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Hearts and Hoofbeats #1
Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash
Jenna Murphy, a dedicated horse masseuse, relies on her job and street smarts to support what's most important...her younger sister. But when the Thoroughbred Wellness Center experiences a hostile takeover headed by a charming but ruthless corporate shark, both her heart and career are in jeopardy.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
286 people are currently reading
1587 people want to read
About the author
Bev Pettersen
40 books248 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Bev Pettersen is a three-time nominee in the National Readers Choice Award as well as the winner of other international awards including the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Award, Aspen Gold Reader’s Choice Award, Write Touch Readers’ Award, Kirkus Recommended Read, and a HOLT Medallion Award of Merit. She competed on the Alberta Thoroughbred race circuit and is an Equestrian Canada certified coach.
Bev lives in Nova Scotia with her family—humans and four-legged—and when she's not writing novels, she's riding. If you’d like to know when her next book will be available or just want to say hi, please visit her at www.BevPettersen.com
Bev lives in Nova Scotia with her family—humans and four-legged—and when she's not writing novels, she's riding. If you’d like to know when her next book will be available or just want to say hi, please visit her at www.BevPettersen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
September 9, 2016
4.5 stars. This might be the best freebie I’ve read all year. Score!
Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash (love that name!) was a great heartfelt contemporary romance with some suspense, humor, and fun banter between the H/h. I loved how the steamy tension kept growing from a slow burn to a hot sizzle as the relationship between the H/h could no longer be denied. Oh, this was my kind of romance. The writing was top notch, the pacing kept me glued, and the characters all felt so real. I would have loved an epilogue, but that is because I felt so invested in their journey. I am hoping the author will write another story in this town (maybe Colin’s story?) so we get more about Derek Burke and Jenna Murphy.
The story is set in a small town of West Virginia, where newcomer wealthy businessman Derek Burke has taken over the Three Brooks Equine Center, a facility for horses to heal and get long term treatment. The facility has been poorly managed and employees are taking advantage of the center left and right. He immediately has a rough start with his new staff, but finds himself oddly intrigued with the local horse masseuse Jenna Murphy. She just stole a bag full of horse vitamins from his facility! But he soon realizes she is an expert at her job, loyal to the bone, and an asset to help him smooth the way with other employees. He finds himself drawn to this beautiful lady, who happens to live in a broken down trailer just down the road from his new digs -- the large estate owned by Three Brooks. What he doesn't know is she keeps a lot of secrets, including fudging her college training as a masseuse. New management requires a college degree, so her 11th grade education needed to be fudged in order to keep her job.
When Burke begins shaking up things at the facility, including not allowing locals to receive free or reduced price treatment, Jenna takes matters into her own hands. Her aging old pony Peanut needs treatment that only Three Brothers can provide, but since he is a two buck mangy steed without proper vaccinations Burke doesn’t want Peanut mingling with the clients horses. At first she could justify going against Burke, but as their relationship heats up she finds her loyalties splitting.
I loved this story so much, and I will read more by this author. I had a hard time guessing how they were going to get their HEA, but I was pleasantly surprised how the author wraps it up. And while the setting might be around a horse training and healing facility, the author doesn’t bash the readers over the head with endless and useless information about horses. If you love a good heartfelt contemporary romance with a light suspense twist, a believable romance, and some good dialogue this is a great book to try.
April 27, 2012
Are you supposed to dislike the main character? Because I really cannot stand Jenna. She lies to the supposed love of her life, constantly. Repeatedly. Even as he espouses honesty above pretty much everything. She is manipulative, and proud in the sort of way that comes as condescending. She's constantly breaking and entering, with little compunction, and no real consequences, even when caught. She's a doormat for her sister Yet everyone in town adores her. I don't get it. I have much more sympathy for her arch-nemesis, Kathryn...
And when you cannot stand the main character, it kind of sours the rest of the story.
And when you cannot stand the main character, it kind of sours the rest of the story.
August 13, 2012
First Reads
The author graciously provided a PDF copy for my review.
1) This book had a lot of horses in it
2) It was a romance
This combination makes for the perfect book. I absolutely loved it. I received the PDF format earlier in the afternoon and I finished the book in the evening.
The title is catchy and the flow was flawless.
