• Crossroads at Sagebrush ebook cover — Sagebrush Dude Ranch Book 2 clean Christmas cowboy romance by Hope August
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Hope August Inc

Crossroads at Sagebrush - Clean Christmas Romance (Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Book 5) (eBook)

Crossroads at Sagebrush - Clean Christmas Romance (Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Book 5) (eBook)

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Crossroads at Sagebrush is a clean, rivals-to-lovers Christmas romance about Ellis and Mallory, PR executives competing to secure a ranch acquisition and win a promotion. Discovering the love stories behind Sagebrush forces them to reconsider what winning means in the series finale.

For fans of Clara Pines and Tess Thompson.

Book 5 in the Sagebrush Dude Ranch Christmas Series - The Grand Finale!

Two PR rivals. One ranch acquisition. A promotion only one can win.

Eve and Gabriel are stepping back from Sagebrush Dude Ranch—triplets will do that. They need partners to take over their beloved ranch, but finding the right fit matters more than the highest bidder.

Enter Ellis and Mallory, rival PR executives competing for the same promotion. Whoever lands the Sagebrush deal wins. Simple.

Except nothing at Sagebrush is ever simple.

As Ellis and Mallory interview past guests and discover the love stories that built this place—Daniel and Zoe's fake romance turned real, Olivia and Alex's second chance, Emily and Seth's friends-to-lovers journey, Grace and William's grumpy-sunshine connection—they begin to understand what makes Sagebrush special.

But understanding the ranch's magic means getting caught in it. Somewhere between competitive sabotage and reluctant partnership, Ellis and Mallory discover that some prizes aren't worth winning if you have to lose your heart.

Will they choose career ambition or protect the ranch's legacy—and the unexpected love they've found?

📚 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: ✨ Rivals to lovers romance ✨ Workplace competition ✨ All your favorite couples return! ✨ Kisses-only clean romance ✨ Guaranteed happily ever after

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Bonus content is included automatically when you buy directly from Hope’s store.

