This story begins, more or less, with the two main characters, Violet Eaton who is a jockey, and Cole Harding, a former soldier, who have had several illuminating conversations over a relatively short period of time, but they have never actually met in person. Still, they come to know each other, their <i>’likes’</i> and <i>’dislikes’</i> when it comes to certain aspects of their lives. They seem to share a similar…passion.

Cole considers himself as somewhat damaged, and seems reluctant to put himself ‘out there’ in terms of relationships, but since their conversations are not particularly ones that would be aired in public for others to hear, their draw to each other eventually has them meet in person so they can share that passion.



Pub Date: 23 Jul 2024

Many thanks for the ARC provided by SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books / Bloom Books

Okay… first things first. The description and cover on NetGalley did NOT look like the Goodreads description, and I definitely wish I had looked at the Goodreads page for it first. I feel like the cover and description would've given me a better idea of what I was getting into.

I am apparently in the minority here (hello, BookTok girlies) but this book was not my favorite. For starters, the plot is completely… biology-driven… and is trying really hard to overlook some deep character flaws that are just magically fixed at the end of the day. There were a lot of things that made me think "no self-respecting human should ever let that fly," and yet, both parties did anyways. There were a lot of descriptors that repeated themselves endlessly (lots of "squeaking" from Violet and Cole describing her as "looking" weak but "not actually weak"??) and Violet's eyes somehow changed from sky blue to indigo multiple times (my eyes change color in the light, but not SHADES darker). The dialogue was a little choppy, and I found myself skimming a lot of the flashbacks because the scenario was extremely cringeworthy.

There were some redeeming factors, no doubt. The female friendships were sweet and I liked the racing aspect of it (though I actually would've liked to see more of that-- I feel like there were a lot of side plots introduced there that died on the vine). I just wish the actual plot had been a little more fleshed out outside of the relationship so there was a little more meat to the story.

Thank you to Bloom Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was my first Elsie Silver and while I think I prefer a romance with a little more plot aside from just the romance, I did enjoy the backdrop of the horse ranch and racing. I didn’t realize when I downloaded this book that it was in a series, so I had not met the characters before, but it didn’t seem to matter too too much, since the previous book was about a different couple than this one.

This book centered around Cole and Violet, and featured the grumpy/sunshine trope most prominently. I enjoyed that aspect of their relationship, Cole seemed to have genuine issues that he was working through, and I loved that he was already seeing a therapist on his own without it being because a woman had nagged him to do it. I would have loved to see more of the Vaughn and Cole relationship and dynamic, and more plot in general, but overall I did enjoy this book!

Now that is what I call an emotional roller coaster! My goodness this book was full of so many emotions I was not ready for it all but I loved every healing word!

I loved how Elsie wrote this book! There’s a mix of flashbacks and current events and I think she did a fabulous job bringing it all together. The way Violet and Cole push one another is just amazing. They see each other and help to build the other up!

A very well written and perfectly executed book when it comes to PTSD and healing! It’s an angsty start but the build up was worth it!

I love all things Elsie Silver! Violet and Cole are such an intriguing couple and I ate this book up. Please please read!

I recieved this as an arc, but This is my favorite book of all time!

This was not the first time, and definitely not the last time I will read this book!! I LOVE Cole and Violet, both separately and as a couple which is rare for me in book romances! The dynamic between them is so interesting and their story is unlike any other romance I’ve read. There is one major twist in the book that I wasn’t expecting but it fit so perfectly and deepened my love for the characters. Elsie kills is everytime, but especially with this one. EASILY a 5/5!

If you, like me, discovered Elsie Silver with her Chestnut Springs series, then you will understand my excitement because this book is Violet Eaton’s book. Violet grew up in Chestnut Springs with 3 overprotective brothers and her dad. She couldn’t wait to get out and become her own person. And it’s just our luck that she ends up at Gold Rush Ranch.

We met her in book 1 of this series, when she goes from horse groom to Jockey. Her career is just taking off and she loves it.

Enter Cole, he’s part owner of Gold Rush Ranch. He’s normally in the big city, but a new project has him moving to the ranch. He has lots of trauma and has carefully crafted a superbly grumpy exterior to hide from basically everyone.

This book was delightful. It’s a second chance romance, with an age gap, forced proximity, incredible spice and it’s truly a grumpy/sunshine situation. I loved the horses, the farm life and the girl gang that is building at Gold Rush Ranch. The chemistry was explosive. The grumpy kindness (you know what I’m talking about) made me super swoony. I can’t wait for more of this series.

Special shout-out for the on page therapy sessions.

