ARC Review: Virtue by Victoria Vane

As a woman in love with Scotland and the romanticism of days past, I cannot express how excited I was to immerse myself in this Historical Romance by one of my most favorite authors. As someone who's had the pleasure of seeing the wonder of the highlands, the culture, and beauty I loved every moment devoted to reading this piece of literature. Victoria Vane stuns and wows with lush, vivid imagery; painting pictures with deep and fascinating depictions of setting from page to page. With the introduction of each character and their subsequent development I found myself falling ever so deeply. 

Alexander, our hero as a Scottish highlander is brave, honest, kind, and intelligent. He is also alarmingly beautiful, both in and out, ensuring that every reader will fall for his endearing nature and handsomely described physical attributes. As a man on the path to take vows at a monastery and an orphan, he has never held himself above others, never wanted for anything, never truly capable of understanding the human proclivity for selfishness or revenge. However, with his freshly assigned post as a tutor for a young man who has ties to one of the former Scottish kings, a chance to learn of his past arises and with it comes danger as secrets are uncovered. As Alexander's lineage and past come to haunt his every waking moment, he realizes that his fate may not lie with the Monks at Portmahomack Monastery, but as a man destined to save his people by right. What's more, the potential for experiencing the wonder of life through hearth, love, and sacrifice begin to weave into his path, should he yield to them. 

Lady Sibylla, a beautiful and headstrong maiden, with wits that induce coy smiles and audible laughter brings light and tenderness to a world filled with deceit, hate, and treachery as she gives her heart and hope to Alexander. She is bright and forthcoming, with a heart of gold and a fearless strength. As she attempts to reconcile with what is expected and what must be done to preserve her way of life and save her family, she finds herself in an unexpected position steeped in harsh reality with hard choices begging to be made. 

As these two strive for passion, safety, and truths their fates intertwine into love despite the danger and heartbreak that may lay waste to everything they hold dear. The journey is as painful as it is wondrous and watching their love unfold amidst the murderous intentions, nefarious acts, and traitorous dealings as England and Scotland come to a head while Scotland fights for freedom and liberation of their country will hold you in place until the final page is turned.

If you have any love for rich and beautifully written stories full of love with historical settings and elements, this book is most certainly for you. I always love Victoria's work, and Virtue is no exception. From the main to the secondary characters, I couldn't help but become inexplicably attached to each and every one, their fates a constant concern for me. The feelings having been stirred by this historic tale enveloped in romantic fiction is a story to behold. It takes talent to manage both, to create a world so full of life with a dose of reality thrown in and this book provides the reader with the chance to learn and enjoy a tale of love simultaneously. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait for the next installment!

**ARC Provided by Author**

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ARC Review: Saddle Up by Victoria Vane

Saddle up for another hit by the talented Victoria Vane! The fourth in the Hot Cowboy Nights Series stars Keith (Two Wolves) Russo, the sexy horse whisperer who has a talent for flare and bedding the ladies. For years, he spends his time on the road as an Equine Behaviorist, using his Native American background, and his undeniably good looks to draw in the crowds. By doing so, he is able to teach people about proper handling and interaction with horses. What he didn’t expect, however, is that his interests in fame, women, and power would come back to bite him in the ass.

Enter: Miranda Sutton. She’s a sweet girl, an aspiring filmmaker, and one who wants to make a difference. Under the direction of her boss, she films Keith during one of his clinics, only to find out that said boss Bibi decided to use the recording to her own advantage. Once Keith loses all credibility, he is forced to go back to the beginning. He’s angered his family through his exploitation of his heritage, and is trying to find himself again. Keith is a drifter, a wild, yet simple man. However, he has no intentions of falling in love for the woman who comes back into his world unexpectedly. Especially the one who he feels helped destroy his reputation.

Miranda may have filmed Keith, but she wasn’t the one doing the editing or videography. The thing is, Miranda is tired of feeling useless, of not helping anyone, or making any changes through what she actually gets to film. Bibi uses her, and Miranda wants to prove her worth. So she sets off on her own, determined to make a documentary about Wild Mustang roundups, hoping to make a difference and possibly establish her career. She heads to Nevada to do her own work, and take a risk. Guess who’s there? Keith, the Mustang Wrangler, the former Native American Gigolo (as he was dubbed after his fallout thanks to Bibi), and he has no intention of making Miranda’s life or attempt at filmmaking any easier after her part in his demise.

