• Beneath the Christmas Star ebook cover — starlit snowy night over ranch buildings, Sagebrush Dude Ranch Book 1 clean holiday romance by Hope August
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Hope August Inc

Beneath the Christmas Star - Clean Christmas Romance (Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Book 3) (eBook)

Beneath the Christmas Star - Clean Christmas Romance (Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Book 3) (eBook)

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Beneath the Christmas Star is a clean, friends-to-lovers Christmas romance about decorator Emily and Seth, her lifelong best friend who has loved her for years. A festival deadline and the search for a perfect Christmas star test what matters most in Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Book 3.

For fans of Clara Pines and Tess Thompson.

Book 3 in the Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Series

A Christmas-obsessed decorator. A loyal ranch hand. One perfect star that changes everything.

Emily has been given the chance of a lifetime: decorate Sagebrush Dude Ranch beautifully enough to win the town's Christmas festival, and she lands a permanent dream job. All she has to do is pull off the impossible and find the one-of-a-kind Christmas star her showpiece tree demands.

She ropes in her lifelong best friend Seth to help. Of course she does. Seth is the one she calls when the ladder's too tall, when the day is too long, when the words for how much this matters won't quite come.

What Emily doesn't know: Seth has been in love with her for years.

He's been waiting patiently for the moment she might finally see him as more than her  grounded best friend. And as they work side by side under strings of lights and the weight of an impossible deadline, he starts to wonder if this is finally his chance.

But the closer that perfect star gets, the harder Emily grips. Every attempt to find it falls through. Every detail she misses feels like failure. And the more she chases getting everything right, the more it costs the one person who's always loved her exactly as she is.

How do you tell your best friend you're in love with them? And what if getting everything perfect means losing the only thing that was ever real?

📚 BINGE THE COMPLETE SERIES! Get Snowfall Over Sagebrush and Books 1–5 in the six-ebook Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas bundle.

Perfect for readers who love: ✓ Best friends to lovers ✓ Childhood friends ✓ He fell first ✓ Secret pining ✓ Holiday romance ✓ Small-town Christmas ✓ Perfectionism arc

