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Stunted Heart
A stunt rider who lives in the fast lane. An ER doctor who can’t take chances. A passion that could turn their worlds upside down.
Taryn Taylor wants it all, and she wants it fast. As a stunt rider she’s always looking for the next big jump, the next adrenaline fix, and the next scorching encounter with an irresistible woman. Settling down isn’t her style and she’s sworn never to stay in one place long enough to grow roots. But when her team is asked to do a longer running show in Vegas, she gives in. It’s temporary, after all. And in Vegas, anything goes...
Dr. Cassandra Kennedy doesn’t understand why people engage in risky behavior when life is so precious and death so final. As an ER doctor she sees the devastation wrought by people being reckless, and she’s felt the pain of loss herself. There’s no way she could ever get involved with someone who didn’t take the road more cautious.
When they meet, passions ignite with off-the-charts chemistry. They both know it’s only temporary—after all, Taryn will soon be back on the road chasing the ultimate rush, and Cassandra will go back to her orderly life where she’s the one in control. Will they decide that love is worth betting on, or will caution keep them apart forever?
Taryn Taylor wants it all, and she wants it fast. As a stunt rider she’s always looking for the next big jump, the next adrenaline fix, and the next scorching encounter with an irresistible woman. Settling down isn’t her style and she’s sworn never to stay in one place long enough to grow roots. But when her team is asked to do a longer running show in Vegas, she gives in. It’s temporary, after all. And in Vegas, anything goes...
Dr. Cassandra Kennedy doesn’t understand why people engage in risky behavior when life is so precious and death so final. As an ER doctor she sees the devastation wrought by people being reckless, and she’s felt the pain of loss herself. There’s no way she could ever get involved with someone who didn’t take the road more cautious.
When they meet, passions ignite with off-the-charts chemistry. They both know it’s only temporary—after all, Taryn will soon be back on the road chasing the ultimate rush, and Cassandra will go back to her orderly life where she’s the one in control. Will they decide that love is worth betting on, or will caution keep them apart forever?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
221 people are currently reading
466 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
October 23, 2023
**'If you're going to tell a salacious and explicit story, give us the readers the whole enchilada and don't forget to be bold..'
Pleasurable read!
A witty, steamy and spicy storyline. Recommended book!
Pleasurable read!
A witty, steamy and spicy storyline. Recommended book!
February 7, 2024
3.5⭐️ Harte is a new author for me and I enjoyed this story about a stunt motorcycle rider and an ER doc. The author did a good job of developing the characters, told their back story, had some hot 🔥 scenes and no insta love.
October 29, 2023
Opposites attract but I do have to wonder why! Sort of verged on the ‘this isn’t working’ but swerved back just in time. A generous five.
October 27, 2023
“I think my wandering heart was just in search of you.”
This was good. Not bad for a first experience with an author, and I do think I'll try her again in the future. I found the premise and the characters very interesting (a stunt driver and an ER doctor develop a FWB arrangement that inevitably grows into more) but there were a lot of little things about the writing that bugged me. And I do mean LITTLE things; I won't mention most of them in my review because then I'll just feel like a picky bitch. But they did negatively impact my enjoyment, alas.
The story has a lot going for it, and it falls into a lot of tropes that I do enjoy. We've got Taryn, a devil-may-care butch who might finally be learning to allow herself to be vulnerable with women, in and out of bed. We've got Cassie, a successful doctor coming to terms with her painful past and trying to get out from under the thumb of her abusive mother. There's a lot of banter and a lot of quips, and I do love when characters engage in fun verbal sparring. But I guess that was my first problem; their banter didn't feel very fun? In the beginning I found a lot of their little witty remarks to each other just downright mean-spirited, and it didn't convince me that they had any real connection. Things that were probably meant to be sassy quips came across as hurtful digs. And maybe that's an unfair observation on my part; the characters themselves obviously didn't mind. But I can't deny: I did spend the first third or so wondering what in the world they saw in each other, because the chemistry just wasn't there for me. And any attempt to create it felt artificial. The conflict is pretty predictable on all sides, and while plotlines of extricating oneself from an abusive parent are always really powerful to me, this felt kinda one-note. Like, I've seen this exact story play out in this exact way before.
Happily, things did take a turn for the better in the second half. I did like Taryn's plotline about intimacy and vulnerability. I think this was my first stunt rider romance, and all the details about her job and everything that goes into it behind the scenes were really interesting. I never fell head over heels for the romance, but there were a few scenes that tugged pretty effectively at my heart. So, pretty good all in all; I might try something else in the author's backlist.
July 7, 2023
Stunted Heart is as gorgeously sensual as it is intimate; I delighted in every word.