These two clash. They fight. They have a fire between them that is undeniable. A huge triumph for Victoria Vane and her ability to make passion and connection steam up the pages no matter the circumstances. Keith shot to the top of my list as my favorite cowboy read this year. I love the Native American references, and I love his gift with the horses and how well the author presented them to the readers. Miranda, I couldn’t get enough of either. Why? Well, because she has heart. Heart is at the core of any character that any reader may fall in love with. If I can love the male and female lead, then I get to experience a wonderful story by watching them grow together.

Keith changes. He learns. He grows. He finds himself, and Miranda finds where her heart belongs. Their adventure in the desert was fun, steamy, and oh-so-sexy. Once Miranda sees and learns about the issues surrounding Wild Mustangs and how these Wranglers and Ranchers are trying to save them, she becomes a lover of horses more than she ever thought possible. She also finds that being a part of helping and saving them is what she is meant to do. Keith realizes that while Miranda might be stubborn, a little naïve, and a lot sweet, she really is just a great woman with a big heart.

The two of them embark on a journey that brings them together while saving the Mustangs, and tears them apart through their differences of beliefs, only to help them mend and find one another in the end. Keith realizes that as a Horse Whisperer, he will always be happy, that he is meant to help them, and guide them. The way they come together to build a sanctuary is remarkable. I applaud Victoria Vane for the whirlwind of emotions she creates throughout the book. I also applaud her ability to be detailed, honest, refreshing, and factual. I learned interesting facts about my home state that I never knew. I also enjoyed every minute of reading the book and seeing the story unfold.

Every character was rich, and played their part perfectly. The villains in the book were nasty (as not just because some of them were relatives of Miranda), and I had no idea what to expect. Tonya and Huttsi, and Kenu (Keith’s family) always had his best interests at heart and gave him great advice that he needed, even when he wasn’t sure how to interpret their wise words at the time. Jo-Jo, Miranda’s grandmother was a firework, and I just loved her. I honestly cannot wait to see what’s next. Maybe we will get a spin-off? Maybe we will see some of these wonderful characters again? I don’t know, but one thing is for sure, I will always be attached to each and every one of them. I even had the waterworks drawn from me at the conclusion of this story. As usual, the author gave me another reason to love her work.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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Guest Post with Author Victoria Vane and Giveaway

Meet Victoria Vane author of Saddle Up.

Victoria Vane is a multiple award-winning romance novelist and history junkie whose collective works of fiction range from wildly comedic romps to emotionally compelling erotic romance. Victoria also writes historical fiction as Emery Lee and is the founder of the Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers Goodreads group and the Romantic Historical Lovers book review blog. She lives on the east coast of Florida.

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ARC Review: Beauty and the Bull Rider by Victoria Vane

The third installment in the Hotel Rodeo Series left me wanting more. This book was full of wonder from start to finish. While I absolutely loved Ty and Monica from the first two with their explosive chemistry, Delaney and Zac are so sweet they made me ache! Zac, whom we know as Ty’s oldest friend (despite a fallout, until recently in the previous book), is at the end of his Bull Riding days. He is back in Oklahoma as the head of the Circle B Ranch, and he is ready to fight for Delaney.

She is stubborn, beautiful, and innocent with an independence that I found truly loveable. She is also obsessed with having a baby, but what she doesn’t realize is that she is also in need of the right man to help her achieve it. Prior to this, Zac became aware of Delaney’s dilemma, and her attempt at gaining Ty as a sperm donor. Fear of losing her heart to another man, and being left by one, caused her to close herself off from romance. Ty broke her, and Zac wants to fix her.

Victoria did an amazing job as painting Delaney as a troublemaker in the previous books, but it was obvious that there was more to her story. Due to the way she so wonderfully weaves her tales, it was easy to be intrigued with the Delaney we thought we knew, and the Delaney that could be known to us. I enjoyed her so very much! This is just one more reason I love reading Victoria’s books: Her female leads are always kick-ass, and her heroes always take my heart with them on the journey from start to finish.

Like the all or nothing man Zac is, he’s betting on making a baby with Delaney. What he doesn’t count on, however, is that Delaney only wants his little swimmers. He may have been warned, but he is bound and determined to convince her they’d be better together than she would be alone. She wants artificial insemination, he wants old fashioned. They collide, but Zac goes all the way, showing Delaney that he is in for the long haul, and that she needs more than just a baby to fill the hole in her heart.

Zac fulfills every promise to her. Though he has been waiting for a chance at her for eight years, he has no idea just how much he’ll risk. This book was funny, sweet, romantic, and beautiful. There were scenes that made me laugh, and I learned interesting facts about bulls, breeding, and the like between what happens in a fertility clinic. I love the passion with which Victoria writes. She researches quite a bit, and I’m always learning neat facts while also enjoying the chemistry between her characters as the plotline unfolds.

