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Circle Eight #4
Vaughn
A con man. A rancher’s daughter. A wildfire out of control.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con in New Orleans went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Austin to Dallas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Together they have to save the Circle Eight and try to avoid falling in love.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con in New Orleans went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Austin to Dallas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Together they have to save the Circle Eight and try to avoid falling in love.
216 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2013
11 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
Emma Lang
23 books133 followersEmma Lang is the pseudonym of author Beth Williamson. She is an award-winning, bestselling author of both historical and erotic romances.
Born and raised in New York, she holds a B.F.A. in writing from New York University. She lives just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.
Born and raised in New York, she holds a B.F.A. in writing from New York University. She lives just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 9, 2016
Vaughn is book four in the Circle Eight series, and once again we were treated to adventure, love and sex! I am in love with this series, although this book is my least favorite of all. The only reason for that is I just couldn't fully love Vaughn. He is the hero in this story, and I just found him to be hard to become emotionally attached. He started off as a con-artist, "professional liar", and not much of a conscience. Of course, once he falls in love, he ends up changing for his woman and becomes a better man. Unfortunately, it wasn't fast enough for me!
I did still rate this a four star though, because I adore the Graham family, and the thing I love about this series is that we get updates on the whole family. They are loyal to each other, and they end up sticking close together when times are tough. I love that in a family series, and Emma Lang has done a beautiful job of making this family a realistic one!
I highly recommend this series, especially if you have enjoyed historical romances with a western theme to them!
I did still rate this a four star though, because I adore the Graham family, and the thing I love about this series is that we get updates on the whole family. They are loyal to each other, and they end up sticking close together when times are tough. I love that in a family series, and Emma Lang has done a beautiful job of making this family a realistic one!
I highly recommend this series, especially if you have enjoyed historical romances with a western theme to them!
February 24, 2014
VAUGHN: THE CIRCLE EIGHT by Emma Lang is another exciting Western Historical Romance featuring the Graham Family and set in Texas. Book #3 in “The Circle Eight” series, while it can be read as a stand alone, I would suggest reading the others in the series. Just because it is an awesome series! I have read them out of order and had no difficulties keeping up, although, there are a few spoilers, if you have not read the others in the series. See, “Matthew”, “Brody”, and “Caleb”.
This is the story of Elizabeth Graham, a Graham sibling and Vaughn Montgomery, a con artist with a heart. I am a big fan of The Circle Eight series and VAUGHN was no different. Ms. Lang can surely deliver a grand adventure with a grand romance. The Graham Family is a formidable family, on a mission.
The passion flies off the page, the characters are enduring and intriguing to say the least. The storyline is impression, entertaining and intriguing. I love this series from beginning to hopefully the end. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story of the Graham Family,their friends and love that follows them, at The Circle Eight!
If you enjoy Western Romance, exciting characters, entertaining as well as a dramatic storyline than you are in for a treat with VAUGHN. A must read tale of love, secrets, a bit of danger, suspense, with a little mystery along the way. In VAUGHN, we learn we are not all heroes, but love conquers all in the end. Elizabeth and Vaughan are not your everyday love story, or a couple you would normally put together, but they work great together in VAUGHN! *But than, here is a bit of a spoiler, we don’t find a naked man on our doorstop everyday either!* Another formidable Graham Family tale! A great read! Received for an honest review from the author and/or publicist.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
This is the story of Elizabeth Graham, a Graham sibling and Vaughn Montgomery, a con artist with a heart. I am a big fan of The Circle Eight series and VAUGHN was no different. Ms. Lang can surely deliver a grand adventure with a grand romance. The Graham Family is a formidable family, on a mission.
The passion flies off the page, the characters are enduring and intriguing to say the least. The storyline is impression, entertaining and intriguing. I love this series from beginning to hopefully the end. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story of the Graham Family,their friends and love that follows them, at The Circle Eight!
If you enjoy Western Romance, exciting characters, entertaining as well as a dramatic storyline than you are in for a treat with VAUGHN. A must read tale of love, secrets, a bit of danger, suspense, with a little mystery along the way. In VAUGHN, we learn we are not all heroes, but love conquers all in the end. Elizabeth and Vaughan are not your everyday love story, or a couple you would normally put together, but they work great together in VAUGHN! *But than, here is a bit of a spoiler, we don’t find a naked man on our doorstop everyday either!* Another formidable Graham Family tale! A great read! Received for an honest review from the author and/or publicist.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
July 10, 2013
"The last thing that Elizabeth Graham expected to see when she opened the door during the worst storm of the summer was a naked man. Yet there he was...". This is a great way to start "Vaughn". This is the next book that is part of The Circle Eight series. This book revolves around Elizabeth Graham and Vaughn Montgomery. The entire Graham clan is away from The Circle Eight and Elizabeth has stayed behind to take care of Martha who is to old and frail to go on a trip. When Vaughn appears at her door he is naked and beaten and Elizabeth takes him in and nurses him back to health. As she is helping him get better she wonders what happened to him, she doesn't know that Vaughn has a sordid past and that it is about to catch up to him and pull her and The Circle Eight into it.
This is another great book by author Emma Lang. I love the strenght that this family has and Elizabeth surely proves that she is part of that strength. The other characters in the book are very well written and they have a lot of depth to them. If you have not read this series I highly recommend it and if you have you are going to love Vaughn.
