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SHE'S LOOKING FOR SAFETY... Kellan Anderson is in hillbilly hell-or at least that's what it feels like. After enduring endless counts of abuse from her now ex-boyfriend, Kellan makes a run for her life and finds herself in cowboy country. Leaving her fancy clothes and expensive lifestyle behind her, she trades in her high heels for cowboy boots and changes her name to Andi Ford. With her painful past threatening to catch up with her hiding out in this small town seems easy enough-until one blond hair, blue eyed cowboy steps in the picture. ...WILL SHE FIND IT IN THE ARMS OF A COWBOY? Zane McKade has sworn off women, determining that they are all liars and cheats-including the new waitress at the local bar. After a rather unpleasant first encounter with the beautiful brunette, Zane's radar is set to high as he believes this woman is not who she claims to be. When his intimidation methods fail to break through Andi's barrier he decides to turn on the charm to get her to tell the truth. But Zane's plan begins to backfire as the more time he spends charming Andi the more he finds himself breaking his own rules and falling for her.
246 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
465 people are currently reading
445 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Lewis
7 books227 followersKimberly Lewis is the bestselling author of sweet, sexy contemporary romances filled with heart and humor. She lives in Maryland with her husband and two children.
Having caught the creative bug at an early age, Kimberly fully embraced her active imagination and grew up with a fondness for reading, drawing, and crafting stories. She eventually veered away from the art world to explore other career options, but a rediscovery of her love for the romance genre reignited that creative spark and—just like that—her first novel was published in 2011. Her stories are filled with humor, emotion, and a whole lot of love.
Kimberly loves to hear from readers and can be contacted through her website, www.kimberlylewisnovels.com.
Having caught the creative bug at an early age, Kimberly fully embraced her active imagination and grew up with a fondness for reading, drawing, and crafting stories. She eventually veered away from the art world to explore other career options, but a rediscovery of her love for the romance genre reignited that creative spark and—just like that—her first novel was published in 2011. Her stories are filled with humor, emotion, and a whole lot of love.
Kimberly loves to hear from readers and can be contacted through her website, www.kimberlylewisnovels.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 22, 2012
Though I do not generally read westerns, I love cowboys, and this book was a nice change for me from my usual. Zane is a fun, entertaining story. Though the plot was predictable, I enjoyed the way Kimberly Lewis told the story. She was able to bring her characters to life in such a way that they were believable, likeable, and the cowboys were sexy as hell. Lewis was able to bring out individual personalities, and you felt like you got to know each character. Lewis made the romance fun and believable, if not a bit quick. I also loved the sibling rivalry between Zane and Luke; they were really fun together. I am so looking forward to read Luke's and Norah's stories.
September 4, 2015
I receiving an eBook from the author via Making Connections in exchange for a review. My thoughts are my own.
Holy. Hot. Cowboys. Not just hot, but 'Did it just get hot in here, HAWT'! And there is more than one, so it gives promise of future 'hotness' down the line. Promise is never a bad thing!
It's like Sleeping with the Enemy meets Dukes of Hazard, but in the best possible way. It's got that city girl becomes a 'fish out of water' feel to it... just the descriptions alone of Andie first hearing a rooster, or trying to collect the eggs from the chicken coops! It was really amusing and provided that perfect foil to the 'heavier' theme of escaping a physically abusive relationship. It really manages to keep the overall tone light and you can't help but anticipate the romance even as the animosity sparks are flying.
I am far from being the best judge of punctuation or grammar, but I found the book to be well written. It's like this clever little Indy author Western romance... but it has the feels of a 'big' author instead. I was just really amazed from start to finish- the cover (hot- yes we're bad to hot), the snarky dialouge that I just love, and the great opening book leading a trail of chocolate (we don't want stinking breadcrumbs) down the path to the new McKades of Texas book! I sucked Zane down in a day!
And I have to include my favorite quote from the book...
“Screw you, cowboy!” she yelled after him, saying the word exactly as she had before. “And that horse you rode in on.”