When these two get together, they become partners in everything. They learn how to cooperate and how to take a chance on one another. Delaney learns that leaning on someone for support doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. Zac realizes that love encompasses everything and that one has to believe in the possibility of dreams. From beginning to end, Zac and Delaney brought me a smile. They are going to help ensure that the Hotel Rodeo is brought back to life with a vengeance, and that they have their prime stock in Delaney’s own venture. Furthermore, I bet they’ll have adorable little babies in the future.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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ARC Review: Two to Wrangle by Victoria Vane

The fun continues in the second installment of the Hotel Rodeo Series, and it doesn’t get much sweeter. Two to Wrangle begins where Hell on Heels ended, with Ty Morgan and Monica Brandt trying to pick up the pieces after tragedy leaves them emotionally strangled in its wake. Amidst the sadness, can two very different souls find peace in one another? As a reader, I was beyond excited to see if it was possible! The chemistry between Ty and Monica has been sexy and explosive since the beginning.

As Monica comes to terms with her loss, she realizes just how much is at stake. Upon finding that the terms regarding her ownership of Hotel Rodeo have changed, she finds herself on a cliff facing the unknown. Unwilling to jump and take a risk, we see her questioning herself, and the truth behind Ty’s actions more often than not. Can she trust Ty? What about Evan who clearly wants her back? Furthermore, what is the motivation behind Evan’s blatantly mischievous business savvy? Will there more trouble in the future if Monica stays involved?

The twists keep on coming, yes they do! Once Ty and Monica realize belatedly that they either need to partner up, or jump ship, we really have no clue where the story is going. Ty needs financial stability, but Monica is fearful of defeat, deception, and heartbreak. She is confused, and it drove me crazy at times. I found myself mentally berating Monica, knowing that if I could meet her, I’d tell her to trust her heart. So naturally, watching her grow throughout the book and finally risk love was a whirlwind of frustration followed by giddy delight.

Then, there is Delaney. All I can say is, “Wow,” because she is one intriguing, unique character. She also wants a piece of Ty, and she has no qualms about the unusual deal she presents him with. Perhaps even more exciting is the knowledge that Delaney and Zac (Ty’s best friend) are the focus of the upcoming third installment. I am definitely going to be reading that next! Ultimately though, I just cannot get over what Delaney is currently after! Her addition to the bits and pieces of potential milestones in which Ty and Monica have to overcome couldn’t have worked out better.

My favorite aspect of this book though was Ty’s character development. While I truly enjoyed watching Monica come into her own, and take control, I loved Ty’s ability to leave everything on the table. Despite his misgivings involving commitment and love, he never gave up and he never sacrificed any part of himself in the process. The author gave us a strong female lead and an impossibly perfect hero in Ty to love, providing us as readers with a wonderful book to immerse ourselves in. Seeing how the story unfolds, experiencing Ty’s final play to win Monica as a partner in more ways than one gave me one hell of a happy ending to enjoy.

I loved seeing Monica stand up for herself. I loved seeing Evan being taken down a notch. I loved learning a bit more about Zac and Delaney. I loved learning about the potential for Hotel Rodeo and how our couple will make it a success. I loved the tender moments, the heated ones full of sexual ecstasy, and the ones full of sharp tongues with innuendo. More importantly, I loved both Monica and Ty. Even better, I cannot wait to see how their partnership will feed into the future novels, the other characters, and the ultimate fate of Hotel Rodeo!

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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ARC Review: Hell on Heels by Victoria Vane

Yeehaw! Victoria Vane has another sexy cowboy thrill ride that I could not put down from start to finish! Unlike her Hot Cowboy Nights Series, however, we get a taste for the wild side, with the backdrop of Las Vegas. This is definitely a change, but if anything, it made the plotline that much more intriguing. After all, what is a cowboy doing in Sin City?

Ty Morgan, the partner of Tom Brandt, is focused on saving Hotel Rodeo, despite its years of being in the red. He has plans that will provide the hotel with a fresh side of retro in old Western that will bring the patrons full force, but needs his partner to back him personally, and financially. As the owner, Tom Brandt knows Ty Morgan can pull this off, even if he has doubts out of fear. He believes in Ty because he is smart, and his drive could pull the heaviest load to the front line, but also because Tom considers Ty as a son.

Unfortunately, an accident leaves Tom unable to fulfill his end of the agreement, forcing Ty to work with, or for, Monica Brandt (Tom’s daughter). The problem is that Monica has brass balls for such a sexy city girl, and she doesn’t trust Ty. Not one bit. She shows up to care for Tom, and to take over the dealings with his business until further notice. Ty though, is in her way, and he isn’t budging. Sparks ignite, and insults fly. Talk is cheap though, once one rises to the challenge, and Ty is not one to back down!