With a sexually indulgent plot between Taryn Taylor, a swoon worthy stunt rider, and Cassie Kennedy, a hardworking ER doctor, there are sparks flying from the pages of this book right from Taryn and Cassie's first meeting.
What follows is a spicy and thrilling ride to the finish set against the backdrop of an equally hot and action-packed Las Vegas strip. Ever the mysterious nomad, Taryn has no qualms about the way she conducts her business; women get what they want and so does she. But all that changes when a chance encounter with Cassie lights an unfamiliar fire under Taryn's soft underbelly.
Cassie knows she's in trouble; what should have stayed as an off the charts, hot, and steamy night of sex has taken a turn into waters Cassie isn't all that comfortable treading. A traumatic past experience has left Cassie all about saving lives, not purposefully endangering oneself for an adrenaline high. There's no way she could possibly want more from someone like Taryn, is there?
Taryn and Cassie's journey towards each other is exciting on so many levels, there's obviously the ravishing sexual encounters but then there's the deeper, more intimate sides of their fledgling relationship, as they each both share and work on their individual vulnerabilities. It makes for a really balanced story, which is easy as a reader to deeply appreciate, and become completely submerged in.
There's a care free, teasing banter between Taryn and Cassie which nicely compliments the layer upon layer of chemistry that these two characters share in spades! The book features the trademark 'excess and fun' of the Las Vegas strip with a fictional new hotel called Cosmos, and the author's writing makes it oh so easy to vicariously live the famous Vegas highlife.
What I ended up loving the most about Stunted Heart is that it's not just a story centered on two characters' passionate chemistry and sexual desires. Instead their instant chemisty is also used as a gateway to explore connections to not only one's self, but chosen family and personal vulnerabilities and how, or indeed if, one goes about sharing those.
In all, a fabulous read which is equal parts thrilling, sexual, and emotional. Perfect in every single way.
With a sexually indulgent plot between Taryn Taylor, a swoon worthy stunt rider, and Cassie Kennedy, a hardworking ER doctor, there are sparks flying from the pages of this book right from Taryn and Cassie's first meeting.
What follows is a spicy and thrilling ride to the finish set against the backdrop of an equally hot and action-packed Las Vegas strip. Ever the mysterious nomad, Taryn has no qualms about the way she conducts her business; women get what they want and so does she. But all that changes when a chance encounter with Cassie lights an unfamiliar fire under Taryn's soft underbelly.
Cassie knows she's in trouble; what should have stayed as an off the charts, hot, and steamy night of sex has taken a turn into waters Cassie isn't all that comfortable treading. A traumatic past experience has left Cassie all about saving lives, not purposefully endangering oneself for an adrenaline high. There's no way she could possibly want more from someone like Taryn, is there?
Taryn and Cassie's journey towards each other is exciting on so many levels, there's obviously the ravishing sexual encounters but then there's the deeper, more intimate sides of their fledgling relationship, as they each both share and work on their individual vulnerabilities. It makes for a really balanced story, which is easy as a reader to deeply appreciate, and become completely submerged in.
There's a care free, teasing banter between Taryn and Cassie which nicely compliments the layer upon layer of chemistry that these two characters share in spades! The book features the trademark 'excess and fun' of the Las Vegas strip with a fictional new hotel called Cosmos, and the author's writing makes it oh so easy to vicariously live the famous Vegas highlife.
What I ended up loving the most about Stunted Heart is that it's not just a story centered on two characters' passionate chemistry and sexual desires. Instead their instant chemisty is also used as a gateway to explore connections to not only one's self, but chosen family and personal vulnerabilities and how, or indeed if, one goes about sharing those.
In all, a fabulous read which is equal parts thrilling, sexual, and emotional. Perfect in every single way.
August 2, 2023
Extreme!
Taryn is a stunt rider who chases risk and adventure. When her show is offered a longer period in Vegas she is torn by the idea of settling down in one place for too long, but she also has to consider her team. While they are there with the show, Taryn meets Cassandra, who as a Doctor has worries about how risky Taryn’s lifestyle is, but the pull of attraction between them has them exploring whether she could take a risk of her own with Taryn.
Edge of your seat stuff! This story had a great balance of conscious mind, impacts of decisions on other people, and understanding other people’s dreams and fears, which lead to an in depth, fast paced romance with just enough to keep you wondering what the final outcomes and decisions would be. Of course having a story about a stunt rider has to involve danger and extreme moments and Helena delivered them perfectly, always taking your breath away as you wondered if this would be Taryn’s last stunt. She really was a daring and outgoing personality, just perfect to give Cassandra a little nudge out of her comfort zone and experience the thrill of taking a risk that was much less extreme.
