come into play? The fake relationship trope always makes for a fun read. This was a very enjoyable contemporary romance that also had a great set up for the next book in the series.
April 6, 2021
But like...why did the stalker ex boyfriend show up a year after they quit dating?
October 19, 2022
From small town romance to ranch romance, in 'If I Can't Have You' by Iris Morland, we get a little fake dating and a whole lot of grumpy and sunshine vibes. I related to so much about Abby's character and while Mark's reticence frustrated me and Abby's ex going from 0 to 100 in the blink of an eye was a bit... questionable, I really enjoyed this one. It also touches on PCOS and infertility and I appreciated that representation without there being a "miracle" pregnancy at the end. Some issues, but overall a solid read that I devoured in like 12 hours and that made me smile.
March 21, 2021
I had a hard time believing that Abby and Mark were a good fit.
He was so standoffish and I couldn't understand why she would keep putting herself in the line of fire. Attraction or lust is not a good enough reason to allow someone to continue to treat you less than.
The good thing is we had Mark's pov so we know he is just socially awkward, but with Abby's past it was hard for me to actually believe she would put up with a man treating her bad in anyway, and if she would (which she did) she is not the heroine for me.
The rest of the story was good, especially dealing with Abby's ex and Marks.
He was so standoffish and I couldn't understand why she would keep putting herself in the line of fire. Attraction or lust is not a good enough reason to allow someone to continue to treat you less than.
The good thing is we had Mark's pov so we know he is just socially awkward, but with Abby's past it was hard for me to actually believe she would put up with a man treating her bad in anyway, and if she would (which she did) she is not the heroine for me.
The rest of the story was good, especially dealing with Abby's ex and Marks.
January 1, 2018
I wasn't fully vested when I bought this book. It seemed done to me before but I have loved the Thornton men and wanted to see more. The sexual tension between the two is palpable and that is what drove me forward to continue. I admit I still had my doubts. I loved book 1 & 2 in the series and felt that connection to them. Mark is described, of course, and we know Abbey as the nurse that cares for Caleb at the end of book 2 and that is when we see the interaction between Mark and Abbey. I love the characters that are created by the author her men are alphas without being manwhores and her woman are smart and strong. They are not pushovers but woman who have dealt with pain and suffering and still moved on with their lives.
Mark is a secluded rancher who really doesn't participate in anything other than activities on his ranch and that includes family oriented events. He is the 3rd Thornton brother we meet if you are reading in order but each story is a standalone and can be read in any order. Mark is attracted to Abbey and overhears her on the phone claiming to the person on the other end that he is her boyfriend. The gears begin to grind and Mark formulates a plan that would bring Abbey into his life more permantely.
Abbey is of an age that her mother feels she should be married. Her mother has made it her mission to try to fix her up with any potential male within her reach. Abbey just wants to move on from a messy breakup a year ago. Mark comes across ruthless and cold in attaining Abbey on his ranch. I loved the Austen vibe injected when Abbey brings her cats Darcy and Wentworth too. The story moves so much smoother once Abbey is on the ranch and Mark becomes less harsh where Abbey is concerned. There is one more thing that needs mentioning and it is Abbey's back story of what caused the separation between her and the ex. It propelled me into getting," I'll be home for Christmas." It catches you up on all the Thornton couples which I still wanted to know about. This book also has a bonus chapter you can download. I had trouble pulling it to my kindle but got it onto my kindle app with no trouble. I think it could have easily been included as an epilogue to the already existing story and been less hassle for the reader. Enjoy!
Mark is a secluded rancher who really doesn't participate in anything other than activities on his ranch and that includes family oriented events. He is the 3rd Thornton brother we meet if you are reading in order but each story is a standalone and can be read in any order. Mark is attracted to Abbey and overhears her on the phone claiming to the person on the other end that he is her boyfriend. The gears begin to grind and Mark formulates a plan that would bring Abbey into his life more permantely.
Abbey is of an age that her mother feels she should be married. Her mother has made it her mission to try to fix her up with any potential male within her reach. Abbey just wants to move on from a messy breakup a year ago. Mark comes across ruthless and cold in attaining Abbey on his ranch. I loved the Austen vibe injected when Abbey brings her cats Darcy and Wentworth too. The story moves so much smoother once Abbey is on the ranch and Mark becomes less harsh where Abbey is concerned. There is one more thing that needs mentioning and it is Abbey's back story of what caused the separation between her and the ex. It propelled me into getting," I'll be home for Christmas." It catches you up on all the Thornton couples which I still wanted to know about. This book also has a bonus chapter you can download. I had trouble pulling it to my kindle but got it onto my kindle app with no trouble. I think it could have easily been included as an epilogue to the already existing story and been less hassle for the reader. Enjoy!