This is another great book by author Emma Lang. I love the strenght that this family has and Elizabeth surely proves that she is part of that strength. The other characters in the book are very well written and they have a lot of depth to them. If you have not read this series I highly recommend it and if you have you are going to love Vaughn.
May 1, 2016
The story of Vaughn and Elizabeth is my least favorite so far, but I’m so addicted to this series. I didn’t care for Elizabeth’s free spirited attitude for the time period and I knew exactly what was going to happen to her at the end of the book when they first "came together" as strangers. Something was missing from this one. Maybe it was because “Ellie” was so willing that I didn't feel any sexual tension between the two. Maybe it was because so much changed with the Circle 8.
I can’t wait for book 5 with Nicholas! The story I’m most interested in is Benji’s. That one will definitely be a heartbreaker.
From what I figured, Vaughn takes place 9 years after book 1 (Matthew), 6 years after book 2 (Brody) and 4 years after book 3 (Caleb).
I can’t wait for book 5 with Nicholas! The story I’m most interested in is Benji’s. That one will definitely be a heartbreaker.
From what I figured, Vaughn takes place 9 years after book 1 (Matthew), 6 years after book 2 (Brody) and 4 years after book 3 (Caleb).
August 18, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/08/12/...
Publisher: Self
Publish Date: 13 Aug
How I got this book: ARC from the author
A con man. A rancher’s daughter. A wildfire out of control.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Houston to the heart of Texas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Surrounded by danger, they embark on the ultimate con to save the Circle Eight and their lives.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
Before I get started on this review, I have to warn you that there will be spoilers for previous books in this series including a major one about what started the story arc. So if you haven’t read the previous books and you prefer to avoid spoilers then please stop reading now.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
After I finished reading Caleb, reviewed here, and realized that the search for the missing Graham was complete but Lang still had unmarried members of the Graham family I didn’t know what she was going to do with the rest of them. Then I found out that she was going to continue writing about the Circle Eight which made me happy but I also wondered what the books would focus around given the apparently conclusion of a major element. I found the answer to my wonderings both intriguing and causing me to hope for a spin-off series.
None of the Grahams are exactly ordinary. Their focus on keeping the family ranch going, raising the family together, and finding their kidnapped brother meant they grew up with a variety of abilities, skills, and a willingness to use them. Elizabeth hasn’t had a lot of up front time so it was good meeting her in this story. She did’t like “traditional” female responsibilities and was hurt when her domineering older brothers tried to insist that she fit the mold or ignored how she could contribute to the family in a different way. But she also never insisted on doing something she enjoyed until one of her new sister-in-laws backed her. As the family/ranch bookkeeper she felt more useful but was still unsatisfied with her life. As a result she was ready for her own adventure and it started with a naked man.
Vaughn really didn’t have much redeeming qualities about him except his charm, his body, and his bedroom skills. Oh and he didn’t intent to swindle the Grahams. I actually ended up feeling a bit sorry for Vaughn. He had no idea how to handle Elizabeth because she didn’t fall for any of his usual phrases yet she was attracted to him. Then when the victims of his last con arrived and Elizabeth, the main Circle Eight house, and Granny were caught up in the mess he started to feel the prodding of regret for his actions. Elizabeth had done nothing other than save his life and now hers was in danger. When she found out what he did for a living and insisted that he make it right he started to see other people something besides a “mark.” That was a huge turning point for him, and I think started his journey as a heroic character. I really enjoyed seeing his mental turmoil and puzzlement at Elizabeth’s behavior and her expectations for people in general.
The physical and emotional journey that both Elizabeth and Vaughn took was significant. Elizabeth learned how to stand up for what she wanted and that she wasn’t actually limited by her circumstances. She also learned how lucky she was to have a family that behaved like a family even when they were overbearing and annoying. Vaughn learned what a family was, not just from Elizabeth but also from the victims of his con. He also learned that actions can have very unintended consequences even when you are trying to do the right thing. While I enjoyed watching Elizabeth and Vaughn together and admired how she was able to adapt to different situations as she worked to get back home, my attention kept drifting to the conned family.
The Gibsons consisted of an old man and several brothers ranging from little boys to grown men. They were loyal to each other but had some issues determining right from wrong and doing things in anger that they later regretted. But the respect and reverence they had for the old man was amazing to see. I would really love to see their journey to redemption **very unsubtle hint asking for spinoff series** because the older brothers started learning some slightly softer aspects of life based on their interaction with Elizabeth. They also demonstrated time and again to Vaughn that family is important and worth doing things you don’t really want to do.
All in all I enjoyed Vaughn. I caught a glimpse of some of the other members of the Graham family and how they continued to pull together as a family. I was introduced to the Gibsons, and I have an idea who the next installment or at least a future one will involve. This was a good transition book I think between the original issue and moving towards a more settled but not boring life for the members of the Circle Eight. I am curious about what Lang will have as the center conflict for the next book.
I give Vaughn a B
Publisher: Self
Publish Date: 13 Aug
How I got this book: ARC from the author
A con man. A rancher’s daughter. A wildfire out of control.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Houston to the heart of Texas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Surrounded by danger, they embark on the ultimate con to save the Circle Eight and their lives.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
Before I get started on this review, I have to warn you that there will be spoilers for previous books in this series including a major one about what started the story arc. So if you haven’t read the previous books and you prefer to avoid spoilers then please stop reading now.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
After I finished reading Caleb, reviewed here, and realized that the search for the missing Graham was complete but Lang still had unmarried members of the Graham family I didn’t know what she was going to do with the rest of them. Then I found out that she was going to continue writing about the Circle Eight which made me happy but I also wondered what the books would focus around given the apparently conclusion of a major element. I found the answer to my wonderings both intriguing and causing me to hope for a spin-off series.