I loved Taryn and Cassandra together! They were really well suited and because of their difference of opinion over Taryn’s career, it made a really interesting dynamic because despite that they had chemistry that just seemed to make them irresistible to one another even though, in the back of her mind, Cassandra was always wary of Taryn’s need to chase after the next adrenaline high, bigger stunts, and destinations. A lot of this was on Cassandra, but Taryn had choices to make too, and had to admit that staying in one place for a longer period wasn’t as bad as she thought. What was lovely about that was her team were there to support, guide her, and in some cases be the shining example of just why she should explore what was possible if she stayed with Cassandra.
A great story and most enjoyable romance, with daring moments, and many cute and meaningful ones too.
Taryn is a stunt rider who chases risk and adventure. When her show is offered a longer period in Vegas she is torn by the idea of settling down in one place for too long, but she also has to consider her team. While they are there with the show, Taryn meets Cassandra, who as a Doctor has worries about how risky Taryn’s lifestyle is, but the pull of attraction between them has them exploring whether she could take a risk of her own with Taryn.
Edge of your seat stuff! This story had a great balance of conscious mind, impacts of decisions on other people, and understanding other people’s dreams and fears, which lead to an in depth, fast paced romance with just enough to keep you wondering what the final outcomes and decisions would be. Of course having a story about a stunt rider has to involve danger and extreme moments and Helena delivered them perfectly, always taking your breath away as you wondered if this would be Taryn’s last stunt. She really was a daring and outgoing personality, just perfect to give Cassandra a little nudge out of her comfort zone and experience the thrill of taking a risk that was much less extreme.
I loved Taryn and Cassandra together! They were really well suited and because of their difference of opinion over Taryn’s career, it made a really interesting dynamic because despite that they had chemistry that just seemed to make them irresistible to one another even though, in the back of her mind, Cassandra was always wary of Taryn’s need to chase after the next adrenaline high, bigger stunts, and destinations. A lot of this was on Cassandra, but Taryn had choices to make too, and had to admit that staying in one place for a longer period wasn’t as bad as she thought. What was lovely about that was her team were there to support, guide her, and in some cases be the shining example of just why she should explore what was possible if she stayed with Cassandra.
A great story and most enjoyable romance, with daring moments, and many cute and meaningful ones too.
July 12, 2023
I love books by Helena Harte. They are passionate and full of chemistry. I enjoyed watching the characters grow. This book was hard to put down between life getting in the way. The banter between the MCs was so much fun. My only wishful thinking was wanting to read about a situation that was mentioned twice, but not brought to fruition; however that has not affected my rating. I will continue to follow this author and look forward to more in the future.
I received an ARC copy for my review
I received an ARC copy for my review
February 5, 2024
Was expecting something more fast-paced and dramatic from the blurb, but it was more on a realistic side of the things and not overly heavy on drama except for the falling out twist.
The dynamic seemed very healthy to me, and the banter was immensely fun. Very good butch rep.
However, the second half dragged too much for me not to get bored eventually, and the conflict started to feel too repetitive.
The dynamic seemed very healthy to me, and the banter was immensely fun. Very good butch rep.
However, the second half dragged too much for me not to get bored eventually, and the conflict started to feel too repetitive.
June 21, 2025
4 rounded up from 3.5
July 2, 2023
Taryn Taylor has made a career as a motorbike stunt driver. Her adrenaline filled life is fast-paced as she lives on the edge. Never staying in one place long, Taryn is always moving to different locations.
Cassie Kennedy is an ER doctor in the local hospital. She doesn’t understand how anyone can lead a lifestyle that would endanger life.
A proposal of a longer show in Vegas puts Taryn in the sights of Cassie. From their first meeting, there is little doubt as to the explosive chemistry and easy banter between the two.
The character stories are appealing, submersing you into their world and becoming fully invested in their future. A captivating read with interesting twists, often having you on the edge of your seat.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
Cassie Kennedy is an ER doctor in the local hospital. She doesn’t understand how anyone can lead a lifestyle that would endanger life.
A proposal of a longer show in Vegas puts Taryn in the sights of Cassie. From their first meeting, there is little doubt as to the explosive chemistry and easy banter between the two.
The character stories are appealing, submersing you into their world and becoming fully invested in their future. A captivating read with interesting twists, often having you on the edge of your seat.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
June 14, 2023
Oh WOW, this book knocked my socks off in all the best ways possible.
Taryn Taylor is a stunt rider and part of a traveling stunt show community. They are her chosen family and the constant motion is a deep seated need in her soul. So she is not at all happy when her best friend and leader of the team accepts an invitation to Las Vegas for a longer running show segment. There she runs into Dr. Cassandra Kennedy on a night out. Sparks fly but the trouble is that Cassandra doesn’t understand why people would willingly risk their lives. Don’t they understand that life is precious and you can lose it in a split second? A fact she is constantly reminded of working in a busy Las Vegas ER.