November 20, 2018
This one had me chuckling, then giggling (I’m NOT a giggler, darn it!) then full out belly laughing by the second page. Having been introduced to Mark Thornton and feisty nurse Abby in previous books, I knew their romantic journey would be a wild one filled with all kinds of spark and sizzle. When Mark breaks his arm and gets treated in Abby's ER, he blackmails her (Mark says “cajoles” – tomato, tomahto) into helping him with domestic duties at his ranch in exchange for not outing Abby to her mother that Mark is indeed, not Abby's boyfriend. This setup has either disaster or delightful, heartfelt hilarity written all over it.
I fell in love with the Thorntons from the first book in this series, so I was eager to read an advance copy of Mark and Abby's story and I gobbled up every word. From trying to communicate with a man who forms sentences of three words or less to an exciting new addition to the ranch animals to a psychotic ex-boyfriend who can’t take “no" for an answer, this storyline was packed with entertainment and thrills, as well as a nice dose of steam and tons of heart. If you like a romance with a small-town feel, compelling and loveable characters and lots of emotion that will leave you with a smile at the end of the book, you’ll love Mark and Abby's story!
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
I fell in love with the Thorntons from the first book in this series, so I was eager to read an advance copy of Mark and Abby's story and I gobbled up every word. From trying to communicate with a man who forms sentences of three words or less to an exciting new addition to the ranch animals to a psychotic ex-boyfriend who can’t take “no" for an answer, this storyline was packed with entertainment and thrills, as well as a nice dose of steam and tons of heart. If you like a romance with a small-town feel, compelling and loveable characters and lots of emotion that will leave you with a smile at the end of the book, you’ll love Mark and Abby's story!
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
November 21, 2018
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily leave my honest review.
This is a new to me author and while I generally prefer to start at the beginning of any series, I liked the synopsis enough to dive right in at book 3 and I'm glad I did.
I really enjoyed this authors writing style, it ticked most of my "what I like boxes", the story flowed along nicely with good character development and believable time line. I guess the previous book couples are mentioned a bit but I didn't feel I had to have read the books to enjoy this one. There were no confusing parts and I wasn't left scratching my head at all wondering what was happening. Sure I've probably missed some back story of Mark etc but not enough to dull the enjoyment of this book.
I really liked Abby and Mark's chemistry and I found Mark's gruffness endearing.
There was a little bit of drama concerning both the main characters' ex partners but was all resolved fairly quickly, ending felt a tad abrupt but the epilogue was nice.
Lots of interesting secondary characters and I'll be sure to check out the rest of the books this author has available.
This is a new to me author and while I generally prefer to start at the beginning of any series, I liked the synopsis enough to dive right in at book 3 and I'm glad I did.
I really enjoyed this authors writing style, it ticked most of my "what I like boxes", the story flowed along nicely with good character development and believable time line. I guess the previous book couples are mentioned a bit but I didn't feel I had to have read the books to enjoy this one. There were no confusing parts and I wasn't left scratching my head at all wondering what was happening. Sure I've probably missed some back story of Mark etc but not enough to dull the enjoyment of this book.
I really liked Abby and Mark's chemistry and I found Mark's gruffness endearing.
There was a little bit of drama concerning both the main characters' ex partners but was all resolved fairly quickly, ending felt a tad abrupt but the epilogue was nice.
Lots of interesting secondary characters and I'll be sure to check out the rest of the books this author has available.
June 24, 2017
Ms. Morland is an author that relies on a touch of subtlety but gives a large amount of heart in her characters, tales and series. Abby and Mark do not have the best of starts but tucked away in her lies and his mistrust is the beginning to something wonderful. If I Can't Have You speaks of lessons learned and hearts healing but it also creates a romance that slowly works it's magic on even the biggest of cynics.
June 22, 2017
Mark owns his ranch and is happy away from everyone else, including his family. He had a terrible breakup but never told his brothers what happened. Meeting Abby strikes a nerve with him and he can never say anything right. He is always apologizing. Abby agrees to help him at his ranch even though he drives her crazy. Abby has the chance to see more of Mark and who he really is, if she takes the chance. Mark is my favorite brother. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
May 7, 2020
So good!