I absolutely loved everything about this book, especially the sexual tension Pettersen provided. Derek was dreamy, and a perfect male lead in this book. I loved how strong-willed and industrious Jenna was. Although I like most Emily's (since that is my name), I found this Emily to be quite selfish, but she won me over in the end. Wally was a great character, too. I was happy that Peanut was precious, too. I could visualize him perfectly and wished he was real so that I could run my fingers through his mane and play tag with him. Could there be more in store for the vet Dr??? More in store for Emily??? If Pettersen hasn't finished their love stories yet, they would make great follow novels.
Pettersen thought out every detail; and as a reader, I was rewarded with an amazing book. Now that I see she has similar other books, I'll be looking into reading those as well.
I honestly don't have any complaints about this book. It was right up my alley. I'm fascinated with horses, and I'm a huge fan of romance novels...it just doesn't get any better.
I thought all the characters were great. Pettersen did a great job of carrying the story; it wasn't rushed and it did not lack in pace.
I will definitely be reading this again. It was a great book.
I've found a new favorite author!
The author graciously provided a PDF copy for my review.
1) This book had a lot of horses in it
2) It was a romance
This combination makes for the perfect book. I absolutely loved it. I received the PDF format earlier in the afternoon and I finished the book in the evening.
The title is catchy and the flow was flawless.
I absolutely loved everything about this book, especially the sexual tension Pettersen provided. Derek was dreamy, and a perfect male lead in this book. I loved how strong-willed and industrious Jenna was. Although I like most Emily's (since that is my name), I found this Emily to be quite selfish, but she won me over in the end. Wally was a great character, too. I was happy that Peanut was precious, too. I could visualize him perfectly and wished he was real so that I could run my fingers through his mane and play tag with him. Could there be more in store for the vet Dr??? More in store for Emily??? If Pettersen hasn't finished their love stories yet, they would make great follow novels.
Pettersen thought out every detail; and as a reader, I was rewarded with an amazing book. Now that I see she has similar other books, I'll be looking into reading those as well.
I honestly don't have any complaints about this book. It was right up my alley. I'm fascinated with horses, and I'm a huge fan of romance novels...it just doesn't get any better.
I thought all the characters were great. Pettersen did a great job of carrying the story; it wasn't rushed and it did not lack in pace.
I will definitely be reading this again. It was a great book.
I've found a new favorite author!
April 19, 2012
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
4.5 stars
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jenna does horse massages at Three Brooks Stables. She also does many of the community horses for free. Her co-workers also help the sick horses in the community on the financial back of the ranch. When the ranch goes into the "red" It's sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke is sent to get this place in the "black". Derek moves from place to place taking over failing businesses all over the country and never looking back. He makes no attachments and no excuses for his scary demeanor. Jenna and Burke's relationship is based on many lies but neither can help the attraction they feel towards each other.
THOUGHTS
Another good book in this series by Bev Pettersen! I loved how Jenna stood up to Burke and the banter they had back and forth. They also developed an emotional attachment before sleeping together which was nice to see. I really liked Jenna and fell in love with her character. However, I hated that her sister was taking advantage of her. I also liked the uncle/niece relationship between Jenna and Wally and glad he got his job back. Looking forward the next book in the series! Fans of the series that has followed each book and the theme of stables, horses and fiery characters will no be disappointed.
Story - Good
Intimacy - Spicy
Enjoyment – Good
Reviewer: Davia
More reviews for this author @:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Be...
4.5 stars
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jenna does horse massages at Three Brooks Stables. She also does many of the community horses for free. Her co-workers also help the sick horses in the community on the financial back of the ranch. When the ranch goes into the "red" It's sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke is sent to get this place in the "black". Derek moves from place to place taking over failing businesses all over the country and never looking back. He makes no attachments and no excuses for his scary demeanor. Jenna and Burke's relationship is based on many lies but neither can help the attraction they feel towards each other.
THOUGHTS
Another good book in this series by Bev Pettersen! I loved how Jenna stood up to Burke and the banter they had back and forth. They also developed an emotional attachment before sleeping together which was nice to see. I really liked Jenna and fell in love with her character. However, I hated that her sister was taking advantage of her. I also liked the uncle/niece relationship between Jenna and Wally and glad he got his job back. Looking forward the next book in the series! Fans of the series that has followed each book and the theme of stables, horses and fiery characters will no be disappointed.
