Elsie James' Ride Me is a delightful foray into the world of fake relationships, workplace dynamics, and the rugged allure of ranch life. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Kingridge Ranch, this novel weaves a tale of unexpected romance, personal growth, and the complexities of balancing professional ambitions with matters of the heart.

The story introduces us to Bowen Kingridge, the operations manager of the family-owned ranch. Bowen is a character who embodies the quintessential cowboy charm—rugged, dependable, and fiercely protective of his family and their legacy. His life is a well-oiled machine, running smoothly until Priya, a corporate consultant, enters the scene. Priya's task is to polish the ranch's brand, but her presence does much more than that; it disrupts Bowen's carefully maintained equilibrium.

Priya is a character that many readers will find relatable. Having climbed the corporate ladder, she is ambitious, driven, and focused on her career. Her initial interactions with Bowen are marked by a delightful tension, as she finds herself drawn to his rugged charm despite their apparent differences. The chemistry between Bowen and Priya is palpable from their first meeting, and James does an excellent job of building this tension throughout the novel.

The fake relationship trope is a well-loved one in romance literature, and James uses it to great effect in Ride Me. The premise of Priya needing a distraction from her ex during a high-stakes weekend provides the perfect setup for Bowen and Priya's pretend romance. However, as is often the case with such stories, the line between pretense and reality begins to blur. The evolution of their relationship is both believable and engaging, as they navigate their growing feelings amidst the challenges posed by their professional and personal lives.

One of the standout aspects of Ride Me is its exploration of the theme of self-discovery. Both Bowen and Priya are on personal journeys, albeit in different ways. Bowen, who has always prioritized his family and the ranch, begins to realize that there might be more to life than just duty and responsibility. Priya, on the other hand, starts to question her long-held beliefs about what she wants from life and love. Their relationship acts as a catalyst for these realizations, making their journey all the more compelling.

James' writing is both evocative and engaging, painting a vivid picture of the ranch and its surroundings. The setting plays a crucial role in the story, almost becoming a character in its own right. The descriptions of the sprawling landscapes, the daily operations of the ranch, and the close-knit community of Sagebrush Creek add depth and authenticity to the narrative.

In terms of character development, both Bowen and Priya are well-rounded and relatable. Bowen's journey from a man who has never had time for love to someone willing to take a risk for it is beautifully portrayed. Priya's transformation is equally compelling, as she learns to let go of her preconceived notions and embrace the unexpected. Their growth is mirrored in their interactions, which are filled with witty banter, heartfelt moments, and undeniable chemistry.

Comparatively, Ride Me shares thematic similarities with other popular romance novels that explore fake relationships and workplace dynamics. Fans of authors like Lauren Layne and Sally Thorne will likely find much to enjoy in James' work. However, what sets Ride Me apart is its unique setting and the authenticity with which it portrays ranch life. This adds a refreshing twist to the familiar tropes, making the story feel both fresh and engaging.

Overall, Ride Me is a captivating romance that skillfully blends humor, heart, and a touch of adventure. Elsie James has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Whether you're a fan of cowboy romances, fake relationship tropes, or simply looking for a well-written love story, Ride Me is a book that promises to deliver.

In conclusion, Elsie James' Ride Me is a testament to the power of love to transform and heal. It's a story about taking risks, embracing the unexpected, and finding happiness in the most unlikely of places. For anyone seeking a romance that is both heartwarming and engaging, this book is a must-read.