To say that I loved this book would be an understatement! I read it in a day, just whipped on through it! Ty is stubborn, sexy, and kind of dirty (if you know what a mean, ladies). Monica, she is such a strong female lead. Hell, she isn’t even aware that she is as tough as she is, which makes her that much more enjoyable. The circumstances that bring these two together are unfortunate, but love can heal all, and I believe the story will continue to grow on into the next installment.

I really enjoyed Ty and Monica, not only because they are both great characters, but because their chemistry is epic! The two of them battle each other with wit and cheeky comments that made me laugh out loud, and provided so much heat between the lines that I loved reading about their escapades. This is what makes a perfect couple for me; intrigue, lust, love, and a good fight. Even better, the interfering forces from both sides make for more curiosity as to how the story will play out.

Monica had me loving her from the beginning because of her display of self-worth and dignity. Despite feeling abandoned until her experience with Tom as a father later in life (once he became aware she existed), she has respect for herself. Though she has insecurities, she takes control, and I enjoy a heroine who can rely on her own instincts, and believe in herself. She has little faith in men, and is afraid of being alone, resulting in her constant difficulty with Ty, but it’s clear that Ty and her are truly meant to be.

Ty is just as disbelieving of the concept of happily-ever-after, but his misgivings of having faith in a faithful relationship (after his disturbing past with his ex-wife), won’t be able to suppress his feelings toward Monica for long. With that said, these two have a lot to figure out! Ty is trying to find a way to buy out Hotel Rodeo from under Monica, and she is on the verge of selling out from under Ty prior to his chance at securing funding. Holy smokes, talk about some serious head-shaking-don’t-do-that possibilities!

Deceit, confusion, and heartache accompany two souls who have been awaiting the chance to find their mates. Not to mention, two exes who have some shady involvement plotting in the darkness. How will they come together after loss and betrayal? One will have to read the first in the series, followed by the next installments to find out! I, for one, cannot wait! Victoria Vane always grabs me from the beginning of each read, and gives me a thrill I hardly recover from while awaiting the next!

**ARC provided by NetGalley**

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ARC Review: Sharp Shootin’ Cowboy by Victoria Vane

The third installment in the Hot Cowboy Night’s Series by Victoria Vane starts off with a bang, literally. Our hero, Reid Everett is a sharp shooter with the United States Marine Corps, and he’s tough, cocky, determined, and sexy. Weary from return of his recent deployment, and a breakup via text message, he goes to a country bar with his buddy Garcia where he finds himself infatuated with a petite blonde named Haley Cooper. Knowing he will be leaving again for another deployment, he wasn’t planning on fun of any kind regarding the opposite sex, yet Haley pushes every button Reid has. She is the perfect combination of fierce, stubborn, and intelligent rolled into a gal who finds value in nothing that Reid stands for. These two definitely hit the mark where opposites attract at full speed, and it makes for fantastic off-the-wall chemistry, but controversy that keeps the reader continuously flipping pages.

Right from the beginning, I was interested in the chemistry Reid and Haley had. Despite her dislike for killing or violence of any kind, she couldn’t help but be attracted to the down-to-earth cowboy with shining blue eyes. Aside from Reid having strong personal convictions, he is a nice, honest guy. Reid is the type of man any woman could possibly want, whether they agree with his beliefs or not. The two hit it off mostly because they are consistently challenging each other’s ideals. Unfortunately, when they meet, Reid is about to ship out for Iraq again. With Haley’s inability to admit attraction, she pushes him away and thus begins their long journey.

I am not kidding when I say long. The author somehow manages to create a story that encompasses a span of nearly seven years, yet the timeline fits well, and the years throughout ensure that Haley and Reid’s happily ever after is that much more sweet. After his leaving for Iraq, Reid finds a way to ensure that Haley doesn’t forget him without being intrusive. Though his deployment ends up taking roughly eighteen months, instead of barely one, he never forgets Haley. Once he finally arrives back in San Jacinto, California (Haley’s hometown), he discovers that she left U. C. Davis (with the intention of acquiring a veterinarian degree), and is instead in Alaska assisting in a wolf study with for her former Professor Greene, working with a conservationist group.