Story - Good
Intimacy - Spicy
Enjoyment – Good
Reviewer: Davia
More reviews for this author @:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Be...
May 16, 2012
A-/B+
As a Kindle freebie, I didn't have high expectations for this book, and so I was happy to be pleasantly surprised at its quality Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash is a solid contemporary romance with well-developed characters, an interesting layered plot, and complex character interactions. It's funny, poignant and honest. The characters are flawed and sometimes make decisions I don't agree with, but those decisions were always "in character" and therefor understandable.
There wasn't too much internal musing by the characters, and the dialogues sounded natural. I was honestly impressed by the complexity of the plot and the characters.
Unfortunately, I think the very end is weak, and was the only time characters seem to act out-of-character.
But overall this is a winner! and I've already downloaded another of Pettersen's books.
As a Kindle freebie, I didn't have high expectations for this book, and so I was happy to be pleasantly surprised at its quality Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash is a solid contemporary romance with well-developed characters, an interesting layered plot, and complex character interactions. It's funny, poignant and honest. The characters are flawed and sometimes make decisions I don't agree with, but those decisions were always "in character" and therefor understandable.
There wasn't too much internal musing by the characters, and the dialogues sounded natural. I was honestly impressed by the complexity of the plot and the characters.
Unfortunately, I think the very end is weak, and was the only time characters seem to act out-of-character.
But overall this is a winner! and I've already downloaded another of Pettersen's books.
September 29, 2012
I admit it, I picked this one up solely because the title made me laugh. Although I enjoyed the book, I don't think it quite lived up to its title.
Jenna is a young woman struggling to make ends meet, supporting her sister through college and working as a horse-masseuse in a struggling enterprise. There are plenty of thoroughbreds but Jenna, quite simply, is not trailer trash.
She talks and presents like everyone else in the story. There's only one person in the entire town who is judging her, and that appears to be based on school girl politics rather than Jenna's financial level. Her education is limited to a high school diploma but it is quite clear that Jenna is as educated as those in her field with certificates (if not more) and that the only thing stopping her getting the education is her insistance on putting her sister through college. Yes, Jenna does live in a trailer, but it is located on what appears to be the most prime real estate in the county. She could easily sell it and buy a nice house.
Having said that, I liked Jenna and found myself cheering her on. Her interactions with Burke often brought a smile and I liked the conflict between her brash actions and the insecurities under the surface. Burke is totally yummy and even when he acts like a total jerk, he remains completely likeable and capable of redemption.
The sub-plot is a low-level mystery but keeps the pace moving and enhances the conflict between Burke and Jenna.
Unfortunately, once this is solved, the remaining conflict comes down to one of the great pitfalls of romances: "don't let the characters talk to each other". The remaining plot hinges on keeping them apart and it is clear that the moment they actually speak, the barriers will fall away. For me, there's no tension in that.
I plan to read more by this author because there was a lot to like but in the end, fell short of its promise.
Jenna is a young woman struggling to make ends meet, supporting her sister through college and working as a horse-masseuse in a struggling enterprise. There are plenty of thoroughbreds but Jenna, quite simply, is not trailer trash.
She talks and presents like everyone else in the story. There's only one person in the entire town who is judging her, and that appears to be based on school girl politics rather than Jenna's financial level. Her education is limited to a high school diploma but it is quite clear that Jenna is as educated as those in her field with certificates (if not more) and that the only thing stopping her getting the education is her insistance on putting her sister through college. Yes, Jenna does live in a trailer, but it is located on what appears to be the most prime real estate in the county. She could easily sell it and buy a nice house.
Having said that, I liked Jenna and found myself cheering her on. Her interactions with Burke often brought a smile and I liked the conflict between her brash actions and the insecurities under the surface. Burke is totally yummy and even when he acts like a total jerk, he remains completely likeable and capable of redemption.
The sub-plot is a low-level mystery but keeps the pace moving and enhances the conflict between Burke and Jenna.
Unfortunately, once this is solved, the remaining conflict comes down to one of the great pitfalls of romances: "don't let the characters talk to each other". The remaining plot hinges on keeping them apart and it is clear that the moment they actually speak, the barriers will fall away. For me, there's no tension in that.
I plan to read more by this author because there was a lot to like but in the end, fell short of its promise.
