Stepping up to the plate to care for his close friend Hollis Stonestreet's wife, Kasey, is in no way a chore for Eli Rodriguez. Eli has known and loved Kasey since they were children. He just never stood a chance against the suave, handsome Hollis, always putting himself before everyone else. After Hollis deserts Kasey, Eli takes she and her newborn son to his ranch. Before leaving town Hollis evens loses his farm in a card game, leaving no home for his wife and child. Hollis has made it clear he wants excitement and not a baby to tie him down.

Falling completely in love with Kasey's son, Eli does everything a father should do, including loving the mother. Afraid to declare his feelings, Eli keeps his distance and respects Kasey in all ways. Taking over the household and care of both Eli and her child, she begins to compare the two men. Eli is always protecting her whereas Hollis has always come first in everything. Drawn together and giving into their basic needs, the sex sets off fireworks and the earth moves beneath her feet, showing Kasey what true love really is. Fearing that her feelings are unshared by Eli, Kasey feels she is imposing and he feels not love but obligation toward her. Several months later, attending Eli's sister's wedding, they are shocked when Hollis shows up intending to whisk her away as if nothing happened, not even remembering his son's name or asking to see him. Eli's whole life is about to unfold before him.

A Baby On The Ranch is an emotional roller coaster for a young rancher hoping he has a second chance at the woman he loves. Having her within reach only to risk losing her again has Eli between a rock and a hard place. The story is very easy to read and a definite page turner. It was a book I could settle down to read and end with a good feeling of justice. The author, as always, has done a tremendous job of clearly revealing the characters. I make an effort to read all of Marie Ferrarella's stories.