I fell absolutely in love with both characters. They are nuanced and layered and you get to know them throughout the story and they just become like friends you want to spend so much more time with. When I first picked up the ARC I was a little worried about how Helena Harte would display the stunt community, especially since I had contact with various stunt communities through work and my private life, but I can only say she nailed it. The sense of community and chosen family, as well as the trust needed to follow such a passion comes through in every sentence on the page.Cassie’s character is also very personable and you just want to be friends with her and it’s so easy to relate to her story and understand her hesitation. She is such a believable character I had to remind myself that she isn’t real. And the chemistry between the two main characters is off the charts. Sparks fly pretty much from the first time they meet.
Helena Harte managed to create a fantastic balance between story driven development of the characters and setting the sheets on fire with their attraction. Oh and more than a little sex coupled with deep understanding and the development of a real relationship between the characters. She also created an incredible side cast with characters that are equally well developed, in depth and rounded out. The story has a few very intriguing twists and turns but I don’t want to spoiler anyone. It’s an incredible book and it feels like Helena’s writing gets better with each book I read of hers. This should make anyones summer must read list.
Taryn Taylor is a stunt rider and part of a traveling stunt show community. They are her chosen family and the constant motion is a deep seated need in her soul. So she is not at all happy when her best friend and leader of the team accepts an invitation to Las Vegas for a longer running show segment. There she runs into Dr. Cassandra Kennedy on a night out. Sparks fly but the trouble is that Cassandra doesn’t understand why people would willingly risk their lives. Don’t they understand that life is precious and you can lose it in a split second? A fact she is constantly reminded of working in a busy Las Vegas ER.
I fell absolutely in love with both characters. They are nuanced and layered and you get to know them throughout the story and they just become like friends you want to spend so much more time with. When I first picked up the ARC I was a little worried about how Helena Harte would display the stunt community, especially since I had contact with various stunt communities through work and my private life, but I can only say she nailed it. The sense of community and chosen family, as well as the trust needed to follow such a passion comes through in every sentence on the page.Cassie’s character is also very personable and you just want to be friends with her and it’s so easy to relate to her story and understand her hesitation. She is such a believable character I had to remind myself that she isn’t real. And the chemistry between the two main characters is off the charts. Sparks fly pretty much from the first time they meet.
Helena Harte managed to create a fantastic balance between story driven development of the characters and setting the sheets on fire with their attraction. Oh and more than a little sex coupled with deep understanding and the development of a real relationship between the characters. She also created an incredible side cast with characters that are equally well developed, in depth and rounded out. The story has a few very intriguing twists and turns but I don’t want to spoiler anyone. It’s an incredible book and it feels like Helena’s writing gets better with each book I read of hers. This should make anyones summer must read list.
July 14, 2023
No big surprises but nice enough as is… 3 stars
This is a pretty traditional butch/femme romance and if that’s your bag, this should be right up your street!
Here, stunt rider (and also qualified doctor) Taryn meets an alluring ER doctor (Cassie) during a stunt-riding residency in Las Vegas. Cassie is very risk-averse due to her childhood experiences. I expected her to immediately push Taryn away on finding out what she did for a living, but she didn’t (which was a pleasing difference to my expectation). Instead, Taryn and Cassie fall into a casual ‘no strings’ relationship but you know how it goes? Feelings start to emerge…
Meanwhile, in the background, Cassie has a toxic mother and Taryn is carrying around a fair bit of family expectation, whilst wondering if stunt riding is her future after all…
On the plot I want to say more but it’s definitely a SPOILER so I suggest you skip this next bit until after you’ve read the book…
- I had a few frustrations with regard to the lack of development of a couple of areas: - I’d have liked more details on Taryn’s family and on why their expectations of her weighed so heavily (the introduction of her brother Ralph didn’t really add anything)
- I also wanted to know more about Cassie’s father, an apparently loving parent who just dropped out of her life leaving her with her dreadful mother;
- and I would have really liked to have had a little more insight into Cassie’s thought processes having dumped Taryn and then deciding to give a relationship a go, after all.
So, all in all this is a nice enough decently written read with no major surprises in that you know where it’s going, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing!
This is a pretty traditional butch/femme romance and if that’s your bag, this should be right up your street!