(Seems kinda underwhelming until you read the book and realize... he really DID ride in on a horse. I laughed out loud and got a scathing look from my husband for that one!)
Check it out! If you like romance and cowboys, this should most definitely be on your to-be-read list!
Holy. Hot. Cowboys. Not just hot, but 'Did it just get hot in here, HAWT'! And there is more than one, so it gives promise of future 'hotness' down the line. Promise is never a bad thing!
It's like Sleeping with the Enemy meets Dukes of Hazard, but in the best possible way. It's got that city girl becomes a 'fish out of water' feel to it... just the descriptions alone of Andie first hearing a rooster, or trying to collect the eggs from the chicken coops! It was really amusing and provided that perfect foil to the 'heavier' theme of escaping a physically abusive relationship. It really manages to keep the overall tone light and you can't help but anticipate the romance even as the animosity sparks are flying.
I am far from being the best judge of punctuation or grammar, but I found the book to be well written. It's like this clever little Indy author Western romance... but it has the feels of a 'big' author instead. I was just really amazed from start to finish- the cover (hot- yes we're bad to hot), the snarky dialouge that I just love, and the great opening book leading a trail of chocolate (we don't want stinking breadcrumbs) down the path to the new McKades of Texas book! I sucked Zane down in a day!
And I have to include my favorite quote from the book...
“Screw you, cowboy!” she yelled after him, saying the word exactly as she had before. “And that horse you rode in on.”
(Seems kinda underwhelming until you read the book and realize... he really DID ride in on a horse. I laughed out loud and got a scathing look from my husband for that one!)
Check it out! If you like romance and cowboys, this should most definitely be on your to-be-read list!
February 22, 2020
I'm really trying to work on clearing out those books that I've had for a long time, and haven't gotten around to reading.
I received this book about 8 years ago, as a thank you for helping promote it during a blog tour. Not with the request to review it in mind at the time, just as a thank you for helping out.
This isn't normally my type of book. So I probably should have just said no thank you, and moved on. But, it looked sweet, and I wanted to give it a try, so I accepted.
It is very sweet, I'll give it that. I do like the romance between Andi (aka Kellan) and Zane. I really enjoyed the family bond between Zane, Norah, Luke and Linda. That was probably my favorite part of the story, to be honest. I would have enjoyed seeing more of Norah's character.I also enjoyed the descriptions of the life on the ranch, and Zane's house.
But, there were also other parts that I didn't enjoy. The writing has too much filler, and would do better if it were tightened up more. There were also some spelling mistakes, like bridal when it should have been bridle, peak vs. peek, and threw vs. through, plus an error in the spelling of Kellan that detracted from it for me.
Given that this came out 8 years ago, I imagine that this likely has been revised in subsequent editions.
The story moves really fast. And while I understand why, it's still too fast for me.Things feel like they're dumped in Andi's lap without her having to work enough for them. Plus the whole element of abuse with Vince is just creepy. I get it as a way to have the plot move forward, but still, creepfest.
I also feel that Andi's character waffles too much. There are times in the beginning when she seems strong, like a tough chick. Then suddenly she's oozing and gooey in the big cowboy's arms. Too much flip flopping. I found her to be whiny at times, which irritated me. I wanted her to stick up for herself consistently.
The action with the chase seems out of place, but it kind of works to keep things moving along.
Overall, a quick read with a pleasant setting.
I received this book about 8 years ago, as a thank you for helping promote it during a blog tour. Not with the request to review it in mind at the time, just as a thank you for helping out.
This isn't normally my type of book. So I probably should have just said no thank you, and moved on. But, it looked sweet, and I wanted to give it a try, so I accepted.
It is very sweet, I'll give it that. I do like the romance between Andi (aka Kellan) and Zane. I really enjoyed the family bond between Zane, Norah, Luke and Linda. That was probably my favorite part of the story, to be honest. I would have enjoyed seeing more of Norah's character.I also enjoyed the descriptions of the life on the ranch, and Zane's house.