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Chapter 1

“Seth! Seth Mathews, I know you’re in here. I saw you sneak in when I was talking to Eve. You always hide from me, and it’s never funny.” Emily charged down the aisle in the barn, her eyes darting this way and that as she searched for the one person who would understand what had just happened to her. All she could see were the noses of some very curious horses.
There was a nip in the air but nothing cold enough to indicate that Christmas was just around the corner. The only indication of the time of year was the decorations Emily had put up all over the resort.
Already, her heart was beating at an inhuman pace. It was like she’d joined track all over again and she’d just finished the race. But her current race hadn’t even started, and it was going to take a lot to get to the finish line.
“Seth, if you don’t show yourself, I’m going to—”
Seth popped his head up from one of the stalls, his nervous expression so obviously fake that she nearly laughed. Instead, she stopped and placed her hands on her hips, knowing full well her eyes were going to express just how ridiculous he was behaving.
His nervous expression shifted into a cheesy grin. “Fine. I’m coming. But if this isn’t as good as you’re making it out to be, you owe me a coffee. I’m not awake enough for your shenanigans.”
“Shenanigans? Since when do you use that word?” Emily snorted.
He gave her a look, and she laughed again.
“Fine.” She hurried toward him, unable to keep still. “There’s a competition that was just announced.”
Seth’s dark brows furrowed over his blue eyes. “Okay. What kind of competition?”
“You know that Christmas festival that the town puts on every year? The one with the ice sculpture contests and the pie contests and the pop-up farmers market?”
“It’s vaguely familiar,” he drawled.
She punched him playfully in the arm. “Knock it off. You love going to that festival as much as I do. Well, the city council wants to find a more permanent location for it. They said it’s getting hard to shut down the streets because local businesses don’t get as much traffic. It’s a whole thing.”
Seth gazed at her, confusion in his eyes. “I still don’t understand why you’re so excited about it.”
Emily squealed, and Seth flinched. She hopped up and down on the balls of her feet. “Eve and Gabriel want Sagebrush Ranch to host the festival!”
His brows rose, and he glanced away as if the answer to his questions was written on the wall somewhere. “They want to host the whole town here?”
“Why not? There’s plenty of places for vendors and all the activities they have. It wouldn’t be any different than hosting the rodeo.”
“But they’ve never hosted a rodeo either.”
She groaned. “We’re getting off topic. I only came to tell you this because they’re asking me to help.”
He brought his focus back to her. “Help? How?”
“That’s just it. Of course the festival will still be on this year in its usual location. But they’re looking for the new place—”
“So you said.”
Emily rolled her eyes. “And that new place has to enter the competition—”
Seth placed his hands on her shoulders to keep her from bouncing so much. “Just spit it out already.”
She took a deep breath then laughed. “So, the city council has already set out parameters, like the place has to be within the city limits, and it has to be big enough to accommodate everyone. The host will get a share of any profits with the rest going to the city—”
“Emily.” Seth groaned.
“Right, sorry. The competition is a decorating one. The location has to show their Christmas spirit too. They have to decorate their location and showcase what they’d be offering in terms of what the festival would be. On top of that, they need to have the most beautiful Christmas tree display since the one in the town square won’t be the focal point of the festival anymore.” She covered her mouth as she squealed again. “And they asked me to help.”
The shock on his face mirrored how she’d felt when Eve, co-owner of the Sagebrush Dude Ranch, called her into the office for a chat. She knew exactly how Seth was probably feeling at this moment, but added to that was her pure and utter excitement. “You know what that means, right? This is it. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for! Eve said if I help them secure the festival, then she will give me a permanent position with Sagebrush Ranch. She’ll have me be the official decorator year-round.”
It all felt too good to be true. Emily still couldn’t believe it, and she’d been in the meeting herself. Sagebrush had been a fixture in this town for only a couple of years, but when the resort was in the building process, she’d helped out one of the decorators for the guests’ rooms. The whole place was a getaway from the world, and Emily had known she wanted to continue having an influence on it.
Then when Seth got a job as a ranch hand, she knew without a doubt that this was where she belonged.
She nudged her best friend. “Say something!”
Seth shifted his weight from one foot to the other then finally murmured, “It’s a wonderful opportunity.”
“I know, right? This is exactly what I’ve been waiting for. I know Eve and Gabriel never really planned on hiring a decorator long-term, but they said if they win and have to do the festival every single year, they’re going to need one. And they want me to be the one to do it for them. It’s all so exciting.”
Seth peered at her, his deep gaze unsettling her. “Are you sure this is what you want to do? You could go anywhere. You’re well-known enough in town that people hire you all the time. You don’t need to be tied down to one place.”
“I know, but…” She gnawed on her lower lip, trying to come up with the words that would make this all make more sense. “You know how I feel about this place. Out of everywhere I’ve been, this is the one that just feels like home. And if I can do what I love for a place like this, it would be a dream come true.” Still unsettled, Emily ducked out from under his heavy hands that still rested on her shoulders. “Why? Do you not want me to work here with you? Is that it?”
“Of course not,” he shot back, stiffening. “I just want to make sure you know what you’re doing. Sometimes you jump into stuff before getting the big picture.”
She smiled. There was that protective nature Seth had always had. He’d looked out for her ever since they were kids. No matter how crazy her ideas were, Seth would go to bat for her. He was the one she knew she could always count on.
The fact that he was concerned only solidified how much he cared for her well-being.
Emily gave him a tight hug then quickly stepped back. “It’s gonna be a lot of work. From what I hear, people are already getting started. The competition was announced at the beginning of the month, but Eve and Gabriel were on the fence until—”
“Hey,” Seth said softly, “you’re going to do great. Everyone already raves about how well you decorated everything inside the resort this year. And you’ve already started decorating the gardens.”
“I just need to do the tree.” It would be a daunting project but one Emily knew she could conquer. She just might need a little help.

Series Order

(Prequel) Snowfall Over Sagebrush
1. Mistletoe Masquerade
2. Gingerbread Hearts
3. Beneath the Christmas Star
4. Tinsel Trail
5. Crossroads at Sagebrush

View the complete reading order and book links.

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Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 4.9 / 5 from 39 reviews.

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I really enjoyed A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion. It was fast paced, quirky, and a fun story to read. While we all understand love rarely happens as quickly as it does in stories, I still hoped Kate would resolve her trust issues and give Liam an opening to confide the truth. I was frustrated by his need to take the blame, but appreciated his conviction to keep trying. We all carry a burden we shouldn't. If love is mature and unconditional it doesn't walk away.

Angela O. 4/5 Verified

A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion (eBook)

Wonderfully immersive storytelling that as with all Hope August books it’s a mighty compelling read too. Whenever I see that she has a new book out , almost shout with glee. This is what they mean to me. This book was no exception When the last Stone doesn’t roll ,a lady comes to call. She’s all about making wayward types like he ,how to be .He thinks she’s lovely . And to be together maybe? Well look and see . I’ll tell you now ,it’s a wonderful storyline and executed perfectly divine . Bookboyfriend you’ll want to say ,can he be mine .

Jane L. 5/5

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This is book five of the Cornerstone Ranch series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, love on a bet, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

The Cowboy's Redemption - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

A charming, fun cowboy romance. A great story that draws you in immediately and was easy to stay engaged with. I enjoyed watching Caleb and Sarah go from "just for fun" to something so much more. Wonderful writing, realistic and entertaining. Loved it.

J C. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

I loved reading The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart by Hope August so much. It was a fast read that I simply couldn’t put down, the story pulled me in right from the start. Definitely a must read for anyone who loves heartfelt romance.

Gaby D. 5/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is book four of the Cornerstone Ranch series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, love on a bet, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. I loved the characters. Each had a reason for their initial reluctance for a relationship and for changing their minds. Fear kept them apart more than anything else did. I also loved seeing the change in the brothers from where they started. They all seem closer and more supportive than they had been when we first met them in the first story. This story was predictable but enjoyable.