None of the Grahams are exactly ordinary. Their focus on keeping the family ranch going, raising the family together, and finding their kidnapped brother meant they grew up with a variety of abilities, skills, and a willingness to use them. Elizabeth hasn’t had a lot of up front time so it was good meeting her in this story. She did’t like “traditional” female responsibilities and was hurt when her domineering older brothers tried to insist that she fit the mold or ignored how she could contribute to the family in a different way. But she also never insisted on doing something she enjoyed until one of her new sister-in-laws backed her. As the family/ranch bookkeeper she felt more useful but was still unsatisfied with her life. As a result she was ready for her own adventure and it started with a naked man.
Vaughn really didn’t have much redeeming qualities about him except his charm, his body, and his bedroom skills. Oh and he didn’t intent to swindle the Grahams. I actually ended up feeling a bit sorry for Vaughn. He had no idea how to handle Elizabeth because she didn’t fall for any of his usual phrases yet she was attracted to him. Then when the victims of his last con arrived and Elizabeth, the main Circle Eight house, and Granny were caught up in the mess he started to feel the prodding of regret for his actions. Elizabeth had done nothing other than save his life and now hers was in danger. When she found out what he did for a living and insisted that he make it right he started to see other people something besides a “mark.” That was a huge turning point for him, and I think started his journey as a heroic character. I really enjoyed seeing his mental turmoil and puzzlement at Elizabeth’s behavior and her expectations for people in general.
The physical and emotional journey that both Elizabeth and Vaughn took was significant. Elizabeth learned how to stand up for what she wanted and that she wasn’t actually limited by her circumstances. She also learned how lucky she was to have a family that behaved like a family even when they were overbearing and annoying. Vaughn learned what a family was, not just from Elizabeth but also from the victims of his con. He also learned that actions can have very unintended consequences even when you are trying to do the right thing. While I enjoyed watching Elizabeth and Vaughn together and admired how she was able to adapt to different situations as she worked to get back home, my attention kept drifting to the conned family.
The Gibsons consisted of an old man and several brothers ranging from little boys to grown men. They were loyal to each other but had some issues determining right from wrong and doing things in anger that they later regretted. But the respect and reverence they had for the old man was amazing to see. I would really love to see their journey to redemption **very unsubtle hint asking for spinoff series** because the older brothers started learning some slightly softer aspects of life based on their interaction with Elizabeth. They also demonstrated time and again to Vaughn that family is important and worth doing things you don’t really want to do.
All in all I enjoyed Vaughn. I caught a glimpse of some of the other members of the Graham family and how they continued to pull together as a family. I was introduced to the Gibsons, and I have an idea who the next installment or at least a future one will involve. This was a good transition book I think between the original issue and moving towards a more settled but not boring life for the members of the Circle Eight. I am curious about what Lang will have as the center conflict for the next book.
I give Vaughn a B
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2018
This was easily the worst of the series so far. Still the same editing errors and the unimaginative sexual terms (sorry, i think there are better words than pu$$y), but this time we added thoroughly unlikeable characters. I had to force myself to finish it.
February 27, 2019
This was a good story. The lower rating was because the writing was so bad and frustrating due to a multitude of inconsistencies in the storyline and so many problems with proofreading. It was as if the book was written with a tight deadline and details not really thought out.
October 3, 2020
Steamy romance
Steamy romance with interesting story line. I love following families and this book is one in a series but can also be stand alone.
Steamy romance with interesting story line. I love following families and this book is one in a series but can also be stand alone.
library
July 30, 20210
February 23, 2025
3.5 stars, so far the least favorite in this Circle Eight series.
October 19, 2013
The Circle Eight gang rides again in Emma Lang's latest installment, VAUGHN. Ms Lang delivers another grand romantic adventure featuring a formidable heroine paired with a mischievous cowboy that is sure to provides tons of entertainment!
Elizabeth Graham has come to expect the unexpected at the Circle Eight Ranch, but she certainly wasn't expecting a naked, injured young man on her doorstep. Unable to abandon the poor soul, Elizabeth cares for the stranger as he recovers. From the minute he first wakes, Elizabeth senses something different about this handsome drifter. She wastes little time fussing over any beaus of her own, but Vaughn Montgomery stirs something inside her that she's never felt with any other man. What she doesn't know is that Vaughn is in a heap of trouble that he'll be hard pressed to get out of anytime soon. When Elizabeth gets caught in the middle, Vaughn knows he has to do anything and everything he can to make it right. For a woman that doesn't believe in love and a man that doesn't understand the value of family, Elizabeth and Vaughn find that they can give each other exactly what they have been missing.
If you are looking for the unique western heroine, look no further than Elizabeth Graham. She was tough, sassy and, at most times, painfully honest. She was the kind of character that fed the truth to you without sugar coating it. Her unique and direct boldness makes her really stand out from the other siblings. Vaughn, on the other hand, was a great tortured cowboy. Mainly because he had such a bad opinion of himself because of his actions, when everything he was doing was based on the primal need to survive. Of course, it didn't make what his actions right, but it also didn't mean he was a bad guy. Underneath it all, he was a lost but gentle and kind soul.