I just finished A Photo Finish by Elsie Silver which is the second book in the Gold Rush Ranch series. This is Violet and Cole’s story and it’s a good one! This story flip flops time lines. The first time line is when Violet and Cole first meet online and start exchanging video and voice messages. That time line takes place during the first book in the series, Off to the Races. The second timeline is current. Cole has moved back to the ranch to take on a new project. Meanwhile, Violet falls off her horse and gets injured during a race. She ends up staying with Cole at the big house during her recovery where they reconnect on a more personal level. This was a great book because it touches on Cole’s PTSD from his tour in Iraq. He’s in therapy and his journey is heavily highlighted. He’s working through a lot of personal trauma as well as war trauma. He’s an amputee and hasnt told anyone. When violet discovers this, she helps him to see that it’s not shameful or to be hidden. I love how she’s very patient during his episodes with PTSD and even though she’s patient and compassionate when needed, she’s also very sassy and brazen. Elsie silver does a great job of writing female characters that are fiercely independent and confident. Another aspect I really enjoyed was the use of horses as therapy both emotionally and physically. It’s highlighted heavily in the series as a whole. Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Bloom books for allowing me to read this. It releases July 23rd.

I am clearly in my small town romance era, so I was very excited to read A Photo Finish (book 2 in Elsie Silver’s Gold Rush Ranch series). I loved Off To The Races, so I had very high hopes for this book.

A Photo Finish follows Violet Eaton, an up and coming jockey at Gold Rush Ranch, whose life is turned upside down by a racing accident. In her recovery, she is “forced” to live with Cole Harding, co-owner of Gold Rush Ranch and the bane of her existence. As the two trudge through Violet’s recovery and their past (as former pen pals of a sort), they discover that hidden beneath the snarky quips and banter is something more.

I was so excited to read about Violet’s story (ever since meeting her in Flawless, part of Elsie’s Chestnut Springs series). I really enjoy Elsie’s writing, but this one dragged for me in parts. I still enjoyed it, but my favorite of her books will always be Off To The Races. A Photo Finish is still worth the read, if not to cheer on DD, Violet, and Pipsqueak from the sidelines.

I also thought that the mental health journey that Cole goes through was so thoughtfully and respectfully done (which I very much appreciated). Overall, this book was a fun ride and would make a great summer/beach read!

Many thanks to Bloom Books and Netgalley for the ARC!

Violet and Cole are a great pairing and it was nice to see Cole's development throughout the book. I don't often read cowboy romances and while this wasn't 100% a cowboy romance, it had the great ranch elements that I like. Grumpy sunshine and friends to lovers are always fun tropes.

Thank you for NetGalley and Elsie Silver for an ebook in exchange for an honest review!

Rating: 4.5 Stars!

Elsie never fails to blow me away! I am obsessed with her writing and have to e best time binging her books. I love the setting to all of them and feel transported every time I read them. Had a blast with this one!

Elsie Silver was created a great series that brings you into the mountains of Canada. The book is fast pace with a slow burn that is worth the wait. Will definitely recommend reading at least of these books.

4.5⭐️

I love Elsie’s stories and the way that they transport me to a different world. I’ve never read an Elsie book I didn’t like and this was no exception. Cole and Violet are relatable with their fears and setbacks but they don’t feel overdone just to create conflict. Thank you Net Galley for the ARC

I felt like the pacing slowed down, and some of the conflicts felt a bit forced. However, I still appreciated the themes of growth and self-discovery that were present throughout the book. Elsie Silver has a talent for creating relatable characters and heartfelt moments that kept me engaged for the majority of the story. Overall, "A Photo Finish" was a solid read with a lot of potential, but it did lose some steam towards the end. I would be interested in checking out more of Elsie Silver's work in the future, as I enjoyed her writing style and the depth she brought to her characters.

Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks bloom books for this advanced reader copy. My review is voluntarily my own.

This was my first Elsie Silver book and let me tell you it was amazing!

"A Photo Finish" by Elsie Silver is an absolutely delightful read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Watching the characters fall for each other was a true pleasure, and the tension between them was palpable and engaging.

The grumpy hero with a valid reason for his demeanor added depth to the story. When I realized he wasn’t just being a jerk, I was able to get to know him and understand his reasons. This made his character so much more relatable and compelling. The heroine’s unwavering support, even during the third act conflict, was inspiring. She gave him the space he needed to realize he was being ignorant without ever giving up on him. Her line, “I’m not quitting on you, so you better not quit on me,” resonated deeply and showcased her strength and commitment.

The slow burn and the chemistry between the characters were absolutely perfect—*chef's kiss*. Every moment of their journey was sweet, romantic, and thoroughly captivating. I found myself eating up every moment of their interaction, eagerly anticipating their eventual happy ending.

In conclusion, "A Photo Finish" is amazing, sweet, and romantic. It's a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartfelt and engaging romance!

Cole and Violet 😍

This book had me blushing, giggling and on the verge of crying! Cole is a veteran who has PTSD and meets Violet online, only he never turned his camera on. They meet a year after Violet ghosted him and he outs her as the person he was messaging her in the worst way.