Here, stunt rider (and also qualified doctor) Taryn meets an alluring ER doctor (Cassie) during a stunt-riding residency in Las Vegas. Cassie is very risk-averse due to her childhood experiences. I expected her to immediately push Taryn away on finding out what she did for a living, but she didn’t (which was a pleasing difference to my expectation). Instead, Taryn and Cassie fall into a casual ‘no strings’ relationship but you know how it goes? Feelings start to emerge…
Meanwhile, in the background, Cassie has a toxic mother and Taryn is carrying around a fair bit of family expectation, whilst wondering if stunt riding is her future after all…
On the plot I want to say more but it’s definitely a SPOILER so I suggest you skip this next bit until after you’ve read the book…
- I had a few frustrations with regard to the lack of development of a couple of areas: - I’d have liked more details on Taryn’s family and on why their expectations of her weighed so heavily (the introduction of her brother Ralph didn’t really add anything)
- I also wanted to know more about Cassie’s father, an apparently loving parent who just dropped out of her life leaving her with her dreadful mother;
- and I would have really liked to have had a little more insight into Cassie’s thought processes having dumped Taryn and then deciding to give a relationship a go, after all.
So, all in all this is a nice enough decently written read with no major surprises in that you know where it’s going, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2023
If you love the women in your books to be hot, there’s no shortage here! Taryn Taylor is a stunt rider and a hot butch, and Dr Cassandra Kennedy is an ER doctor and a hot femme. The supporting cast has even more hot women that are also likely to tickle your fancy, written as only Helena Harte can, by getting under your skin with their portrayal.
Set in Vegas the story itself is so much more than the traditional romance and had me sitting on the edge of my seat for large parts of the book. There are three main reasons. Firstly, the stunts themselves are memorable and beautifully written, giving an insight into Taryn’s inner thinking and the forethought and planning that go into them to make them successful and safe. Secondly another edge of the seat wondering comes from whether the stunt team are going to stay in Vegas or not. Finally, and this is the big one… will Taryn and Cassandra… or won’t they?
This is a multi-layered story which gives rise to thoughts of what family means to different people and how sometimes they are a mess and often never holding up to found family. It inspires thoughts of what and where is home, and sometimes why do you need one? The sex is hot, hot, hot to go with the women. Phew!
I think this is Helena Harte’s best book by far. The emotion that she squeezed out of me left me a soggy mess. I bet you agree.
Set in Vegas the story itself is so much more than the traditional romance and had me sitting on the edge of my seat for large parts of the book. There are three main reasons. Firstly, the stunts themselves are memorable and beautifully written, giving an insight into Taryn’s inner thinking and the forethought and planning that go into them to make them successful and safe. Secondly another edge of the seat wondering comes from whether the stunt team are going to stay in Vegas or not. Finally, and this is the big one… will Taryn and Cassandra… or won’t they?
This is a multi-layered story which gives rise to thoughts of what family means to different people and how sometimes they are a mess and often never holding up to found family. It inspires thoughts of what and where is home, and sometimes why do you need one? The sex is hot, hot, hot to go with the women. Phew!
I think this is Helena Harte’s best book by far. The emotion that she squeezed out of me left me a soggy mess. I bet you agree.
October 23, 2023
good but jumpy
I thought the story was cute. It was a sweet concept but I felt like too many important parts were skipped. For example Taryn has supposedly didn’t spend the night with women and the fact that Cassie had spent the night before was a big deal for her but we never got to read that moment. That must have been a huge moment for Taryn realizing she’d done that with Cassie and how it felt but we’ll never know. And then she spent the night at Cassie’s and that was never fleshed out either. I also feel like Taryn and Cassie’s mother should have met at some point. It would have made a great point of conflict which I thought was a bit lacking. The main conflict was the fact that Taryn was a nomad and lived life dangerously and Cassie was not about that. And while the author explored the reasons for that in the characters individually, there was little to no overlap between them seeing each others conflicts up close. That kind of made the main conflict drag and by the half way mark, I was already tired of the repetition of the same conflict. Maybe I’m being picky but idk that’s how I felt.
I thought the story was cute. It was a sweet concept but I felt like too many important parts were skipped. For example Taryn has supposedly didn’t spend the night with women and the fact that Cassie had spent the night before was a big deal for her but we never got to read that moment. That must have been a huge moment for Taryn realizing she’d done that with Cassie and how it felt but we’ll never know. And then she spent the night at Cassie’s and that was never fleshed out either. I also feel like Taryn and Cassie’s mother should have met at some point. It would have made a great point of conflict which I thought was a bit lacking. The main conflict was the fact that Taryn was a nomad and lived life dangerously and Cassie was not about that. And while the author explored the reasons for that in the characters individually, there was little to no overlap between them seeing each others conflicts up close. That kind of made the main conflict drag and by the half way mark, I was already tired of the repetition of the same conflict. Maybe I’m being picky but idk that’s how I felt.
June 14, 2023
Oh how I wish these characters were real!