I love these characters, but of course, their romance is what sealed the deal. Elizabeth and Vaughn complemented each other extremely well. Elizabeth felt romantic love never had any place in her life, but Vaughn came along and showed her how completely wrong she was. He proved that she didn't need to try and do everything on her own and could bring her guard down every once in a while. Vaughn became her partner in many ways and gave her someone to rely on and trust, whereas Elizabeth taught Vaughn the difference in the value of material things versus the value of family. She made him see the importance of being truthful and living an honest life. They were two completely different people from two different situations but they fit together perfectly.
If you've been traveling with the Grahams as long as I have, be prepared for a little heartbreak. A few minor tragedies shake the family, but could never weaken this fierce group of brothers and sisters for long. As you would expect, the family unites together and becomes stronger than ever to make it through the rough times. While some chapters may leave you with tears in your eyes, the central point of the story is a delectable romance. VAUGHN is a romance full of passion, emotion and pure excitement that you will not want to end.
The obvious fact is that VAUGHN is another great addition to the fabulous Circle Eight series. VAUGHN delivers a rough and rowdy adventure that readers will love because of the western charm, beautiful characters and indestructible heart of this family. My love and appreciation for the Graham family seems to grow with each novel as another couple proves love can conquer anything. VAUGHN is a great example of this. Readers will love this western romance about a redeemable con man and the spunky young lady who won his heart.
Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews
Elizabeth Graham has come to expect the unexpected at the Circle Eight Ranch, but she certainly wasn't expecting a naked, injured young man on her doorstep. Unable to abandon the poor soul, Elizabeth cares for the stranger as he recovers. From the minute he first wakes, Elizabeth senses something different about this handsome drifter. She wastes little time fussing over any beaus of her own, but Vaughn Montgomery stirs something inside her that she's never felt with any other man. What she doesn't know is that Vaughn is in a heap of trouble that he'll be hard pressed to get out of anytime soon. When Elizabeth gets caught in the middle, Vaughn knows he has to do anything and everything he can to make it right. For a woman that doesn't believe in love and a man that doesn't understand the value of family, Elizabeth and Vaughn find that they can give each other exactly what they have been missing.
If you are looking for the unique western heroine, look no further than Elizabeth Graham. She was tough, sassy and, at most times, painfully honest. She was the kind of character that fed the truth to you without sugar coating it. Her unique and direct boldness makes her really stand out from the other siblings. Vaughn, on the other hand, was a great tortured cowboy. Mainly because he had such a bad opinion of himself because of his actions, when everything he was doing was based on the primal need to survive. Of course, it didn't make what his actions right, but it also didn't mean he was a bad guy. Underneath it all, he was a lost but gentle and kind soul.
I love these characters, but of course, their romance is what sealed the deal. Elizabeth and Vaughn complemented each other extremely well. Elizabeth felt romantic love never had any place in her life, but Vaughn came along and showed her how completely wrong she was. He proved that she didn't need to try and do everything on her own and could bring her guard down every once in a while. Vaughn became her partner in many ways and gave her someone to rely on and trust, whereas Elizabeth taught Vaughn the difference in the value of material things versus the value of family. She made him see the importance of being truthful and living an honest life. They were two completely different people from two different situations but they fit together perfectly.
If you've been traveling with the Grahams as long as I have, be prepared for a little heartbreak. A few minor tragedies shake the family, but could never weaken this fierce group of brothers and sisters for long. As you would expect, the family unites together and becomes stronger than ever to make it through the rough times. While some chapters may leave you with tears in your eyes, the central point of the story is a delectable romance. VAUGHN is a romance full of passion, emotion and pure excitement that you will not want to end.
The obvious fact is that VAUGHN is another great addition to the fabulous Circle Eight series. VAUGHN delivers a rough and rowdy adventure that readers will love because of the western charm, beautiful characters and indestructible heart of this family. My love and appreciation for the Graham family seems to grow with each novel as another couple proves love can conquer anything. VAUGHN is a great example of this. Readers will love this western romance about a redeemable con man and the spunky young lady who won his heart.
Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews
January 19, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
4 ½ , Hot
A con man. A rancher’s daughter. A wildfire out of control.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con in New Orleans went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Austin to Dallas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Together they have to save the Circle Eight and try to avoid falling in love.
I've read all The Circle Eight series so far and with each book Emma Lang out does herself. Vaughn is full of action, twists and turns and is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Vaughn Montgomery is a smooth talking con man that ends up knocking on the Graham's door during a horrible storm, and he's naked. The way Vaughn and Elizabeth meet is so original and unique. Vaughn is very confident that he can charm any woman, all he has to do is smile that smile of his and women drop at his feet. All except Elizabeth Graham. She admires his fine, fine hard body, and good looks. Elizabeth tells it like it is, no sugar coating, all truth. And sometimes she can be scathing. The is a lot of sexual tension between Vaughn and Elizabeth and it can be easily felt by the reader. I totally enjoyed the conversations between the two. This story also contains a lot of hardships and trials before the couple can contemplate whether there is a future for them. Vaughn was very likable, his character did a lot of growing up in the book and it was a pleasure to follow along. Elizabeth works hard for the family business and she really isn't interested in getting married. It was so awesome how Ms. Lang brought these two together. All the characters are very well written, with depth and dimension, which I could really connect with. Vaughn will keep any reader turning the pages from the beginning to the end while on the edge of their seat, never knowing what is going to happen next. This is an excellent book that I encourage everyone to read.
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
4 ½ , Hot
A con man. A rancher’s daughter. A wildfire out of control.