December 30, 2012
I'm a huge fan of Ms. Pettersen's books. This is my fourth one now. As usual, the story sucks me in from the get-go, keeps me guessing and wondering what's going to happen, and mixes mystery with real life very well, though this one had a lot less mystery. I was surprised. It was more of a drama, less of a mystery, though it doesn't make it any less good.
Jenna is a tough cookie who has been through so much. Her parents are dead and she's solely trying to put her sister through college...a sister who is throwing the education away. Meanwhile, Jenna is forced to lie about her education to keep her job as a horse massager.
Horse massage, oxygen tanks, special lights...this book showed me a world I have never heard of before: horse therapy. That was really interesting to me.
Burke is at Jenne's place of work to make it run more efficiently and...well, fire people.
I had a very, very hard time liking Burke. To be honest, I never did grow to like him. He's way too bossy and controlling and I didn't feel he changed enough in the end for me to really like him. He looks down on people, says callous things, makes demands, and while I realized he needed to be that way for his job, I didn't like the way he instilled into his relationship with Jenna.
Full review on Book Babe. Read the rest of my thoughts: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2012/...
Jenna is a tough cookie who has been through so much. Her parents are dead and she's solely trying to put her sister through college...a sister who is throwing the education away. Meanwhile, Jenna is forced to lie about her education to keep her job as a horse massager.
Horse massage, oxygen tanks, special lights...this book showed me a world I have never heard of before: horse therapy. That was really interesting to me.
Burke is at Jenne's place of work to make it run more efficiently and...well, fire people.
I had a very, very hard time liking Burke. To be honest, I never did grow to like him. He's way too bossy and controlling and I didn't feel he changed enough in the end for me to really like him. He looks down on people, says callous things, makes demands, and while I realized he needed to be that way for his job, I didn't like the way he instilled into his relationship with Jenna.
Full review on Book Babe. Read the rest of my thoughts: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2012/...
April 19, 2012
4.5 stars
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jenna does horse massages at Three Brooks Stables. She also does many of the community horses for free. Her co-workers also help the sick horses in the community on the financial back of the ranch. When the ranch goes into the "red" It's sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke is sent to get this place in the "black". Derek moves from place to place taking over failing businesses all over the country and never looking back. He makes no attachments and no excuses for his scary demeanor. Jenna and Burke's relationship is based on many lies but neither can help the attraction they feel towards each other.
THOUGHTS
Another good book in this series by Bev Pettersen! I loved how Jenna stood up to Burke and the banter they had back and forth. They also developed an emotional attachment before sleeping together which was nice to see. I really liked Jenna and fell in love with her character. However, I hated that her sister was taking advantage of her. I also liked the uncle/niece relationship between Jenna and Wally and glad he got his job back. Looking forward the next book in the series! Fans of the series that has followed each book and the theme of stables, horses and fiery characters will no be disappointed.
Story - Good
Intimacy - Spicy
Enjoyment – Good
Reviewer: Davia
More reviews for this author @:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Be...
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jenna does horse massages at Three Brooks Stables. She also does many of the community horses for free. Her co-workers also help the sick horses in the community on the financial back of the ranch. When the ranch goes into the "red" It's sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke is sent to get this place in the "black". Derek moves from place to place taking over failing businesses all over the country and never looking back. He makes no attachments and no excuses for his scary demeanor. Jenna and Burke's relationship is based on many lies but neither can help the attraction they feel towards each other.
THOUGHTS
Another good book in this series by Bev Pettersen! I loved how Jenna stood up to Burke and the banter they had back and forth. They also developed an emotional attachment before sleeping together which was nice to see. I really liked Jenna and fell in love with her character. However, I hated that her sister was taking advantage of her. I also liked the uncle/niece relationship between Jenna and Wally and glad he got his job back. Looking forward the next book in the series! Fans of the series that has followed each book and the theme of stables, horses and fiery characters will no be disappointed.
Story - Good
Intimacy - Spicy
Enjoyment – Good
Reviewer: Davia
More reviews for this author @:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Be...
April 25, 2012
Awesome! Great book!
I just finished Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash (LOVE the title) and had to review it right away. This is my first Bev Pettersen book, but won't be the last. I loved this book. Spunky heroine, sexy hero, beautiful and interesting setting. This book was fun and a definite feel-good read.