Maryellen C. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 03/01/2026*

This is book three of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet nannay, Valentine’s Day, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is part of an interconnected series with characters that overlap throughout this series and previous books by Hope. It can be read as a standalone but better if read in order. Warning!! Hope threw in a heart wrenching couple of scenes so have some tissues ready. Forbidden romance Opposites attract Matchmaking little girl A major misinterpretation I wish their story continued a little longer but maybe they will reappear in a future book??

Tami W. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/14/2026*

Best friends to more I do adore and this book in time for Valentine’s is a cute storyline with all the allure that’s synonymous with Hope August’s storytelling and what’s more it’s always a compelling read . This being no exception to the rule . In fact he’s so darn sweet to his bestie Bridget he made me drool… not testy at all . Ms August ,I had a ball reading this it’s absolute bliss.

Jane L. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This sweet, best friends to more romance will warm your heart. Beautifully written with charming and wonderful characters. It was heartwarming and fun to watch their relationship change because neither saw a romance between them coming. An adorable story filled with heart, love and HEA Valentine magic that will leave you smiling.

Jacqueline C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is book two of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet best friends to more, one bed, Valentine’s Day, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. While this story had some fun moments, it's not as light and goofy as the previous stories in this series. I really enjoyed it. Each main character was already attracted to the other, but this trip showed them that the feelings were returned. I love that they are each willing to sacrifice something they want for the other.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/14/2026*

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. The main characters, Bridget and Foster, were kind and supportive of each other. They obviously loved and valued each other as friends. Romantic feelings between them weren't a thing until this trip. I enjoyed watching them navigate that unsettling state between realizing they have romantic feelings for the other and deciding to risk losing their friendship because of those feelings.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/09/2026*

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. The main characters, Bridget and Foster, were kind and supportive of each other. They obviously loved and valued each other as friends. Romantic feelings between them weren't a thing until this trip. I enjoyed watching them navigate that unsettling state between realizing they have romantic feelings for the other and deciding to risk losing their friendship because of those feelings.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/09/2026*

This is the first book in a new Interconnected series that is a spin off from other books by Hope. Reading in order recommended but can be read as a standalone. Friends to more Secret crush Online relationship Multiple mixed signals

Tami W. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is book one of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, match making app, friends to more, secret identity, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

Cute story about best friends in love with each other. Arden has loved Poppy for years. She has him firmly in the friend zone. Until……. I’m not going to spoil things for you. Arden’s plan could backfire spectacularly. Fun story to read.

Lucia 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. Arden and Poppy work together at the resort. They have been friends forever, but he's feeling more than friendly towards her. As they spend time together preparing for the Valentine's Day event, and Poppy gets to know her online match, she realizes she's already in love... with Arden. This was a really sweet story. I really liked it.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

A sweet and adorable cowboy romance. The cute characters really pull you into their story and keep the pages turning. I loved the writing! A great story and wonderful entertainment you don't want to miss!

Jacqueline C. 5/5

The Cowboy's City Girl - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

Could any couple have a more inauspicious start. Wyatt really tells Emma exactly what he thinks about her and the farm she has bought. They really annoy each other. Both have family issues that affect their relationship. Good story with well written characters that will hold your interest. I love that despite everything happening and being told she has made a huge mistake, Emma continues to build her dream. I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.

Lucia V. 5/5

The Cowboy's City Girl - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. What a tough situation for the main characters. They both loved Katelynn and now feel guilty for being attracted to each other. There are other issues between them. Harper's grandma lovingly encourages her to open up to Colt, while his brothers prod him to do the same. This story was emotional and unpredictable.

Maryellen C. 5/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

From loss comes love A very sweet story that sees Robert receiving even more tragic news in his life that seems to overwhelm him. Having to be the guardian of his boys five sons leaves him with more responsibility than he can handle. In comes Paige, the nanny that the agency has sent to help him. They have much in common and the boys seem to love her straight away. Robert starts feeling again which scares him. Can he get past the fear of committing to Paige allowing them to face their problems together? Or will he throw it all away and hurt the children by doing so. A short enjoyable story with wonderful characters.

Lyn B. 4/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

Snowfall Over Sagebrush is a sweet small town, opposites attract, cowboy, Christmas romance with no cliffhanger. Some of the lines I really like are ---- Why was she so gat-dang stubborn ---- "Even if we were in another state that didn’t have mood swing weather⁠—” ---- “Construction puts food on the table. Horses bring me joy.” ---- “Chivalry will never die as long as the woman a man cares for is willing to accept it.” ---- Will the Dude Ranch be completed on time? Will they get snow that will stop everything? These and other questions will all be answered. I loved Laura and Riley's story and I'm sure you will too. This is my first book by this author and I can't wait to read another one of her books.

Terry Y. 5/5

Snowfall Over Sagebrush (eBook)