He still reaches her, and declares that he will wait for her to come home. At this point, it is quite clear that Reid is aware of Haley’s skittish, anxiety-ridden behavior where trust is concerned. So, naturally, patience is necessary in order to bring Haley to him. Four months or so later, Haley is finished in Alaska, and back with her grandparents. Reid forces his way into her presence. Understandably, their palpable chemistry combusts unexpectedly and fiercely to the point of the reader needs a fan to cool off! What is unexpected; however, is just how fearful Haley really is about love and giving into a true sense of vulnerability. You gain her perspective of course, but how deep this fear runs, is surprising. So, after a few very memorable moments, the two part ways, only to be brought back together five years later.

Five years? Yes! Trust me, it works out well, and I love how these two are brought back together in the book. The plot is indeed a fine work of kismet, despite Reid and Haley being brought back together under less-than-perfect circumstances. After all, Haley is still has the same convictions as before, as does Reid. Moreover, his sister Krista clearly despises her (if by this point the reader hadn’t gathered that), and Tonya is still lurking around hoping for a chance to be with Reid again. To elaborate, Tonya is one of two women Reid has ever been with and she is not shy about saying what she thinks or showing Reid what she wants. I have to say that Tonya is actually the only female character thus far in the entire series that I do not like. I think she is too self-absorbed, and dishonest when necessary. Krista, Reid’s sister is obnoxious at first, but she admits when she is wrong in the end. Alas, Krista redeemed herself.

Unfortunately, Haley does not take well to being disliked because she isn’t a confrontational person, despite being very strong-willed and upfront about her personal feelings on any given subject. Luckily for her, Reid is the only one that really matters. The problem is that the surrounding setting seems to be against them. Between Haley and Reid coming back together through circumstances relating to a zealous hunter killing an innocent animal (an animal very special to Haley), and her ex, Jeffery Greene trying to destroy them, how will they make it? You see, Haley is now the head of a program that helps monitor wolves in Wyoming, and wolves are encroaching on the land of people who rely upon its resources; resources they own. Naturally, this causes problems for ranchers, big-game hunters, and those whose livelihood is affected by predators, while people like Haley are trying to ensure the safety of the initially-endangered species.

She wants to save the lives of the innocent, yet Reid knows there has to be give and take to ensure humans and wolves coexist as peacefully as possible. So to say how amazing it is to watch Haley grow as an individual would be an understatement. She finally becomes capable of seeing the positive reasons behind compromise; bending when necessary. Then, in a shocking twist of events, she learns of deceit that could potentially destroy everything her and Reid have finally begun to build. Bridges that could bring both of their goals to fruition are discovered, and both are able to come to together through honesty and trust. The problem is, will the burning of those bridges be extinguished in time, before there is nothing left to rebuild?

Ultimately, yes, yes two opposites can find common ground, and come together as easily as night and day. Normally, such a controversial subject, weighed in upon by characters that have opposing viewpoints could cause too much conflict. Yet, the author was able to create such captivating characters that the reader is the ability to identify with both Reid and Haley. To me, this proves how talented a writer I’ve found. It is an impressive feat to manage as a writer, breathing life into two characters that may seem incompatible, yet have unshakable chemistry. This chemistry is so real you feel as though love can conquer all, and that anything is possible.

Believe me when I say this story is a triumph. You will laugh, only to laugh harder. You will cry, and you will smile. You will feel good inside once finished, because the ending is perfection. Not to mention, you might need a cold shower at some point (winks). Victoria Vane truly has another success on her hands. Between the action, the romance, the controversial moments, and the evolution of her characters, there is beauty to discover. Thank you for another sexy addition to the Hot Cowboy Nights Series!

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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ARC Review: Rough Rider by Victoria Vane

Alas, Victoria Vane has done it again! She stole my heart with another epic story about a sexy, cannot-get-enough-of-him cowboy. This story follows a decade of Dirk Knowlton’s life, the brother of Wade Knowlton from the first novel in the Hot Cowboy Nights Series (Slow Hand), and Janice Combes. Dirk is a whirlwind of intensity in every way possible from his attitude to his fears and needs. I simply could not put this book down! Furthermore, Janice was so enjoyable and easy to love.

The story begins when Dirk and Janice are youngsters living on the rodeo circuit. Dirk is riding bulls, and Janice is working as the bull contractor due to her father’s illness. The two of them appear to have completely different ideas when it comes to romance, as Dirk is still with his high school sweetheart Rachel Carson (rodeo queen), and Janice is the tomboy who has no sexual experience. This all changes, however, when Dirk and Rachel grow apart, as she realizes Dirk is not ready to be a trained and perfect husband any time in the near future. After Dirk gets his first taste of defeat, and has nowhere to go after laying waste to his relationship, he looks to Janice for comfort.