Taryn is a stunt rider who is temporarily in Las Vegas for shows. Cassandra is an ER doctor who doesn't understand why Taryn would want to risk her life.
The connection between them is so strong right from the start that it's not hard to see why they fall, despite knowing their 'fun' situation is only temporary. Their opposite personalities complement each other so well and they each lend their own strength to the other. Taryn discovers how to just breathe and be, and Cassandra learns how to confront scary situations head on.
The stunt community is well-written and and described so well that it feels like you're right there on the motorbike with the performers! I know I did several very sharp inhalations with some of the descriptions of the stunts.
As with all of Helena's books, this was hard to put down and I just had to read it in one sitting. And again, she tackles some hard issues but in a way that doesn't take away from the rest of the book. This is definitely going on my read again pile!
Taryn is a stunt rider who is temporarily in Las Vegas for shows. Cassandra is an ER doctor who doesn't understand why Taryn would want to risk her life.
The connection between them is so strong right from the start that it's not hard to see why they fall, despite knowing their 'fun' situation is only temporary. Their opposite personalities complement each other so well and they each lend their own strength to the other. Taryn discovers how to just breathe and be, and Cassandra learns how to confront scary situations head on.
The stunt community is well-written and and described so well that it feels like you're right there on the motorbike with the performers! I know I did several very sharp inhalations with some of the descriptions of the stunts.
As with all of Helena's books, this was hard to put down and I just had to read it in one sitting. And again, she tackles some hard issues but in a way that doesn't take away from the rest of the book. This is definitely going on my read again pile!
June 29, 2023
Taryn and Cassie’s road to romance is exactly what I needed: a fast, bumpy ride with all the heart-pumping twists and turns. Taryn is perfectly portrayed as a freedom-seeking adrenaline junkie. While Cassie is the lovable, risk-averse ER doctor haunted by her childhood trauma.
The stunts in this book are gloriously action-packed. Its opening scene is ‘heart-in-mouth’ territory. There aren’t many authors who can ride a motorcycle around a suspended globe and take you right there with them.
At the other end of the spectrum, there are some lovely, laid back scenes in this which transport you from your sofa to the water's edge and into the searing Nevada heat. And the weather isn’t the only heat that’s rising. Taryn and Cassie create fireworks in the bedroom to rival the Bellagio itself.
Talking of Vegas, I loved the depiction of the new casino and its owner. The side story of Andi and Bernice was a nice sub-plot to the main action.
Overall, this is a fast-paced romance bursting at its leather seams with heart and character.
The stunts in this book are gloriously action-packed. Its opening scene is ‘heart-in-mouth’ territory. There aren’t many authors who can ride a motorcycle around a suspended globe and take you right there with them.
At the other end of the spectrum, there are some lovely, laid back scenes in this which transport you from your sofa to the water's edge and into the searing Nevada heat. And the weather isn’t the only heat that’s rising. Taryn and Cassie create fireworks in the bedroom to rival the Bellagio itself.
Talking of Vegas, I loved the depiction of the new casino and its owner. The side story of Andi and Bernice was a nice sub-plot to the main action.
Overall, this is a fast-paced romance bursting at its leather seams with heart and character.
June 22, 2023
This book has to be one of the best and most enjoyable ones we have read. The MC are complex and fascinating and their chemistry is off the list chain.
We found the descriptorion of stunting so amazing and Taryn Taylor is a woman who makes your heart race - you completely understand the thrill of the stunt riding. She's a great mixture of tenderness and toughness.
The sexual tension and attraction between her and Dr. Cassandra Kennedy is believable ( and always very hot)
Their struggle to come to terms with their love and if the risk is worth is absolutely believable and being one to take risks and my beautiful amazing being cautious- it struck home with us.
We thank Nicci and Butterworth Books for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest view. This is one we will be buying for ourselves and friends and family as soon as it released on Amaxon. Make yourself happy and buy this book. You won't regret it.
We found the descriptorion of stunting so amazing and Taryn Taylor is a woman who makes your heart race - you completely understand the thrill of the stunt riding. She's a great mixture of tenderness and toughness.
The sexual tension and attraction between her and Dr. Cassandra Kennedy is believable ( and always very hot)
Their struggle to come to terms with their love and if the risk is worth is absolutely believable and being one to take risks and my beautiful amazing being cautious- it struck home with us.
We thank Nicci and Butterworth Books for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest view. This is one we will be buying for ourselves and friends and family as soon as it released on Amaxon. Make yourself happy and buy this book. You won't regret it.
July 18, 2023
Helena Harte has definitely amped up the heat in this book. Stunted Heart is an opposites attract romance between a daredevil stunt rider, Taryn and an overly cautious ER doctor, Cassie.