But, there were also other parts that I didn't enjoy. The writing has too much filler, and would do better if it were tightened up more. There were also some spelling mistakes, like bridal when it should have been bridle, peak vs. peek, and threw vs. through, plus an error in the spelling of Kellan that detracted from it for me.
Given that this came out 8 years ago, I imagine that this likely has been revised in subsequent editions.
The story moves really fast. And while I understand why, it's still too fast for me.Things feel like they're dumped in Andi's lap without her having to work enough for them. Plus the whole element of abuse with Vince is just creepy. I get it as a way to have the plot move forward, but still, creepfest.
I also feel that Andi's character waffles too much. There are times in the beginning when she seems strong, like a tough chick. Then suddenly she's oozing and gooey in the big cowboy's arms. Too much flip flopping. I found her to be whiny at times, which irritated me. I wanted her to stick up for herself consistently.
The action with the chase seems out of place, but it kind of works to keep things moving along.
Overall, a quick read with a pleasant setting.
Want to read
October 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/10/2019)! 🎁
November 20, 2018
Nope. The bar scene is enough to stop me reading. Even when this book was written, in 2012, that sort of behaviour towards a woman was unacceptable.
And ffs, she is escaping from an abusive relationship! So why on earth would she allow a man to slap her so hard on her buttocks that she drops a tray of drinks and THEN the other barmaid doesn't have the gumption or the guts to throw the drunken slob out.
"Gus here got a little too hands-on with the new waitress."
NO HE DIDNT. He fecking well molested her and THEN he proceeded to grab her by the waist and assault her. And only when the drunk punched another guy on the jaw did anyone act. He got thrown out for 'fighting'
Just goes to show how much they valued their waitresses. UGH
DNF at 18% .
And ffs, she is escaping from an abusive relationship! So why on earth would she allow a man to slap her so hard on her buttocks that she drops a tray of drinks and THEN the other barmaid doesn't have the gumption or the guts to throw the drunken slob out.
"Gus here got a little too hands-on with the new waitress."
NO HE DIDNT. He fecking well molested her and THEN he proceeded to grab her by the waist and assault her. And only when the drunk punched another guy on the jaw did anyone act. He got thrown out for 'fighting'
Just goes to show how much they valued their waitresses. UGH
DNF at 18% .
October 30, 2012
Zane (The McKades of Texas #1) by Kimberly Lewis
I received this book from Kimberly Lewis as I signed up for her blog tour through our group Making Connections. I knew I had to sign up as I loved Kimberly’s other novel When the Heart Falls. I enjoy Kimberly’s writing, Zane is well written and flows smoothly, it’s what I call my Sunday’s read. It has everything I enjoy in my romance novels i.e. hot sexy cowboys!
In this novel we meet Kellan Anderson who is on the run from her ex boyfriend trying to keep a low profile so her ex doesn’t find her she changes her name to Andi Ford hoping hiding in a small town will do the trick or as she calls it hillbilly hell.
When we meet Zane (hot cowboy) I previously mentioned…he knows Andi is not what she appears. Having his own issues Zane has no use for women especially ones that lie and he believes Andi is not telling the truth. So he sets up a plan to get to know Andi just so he can find out more about her. Of course what he does find out is how much he is attracted to her. Things don’t always go as planned.
But like any romance novel there has to be some conflict nothing is easy for Zane and Andi, but you will have to read the Zane to find out more.
I have rated Zane a 4 star rating, as it was a good, quick romance novel and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also cannot wait to read book 2 in this series and really hope it is about Zane’s brother Luke. So I recommend anyone who enjoys romance, cowboys and some fun character to go pick up a copy.
I received this book from Kimberly Lewis as I signed up for her blog tour through our group Making Connections. I knew I had to sign up as I loved Kimberly’s other novel When the Heart Falls. I enjoy Kimberly’s writing, Zane is well written and flows smoothly, it’s what I call my Sunday’s read. It has everything I enjoy in my romance novels i.e. hot sexy cowboys!