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Chapter 1
This was the promotion of a lifetime and Ellis was a shoo-in. All he had to do was get the silly owners of that dude ranch in Colt Texas to pick one of his recruits to help run the place and his boss would give him the keys to his very own kingdom.
Okay, it wasn’t a kingdom, but it sure felt like it.
Ironically, Ellis didn’t care about the money. He didn’t even care about the status. He simply wanted to be able to say he earned the throne of something despite his wealth and his background.
The company where he worked was the one someone called when they needed to find a viable partner. Calling him was the first right thing Sagebrush Dude Ranch did since opening up their business.
Ellis had looked at the property and the business details until he started dreaming about it. The place had so much untapped potential and the husband-wife team running it didn’t know how to get at it.
Lucky for them, Ellis was assigned to the case. He’d bring in a set of top contenders who not only were business savvy, but they had the money to back them up and could create a plan to put Sagebrush on the map.
This project was going to be a piece of cake.
Now, if only the limo driver would get going. Ellis leaned forward and tapped on the window that separated himself from the driver. Slowly, the tinted window lowered and the driver peered at him through the reflection of the mirror. “Can I do something for you, Mr. Cooper?”
“We were scheduled to leave three minutes ago. Was there a problem I wasn’t aware of?”
“No sir. We’re just waiting on one more passenger.”
“One more—” His stomach dropped as he watched Malory David sweep from their corporate hotel suites owned by their company in Dallas. She had with her two rolling suitcases.
“No.”
“I’m sorry sir? Is there a problem?” The driver glanced toward him once more before lurching into action and climbing out of the car. He bumbled around the back and opened the trunk.
Ellis didn’t have to listen to what was being said outside for him to know exactly what had happened. For some reason, his boss had sent Mallory to team up with him on this job. He didn’t need her help. This case was a slam dunk. Nothing could be easier than to get these cowboys to agree to what he had planned.
The door opened and Mallory froze with one foot inside the limo the second her eyes landed on him. She muttered a curse then climbed in and took a seat across from him. “What are you doing here?”
“Geoffrey didn’t tell you we were being put on this assignment together, either, did he?”
She glowered at him through narrowed eyes. “Apparently, he thinks someone needs a babysitter.”
“You’re probably right,” Ellis sneered, “last time you went out on assignment by yourself, you got the couple to walk away from a million-dollar deal.”
She shot forward in her seat. “The deal would have cost them more than that if they’d taken it and you know it.”
He shrugged and turned his attention to the tablet in his lap. “If that helps you sleep at night.”
Mallory released a growl befitting the tigress she was. With her red hair and her smokey eyes, she definitely didn’t look like someone these two people would want to do business with. They’d probably feel strong-armed into doing something they weren’t comfortable with.
But that begged the question why his boss hadn’t just sent Ellis on his own. He was good enough to do what Geoffrey trained him to do. This whole situation had gone south real quick and it only continued on that trajectory as the limo lurched forward. They had a good hour and a half in this limo together. He had gone through torturous situations before, but this one took the cake.
“I suppose Geoffrey realized that you’re not cutthroat enough to handle a deal like this, hmm?” Mallory’s snide voice filled the quiet cab and tore Ellis from his thoughts.
“Have you seen the file? These people don’t need cutthroat. They need to be handled with care by a firm hand—like children.”
Mallory snorted. “They came to us. No one comes to Geoffrey when they don’t know what they’re doing. They’ve already said they want to maintain a quality share of the company—they just need someone to take it to the next level. This baby resort is going to be the biggest thing to hit the United States since Disneyland. All we need is one investor with deep pockets. I don’t have to remind you the kind of cut our company gets when someone with money becomes interested in a company like this one. I’m talking franchises and growth like they’ve never seen.”
Ellis’s flat look must not have been big enough. “Do you ever stop talking? I know all this.”
“I’m sorry,” Melody chirped. “I thought that since you only just started that you might need a refresher.”
“I’ve been with the company for a year,” he shot back.
“Has it really been that long?” she sang sweetly.
Ellis took a deep breath and released it through pursed lips. “You shouldn’t even be here. This was supposed to be mine.”
She coughed on a laugh. “Yours? What makes you think this project should be yours. I’m the one who’s been paying my dues. I’m the one who’s going to get the promotion. If there is anyone who should be dropped off at the next truck stop, it’s you.”
Ellis leaned forward, lowering his voice to sound as menacing as he possibly could. “It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been around. Don’t forget, the dinosaurs outlived their purpose, too.”
She gasped. “I am not a dinosaur.”
“Coulda’ fooled me.”
Her eyes darkened and her lips thinned. The temperature in the limo almost felt like it had dropped a few degrees.
But Ellis wasn’t about to let her know she was affecting him in any way. He straightened his tie and smirked at her. “You know what I think? I think we need to make this a little more interesting.”
He didn’t think her eyes could narrow any further, but they did. “What are you suggesting?”
“I’m suggesting a wager. Unless you’re too scared for something like that.”
Mallory folded her arms. “I’m not scared of anything.”
“Good. So Geoffrey gave us both this project and we’re both in the running for that promotion.”
“Yeah? So?”
“So…” he drawled, “what if one of us were to drop from the race?”
Mallory snorted. “You’d never do that.”
“I would under the right circumstances.” He tapped his tablet. “I have a list of top contenders as I’m sure you do, too. Whoever gets these people to pick someone on their list gets the promotion.”
Mallory settled back in her seat, understanding filling her gaze. “And the other person drops from the running.”
“Exactly,” Ellis grinned.
“How do I know I can trust you to drop out?”
“You don’t have to,” Ellis chuckled, “because you’re the one who will have to drop.”
“Funny,” she muttered. “But I know you won’t trust me, either.”
Ellis rolled his eyes. “We can both be adults here. True, it will have to be on the honor system, but I think we should be able to agree to it.” He leaned forward once more and held out his hand. “What do you say? Wanna play a game?”
She stared at his hand for a moment then lifted her green eyes to meet his. “I say, game on.”

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 40 reviews.

Customer photo review of A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion (eBook)

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

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

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)