The chemistry between the two MCs is hot hot hot and beautifully balanced by some great banter. There is depth to the characters and I loved the exploration of life’s purpose, family and home. Taryn and Cassie are accompanied by some delightful and - in one case difficult - second characters. Cassie’s Mom in particular was awful and embarrassing in equal measure, that I could really empathise with Cassie.
I loved the passion for motorbikes and the meticulous planning that goes into performing stunts. It was so well described I felt as if I was there.
The backstories were beautifully woven in and the twists and turns kept me engaged throughout.
If you love soft butches and bossy femmes this is the book for you!
The chemistry between the two MCs is hot hot hot and beautifully balanced by some great banter. There is depth to the characters and I loved the exploration of life’s purpose, family and home. Taryn and Cassie are accompanied by some delightful and - in one case difficult - second characters. Cassie’s Mom in particular was awful and embarrassing in equal measure, that I could really empathise with Cassie.
I loved the passion for motorbikes and the meticulous planning that goes into performing stunts. It was so well described I felt as if I was there.
The backstories were beautifully woven in and the twists and turns kept me engaged throughout.
If you love soft butches and bossy femmes this is the book for you!
June 15, 2023
Helena Harte has written another fascinating hit story. The sexy banter between Taryn and Cassie hooked me from the start. I won’t give it away, but I loved the first time they met.
Taryn is a professional motorcycle stunt driver who lives life to the fullest while oozing confidence. Traveling and stunts are what drives her. Cassie has emotional scarring in her background, driving her career choice to help people. While they seem opposite in how they approach life, their physical attraction sizzles and leads them into a no-strings-attached relationship. But will it lead to a deeper bond? How can they make it work?
I love characters that must overcome a struggle in their life. Cassie eventually faces the inevitable, and it sets her free. Taryn is the adorable butch. And there’s a fabulous cast of secondary characters. You can’t go wrong with Stunted Heart.
Taryn is a professional motorcycle stunt driver who lives life to the fullest while oozing confidence. Traveling and stunts are what drives her. Cassie has emotional scarring in her background, driving her career choice to help people. While they seem opposite in how they approach life, their physical attraction sizzles and leads them into a no-strings-attached relationship. But will it lead to a deeper bond? How can they make it work?
I love characters that must overcome a struggle in their life. Cassie eventually faces the inevitable, and it sets her free. Taryn is the adorable butch. And there’s a fabulous cast of secondary characters. You can’t go wrong with Stunted Heart.
June 13, 2023
When it comes to tugging on your heartstrings, Helena Harte is a puppet master. I love the way she creates characters I’d love to have over for dinner and desperately want to be friends with. I’m always a little disappointed they’re fictional, to be honest. In Stunted Heart we have a hot romance filled with just the right amount of angst. These women know who they are and what they want; Taryn is all about speed and making her own path through life, leaving everyone in the dust behind her. And Cassie has wounds borne of tragedy that mean she’s all about helping people. This opposites attract romance had me rooting for them all the way through and I hope they come knocking at my door one day… Helena Harte should be on your auto-buy list as an author who always delivers all the feels.
July 18, 2023
Helena Harte has penned another book that I adore. It is full of adventure, spice, thrills, spills and all good things. Taryn Taylor is a daredevil motorcycle rider. Her and her crew travel all over. Performing death-defying stunts. Taryn never wants to stay any where long. But her partner Andi signs them up for a 6 month stay in Las Vegas. Dr Cassandra Kennedy is an ER Dr. She did not have an easy time growing up. And that shaped her adult life. She does not take chances. This book has so much content. No part is not fleshed out. There are full cast of characters. And each one is essential to the story. I pulled for Taryn and Cassandra the whole book. They have a lot to overcome. I hope you give this wonderful book a try. You will not be disappointed.
July 14, 2023
When you start this book you think for sure it's going to go one way but then it whisks you off in another direction entirely. Well worth the read with many sensual encounters to whet your appetite. Every scene is fleshed out so well it's like you're right there in the story.
I enjoyed the characters and how real they are. The book has a nice ebb and flow so it's racy at some parts and slows down other parts, gave me a chance to catch my breath after those delicious lesbian love scenes. I love Cassie's character the most with her kind heart and spicy attitude.
You can't go wrong reading Stunted Heart.
I enjoyed the characters and how real they are. The book has a nice ebb and flow so it's racy at some parts and slows down other parts, gave me a chance to catch my breath after those delicious lesbian love scenes. I love Cassie's character the most with her kind heart and spicy attitude.
You can't go wrong reading Stunted Heart.
July 18, 2023
Helena has written a really good story about a stunt rider and the ER doctor that captures her heart. Taryn and Cassie will draw you in as they flirt and playfully take you on a ride through their love story. You will enjoy the ups and downs her character’s experience on the way to their happily ever after.