Elizabeth Graham spends her days running the business side of the Circle Eight ranch. Her knack for numbers and organization lent themselves to her position in the family. She has just turned twenty-one and doubts she will find a man to spend her life with. Elizabeth doesn’t believe in love, after all, and when she meets a charlatan named Vaughn Montgomery, her opinion doesn’t waver. At first.
Vaughn Montgomery is down to the lint in his pocket and the handsome smile he uses as a weapon. His last con in New Orleans went wrong and he fled west. Now he finds himself trapped in the middle of nowhere Texas. And at the mercy of a hard-nosed woman who wears shapeless dresses and whose tongue can cut blocks of wood.
Unwilling to bend and unable to forgive, Elizabeth and Vaughn get caught up in a web of lies that stretches from Austin to Dallas. She finds herself falling for the man who can’t seem to tell the truth and he can’t get enough of a woman who can only speak truths. Together they have to save the Circle Eight and try to avoid falling in love.
I've read all The Circle Eight series so far and with each book Emma Lang out does herself. Vaughn is full of action, twists and turns and is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Vaughn Montgomery is a smooth talking con man that ends up knocking on the Graham's door during a horrible storm, and he's naked. The way Vaughn and Elizabeth meet is so original and unique. Vaughn is very confident that he can charm any woman, all he has to do is smile that smile of his and women drop at his feet. All except Elizabeth Graham. She admires his fine, fine hard body, and good looks. Elizabeth tells it like it is, no sugar coating, all truth. And sometimes she can be scathing. The is a lot of sexual tension between Vaughn and Elizabeth and it can be easily felt by the reader. I totally enjoyed the conversations between the two. This story also contains a lot of hardships and trials before the couple can contemplate whether there is a future for them. Vaughn was very likable, his character did a lot of growing up in the book and it was a pleasure to follow along. Elizabeth works hard for the family business and she really isn't interested in getting married. It was so awesome how Ms. Lang brought these two together. All the characters are very well written, with depth and dimension, which I could really connect with. Vaughn will keep any reader turning the pages from the beginning to the end while on the edge of their seat, never knowing what is going to happen next. This is an excellent book that I encourage everyone to read.
October 29, 2013
FTC thingy. I have reviewed the majority of the back catalog of Emma Lang (AKA Beth Williamson). I get along with her very well and am a fan of her cowboy stuff. Oh, but she didn’t pay me... I promise.
I have loved Elizabeth for the entirety of this series. She is a spit-fire, a woman who refuses to let people use her gender against her in any way. Her strength of character is one of the things that made this book for me. She simply refused to let any person or situation get in the way of the problem at hand and I adored her for it. She was everything that the glimpses of her in previous books had promised. I did feel that she was more forgiving than I could ever be, but I think that it reflected the time period that this book is set in; times were certainly hard and unforgiving. This book didn’t quite have the cowboy feel that the others in the series did but the road-romance aspect of this one certainly did give it an interesting twist.
Vaughn and Elizabeth’s love story was so much fun. I loved the naked stranger turns up on the doorstep set-up and I KNEW that they would end up together. The only problem was that Vaughn was not a very nice man. Yes, he was doing what he could to survive, but he did it with a selfish disregard for the people that he swindled. It took Elizabeth to tell him the consequences of his actions for him to show any remorse because he couldn’t even see it when the effects were in front of him. Did he redeem himself? I'm not sure. I loved him with Elizabeth but I could see that keeping him on the straight and narrow would be a full time job for her. He, like the other heroes in this series, was all about family though. He would protect the people that he decided that were his to take care of and he classed Elizabeth as part of that elite circle. I knew that she would be well taken care of in the end and that that is all I could ask for.
The book was quite hot and steamy which is what I have come to expect from Emma Lang’s work. Elizabeth is a virgin at the start of this book but I wasn’t surprised that she gave herself to Vaughn so easily; the ranches were incredibly isolated so she took her pleasures when she could and she was incredibly attracted to Vaughn. The scenes were all yummy and really showed the desperate desire that they had for each other. Once they were on the road together, things became a little more complicated and Vaughn's frustration that she didn't throw herself at his feet at every opportunity really did amuse me. The development of their story was truly fun to see over the course of the book; it is completely different to the rest of the series.
A book I recommend in a series I love. Its fun, steamy romp with cowboys and feisty women; I didn't put it down!
I have loved Elizabeth for the entirety of this series. She is a spit-fire, a woman who refuses to let people use her gender against her in any way. Her strength of character is one of the things that made this book for me. She simply refused to let any person or situation get in the way of the problem at hand and I adored her for it. She was everything that the glimpses of her in previous books had promised. I did feel that she was more forgiving than I could ever be, but I think that it reflected the time period that this book is set in; times were certainly hard and unforgiving. This book didn’t quite have the cowboy feel that the others in the series did but the road-romance aspect of this one certainly did give it an interesting twist.
Vaughn and Elizabeth’s love story was so much fun. I loved the naked stranger turns up on the doorstep set-up and I KNEW that they would end up together. The only problem was that Vaughn was not a very nice man. Yes, he was doing what he could to survive, but he did it with a selfish disregard for the people that he swindled. It took Elizabeth to tell him the consequences of his actions for him to show any remorse because he couldn’t even see it when the effects were in front of him. Did he redeem himself? I'm not sure. I loved him with Elizabeth but I could see that keeping him on the straight and narrow would be a full time job for her. He, like the other heroes in this series, was all about family though. He would protect the people that he decided that were his to take care of and he classed Elizabeth as part of that elite circle. I knew that she would be well taken care of in the end and that that is all I could ask for.