In this novel we meet Kellan Anderson who is on the run from her ex boyfriend trying to keep a low profile so her ex doesn’t find her she changes her name to Andi Ford hoping hiding in a small town will do the trick or as she calls it hillbilly hell.
When we meet Zane (hot cowboy) I previously mentioned…he knows Andi is not what she appears. Having his own issues Zane has no use for women especially ones that lie and he believes Andi is not telling the truth. So he sets up a plan to get to know Andi just so he can find out more about her. Of course what he does find out is how much he is attracted to her. Things don’t always go as planned.
But like any romance novel there has to be some conflict nothing is easy for Zane and Andi, but you will have to read the Zane to find out more.
I have rated Zane a 4 star rating, as it was a good, quick romance novel and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also cannot wait to read book 2 in this series and really hope it is about Zane’s brother Luke. So I recommend anyone who enjoys romance, cowboys and some fun character to go pick up a copy.
June 18, 2013
This was the first of Kimberly Lewis that I have read and I enjoyed it so much I can't wait for the next one to come out. It was a great story between Zane and Andi and their up and down romance a great book
November 5, 2015
Annoying heroine, no chemistry between her and the hero, and generally not very well written.
July 12, 2020
Kellan Anderson finally escapes from a bad situation. She is on the run from her abusive ex when she spots his friends closing in on her. Kellan makes an impulsive getaway by stealing a car.
Zane McKade is having car trouble of his own. While pulled over on the side of the road he spots a red sports car, with the driver ignoring his attempts at getting attention. Zane runs into the car, and it's driver shortly after at the local diner.
Kellan just wants to stop for coffee when Zane confronts her for not stopping to help him. Luckily not every in the diner has the same grumpy temperament. One of the patrons trades his older, discreet truck for the flashy sports car. A waitess recognizes that Kellan appears to be on the run and offers her clothing and an in with a job.
The waitess job at a bar leads to Kellan making friends with a coworker, Norah, who offers Kellan AKA 'Andi' a place to stay.
Unfortunately Norah McKade is the sister of Zane. And the two keep butting heads as they fight their attraction.
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. I got hung up on a few details, such as how people can just trade cars with no exchange of title, no registration, no insurance...like there is zero discussion of how this transaction worked. And the car was stolen! Also the pacing of the relationship was WAYYY too fast for me. **this is a romance you know the couple ends up together so I don't consider this a spoiler** They go from enemies to friends and then once they 'date' it's fast tracked to a full relationship that includes a proposal, within a month of meeting. 'Andi' accepts...how is she planning on filling out a marriage license when the time comes? He doesn't even know her real name 🤦♀️Then there is a suspenseful scene that just felt ridiculous to me. I wasn't buying it.
I didn't hate this book, I liked how sweet Zane was once he let his walls down. I liked the cowboy and family in a small town feel.
Zane McKade is having car trouble of his own. While pulled over on the side of the road he spots a red sports car, with the driver ignoring his attempts at getting attention. Zane runs into the car, and it's driver shortly after at the local diner.
Kellan just wants to stop for coffee when Zane confronts her for not stopping to help him. Luckily not every in the diner has the same grumpy temperament. One of the patrons trades his older, discreet truck for the flashy sports car. A waitess recognizes that Kellan appears to be on the run and offers her clothing and an in with a job.
The waitess job at a bar leads to Kellan making friends with a coworker, Norah, who offers Kellan AKA 'Andi' a place to stay.
Unfortunately Norah McKade is the sister of Zane. And the two keep butting heads as they fight their attraction.