Mark and Abby story was beautifully written. I enjoyed getting to know more about them. Their chemistry was undeniable from the beginning to end. I was definitely rooting for them from the beginning and I was glad they both got what they deserved. It's always nice to go back and see all the Thornton siblings. 💜
Mark and Abby story was beautifully written. I enjoyed getting to know more about them. Their chemistry was undeniable from the beginning to end. I was definitely rooting for them from the beginning and I was glad they both got what they deserved. It's always nice to go back and see all the Thornton siblings. 💜
May 7, 2020
Wow!
Abby and Mark were everything! I knew once they both agreed to their so called relationship that it would grow to be more. Once they got to know each other better you knew they were perfect for each other. I loved everything about them! So happy they got the ending they deserved! 💚🐱💚🐎
Abby and Mark were everything! I knew once they both agreed to their so called relationship that it would grow to be more. Once they got to know each other better you knew they were perfect for each other. I loved everything about them! So happy they got the ending they deserved! 💚🐱💚🐎
November 26, 2018
This was another good read in the series. In this one we have Abby and Mark. Mark gets hurt and while he is at the hospital he overhears Abby say they are in relationship. So Mark takes advantage and she comes to help him. Of course while living together they fall in love.
March 30, 2019
3.5* -iBooks freebie
April 20, 2019
If I Can't Have You
Well I was going to give it 3 stars but it ended so poorly like a soap opera that I am not sure if is worth 2 stars. The main characters were pushed aside With a quick conclusion in order to set the stage for the next book. That is not what a novel should be about. Meanwhile she writes like a bit of a novice. She gives too much detail on the unimportant and says too little on the important. The love scenes are emotionless clinical descriptions. Where is the editor?!
Well I was going to give it 3 stars but it ended so poorly like a soap opera that I am not sure if is worth 2 stars. The main characters were pushed aside With a quick conclusion in order to set the stage for the next book. That is not what a novel should be about. Meanwhile she writes like a bit of a novice. She gives too much detail on the unimportant and says too little on the important. The love scenes are emotionless clinical descriptions. Where is the editor?!
April 2, 2019
Intriguing
Fast quick read, kept things light and entertaining. This book was not trashy, but does have some sex scenes through out the book.
Fast quick read, kept things light and entertaining. This book was not trashy, but does have some sex scenes through out the book.
February 18, 2019
I've had the pleasure of reading books 1 & 2 from 'The Thorntons' series prior to reading 'If I Can't Have You', now I have the even bigger pleasure of continuing the series with Abby & Mark, having won this wonderful read from one of Iris' giveaways in her private readers Facebook group, Iris Morland's Mermaids. Thank you Iris for the signed paperback!
If you have or haven't read any of the books in this series, you might or might not know what they are about. Please continue reading ahead if you aren't afraid of spoilers! Here we go. The Thorntons series follows the children of Dave & Lisa Thornton. They are; Caleb, Seth, Lizzie, Jubilee, Harrison and Mark. 'If I Can't Have You' is where Mark & Abby's story begins!
Mark and Abby have known each other for a short while, but their paths cross one night when Abby is on shift at the hospital as a nurse. Mark had been thrown off his horse, Samson, resulting in a broken arm. Prior to his spell in the hospital, he'd overheard Abby tell her mother that she and he were an item, not that Abby knew he knew this. So, he propositions her. He needs someone to look after him and his home while he's laid up and unable to work, in return for his mouth staying shut and not telling anyone that her lie to placate her mother was anything other than the 'truth'. With Abby reluctantly agreeing, she moves into his house under the agreement that when his arm is fully healed and the cast off, she would not need to live with him anymore. From this moment on, neither of their lives would ever be the same again. Both for the better and worse.
Being already familiar with Iris and her work, I wasn't surprised to find that I was unable to put this read down as each page went by. Only so much can physically happen in a cowboy romance as it does in real life, without a read turning to the more paranormal/fantasy-based realm, where anything could happen. Iris though, she managed to keep this read far from boring or mundane. Full of hilarity, drama and stubborn-headed cowboys, you'll find this read just has hard to put down as I did.