The book was quite hot and steamy which is what I have come to expect from Emma Lang’s work. Elizabeth is a virgin at the start of this book but I wasn’t surprised that she gave herself to Vaughn so easily; the ranches were incredibly isolated so she took her pleasures when she could and she was incredibly attracted to Vaughn. The scenes were all yummy and really showed the desperate desire that they had for each other. Once they were on the road together, things became a little more complicated and Vaughn's frustration that she didn't throw herself at his feet at every opportunity really did amuse me. The development of their story was truly fun to see over the course of the book; it is completely different to the rest of the series.
A book I recommend in a series I love. Its fun, steamy romp with cowboys and feisty women; I didn't put it down!
September 26, 2016
For a romance, there wasn't a lot of romance at times. Plus, the plot was very strange. Vaughn arrives at Elizabeth's doorstep in a storm naked and passed out. She nurses him, has intercourse with him, then the men Vaughn swindled tracks him down. They kidnap him and Elizabeth, and burn down the Circle Eight barn and house. Thus starts the strange adventure of all of them traveling to Houston to get back the deed and money from a swindler Vaughn worked for named Troxler. Vaughn redeems himself, decides to go straight, he and Ellie fall in love and have a HEA.
June 8, 2015
Reviewed by Jen
Book provided by the author
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I have been been a fan of Emma Lang’s Circle Eight series since I read book one, Matthew. The world she created with this large, loving group of siblings trying to thrive after the murder of their parents just drew me in. As I’ve read the books in this series, I’ve longed to be a part of this family and anxiously await each new installment.
In this book, we get the story of Elizabeth who is the second oldest daughter and the fourth of eight kids. Being a middle child in this large brood, she’s found her niche dealing with the business side of their ranch. And even though she’s watched her elder siblings all find love, she doesn’t think it’s in the cards for her.
And then there’s the unlikely hero, Vaughn. He’s a con man, who is on the run. In the first pages of the book, he’s collapsing at Elizabeth’s feet, naked and bleeding. What an entrance he makes into Elizabeth’s life… and that beginning to the story is one of the most captivating I’ve read. But back to Vaughn, he’s injured and Elizabeth can’t help but help him even though most of her family is away from the ranch visiting other family.
So without giving much away, the people looking for Vaughn find him and then their adventure begins. They end up crossing Texas in order to make one of Vaughn’s past cons right. And while they’re on this journey, they find love (what else would you expect from a romance?).
I really enjoyed this story. At first, I wasn’t sure what to think of the sweet talking Vaughn. How was Ms Lang going to make this man the hero of her romance? He’s not your typical good guy, alpha male. And Elizabeth is a strong, independent woman. Throw them both into a unique situation and I think in the end, that’s what really made this story work for me.
Having already read the next story in the series, I do want to say that this book sets up the next one. And I highly recommend reading the series in order as past characters are making appearances and as always, it’ll make more sense.
Book provided by the author
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I have been been a fan of Emma Lang’s Circle Eight series since I read book one, Matthew. The world she created with this large, loving group of siblings trying to thrive after the murder of their parents just drew me in. As I’ve read the books in this series, I’ve longed to be a part of this family and anxiously await each new installment.
In this book, we get the story of Elizabeth who is the second oldest daughter and the fourth of eight kids. Being a middle child in this large brood, she’s found her niche dealing with the business side of their ranch. And even though she’s watched her elder siblings all find love, she doesn’t think it’s in the cards for her.
And then there’s the unlikely hero, Vaughn. He’s a con man, who is on the run. In the first pages of the book, he’s collapsing at Elizabeth’s feet, naked and bleeding. What an entrance he makes into Elizabeth’s life… and that beginning to the story is one of the most captivating I’ve read. But back to Vaughn, he’s injured and Elizabeth can’t help but help him even though most of her family is away from the ranch visiting other family.
So without giving much away, the people looking for Vaughn find him and then their adventure begins. They end up crossing Texas in order to make one of Vaughn’s past cons right. And while they’re on this journey, they find love (what else would you expect from a romance?).
I really enjoyed this story. At first, I wasn’t sure what to think of the sweet talking Vaughn. How was Ms Lang going to make this man the hero of her romance? He’s not your typical good guy, alpha male. And Elizabeth is a strong, independent woman. Throw them both into a unique situation and I think in the end, that’s what really made this story work for me.
Having already read the next story in the series, I do want to say that this book sets up the next one. And I highly recommend reading the series in order as past characters are making appearances and as always, it’ll make more sense.
October 24, 2014
VAUGHN is the much anticipated story of Elizabeth. The bit of a rebel sister at the Circle Eight. And what opening it was when she finds a naked man on her doorstep while everyone is away from home!
Vaughn is on the run from some bad guys that he sort of took some money from. He's a con artist, but with a heart. And Elizabeth basically saves his life. Then puts her life even more in danger when his troubles catch up to him.
I always love to see a strong heroine and Ms. Lang can always deliver a great one! Always ahead of her times and unapologetic for taking control of their lives and actions, Elizabeth is no different than that. She goes for what she wants and makes her own decisions.
Vaughn on the other hand I was a bit concerned about. Yeah, the con artist thing. But as we find out more about him I realized the whys he did what he did and that there was really never any bad intentions. He just had to survive.