In the process, the two begin a journey that despite time passed, leaves a mark upon their hearts. Dirk, unfortunately, is wary of settling down and is having difficulty accepting his feelings for Janice. So, when tragedy knocks at Janice’s door regarding her father’s health, she looks to where she can find comfort. Enter: Grady Garrison, who as a reader, you come to despise. This means that Victoria did an amazing job, because it is always refreshing to truly dislike a character that plays an important role in the story. Grady is crude, verbally abusive, and in every sense of the word, a womanizer. He wraps pretty lies in false gifts, and weaves promises into every word to gain Janice’s trust, only for his own gain.

Janice learns this much too late, and it leaves her alone and in need of the chance to find her own way again. During the ten years that Janice and Dirk are apart, they both change in many ways. Janice is now a widow, a mother, and trying to get back on her feet after moving back to her hometown (where Dirk is of course). Dirk, on the other hand, has grown into a man who lives simply and is shut off from the outside world. He is still fighting with his brother Wade over trying to save the Flying K Ranch, and also battling his own demons on the inside. Dirk, not only lost his chance with Rachel when she chose Wade (and then tragically died), but he lost his chance with Janice (or so he thought). Furthermore, he lost something even more personal; his leg. Dirk, has PTSD, like so many of our heroic soldiers, and he is not only still dealing with the nightmares of his past, but coping with his physical pain and loss in the present.

I suppose that for these very reasons, that this is why I loved Dirk and Janice’s story more than Wade and Nikki’s; the loss of self, heartbreak, and second chances was personal for me. Though Wade went through his own loss (losing Rachel), and had his own second chance with Nikki, it is more beautifully painful to read about a broken hero. This is especially true when you get to read the hero’s story over the course of many years; the pain, the love, and the wonder of the journey is even more palpable. So, naturally, when Janice comes back into Dirk’s life a decade later and she is lost as well, watching the two heal together is a blissful experience.

Janice, lost ten years of her life to someone who treated her as if she were nothing but a fly to swat and be done with, yet she remained strong for herself, and her son Cody. She is absolutely one of the best female characters I have felt a kinship with over the same matters of motherhood and responsibility. Not to mention, finding the man of your dreams after so long of waiting for him. Her and Dirk are undoubtedly and inexplicably perfect for one another. She is the woman who accepts Dirk for all his faults and sees them as strengths in their own ways once she gets past his defenses. Dirk, on the other hand, is the man she needed to give her back her hope.

Janice begins working for Dirk to help him save his ranch, and in turn is thrown back into the role she loves so much of working with bulls and ranching. Furthermore, Dirk becomes a role model to Cody, and as a mother who found the same, I can say that this aspect of the story spoke to me. I relish a story that can truly grasp the drama of certain situations that people have dealt with. To me, Victoria was able to bring to life very realistic dilemma’s that women and men alike experience in the real world. Therefore, I was more than enmeshed in this story from beginning to end!

I am not going to get into the juicy or the dramatic parts because I refuse to spoil such things. However, I can say that the sexual experiences and heart-wrenching parts are hot, devastating, and perfect in every way. As for twists, I can say that the biggest one happens near the ending involving a discovery that only makes Janice and Dirk’s life together that much better. Not only does this book have some action and high stakes, but there is romance, passion, and lessons to be learned. Of course, the book was even better because Victoria incorporated a few of the scenes from a different viewpoint from Slow Hand as well.

This is another aspect to love in my humble opinion, simply because these scenes really gave us a more in-depth look at the relationship between Wade and Dirk. There were some blanks filled in, so to speak, and because we were given the chance to understand these two better, it made their reconciliation sweeter. Not to mention, I enjoyed seeing Wade help Dirk with his decision making regarding Janice, as well as seeing them bond. Of course, without the sweet Donna Knowlton and the tough Justin Knowlton (the boys’ parents), the story would have been missing something as well. Truly, I think the familial strength was central to the relationships of each Knowlton brother.

So, ultimately, I can say without reservation that I was blown away by this book. I was turned on, I cried, I laughed, I cringed, and I smiled. Janice and Dirk are the type of couple I can not only relate to, but root for. I loved that familiar characters were brought it, that Victoria created such a wonderfully placed timeline, and that she brought realistic occurrences to the story. It made me happy to see Wade and Dirk let go of the past together, and to see Donna Knowlton have the chance to see her boy’s happy and complete. Most importantly, perhaps, I was elated to finally see Dirk and Janice find one another. I hope every individual who picks up this book reads this story with enthusiasm, as I have. Thanks Vikki for your lovely story!

