Welcome back to the LiteraryScape Podcast! In this episode, we dive into Book 2 of Jody Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, Willing to Wed the Rancher. Join us as we discuss strong characters, family rifts, unexpected romance, and one very important lesson about learning to say no.
Jessica
Tiffanie
Mom
Assistant schoolteacher Claribel Oakley struggles with saying no to people—a trait that gets her into serious trouble when Eric Meyer, the widowed father of two of her students, proposes marriage. When Claribel fumbles her attempt to decline, explaining she wants to marry for love rather than convenience, Eric misunderstands completely. Then tragedy strikes, and Claribel suddenly finds herself responsible for Eric’s children and his farm.
Enter Professor Franz Meyer, who arrives in Summit County, Colorado, hoping to reconcile with his estranged brother Eric. Instead, he discovers Eric is gone, leaving behind unanswered questions and two young children. One thing Franz knows immediately: he’s fallen for Claribel at first sight and is determined to win her heart.
But there’s a complication—Claribel’s flirtatious twin sister Clementine has set her sights on Franz. As Franz investigates what happened to his brother and danger closes in, Claribel must decide whether to say yes to love before it’s too late.
The Struggle to Say No
We connected deeply with Claribel’s inability to refuse people’s requests. As one host admitted, “I got told this week, ‘It’s okay to say no, Tiff.'” Claribel’s challenge resonated with us—she wanted to keep the children happy and ensure they grew up properly, showing her genuine heart for them. However, we agreed she needed to buck up and be firm, especially when facing an unwanted marriage proposal!
The Brother Backstory
The rift between Franz and Eric created compelling drama. Eric had run off with Franz’s fiancée after she became pregnant with Eric’s child—leaving behind both his brother and a vast fortune. We couldn’t blame Franz for not wanting to talk to his brother after such a betrayal. This backstory added depth and emotional weight to Franz’s journey.
Twin Sister Drama
The mix-up between Claribel and her twin Clementine provided some of our favorite moments. When Franz mistakes Clementine for Claribel at the mercantile and wraps his arms around her from behind, it sets off a chain reaction. Clementine, described as a bi...