Settle down for one of the best reads from one of the sweetest authors around, weather you're continuing on from book 2, or reading this as your first Iris Morland read, it'll be one hell of a ride! Can't wait to get 'Dream A Little Dream Of Me', Lizzie & Trent's story!
If you have or haven't read any of the books in this series, you might or might not know what they are about. Please continue reading ahead if you aren't afraid of spoilers! Here we go. The Thorntons series follows the children of Dave & Lisa Thornton. They are; Caleb, Seth, Lizzie, Jubilee, Harrison and Mark. 'If I Can't Have You' is where Mark & Abby's story begins!
Mark and Abby have known each other for a short while, but their paths cross one night when Abby is on shift at the hospital as a nurse. Mark had been thrown off his horse, Samson, resulting in a broken arm. Prior to his spell in the hospital, he'd overheard Abby tell her mother that she and he were an item, not that Abby knew he knew this. So, he propositions her. He needs someone to look after him and his home while he's laid up and unable to work, in return for his mouth staying shut and not telling anyone that her lie to placate her mother was anything other than the 'truth'. With Abby reluctantly agreeing, she moves into his house under the agreement that when his arm is fully healed and the cast off, she would not need to live with him anymore. From this moment on, neither of their lives would ever be the same again. Both for the better and worse.
Being already familiar with Iris and her work, I wasn't surprised to find that I was unable to put this read down as each page went by. Only so much can physically happen in a cowboy romance as it does in real life, without a read turning to the more paranormal/fantasy-based realm, where anything could happen. Iris though, she managed to keep this read far from boring or mundane. Full of hilarity, drama and stubborn-headed cowboys, you'll find this read just has hard to put down as I did.
Settle down for one of the best reads from one of the sweetest authors around, weather you're continuing on from book 2, or reading this as your first Iris Morland read, it'll be one hell of a ride! Can't wait to get 'Dream A Little Dream Of Me', Lizzie & Trent's story!
June 23, 2017
I have read the previous two Thornton family book but I think Abby and Mark's may be my favorite.
Mark Thornton is a rancher who lives outside of town. he keeps to himself. unlike his siblings he is really not a people person and after his heart was broken he built his walls and doesn't want to let anyone else in. he can't get hurt again.
Abby Davidson is an ER nurse who has been out of a relationship for a year. While her boyfriend didn't physically abuse her, he did abuse her with his words. And while Abby knows rationally why he said the things he did, her encounter with him has left its mark on her self-confidence.
When mark is injured Abby is the nurse who works with him at the hospital. While both parties are gun shy of a relationship deep down they are drawn to each other. When Abby tells a lie and Mark finds out about it he blackmails her, in a sense, to live on his ranch and help him while his arms heals.
Now as a reader you may question why Abby stays with a man who is rude to her but you realize that deep down she likes him and is intrigued by him.
As Abby and mark continue their "lie" they begin to get to know each other and they both tell their past secrets. While mark is quick to tell Abby she shouldn't let what her ex said effect her, he cannot take his won advice.
After Abby professes her love Mark pushes her away. Can these two realize the depth of their love and be willing to take a second chance on finding happiness and love? Will tragedy bring them together or tear them apart?
You'll fall in love with the character in the Thornton books and you'll appreciate that the author keeps you up to date on characters from previous books in each boo.
I look forward to the next installment.
Mark Thornton is a rancher who lives outside of town. he keeps to himself. unlike his siblings he is really not a people person and after his heart was broken he built his walls and doesn't want to let anyone else in. he can't get hurt again.
Abby Davidson is an ER nurse who has been out of a relationship for a year. While her boyfriend didn't physically abuse her, he did abuse her with his words. And while Abby knows rationally why he said the things he did, her encounter with him has left its mark on her self-confidence.
When mark is injured Abby is the nurse who works with him at the hospital. While both parties are gun shy of a relationship deep down they are drawn to each other. When Abby tells a lie and Mark finds out about it he blackmails her, in a sense, to live on his ranch and help him while his arms heals.
Now as a reader you may question why Abby stays with a man who is rude to her but you realize that deep down she likes him and is intrigued by him.
As Abby and mark continue their "lie" they begin to get to know each other and they both tell their past secrets. While mark is quick to tell Abby she shouldn't let what her ex said effect her, he cannot take his won advice.
After Abby professes her love Mark pushes her away. Can these two realize the depth of their love and be willing to take a second chance on finding happiness and love? Will tragedy bring them together or tear them apart?