The storyline flows so seamlessly that you won’t want to put this one down. The excellent editing helps make this an easy read, that will draw you in and keep you wanting more. Well written secondary characters and a bit of danger thrown in are just the icing on this delicious love story cake.
I didn’t want this one to end and I know you will enjoy this book as much as I did.
The storyline flows so seamlessly that you won’t want to put this one down. The excellent editing helps make this an easy read, that will draw you in and keep you wanting more. Well written secondary characters and a bit of danger thrown in are just the icing on this delicious love story cake.
I didn’t want this one to end and I know you will enjoy this book as much as I did.
September 28, 2023
You know from the blurb and the type of book, that this will have a HEA or at least a HFN, and yet Ms Harte still manages to introduce some jeopardy. Taryn is a great character. Wild, risk taking, aware of every minute that passes. Cassie is an ER doctor dealing with some serious crap in her background. They meet in Las Vegas and will happily spend the six months Taryn is there till she moves on…
But the author has put a lot into this plot line and I enjoyed following the twists and turns. The characters vary in age and there is a maturity which is welcome. I’ll look out for other books by this author.
But the author has put a lot into this plot line and I enjoyed following the twists and turns. The characters vary in age and there is a maturity which is welcome. I’ll look out for other books by this author.
September 18, 2025
Classic butch-femme couple with some chosen family and traumatic past tropes thrown in.
Well-written and quite witty at times, the potentially angsty story remains light-hearted and entertaining.
Great writing, and lots of witty banter between MCs. The butch-femme distinction is very present despite being a bit outdated in this day and age. However, the macho environment of the stunts arena provides some excuse.
What I couldn't forgive was a doctor with long nails. I know some femme lesbians have long nails, and though I don't understand it, I can accept that they find a way to make it work. But a doctor? Nahhh, simply unrealistic
Other than that, I loved the book!
Rating: 4 stars
Well-written and quite witty at times, the potentially angsty story remains light-hearted and entertaining.
Great writing, and lots of witty banter between MCs. The butch-femme distinction is very present despite being a bit outdated in this day and age. However, the macho environment of the stunts arena provides some excuse.
What I couldn't forgive was a doctor with long nails. I know some femme lesbians have long nails, and though I don't understand it, I can accept that they find a way to make it work. But a doctor? Nahhh, simply unrealistic
Other than that, I loved the book!
Rating: 4 stars
July 9, 2023
Helena Harte's latest novel is as fast-paced and as action-packed as we've come to expect from her. If you like your romance hot and sexy, climb aboard, and you'll be in for a ride to remember. Taryn is a motorcycle stunt rider, who likes to perform dangerous stunts. Cassie is a skilled A&E surgeon, by training and nature, extremely cautious. Together they create a great 'opposites attract' story, with the temperature turned up to sizzling. Highly recommended as a summer read. I was given an early review copy for an unbiased review.
September 4, 2023
I was sold right away from reading this was about a stunt rider and an ER Dr. What an interesting pairing and I loved every second of it. What started off as some flaming hot chemistry and a physical attraction developed into such a sweet, intimate, real relationship. Both women dropping their walls and showing their vulnerabilities was so heartwarming and genuine.
The writing was stellar. The banter was hilarious. The conversations were intelligent while still maintaining a light fluffy air. I loved everything about this book.
The writing was stellar. The banter was hilarious. The conversations were intelligent while still maintaining a light fluffy air. I loved everything about this book.
June 21, 2023
What a great book. I loved both Taryn and Cassie ( I feel I can call her that as she is my friend now!). They are so different from each other but that is so often what works, one balances the other out, which is exactly what these two do. I love stories with believable angst which is what we get here. You can totally believe where they are both coming from and why. This is a real skill on the authors part and she has gone right up there as an author I will be looking for in the future.
September 14, 2023
zebra changing its stripes
This is the first book I have read from this author, and I was impressed. She takes you in to the character’s worlds and provides wonderful back story, scenery and honest dialogue for the reader to feel a part of the story. A bit long in the mental rumination’s of the MC at times but I encourage you to pick this up and see if the zebra does change its stripes!
This is the first book I have read from this author, and I was impressed. She takes you in to the character’s worlds and provides wonderful back story, scenery and honest dialogue for the reader to feel a part of the story. A bit long in the mental rumination’s of the MC at times but I encourage you to pick this up and see if the zebra does change its stripes!
July 11, 2023
Stunt Driver meets doctor, great premise. Loved the characters and the story had a great flow. You will not regret taking the time to read this one. My only complaint is that I didn’t get to see the stunts Taryn performed live and in person, but they were so well described you felt like you were there!!
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