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. I got hung up on a few details, such as how people can just trade cars with no exchange of title, no registration, no insurance...like there is zero discussion of how this transaction worked. And the car was stolen! Also the pacing of the relationship was WAYYY too fast for me. **this is a romance you know the couple ends up together so I don't consider this a spoiler** They go from enemies to friends and then once they 'date' it's fast tracked to a full relationship that includes a proposal, within a month of meeting. 'Andi' accepts...how is she planning on filling out a marriage license when the time comes? He doesn't even know her real name 🤦♀️Then there is a suspenseful scene that just felt ridiculous to me. I wasn't buying it.
I didn't hate this book, I liked how sweet Zane was once he let his walls down. I liked the cowboy and family in a small town feel.
December 31, 2018
I want to round up because I did like Zane and the other McKades (though they were a little naïve and trusting when it came to Andi's arrival). However, I really didn't like Andi, so only 3 stars.
And I mean I really didn't like Andi. I almost gave up on the book because of Andi's actions and attitude in the first few chapters, but I refuse to let a book win! Also, I needed a book starting with Z for an alphabet challenge :)
So what's wrong with Andi? She's immature, spoiled, condescending. She steals a car and passes it off to someone else, no thought as to consequences to him. Never seems to phase her either, that she's stolen this expensive car! Yes, she's on the run from an abusive relationship, but does that really justify all her attitudes and actions? She got a bit better and I didn't have to force myself to read the book, but for a while I was seriously debating looking for another Z book.
I did like that there was no drama with Zane's ex. Awkwardness yes, but no angst. Refreshing change.
For an on-the-run sort of story, the middle dragged. Things usually keep moving in those sorts of stories - part of how you maintain the suspense, right? Instead, she got to the ranch and then things just kinda stalled. Especially in a pretty predictable plot like this one, you've gotta keep things moving.
In short, not fond of the heroine at all, but the other characters made up for it. Formulaic plot but slow pacing made the story drag. Not a favorite, but I'd consider reading stories about the other McKades (especially if I find those as Kindle sale/freebies too!)
And I mean I really didn't like Andi. I almost gave up on the book because of Andi's actions and attitude in the first few chapters, but I refuse to let a book win! Also, I needed a book starting with Z for an alphabet challenge :)
So what's wrong with Andi? She's immature, spoiled, condescending. She steals a car and passes it off to someone else, no thought as to consequences to him. Never seems to phase her either, that she's stolen this expensive car! Yes, she's on the run from an abusive relationship, but does that really justify all her attitudes and actions? She got a bit better and I didn't have to force myself to read the book, but for a while I was seriously debating looking for another Z book.
I did like that there was no drama with Zane's ex. Awkwardness yes, but no angst. Refreshing change.
For an on-the-run sort of story, the middle dragged. Things usually keep moving in those sorts of stories - part of how you maintain the suspense, right? Instead, she got to the ranch and then things just kinda stalled. Especially in a pretty predictable plot like this one, you've gotta keep things moving.
In short, not fond of the heroine at all, but the other characters made up for it. Formulaic plot but slow pacing made the story drag. Not a favorite, but I'd consider reading stories about the other McKades (especially if I find those as Kindle sale/freebies too!)
April 2, 2019
New Beginnings
Kellan was running from an abusive boyfriend. She left in NJ but somehow his two goons find her in the hotel she staying so she runs again and finds herself in a diner in Buford, TX. Kade's truck broke down and he ends up riding the horse to the diner. She had zipped past him in the road. Now he was upset. But his aunt helps find a job, and end up working with his and living in his mother's house. Just the beginning.
Kellan was running from an abusive boyfriend. She left in NJ but somehow his two goons find her in the hotel she staying so she runs again and finds herself in a diner in Buford, TX. Kade's truck broke down and he ends up riding the horse to the diner. She had zipped past him in the road. Now he was upset. But his aunt helps find a job, and end up working with his and living in his mother's house. Just the beginning.
March 10, 2018
Cowboys that's all just cowboys!!
Running away from an abusive ex Kellan starts over in a little nowhere town.
Zane is having a bad day when he meets Andi (Kellan) for the first time but when he later finds her in kitchen he is confused and suspicious.