You'll fall in love with the character in the Thornton books and you'll appreciate that the author keeps you up to date on characters from previous books in each boo.
I look forward to the next installment.
November 26, 2018
This is my second Iris Morland The Thornstons book. The first book I read in the series was the second book, Cade and Meghan’s story. I have to admit. I love stories that center around families and the different people in those families. And this book, If I Can’t Have You, doesn’t disappoint. Yes, it���s a story of broken people struggling against each other as they fall in love. Mark Thornton, the sullen hermitted rancher, and Abbey, the nurse, meet through a lie. Abbey is trying to avoid her mother’s matchmaking, so she lies to her, suggesting that Mark is her boyfriend. Most comfortable by himself, Mark is surprised by his attraction to Abbey. He overhears the conversation between Abbey and her mother and takes the opportunity to get closer to her by agreeing to be her boyfriend. As they push against each other’s broken parts, they find a greater attraction, and they eventually fall in love. Will they be able, however, to overcome their broken parts and find a wholeness in each other? That is the question of this story.
Yes, the characters have chemistry. They are undeniably attracted to each other, but Mark can be a difficult character to like. He struggles to share his feelings, which causes a frustration with the progression of the story. Abbey is a likeable character, and as a reader, you hope she can reach Mark or find happiness elsewhere.
The story isn’t incredibly original, but it is a heartfelt one. It also gives you a glimpse into the lives of the characters from Morland’s first and second books. You are able to continue to follow the characters you have grown to love. Even more, we are invited into the next book of the series, a preview of things to come. Overall, I recommend this book.
Yes, the characters have chemistry. They are undeniably attracted to each other, but Mark can be a difficult character to like. He struggles to share his feelings, which causes a frustration with the progression of the story. Abbey is a likeable character, and as a reader, you hope she can reach Mark or find happiness elsewhere.
The story isn’t incredibly original, but it is a heartfelt one. It also gives you a glimpse into the lives of the characters from Morland’s first and second books. You are able to continue to follow the characters you have grown to love. Even more, we are invited into the next book of the series, a preview of things to come. Overall, I recommend this book.
November 23, 2018
So we caught a glimpse of their chemistry in book two of the Thornton series, The Very Thought of You. Abby is a nurse who finds herself attracted to the brooding, handsome, Mark Thornton who is a rancher. She overhears him insult her and thinks he is a real jerk. She tells him off and thinks that will be the last she will see of him. They are thrown together again when Mark breaks his arm falling from his horse and ends up in the hospital where she works. While outside of his room she happens to tell her mom that she is dating him, so her mom will get off her back about finding a man. Mark overhears this and says that he will expose her lie if she doesn't move out to his farm and help him while his arm is healing. She reluctantly agrees and packs up her two cats and goes. While spending so much time together they get to know each other better and she learns is a much nicer person than she had thought he was. The sparks fly and they start sleeping together, trying to keep things only physical, but they start falling for each other. Marks says he's not ready for a relationship because he is still not over having his heart broken. Abby thinks no man will ever love her because of the secret that she is hiding. Added to that mess is both of their exes. Can the two of them overcome all of the obstacles standing in their way to find true happiness, or will they let the past ruin any chance for a happy ever after? Iris Moreland does it again. I absolutely loved this story! I was given a free copy of this book to read and this is my honest review.
November 24, 2018
🐎Mark, your ploy to get close to Abby may have consequences you could never imagine!🐎
November 22, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit 🌟stars
Good 💕romance with 🔥steam, western style, between lonely, betrayed, and disillusioned (and, of course, gorgeous) rancher Mark Thornton and Abby, a nurse trying to avoid her mother's matchmaking. The heroine has some self image issues, not in small part caused by her ex-boyfriend Derek. The scars of their previous relationships play a major role as both Abby and Mark find it nearly impossible to leave their pasts behind to focus on building their future.
Both main protagonists have moments of strength and weakness and I liked that realism. They also struggle with communicating and their fear of opening up to further potential 💔heartbreak. I liked them both and appreciated the author's efforts to give glimpses into their daily work routine. The secondary characters are dominated by Mark's large family and their partners.
I wish the author would have stuck to Abby and Mark's story through to the book's end. Instead, the epilogue switches to a new couple, a sort of teaser for the next book in the series. I don't mind books that foreshadow future works, but I don't think ending one couple's story with a chapter that is not about them is the right final note to hit; for me, the switch left me hanging and sapped some of the positive energy from the book's main romance.