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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Feature and Giveaway: Rough Rider by Victoria Vane

Two wary hearts …

Janice Combes has two loves, bucking bulls and Dirk Knowlton. But Dirk only has eyes for a dazzling rodeo queen. How can Janice ever compete while mired ankle-deep in manure? Exchanging playful banter with Dirk is all Janice can expect—until the stormy night he knocks on her door dripping wet and needing a place to crash.

Different Dreams…

Dirk Knowlton is living the cowboy dream. Life should be good—roping, branding, backing broncs, riding bulls, but there's a void he can't seem to fill. After getting hung up by a bull, he wonders if this is really the life he wants. Restless and rebellious, he bolts…but there’s a certain cowgirl he can’t forget.

When a battle-scarred Dirk returns to his Montana ranch he's determined to hang on at any cost. Janice has come back home to lick her own wounds. When old dreams turn to dust, can two wary hearts take another chance on love?

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Interview with Author Victoria Vane and Giveaway

Meet Victoria Vane, author of Slow Hand.

Victoria Vane is a multiple award-winning romance novelist and history junkie whose collective works of fiction range from wildly comedic romps to emotionally compelling erotic romance. Victoria also writes historical fiction as Emery Lee and is the founder of Goodreads Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers and the Romantic Historical Lovers book review blog.

Find Victoria at:

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ARC Review: Slow Hand by Victoria Vane

This is my first Victoria Vane novel, though I had heard of her prior to this through friends who absolutely love western novels. I not only found myself loving the book, but also greedily reading it, so quickly that I was done with it in less than a days’ time. Not only does Victoria know cowboys and the worlds in which they thrive in, but she clearly knows how to capture the honorable and memorable side of them. Honestly, this is the best western novel I have read to date, and I am beyond excited to read the next installment. The characters, the theme, the setting, and the plot were remarkable.

We have Wade Knowlton and Nikki Powell as the hero and heroine; both loveable! Wade is charismatic, smooth-talking, intellectual, suave, and oh-so-sexy! Even better, he is a rugged cowboy and sharp lawyer rolled into one (oh the possibilities!). Then, there is Nikki who is ridiculously humorous at times, and has the sharp tongue of a viper; I loved her spicy attitude! These two had unbelievable chemistry. I could not get enough of their witty remarks and constant battle of words and sexual innuendo. Seriously, by the time I would get through a scene involving Wade making sexually charged comments, I would be salivating to read the scene where he would follow through.

Then, there is the drama factor. Who doesn’t love a hero who is a little lost? A heroine who is stubborn and vulnerable? Truthfully, the pieces of these characters that were broken added to the beauty of the story. Wade, who has endured loss along with his brother Dirk, has also been betrayed. Naturally, he is weary of love and commitment especially when the one he thought he loved, wanted someone else. Of course, Nikki has her own reasons to be apprehensive. As is the norm when it comes to women and bad relationships, she does not trust men. She has dated and been committed to almost every type of no account bad boy. Now you add in the factor that they were all “cowboys,” she associates the boots and hat with said type of men.

Well, Wade is a cowboy, but he is the real deal. After all, any girl who grew up watching Westerns (or met a few cowboys), knows that honest-to-goodness onesraised by a good family usually grow up chivalrous, honorable, and hard-working. There are bad guys and naughty gals, but there are always good with the bad; no one starts out that way. So, through what I consider unique and fun circumstances despite the reason for Nikki’s being in Montana (the death of her father), her and Wade are brought together. She is resistant and very off-standish, but Wade’s appeal only allows her to stay away for so long.

She goes to Montana for closure, and to maybe learn a little more about who she is (her father and her were estranged). Moreover, she wants to figure out if maybe there is something more out there: love, a new career, a life to live possibly? Needless to say, aside from finding out that there are good men out there, Nikki finds herself realizing that she needs to take risks if she wants happiness. So through learning more about her father, discovering the beauty of a new place, meeting Wade’s family, and some adventures in the mountains (maybe some liquor and bed play too *wink*), Nikki grows a lot throughout the story.

So does Wade of course! However, I can say that I loved how he came around naturally to opening up to Nikki and was ready to fight for her despite her constant shying away. It was refreshing to see the hero lay everything on the table, so to speak, as well as give all of himself with hardly any resistance. Most of the time, the tables are turned, or it plays out more equally, but Wade was one of the most upright, honest male characters I have encountered. Even better, he was so attentive and considerate when it came to Nikki’s feelings, discomfort, and sexual needs. Good grief, let me just say that Victoria can write some of the best sexual scenes I have ever read….and I have read many of them. In fact, I will openly admit that after reading some of these scenes I wanted to attack my significant other (snort).