I laughed out loud at parts, I gasped and hid my face at one part (my son was worried about me), and I teared up at others. Very fun read and I loved the horses as important plot and character elements. I also thought Pettersen captured the male point of view in a realistic, interesting way.
I'm looking forward to reading another one of her books!
Shawna (www.trindiebooks.com)
I just finished Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash (LOVE the title) and had to review it right away. This is my first Bev Pettersen book, but won't be the last. I loved this book. Spunky heroine, sexy hero, beautiful and interesting setting. This book was fun and a definite feel-good read.
I laughed out loud at parts, I gasped and hid my face at one part (my son was worried about me), and I teared up at others. Very fun read and I loved the horses as important plot and character elements. I also thought Pettersen captured the male point of view in a realistic, interesting way.
I'm looking forward to reading another one of her books!
Shawna (www.trindiebooks.com)
January 5, 2013
Ebook. Jan 2013
Picked it up for the title, loved it for the story. This really has it all, humor, emotions, steamy romance and a roofer I'ld like to borrow...lol.
Jenna raises her sister after her parents are gone taking responsibility for everything and seems everyone, putting herself last time and again. Burke aka hot roofer, lol, anyways he's a strict ruthless business man with no time for personal bullshit. Boy their at each others throats then flirting then back to spitfire remarks. Its fast paced, fun and not the usual contemporary setting.
Can't wait yo read her other books now.
Picked it up for the title, loved it for the story. This really has it all, humor, emotions, steamy romance and a roofer I'ld like to borrow...lol.
Jenna raises her sister after her parents are gone taking responsibility for everything and seems everyone, putting herself last time and again. Burke aka hot roofer, lol, anyways he's a strict ruthless business man with no time for personal bullshit. Boy their at each others throats then flirting then back to spitfire remarks. Its fast paced, fun and not the usual contemporary setting.
Can't wait yo read her other books now.
July 17, 2012
Great book, great writing. Loved the both Burke & Jenna.
4.5 Stars!
Can't wait to read more from this author...
4.5 Stars!
Can't wait to read more from this author...
July 10, 2012
Romance and horses are my favorite things and this novel was on my to be read list for a couple of months.
Burke is a professional company reorganizer. His family's firm buys companies and fixes them up to turn a profit or for resale. They have recently purchased Three Brooks, an equestrian center, and sent in Burke to fix things up.
Jenna is an equine masseuse for Three Brooks. She lives in a broken down trailer bordering Three Brooks.
The equestrian center's new owners have an over the top obsession for employees to be well educated and continuing their studies which would reflect on their paycheck. And cause panic and dissension among the staff.
I had trouble connecting to both Burke and Jenna. They both had their moments when they were likeable but they were easy to dislike too. Burke said he didn't like liars and thieves. When he met Jenna she was taking Three Brooks horse supplies home to treat her pony. She lied to him about her qualifications as a masseuse, forging diplomas to earn a pay raise. Therefore it would seem Jenna, a liar and thief, would not be of any interest to Burke, romantically or as an employee. On the other hand would it have killed Burke to allow Jenna's pony access to the center's facilities, especially if she was doing it on her own time - which she ended up doing anyway! Jenna was well liked by everyone in town and often came across as a strong woman but then let people walk all over her. There were some strong personality changes for both the romantic leads and I wavered between liking them and disliking them. I just couldn't see why they would hook up, but when things were going good between them they were very very good and there were some hot sexy scenes.
I thought the book took too long to wrap up. After the intruders were caught at the barn, which was the exciting climax of the novel, it would have made sense to end shortly after that except Jenna and Burke had unresolved issues that kept the book going.
The book was well written, good plot, good dialogue, and well developed characters, even secondary characters. The book's price on Amazon recently changed. It was $3.99 but now it is $4.99. Not my favorite Bev Pettersen novel but I like her writing and look forward to her next novel. I recommend Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash to anyone who likes reading romantic novels featuring horses.
Burke is a professional company reorganizer. His family's firm buys companies and fixes them up to turn a profit or for resale. They have recently purchased Three Brooks, an equestrian center, and sent in Burke to fix things up.
Jenna is an equine masseuse for Three Brooks. She lives in a broken down trailer bordering Three Brooks.