I read a advance advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 22, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit 🌟stars
Good 💕romance with 🔥steam, western style, between lonely, betrayed, and disillusioned (and, of course, gorgeous) rancher Mark Thornton and Abby, a nurse trying to avoid her mother's matchmaking. The heroine has some self image issues, not in small part caused by her ex-boyfriend Derek. The scars of their previous relationships play a major role as both Abby and Mark find it nearly impossible to leave their pasts behind to focus on building their future.
Both main protagonists have moments of strength and weakness and I liked that realism. They also struggle with communicating and their fear of opening up to further potential 💔heartbreak. I liked them both and appreciated the author's efforts to give glimpses into their daily work routine. The secondary characters are dominated by Mark's large family and their partners.
I wish the author would have stuck to Abby and Mark's story through to the book's end. Instead, the epilogue switches to a new couple, a sort of teaser for the next book in the series. I don't mind books that foreshadow future works, but I don't think ending one couple's story with a chapter that is not about them is the right final note to hit; for me, the switch left me hanging and sapped some of the positive energy from the book's main romance.
I read a advance advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 26, 2018
If I Can’t Have You is the third book in the Thornton’s Series, but can be read as a stand alone. Abby just told her mother that she’s in a relationship with Mark, but it was only a lie. When he finds out about it, he wants her to come to his ranch to help out with food and household chores while his arm heals. What starts as a lie quickly turns into much more for both Abby and Mark, but with their hearts hurt from past relationships, will either of them be able to open up all the way to the love and acceptance from the other?
This book made me feel all of the emotions as I was flipping through the pages - joy, sadness, anger, pain, and even love! Abby and Mark were a match made with a lie, but both were so intrigued with the other that they couldn’t resist what they started! While Abby didn’t want her heart broken again, I loved her willingness to open up and accept those around her. I loved that she was courageous and a hard worker and not afraid of a little growling. I imagined Mark to be a big teddy bear of a man, not wanting to open up much, but having such a big heart for those he trusted and accepted, even his crazy family. I loved that he wanted to protect Abby and loved that he could admit to his flaws! I enjoyed that they both had issues with their ex’s, and both ex’s were part of their present life. The drama in this book was engaging, but it was truly the relationship between Abby and Mark that had me turning the pages! This was a wonderful book and I definitely want to keep reading the rest in the series!
This book made me feel all of the emotions as I was flipping through the pages - joy, sadness, anger, pain, and even love! Abby and Mark were a match made with a lie, but both were so intrigued with the other that they couldn’t resist what they started! While Abby didn’t want her heart broken again, I loved her willingness to open up and accept those around her. I loved that she was courageous and a hard worker and not afraid of a little growling. I imagined Mark to be a big teddy bear of a man, not wanting to open up much, but having such a big heart for those he trusted and accepted, even his crazy family. I loved that he wanted to protect Abby and loved that he could admit to his flaws! I enjoyed that they both had issues with their ex’s, and both ex’s were part of their present life. The drama in this book was engaging, but it was truly the relationship between Abby and Mark that had me turning the pages! This was a wonderful book and I definitely want to keep reading the rest in the series!
April 2, 2019
People who write fiction are advised to insert backstory a little at a time, intersperse it within the chapters. I read the first few chapters of this book to find out what had happened between the two MCs, what had sparked the attraction between the two of them since it was alluded to, but the backstory was told in just one line - It could work, but in this case, I didn't think that was enough. And if I'd wanted to know what actually happened, I would have had to read the book in the series that came before this one. In fact, the epilogue of this book involves the next couple in the series.
But even after they had to be involved with each other, I didn't get how their romantic feelings developed. In fact, nothing really developed in the story. The subplot involving the heroine - was interesting, but that came only towards the end and so was quickly resolved. And that whole thing with the hero and his former girlfriend and best friend and how he reacted to them? A little juvenile, I think.
The story was uneventful and lacking in something I couldn't pin down until around Chapter 15 when I realised that the love affair was something you would experience or hear about in real life. And a lot of real-life relationships aren't that exciting or swoon-worthy or have a lot of drama! I read fiction for the fantasy. This book didn't have it.