As their feelings for each he other grow will Andi's past catch up with then or will they be able to be happy together.
Running away from an abusive ex Kellan starts over in a little nowhere town.
Zane is having a bad day when he meets Andi (Kellan) for the first time but when he later finds her in kitchen he is confused and suspicious.
As their feelings for each he other grow will Andi's past catch up with then or will they be able to be happy together.
April 1, 2019
Running for her life!
Kellan (a.k.a. Andi) escapes the abusive clutches of Vince by stealing a car and heading west. She stops in small-town Buford, Texas where she gets help from many people, including the McKade family. Only one of the isn't so welcoming. Zane doesn't trust Andi but yet he can't seem to stop thinking about her.
Kellan (a.k.a. Andi) escapes the abusive clutches of Vince by stealing a car and heading west. She stops in small-town Buford, Texas where she gets help from many people, including the McKade family. Only one of the isn't so welcoming. Zane doesn't trust Andi but yet he can't seem to stop thinking about her.
September 16, 2025
eBook
Fiction / Romance / Western
⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
-The 52 Book Club's Connections (Summer 2025) Reading Challenge #17. Inspired by something in the previous author's bio
-ABC Title: Z
-Road Trip! Read around the USA: Texas
-Calendar Reads: A book that mentions Independence Day (July 4th)
TW: DV
This was way too fast-paced for me to enjoy.
Fiction / Romance / Western
⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
-The 52 Book Club's Connections (Summer 2025) Reading Challenge #17. Inspired by something in the previous author's bio
-ABC Title: Z
-Road Trip! Read around the USA: Texas
-Calendar Reads: A book that mentions Independence Day (July 4th)
TW: DV
This was way too fast-paced for me to enjoy.
April 3, 2019
Awesome 5 star book
If you love romantic stories with a slice of suspense you will love Zane and Andi's story. An abusive ex-boyfriend doesn't stand a chance against a sexy cowboy!
If you love romantic stories with a slice of suspense you will love Zane and Andi's story. An abusive ex-boyfriend doesn't stand a chance against a sexy cowboy!
July 15, 2019
Can lies ever be acceptable???
Andi's story is packed with hope, heart pounding adrenalin, frustration, secrets and lies, and the possibility of a HEA. Enjoy this emotional ride.
Happy reading : )
Andi's story is packed with hope, heart pounding adrenalin, frustration, secrets and lies, and the possibility of a HEA. Enjoy this emotional ride.
Happy reading : )
December 5, 2021
Sweet enough. A few loose ends. A simple story.
The bad guy is all bad and the good guy wears a white hat (at least, his brother does).
I would happily read the next two but I am not racing to buy them.
The bad guy is all bad and the good guy wears a white hat (at least, his brother does).
I would happily read the next two but I am not racing to buy them.
April 12, 2024
"The right amount of spice and drama made this Cowboy romance book a thrilling read. I loved the genuineness between Kellan/Andi and Zane. The McKades series is definitely one of those I'll be reveiwing after I finish it."
January 27, 2019
Enjoyed this cowboy romance.
March 22, 2019
Great read. Couldn’t put it down
Great read. Couldn’t put it down. I loved the familial relationships, so authentic and refreshingly like a real family. Also hilarious
Great read. Couldn’t put it down. I loved the familial relationships, so authentic and refreshingly like a real family. Also hilarious
May 9, 2019
Good Book
This book has both good guys & evil villains in it. Whenever I got through playing a game, I'd go back to reading this book.
This book has both good guys & evil villains in it. Whenever I got through playing a game, I'd go back to reading this book.
June 7, 2023
Can't say enough!
Ms Lewis gives excitement, mystery and romance in this novel. Just loved this book snd can't wait to read the next.
Ms Lewis gives excitement, mystery and romance in this novel. Just loved this book snd can't wait to read the next.
September 24, 2023
What can I say?
It was a good read but I feel like it was a bit rushed😅
It was a good read but I feel like it was a bit rushed😅
November 2, 2023
Cute love story. Predictable. Made me smile many times. I loved all the characters from the small town.