The equestrian center's new owners have an over the top obsession for employees to be well educated and continuing their studies which would reflect on their paycheck. And cause panic and dissension among the staff.
I had trouble connecting to both Burke and Jenna. They both had their moments when they were likeable but they were easy to dislike too. Burke said he didn't like liars and thieves. When he met Jenna she was taking Three Brooks horse supplies home to treat her pony. She lied to him about her qualifications as a masseuse, forging diplomas to earn a pay raise. Therefore it would seem Jenna, a liar and thief, would not be of any interest to Burke, romantically or as an employee. On the other hand would it have killed Burke to allow Jenna's pony access to the center's facilities, especially if she was doing it on her own time - which she ended up doing anyway! Jenna was well liked by everyone in town and often came across as a strong woman but then let people walk all over her. There were some strong personality changes for both the romantic leads and I wavered between liking them and disliking them. I just couldn't see why they would hook up, but when things were going good between them they were very very good and there were some hot sexy scenes.
I thought the book took too long to wrap up. After the intruders were caught at the barn, which was the exciting climax of the novel, it would have made sense to end shortly after that except Jenna and Burke had unresolved issues that kept the book going.
The book was well written, good plot, good dialogue, and well developed characters, even secondary characters. The book's price on Amazon recently changed. It was $3.99 but now it is $4.99. Not my favorite Bev Pettersen novel but I like her writing and look forward to her next novel. I recommend Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash to anyone who likes reading romantic novels featuring horses.
November 28, 2016
This romance has an equestrian theme, set in America. A young woman who lives in a fixed home trailer beside a horse medical centre, works as a masseuse for the pricey horses. She slips in local ponies for free or cheap. This doesn't endear her to the new manager after a corporate takeover, when deadwood is being cleared. Only Thoroughbreds will be treated from now on and the high-oxygen and infra-red will also be reserved for them. Our heroine has an aged pony which needs coddling and a sister off at college, supposedly studying but with a suspiciously sociable facebook profile.
Of course we see that the term Thoroughbreds could refer to better-off people both locally and in the equestrian world. The new manager, trying his best to fire the old manager without a constructive dismissal suit, enjoys building work but hobnobs with the rich to get connections and get work done. He can't help being attracted to the lovely, but accident prone, equine masseuse, even if he's pretty sure her credentials are faked. She does a good job and that's what counts, right? Pity she's so loyal to the locals he wants to lay off or lock out of the barn. This is an adult romance.
I liked the tale but didn't love it; while there is an element of suspense it was a long time coming and the story felt dragged out midway. I suppose a lot of people's lives are like this, just hanging on hoping for better day by day. What really turned me off was that the girl turned into a stalker at the end. Even if it's a girl stalking a guy, and she doesn't mean any harm, it's still creepy.
I'd previously read the book which follows this one, Studs and Stilettoes, and enjoyed it much more. I wondered why the heroine of that book kept on contacting her sister, and now I know as the sister there is the heroine of this story.
Of course we see that the term Thoroughbreds could refer to better-off people both locally and in the equestrian world. The new manager, trying his best to fire the old manager without a constructive dismissal suit, enjoys building work but hobnobs with the rich to get connections and get work done. He can't help being attracted to the lovely, but accident prone, equine masseuse, even if he's pretty sure her credentials are faked. She does a good job and that's what counts, right? Pity she's so loyal to the locals he wants to lay off or lock out of the barn. This is an adult romance.
I liked the tale but didn't love it; while there is an element of suspense it was a long time coming and the story felt dragged out midway. I suppose a lot of people's lives are like this, just hanging on hoping for better day by day. What really turned me off was that the girl turned into a stalker at the end. Even if it's a girl stalking a guy, and she doesn't mean any harm, it's still creepy.
I'd previously read the book which follows this one, Studs and Stilettoes, and enjoyed it much more. I wondered why the heroine of that book kept on contacting her sister, and now I know as the sister there is the heroine of this story.
January 1, 2015
This book is a blend of the Pony Pals or Saddle Club books you read as a child and the sexy romances you read now. Finally, an author who can write an equestrian themed romance novel! I found none of the errors or long winded explanations that plague similar books written by other authors. If you're a horse person that likes to read, you know what I'm talking about. For example - "She put her right foot in the stirrup and mounted." And what, ended up facing the horse's tail? Or - "The horse was 15 hands tall. A hand being a unit of measure four inches in length, which originated in England..." Thank you Bev, for knowing that your readers are intelligent individuals. If they aren't familiar with horses, they can simply Google "snaffle" or any other term!
