True North by Alexandra Banks is nothing short of a masterpiece and probably my favorite of this series. As the fourth installment in the Rosewood Ranch series, this story steps back in time to give us the emotional, tender, and downright unforgettable story of Harry and Louisa, who are the mother and father origin story that leads to books 1-3. While it can be read as a standalone, the emotional weight and beauty of True North are amplified if you've followed the journey of their boys through the previous three books.

Set in 1982 Montana, this grumpy/sunshine, second chance romance is everything I didn’t know I needed. Harry Rawlins is a man shaped by hardship; he is tough as nails on the outside, but all heart where it counts. And Louisa? She’s fierce, independent, and driven by a dream to become the next Julia Child. Watching these two find their way back to each other after ten years apart was both gut wrenching and satisfying.

I thought their chemistry was so palpable, like I could just feel how much they loved each other, despite their obstacles, time, and distance. The spice was also so good! Let’s just say Harry’s filthy mouth had me clutching my pearls in the best way possible. And yes… the fencing pliers. You’ll know when you know. 😏

This book broke me and healed me, sometimes within the same chapter. I laughed. I cried. I smiled and giggled and kicked my feet. Rosie, Harry’s mother, stole my heart. She has such unwavering love for Harry and her belief in his future with Louisa made me love her even more. The way she held their love story together in the background? It was really beautiful.

Harry has always loved Louisa. That "he fell first and never stopped" energy radiates through every page. Louisa is the kind of FMC who doesn't back down. She sees Harry’s pain, meets his insecurities head on, and still stands tall. Their love wasn’t easy, but it was real. Raw. Powerful. And deeply earned.

We don't have just tropes and drama. There's no breakup, but just two people determined to make it work through grit, grace, and a whole lot of love. The emotional depth is breathtaking, and Banks balances it with just the right amount of heat, humor, and heart.

If you're craving a cowboy romance with true emotion and a sweet but filthy cowboy, True North is it. And if you've read the rest of the series, this book will hit like a sledgehammer, in the best way possible. The Rawlins family saga has been an incredible ride, and this prequel is the perfect, poignant final piece.

Tropes & Vibes:
🤠 Grumpy/Sunshine
💙 He Fell First & Always Loved Her
🫦 Second Chance Romance/High School Sweethearts
🌶 Perfectly Spicy
🏡 Small Town + Montana Ranch
👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Close Knit Family
📞 Vintage Vibes (long corded phones)