Violet ends up needing a place to stay and Cole’s brother and fiancé(Violet’s bff) set her up to live with Cole for her month of recovery.

Violet and Cole experience their relationship in a whole new way and discover neither of them had truly buried the thoughts or feelings for the other. 🥺
I adored how Cole opened up to Violet and worked on himself to be better.

Tropes:
- forced proximity
- small town
- he falls first
- overprotective MMC

I love Elise Silver and every book of hers and this was no different! I think Violet and Cole might have some of the most chemistry of any of her couples it was so magnetic to read! The ptsd anxiety was done so well and really added to the story - it isn’t just about romance but rather these two intriguing complicated characters. Violet is such a strong FMC and very relatable. Can’t wait to read whatever she writes next. Will be adding to our library 100% right next to all her other books (they are such a fan favorite at the library)

Cole walked so Cade could run.

If you look at the book description, you’ll think you’re in for an oh so sexy time. And while it is amazingly spicy, it is so much more. Violet and Cole have an insane amount of chemistry. They are the perfect grumpy/sunshine couple. And the ptsd anxiety rep is really well done. Cole has so many layers. And Violet is such a tour de force of going for what she wants. She’s a great heroine.

Typically love Elsie Silver and the characters she gives us with these small town romances, but A Photo Finish wasn't for me. Even though I read the first book, I appreciated the read wasn't necessary in order for anyone to read this second book. Even saying that though--there were a handful of times a line or thought felt repetitive when it popped up again a page or two later. That is just something I thought could have been addressed in editing or with ARC readers.
Very cute story though. Love the creativity in the storyline with Colin and Violet and still plan to continue the series.

<b>I received this NetGalley ARC in exchange for an honest review! I want to give a huge thank you to NetGalley, Bloom Books, and Elsie Silver for this opportunity. I am beyond grateful and looking forward to this book!</b>

<b>Genre</b>: romance
<b>Rating</b>: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
<b>Spicy</b>: 🌶️🌶️
<b>Trigger warnings</b>: Depression, Harassment, PTSD, Military

<b>This book made me feel</b>:

The first chapter alone had me hooked by the end of it. The meeting of our two characters… jaw dropped. I knew it was coming but I was still so surprised by how it played out. And I absolutely love how Elsie gets me every single time. This is also my most anticipated book in the Gold Rush Ranch series. I loved the concept before reading and honestly all the little pieces we got for each of our characters made it so much better than anything I imagined.

This book has some of my favorite things: caretaking (especially after an injury), forced proximity, and characters that are really well-developed. Overall there’s a lot of depth to both of our characters. Cole was not very likable to me for most of the book, but it was done so well that I understand his actions and where he’s coming from because of his past. And I still loved those small romantic moments that were shown. It honestly felt like so more than just a romance book. It felt like I was watching two characters grow, change, and learn about themselves and try to be better for both themselves and others.

This book also really made me want to get on a horse and just ride with the wind blowing in my face. I’ve been wanting that for a while, but I haven’t found anywhere that would actually let me do that so for now it’s still in my dreams. I miss riding. I didn’t do it often, but just a few times when I was younger and I desperately miss it.

<b>Favorite Character</b>:

Billie. I loved her. I haven’t read her book yet, but reading this one made me so much more excited for her and Vaughn’s story.

<b>Favorite quote</b>:

But who am I in the grand scheme of things? A twenty-five-year-old with little to show for herself—except a distinct lack of life experience and independence.

What I know is that movement is a gift, freedom that we can never take for granted. Your body, no matter the shape or size, is a workhorse that does incredible things for you. Simple things that you don’t even realize until you can’t do them anymore.

I’m not a crier, and this isn’t an unmanageable situation. But right now, everything feels heavy. Like more than I can bear.

“I think we’re all a little fucked up in our own way.”

“I’m not angry with you. I’m angry with myself.” “Why?” she asks, pure confusion on her face. “I don’t even know where to start with that question. It feels like I’ve been furious for a very long time at nothing in particular. And definitely not with you.”

I do the last push-up from my knees before flopping down onto the floor, feeling like a beached whale who’s given up on life.

I realize I’m happy. Happier than I’ve been in a long time.

Life is messy, something I know well. But when did I decide that the solution to that was to stop living?

Don’t pick a man who needs fixing—or changing—to meet your needs. He either wants to, or he doesn’t. And if you need to convince him, he doesn’t love you the way you deserve.

I know you don’t need me, but I want to be there for you.

You’re not a special snowflake. Stop acting like one.

feeling blue to my bones, wishing I could nap. Sometimes these moods hit me for a day or two. Everything feels heavy, and I feel low—downtrodden.

There’s no finish line where therapy is concerned.