I withheld that illusive 5 star that I grant so rarely, because the plot line surrounding the Derby winner and his owners was rather weak and haphazardly constructed. Without it the book would have lacked the dangerous "explosive" conflict or drama typical of mystery/thriller style romances. However, in this case I believe that the characters were strong enough to carry the story without that element. I would like to think that even without the "life or death" circumstances, Jenna and Burke would have ended up together.
My final endorsement for Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash is this - Although this book was free, I bought all of Bev Pettersen's books within the next two weeks!
I withheld that illusive 5 star that I grant so rarely, because the plot line surrounding the Derby winner and his owners was rather weak and haphazardly constructed. Without it the book would have lacked the dangerous "explosive" conflict or drama typical of mystery/thriller style romances. However, in this case I believe that the characters were strong enough to carry the story without that element. I would like to think that even without the "life or death" circumstances, Jenna and Burke would have ended up together.
My final endorsement for Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash is this - Although this book was free, I bought all of Bev Pettersen's books within the next two weeks!
October 30, 2012
Soft-hearted masseuse Jenna Murphy mistakes corporate clean-up man Derek Burke for a construction worker at Three Brooks equine therapy center, setting the stage for emotional and occupational fireworks. She’s unqualified trailer trash, and he’s a rich stickler for certification. She offers free massages to local horses, and he’s focused on the bottom line. Attraction flares between them, but Jenna, scarred by memories of her father abusing her mother, refuses to acknowedge the depth of her feelings. Cocky and cut-throat, Derek is a man used to getting what he wants, and what he wants is Jenna. Trouble is, he finds he’s learning to care, not only for Jenna, but for the rest of the staff at Three Brooks and even for Jenna’s beloved pony Peanut. When the reorganization is over and Burke leaves Three Brooks, Jenna must make the biggest decision of her life.
I read Bev Pettersen’s books for glimpses into the world of horse racing, as well as for the believable characters she creates. In Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash, Bev does it again, blending equine knowhow and sexy romance to weave a captivating tale of horses and hearts. Definitely a good read.
I read Bev Pettersen’s books for glimpses into the world of horse racing, as well as for the believable characters she creates. In Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash, Bev does it again, blending equine knowhow and sexy romance to weave a captivating tale of horses and hearts. Definitely a good read.
July 11, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fun read that kept me turning the pages.
Jenna has her work cut out for her. She is sending her sister Em to college, taking care of Peanuts and working as a horse masseuse at the Three Brooks Equine Center, oh and keeping men at a distance.
The Three Brooks is sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke shows up to get the place in shape for high bread horses. Soon Jenna and Burke are bantering back and forth.
I liked the the way Bev let you get to know the characters right away. I liked Jenna and Burke as soon as they were introduced. Watching her try to come to terms with her beliefs and what she was truely feeling was great. While Burke was having to rethink some of his beliefs also.
I would recommend this book to my friends. It's a great read.
Jenna has her work cut out for her. She is sending her sister Em to college, taking care of Peanuts and working as a horse masseuse at the Three Brooks Equine Center, oh and keeping men at a distance.
The Three Brooks is sold to Burke Industries and Derek Burke shows up to get the place in shape for high bread horses. Soon Jenna and Burke are bantering back and forth.
I liked the the way Bev let you get to know the characters right away. I liked Jenna and Burke as soon as they were introduced. Watching her try to come to terms with her beliefs and what she was truely feeling was great. While Burke was having to rethink some of his beliefs also.
I would recommend this book to my friends. It's a great read.
January 12, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. Jenna is not trailer trash. She did grow up poor, and lives in a trailer. She struggles to make ends meet, working as a horse masseuse. Jenna is determined that her younger sister will finish college, and be the first in the family with a college degree. Jenna works hard, so she can support her sister and get her through college. She may need every dime, but she cannot look away when a animal is hurt, and needs her help. Her love of animals touched my heart in this book. I also loved how open she was, treating everyone to a smile. When the new owner came to the farm, Jenna was the only one that treated him like she did everyone else. The other people at the farm was scared to talk to Burk. Jenna's friendly personality touched Burks heart. This was a sweet story. If you love animals, I think you will enjoy it. I loved Jenna's pony named peanut.