I thought they were great together, they had just the right amount of chemistry and they would butt heads just enough to make this a very believable relationship, even with the setup they had. One thing I do have to mention was the "smell" references. I could've done without a few of those. Although in this case, they were written in a cute way.
The rest of the story was entertaining enough, although I did miss the rest of the family a bit. I was happy to see Benji and I can't wait to read more about him in future books. I loved the twist at the end which hopefully sets up that brother's story.
*ARC provided by author
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August 16, 2014
VAUGHN is the much anticipated story of Elizabeth. The bit of a rebel sister at the Circle Eight. And what opening it was when she finds a naked man on her doorstep while everyone is away from home!
Vaughn is on the run from some bad guys that he sort of took some money from. He’s a con artist, but with a heart. And Elizabeth basically saves his life. Then puts her life even more in danger when his troubles catch up to him.
I always love to see a strong heroine and Ms. Lang can always deliver a great one! Always ahead of her times and unapologetic for taking control of their lives and actions, Elizabeth is no different than that. She goes for what she wants and makes her own decisions.
Vaughn on the other hand I was a bit concerned about. Yeah, the con artist thing. But as we find out more about him I realized the whys he did what he did and that there was really never any bad intentions. He just had to survive.
I thought they were great together, they had just the right amount of chemistry and they would butt heads just enough to make this a very believable relationship, even with the setup they had. One thing I do have to mention was the “smell” references. I could’ve done without a few of those. Although in this case, they were written in a cute way.
The rest of the story was entertaining enough, although I did miss the rest of the family a bit. I was happy to see Benji and I can’t wait to read more about him in future books. I loved the twist at the end which hopefully sets up that brother’s story.
*ARC provided by author
September 8, 2013
Vaughn is the 4th book in the Circle of Eight series by Emma Lang. Like her previous books, it was just as good if not better.
Elizabeth Graham is the book-keeper for her family. She stayed home to take care of grandma Dolan and the ranch, but she never expected a naked stranger,Vaughn Montgomery,to show up on the doorstep and having to nurse him back to health.And he is a charlatan to boot. If that isn't bad enough some men come looking for him, and end up kidnapping her along with Vaughn to get back what was taken from them.
So begins the adventure of lifetime for Elizabeth.
She falls head over in love with Vaughn but still doubts him.
Vaughn falls in love with Elizabeth but doesn't know if she could ever accept a man like him into her life.
He changes for her so he can be a better man for her.
Vaughn was great to read. It was adventurous, sweet, hot, funny and had hot men with strong women. I can't wait to read Nicholas' book.
Elizabeth Graham is the book-keeper for her family. She stayed home to take care of grandma Dolan and the ranch, but she never expected a naked stranger,Vaughn Montgomery,to show up on the doorstep and having to nurse him back to health.And he is a charlatan to boot. If that isn't bad enough some men come looking for him, and end up kidnapping her along with Vaughn to get back what was taken from them.
So begins the adventure of lifetime for Elizabeth.
She falls head over in love with Vaughn but still doubts him.
Vaughn falls in love with Elizabeth but doesn't know if she could ever accept a man like him into her life.
He changes for her so he can be a better man for her.
Vaughn was great to read. It was adventurous, sweet, hot, funny and had hot men with strong women. I can't wait to read Nicholas' book.
August 13, 2013
The Circle Eight series continues with Vaughn! If you have not read the first three it's fine. You can read these on their own and still follow the story. There are enough details given throughout the book to help you get the background. Vaughn shows up buck naked on the Graham's front door. He then proceeds to fall flat on his face. Beaten and bloody with all his clothes taken he's forced to rely on Elizabeth Graham to nurse him back to health. Elizabeth and her adopted grandmother are alone at the Circle Eight ranch since rest of the family is off visiting other family. Elizabeth stays behind to take care of granny Dolan as she's been in poor health for a while. Not long after Vaughn shows up trouble shows up behind him. Next thing you know Vaughn and Elizabeth find themselves kidnapped and on their way to Houston to con and a conman and right a bunch of wrongs. In the meantime Vaughn figures out he doesn't want the life he's been living anymore. He wants a whole lot more from life and Elizabeth starts to figure out she is more than she ever thought she could be. In the midst of all the drama and craziness Vaughn and Elizabeth find themselves and each other. This is a journey of self discovery in a lot of ways and it's fun to see both Vaughn and Elizabeth change throughout the book. Each has something to teach the other. Fast paced story with well written characterizations.
October 2, 2016
Not really sure how I felt about this book, the story itself was interesting but it went through so fast it wasn't enjoyable. It was like a wham bam move on.