December 10, 2017
Abby and Mark are finding a whole lot of love in the little house on the ranch. Abby knows deep down that the negative lies her ex Derek left her with are not really true, but the scars they inflicted are still yet painful. So when she overheard Mark Thornton openly insult her she was slightly more inclined to believe his assessment of her “mousy” appearance. Why would the handsome mysterious rancher ever desire a woman like her? When her mother tries to once again set her up on another date with what Abby is sure to be another nightmare she panics and says she in a relationship and the only name that pops into her head is none other than Mark. When his brother’s were ribbing him Mark and his big stupid mouth insulted Abby when that's the last thing he wants to do. When he overhears her telling her mother about their newfound “relationship” he is struck with an idea - he is going to have her come out on his ranch and he will do something to make her forgive him… but it seems he can't keep his foot out of his mouth. Abby is everything and he wants to show her just how special she is. But with his past ghosts threatening to keep him a future with Abby is this cowboy doomed to be a desperado.
November 25, 2018
I received the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have read several books in this series either through Hidden Gems as ARCs or deals on Amazon. Of the Thornton books I have read this might be my favorite or second favorite (after Lizzie’s story).
This is the story of Abby and Mark, who we met in earlier books in the Thornton family series. Abby is an ER nurse and Mark is the more distant of the Thornton brothers who runs a ranch outside of their hometown. As the book starts, Abby is trying to get rid of her mother’s blind date matching and tells her that she is dating Mark Thornton, which is a big deal in this town as most people aware of their wealth and prestige. Since Mark has recently broken her arm and is attracted to Abby, he takes advantage of the situation
Although they have instant chemistry, both are haunted by difficult pasts that keeps them from moving forward with their new relationship. Yet since they are living together, it helps to accelerate the getting to know you portion and they move on to a closer connection, but neither seem ready to admit that. They continue to get acquainted and grow as a couple, that allows each to help the other with their past issues and how they will continue and have a future.
This is the story of Abby and Mark, who we met in earlier books in the Thornton family series. Abby is an ER nurse and Mark is the more distant of the Thornton brothers who runs a ranch outside of their hometown. As the book starts, Abby is trying to get rid of her mother’s blind date matching and tells her that she is dating Mark Thornton, which is a big deal in this town as most people aware of their wealth and prestige. Since Mark has recently broken her arm and is attracted to Abby, he takes advantage of the situation
Although they have instant chemistry, both are haunted by difficult pasts that keeps them from moving forward with their new relationship. Yet since they are living together, it helps to accelerate the getting to know you portion and they move on to a closer connection, but neither seem ready to admit that. They continue to get acquainted and grow as a couple, that allows each to help the other with their past issues and how they will continue and have a future.
December 30, 2018
I love this series and the journey Mark and Abby took was extraordinary. Abby told her mom she was dating Mark, which he overheard, to get her mom of her back. Mark actually liked Abby, but seemed to always put his foot in his mouth when she was around. He agrees to be her fake boyfriend, if she starts at his house and helps him.
Once she agrees and shows up at his house, things are rocky, but he died tell her she can leave at any time and he will still hero her. She again decides to stay. Unfortunately, every time she starts to get for, he pushes her away. Her ex, who proves to be unstable, did a number on her, which mashes it hard for her to trust men. When he comes back along for another chance, everything found be ruined for Mark and Abby. He also has a heartbreaking party that leaves him scared and unable to trust.
She opens up to him and he did the same, but when they agree it is just pleasure and no feelings will be involved, things start changing. Keeping things to himself had been his way of life, but when he finally tells his brothers what happened, her had an epiphany, but it might be too late.
Highly emotional with summer action thrush in for good measure. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
Once she agrees and shows up at his house, things are rocky, but he died tell her she can leave at any time and he will still hero her. She again decides to stay. Unfortunately, every time she starts to get for, he pushes her away. Her ex, who proves to be unstable, did a number on her, which mashes it hard for her to trust men. When he comes back along for another chance, everything found be ruined for Mark and Abby. He also has a heartbreaking party that leaves him scared and unable to trust.
She opens up to him and he did the same, but when they agree it is just pleasure and no feelings will be involved, things start changing. Keeping things to himself had been his way of life, but when he finally tells his brothers what happened, her had an epiphany, but it might be too late.
Highly emotional with summer action thrush in for good measure. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
March 30, 2019
Eh... it was alright.
Overall, I guess it is okay. Not too good, not too bad.
Overall, I guess it is okay. Not too good, not too bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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