April 7, 2012
I would give this a 4 1/2 if it was available. I really enjoy this authors work. She keeps me hooked and it is hard to put her books down. However, I couldn't finish this one in one sitting. This book had more of the connection between the characters than the facility for the horses. Don't get me wrong it is very good. I enjoy reading about the different aspects of horse care and the different types of therapy one can use on a horse. The chemistry between the two main characters is very intense and they are very likeable people.
July 24, 2013
I couldn't finish this book. The main characters did my head in! Jenna lies and deceives, yet still manages to attract the gorgeous, powerful boss Derek. I wanted to seriously hurt her and kick him!
The writing was ok. Good enough that I couldn't give it less than 2 stars; however I disliked the characters so much that I couldn't concentrate on anything other than how much I hated them! I have NEVER disliked a main character as much as I despised Jenna -- dishonest, manipulative little door mat! Ugh!
The writing was ok. Good enough that I couldn't give it less than 2 stars; however I disliked the characters so much that I couldn't concentrate on anything other than how much I hated them! I have NEVER disliked a main character as much as I despised Jenna -- dishonest, manipulative little door mat! Ugh!
August 20, 2018
In Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash, 26 year old Jenna is a horse masseuse. She lives in a beaten up trailer and barely survives from one pay to the next. She is resourceful and carries out extra work whenever she can for cash, food or another item she needs to get by. Any money she is able to make, she uses to fund her younger sister undertaking a college degree. Jenna may be seen as the town trailer trash, but she is hard working and eager to help her sister make something of herself.
Read more at http://equus-blog.com/thoroughbreds-a...
Read more at http://equus-blog.com/thoroughbreds-a...
April 14, 2013
Every time I read one of those cheesy romance novels I'm a little embarrassed to find that I do enjoy them. Quite a bit actually, although it's so not appropriate for anyone considering himself a literate person. Oh well. If I had to analyze this phenomenon I'd have to admit that there is probably some escapism involved but there's also something oddly soothing to the - always same - plot pattern that will never let you down in terms of a happy ending... ^^
January 8, 2013
Thoroughbreds and Trailer Trash, despite its less-than-appealing title, was actually a wonderful read. The characters are frustrating in a wonderful way, and I really wasn't ready for the book to end. I would definitely read a follow-up novel, but I think that wouldn't really do justice to the end-note of this novel.
I cannot stand a sad book, this one ended perfectly.
I cannot stand a sad book, this one ended perfectly.
February 2, 2013
Okay, so I love this book. Like LOVED it. Bev writes characters with such depth, and it is impossible not to fall in love with them, including lovely little Peanut, the pony. I've only read one of her other novels and now and I need to gobble up the rest. The conclusion was satisfying but I so hope she does a sequel to this novel because I just want more.
April 27, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Great dialogue, the characters were fun and for once, I didn't have to cringe about horse facts gone horridly wrong. It's so hard as a horse person to find books with horses I can get behind. I'll definitely pick up the other titles from Ms. Pettersen!
June 28, 2012
Received this book from a GoodReads Giveaway. Enjoyed it and will read more of Bev Pettersen's books. Enjoyed Jenna & Burke's back and forth and was beginning to wonder if it would ever work out. Glad it did. Fun read.
December 27, 2012
This was a fun read that had you wondering if the hero and heroine would get their shit together from the beginning. There are all kinds of shit piling up against them. I am so glad they finally wised up and realized they were meant to be together. Even if it took the hero FOREVER!
April 27, 2012
It was a pleasant read. Goodreads should let you give 1/2 stars, I would have given this one 3 1/2. Exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up from Amazon for my Kindle.
May 17, 2012
i thoroughly enjoyed this book. Especially with all the horse info.
May 24, 2012
Two-haiku review:
Horse massager lies
Claims degree when she has none
Will new boss find out?
Language sounds British
Might better set in England
Well done, enjoyed it
Horse massager lies
Claims degree when she has none
Will new boss find out?
Language sounds British
Might better set in England
Well done, enjoyed it
July 9, 2012
Enjoyed it so much first time read it a second :)
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