I also didn't like the cliches that are of course in almost all romance novels but they were just annoying... and the lack of family in this book was beyond annoying, especially when Elizabeth's entire value was the strength of her family... to me they didn't seem that important except to add to the cliche that she had a loving family... Maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but really, you get a message that your home was burned down, your grandmother was killed and your sister is missing, and after 2 weeks of no word from the 17 and 14 year old brothers who went after them, you JUST think about sending your US Marshall friends out to go find them &/or find out what the hell happened ???? REALLY???. Personally I don't know why the rest of the men weren't two days behind the brothers... if not all of them at least the two oldest ones... that just bothered me... and no that wasn't the only thing, just the one that stuck out cause it happened at the end of the book...lol
I also didn't like the cliches that are of course in almost all romance novels but they were just annoying... and the lack of family in this book was beyond annoying, especially when Elizabeth's entire value was the strength of her family... to me they didn't seem that important except to add to the cliche that she had a loving family... Maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but really, you get a message that your home was burned down, your grandmother was killed and your sister is missing, and after 2 weeks of no word from the 17 and 14 year old brothers who went after them, you JUST think about sending your US Marshall friends out to go find them &/or find out what the hell happened ???? REALLY???. Personally I don't know why the rest of the men weren't two days behind the brothers... if not all of them at least the two oldest ones... that just bothered me... and no that wasn't the only thing, just the one that stuck out cause it happened at the end of the book...lol
August 12, 2014
This one had lots going on in it! There wasn't as much of the rest of the Graham's in it as there usually is, but it was still great. New friends, foes, and characters. Elizabeth gets her man this time when Vaughn literally falls on her doorstep completely naked! The main men in this book are ones you don't want to like. They're mean and crooked, but reveal a good heart in the end.
I haven't looked ahead at the rest of the series, but I'm guessing we find Nicholas with Vaughn's friend in the end and I almost can't help but wonder if Tobias finds a woman-Catherine or Rebecca are the two female Graham's left but they don't meet in this book so who knows?!? And right now he hasn't redeemed himself enough I don't think for anyone to be ok with him as part of the family.
I haven't looked ahead at the rest of the series, but I'm guessing we find Nicholas with Vaughn's friend in the end and I almost can't help but wonder if Tobias finds a woman-Catherine or Rebecca are the two female Graham's left but they don't meet in this book so who knows?!? And right now he hasn't redeemed himself enough I don't think for anyone to be ok with him as part of the family.
August 14, 2013
Well who wouldn't want to read a book about a hunky cowboy con artist showing up naked at your front door? Sounds like a keeper to me! I actually had no expectations to this book and was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it. This is my first book I have read by Emma Lang, and her writing style and dialog banters are fabulous. I know I pulled a reader faux pas by not reading in order for a collective series, however, I want to make it clear that you can read this as a standalone. There is definitely enough backstory to keep you going and also not ruining the main story by explaining too much. I'm sure I would have given this 5 stars...
For more of my review visit my blog TLea's Book Quest
http://tleabookquest.com/vaughn-circl...
For more of my review visit my blog TLea's Book Quest
http://tleabookquest.com/vaughn-circl...
September 10, 2013
What an awesome western romance! Only a handful of authors have the ability to place you right into the middle of the old west and Emma Lang is definitely one of those authors. Vaughn is book #4 in The Circle Eight series. This is Elizabeth Graham and Vaughn Montgomery's story. She is the bookkeeper at her family's cattle ranch and Vaughn is a con man who shows up on her doorstep...NAKED! Through no fault of her own, Elizabeth gets caught up in the revenge of a family that Vaughn has conned.
The story progression is steady with adventure and excitement from beginning to end. The characters make you want to hurry and revisit this amazing family in the next book.
**Free copy provided for honest review**
For more reviews visit welovekink (dot) com
reviewed by Cheryl
The story progression is steady with adventure and excitement from beginning to end. The characters make you want to hurry and revisit this amazing family in the next book.
**Free copy provided for honest review**
For more reviews visit welovekink (dot) com
reviewed by Cheryl
September 12, 2014
This was not my favorite Circle 8 book. Elizabeth is a bad ass. But I just couldn't like Vaughn. I can't further explain why without giving away a huge spoiler and I don't want to do that. I just think he could have handled the kidnapping situation differently. Of course, then we wouldn't have had the whole book play out the way it did. I know he tried to redeem himself, but he didn't in my eyes. I know things were tough back in those days, and people did terrible things for good reasons. I just couldn't like this book as well as the first 3.
January 17, 2015
Ok, this took me a bit longer to read, actually I had to have a break after the first chapter. I have been going through a rough patch and just wasn't in the mood for this lovely book. Yes, I am a moody reader, ;) but in the end it was a really good story, with lovely characters, a very strong female (which I hardly come across in books) that had me smiling a few times. I am not sure if I would have forgiven, what one of the support characters did, but I guess that forgiveness is devine and I am just not a god, yet.
February 1, 2014
Elizabeth is holding down the fort with Granny while the rest of the family is away. In comes a naked stranger and falls on her doorstep and completely changes her life. I liked the fact that she was a big cusser and didn't spoke her mind. Vaughn is definitely going to have his hands full with Ellie. Good to see the family getting older and expanding. The stories keep getting better and I look forward to more in the future.
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March 27, 2016D.N F
There are days I would like to read some historical wild wild west story but this one just didn't appeal to me. I read the first few chapters and found it going slow and rather flat.
I really wished that I could have liked it but no, this just ain't my type even after seeing all the good reviews by other readers.
There are days I would like to read some historical wild wild west story but this one just didn't appeal to me. I read the first few chapters and found it going slow and rather flat.
I really wished that I could have liked it but no, this just ain't my type even after seeing all the good reviews by other readers.
October 19, 2013
A page turner. Super easy to read. A strong and interesting story line with likeable characters. I really enjoyed this one. Now I have to go out and get the other ones.
Definite one to read especially if you are into the wild west historical story line.
A Good Reads giveaway. Thank you.
Definite one to read especially if you are into the wild west historical story line.
A Good Reads giveaway. Thank you.
March 29, 2021
Read my review at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 29, 2014
I've liked every book in this series so far! Now on to Nicolas and then Tobias!!
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