Now, let me just say that the extras in the book were fabulous as well. The Knowlton’s (Donna and Justin), were sweet characters, though Donna (Wade’s mom) was present more. With that said, even though they weren’t in the book a lot, I still felt the love of both of the parents for Wade as well as how polite and respectful Justin (Wade’s dad) was. Oh boy though, let me just say that Dirk had me going. Dirk, is Wade’s older brother, and damn is he rough around the edges. He and Wade have some seriously twisted history (which has to do with Wade’s current problems), and well, Dirk is definitely the perfect example of the tortured cowboy. He is pretty damned sexy from what I gathered, crass, and undeniably unhinged in some fashion (makes for a man full of potential, yes?).

Dirk, is trying like hell to save the family ranch; the Flying K. Furthermore, his loathing of Wade is quite clear (Wade is trying to sell it despite Dirk’s need to save it). Well, I understand both sides of that coin, so I choose no sides. However, I am intrigued by the brotherly scorn and hope that somehow those two will make things right with one another. What is even better is that I know Dirk’s story is next. Now, I loved Wade (oh, how I loved him), but Dirk will definitely be even more intense! After all, he has been burned by his love for one woman, through tragic personal experience in a warzone, and lost more of himself than many. Need I say more? Truly, I am looking forward to finding out who saves his soul, and his life.

There are others of course; ladies like Allie and Janice. Janice is cute bartender who seems to have a thing for Dirk, and Allie is the obnoxious former bedmate of Wade (as well as a real estate shark). She still chapped my hide, despite her trying to help Nikki later on in the book. Honestly, it’s pretty clear that her reason behind doing anything is slanted in a way that ultimately makes her life easier. Then, of course there is Shelby, Nikki’s little half-sister. This girl, she cracked me up with her bluntness and skewed view of the world. I am hoping that somehow maybe she finds her way as well, and finds a man like Wade to help her become who she could be, if given the chance.

In the end, I was sad to put the book down, it was that wonderful. I just loved all the characters (even Allie had her moments and her need to be in the story for plot-based reasons). Plus, the way in which the story brought Wade and Nikki together through fun chance made me smile. The two of them were meant to be from the beginning, and I enjoyed watching their love blossom. Nikki gave Wade the ability to open up and show just how beautiful he is on the outside as well as in. While Wade gave Nikki the ability to not just be sassy, tough, and independent, but tenacious and brave. I cannot possibly express how badly one must read this story. I am anxiously waiting for Victoria’s next!

*ARC provided by Publisher**

Purchase: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N |

Feature and Giveaway: Slow Hand by Victoria Vane

In rural Montana…

Wade Knowlton is a hardworking lawyer who’s torn between his small-town Montana law practice and a struggling family ranch. He’s on the brink of exhaustion from trying to save everybody and everything, when gorgeous Nicole Powell walks into his office. She’s a damsel in distress and the breath of fresh air he needs.

Even the lawyers wear boots…

Nicole Powell is a sassy Southern girl who has officially sworn off cowboys after a spate of bad seeds—until her father’s death sends her to Montana and into the arms of a man who seems too good to be true. Her instincts tell her to high tail it out of Montana, but she can't resist a cowboy with a slow hand…

Pre-Order: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N | iTunes |

Guest Post with Author Victoria Vane and Giveaway

Today I would like to welcome back to RFTC author, Victoria Vane. Victoria is celebrating the recent release of her book Treacherous Temptations, and has stopped by to chat. Please give Victoria a warm welcome.

A lover of history and deeply romantic stories, Victoria combines these elements to craft romantic historical novels and novellas for a mature reading audience. Her writing influences are Georgette Heyer for fabulous witty dialogue and over the top characters, Robin Schone, Sylvia Day, and Charlotte Featherstone for beautifully crafted prose in stories with deep sensuality, and Lila DiPasqua for creative vision in melding history with eroticism. Ms. Vane also writes award nominated romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee.

Places to find Victoria: 

| Site | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | 

Guest Post with Author Victoria Vane and Giveaway

Today I would like to welcome to RFTC author Victoria Vane. Victoria is here today to chat about her Devil Devere series and has stopped by to talk about her inspiration behind it. Before I give the floor over to Victoria, let's get to know her a bit.

A lover of history and deeply romantic stories, Victoria combines these elements to craft romantic historical novels and novellas for a mature reading audience. Her writing influences are Georgette Heyer for fabulous witty dialogue and over the top characters, Robin Schone , Sylvia Day, and Charlotte Featherstone for beautifully crafted prose in stories with deep sensuality, and Lila DiPasqua for creative vision in melding history with eroticism. Ms. Vane also writes award nominated romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee.

Places to find Victoria: 

| Site | Blog | Facebook | Twitter |