July 6, 2019
It is a great book to read
March 6, 2017
Boring
This book was slow. The first few chapters are very good, and then it slows down. The characters are ok. There isn't a lot of tension. As a reader you really don't get the feel that andi ever worried that she is lying, or that people will find out her secret.
This book was slow. The first few chapters are very good, and then it slows down. The characters are ok. There isn't a lot of tension. As a reader you really don't get the feel that andi ever worried that she is lying, or that people will find out her secret.
October 14, 2014
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 3 Story 4
A contemporary small-town Texas setting is the backdrop for this romance. Carrying a feel that is reminiscent of stories written 10 – 15 years ago, Kimberly Lewis brings us the McKade family and the ‘new girl’ Andi, just trying to adjust to the very different country she finds herself hiding in.
While there aren’t any great new reinventions of the wheel here, Lewis develops Andi (Kellan) and Zane with flair, and each of the secondary characters in town are just as fun and well built. But of course, the reason Andi (Kellan) is there is to hide away from an evil ex, and well – this story would have been perfect without that rather over-wrought trope. The solution to that situation was confusing and a bit quick to resolve, and while I understood the need to give Andi (Kellan) a reason to travel to ‘hillbilly hell’, I did not wholly buy into her fear or the threat.
But – that was a small niggle in the overall story, and while it was a diversion from the lightning fast, snarky banter and sparks flying between she and Zane, it wasn’t the focal point of the story. And – Lewis managed to use the BEST Line EVER
“Screw you, cowboy!” she yelled after him, saying the word exactly as she had before. “And that horse you rode in on.”
Narration in this story is provided by Madeline Bundy, and like others that I have listened to recently, the performance was workable, but not outstanding. Overly emphasizing each word to completely enunciate causes odd pauses and breathing moments that are not reflective of the text, and while her conversational moments and slight distinctions for different character voices were performed slightly better, and gave some variation in narrative speed and interest, the overall impression was an average one. I love audiobooks for the little ‘oomph’ given by narrating a story, that bit of extra that a great narration can give to a story in their personification of characters and emotional emphasis. Overworking or not doing enough can ruin a story: this narration was just average and workable, neither special nor horrible.
I received an AudioBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 3 Story 4
A contemporary small-town Texas setting is the backdrop for this romance. Carrying a feel that is reminiscent of stories written 10 – 15 years ago, Kimberly Lewis brings us the McKade family and the ‘new girl’ Andi, just trying to adjust to the very different country she finds herself hiding in.
While there aren’t any great new reinventions of the wheel here, Lewis develops Andi (Kellan) and Zane with flair, and each of the secondary characters in town are just as fun and well built. But of course, the reason Andi (Kellan) is there is to hide away from an evil ex, and well – this story would have been perfect without that rather over-wrought trope. The solution to that situation was confusing and a bit quick to resolve, and while I understood the need to give Andi (Kellan) a reason to travel to ‘hillbilly hell’, I did not wholly buy into her fear or the threat.
But – that was a small niggle in the overall story, and while it was a diversion from the lightning fast, snarky banter and sparks flying between she and Zane, it wasn’t the focal point of the story. And – Lewis managed to use the BEST Line EVER
“Screw you, cowboy!” she yelled after him, saying the word exactly as she had before. “And that horse you rode in on.”
Narration in this story is provided by Madeline Bundy, and like others that I have listened to recently, the performance was workable, but not outstanding. Overly emphasizing each word to completely enunciate causes odd pauses and breathing moments that are not reflective of the text, and while her conversational moments and slight distinctions for different character voices were performed slightly better, and gave some variation in narrative speed and interest, the overall impression was an average one. I love audiobooks for the little ‘oomph’ given by narrating a story, that bit of extra that a great narration can give to a story in their personification of characters and emotional emphasis. Overworking or not doing enough can ruin a story: this narration was just average and workable, neither special nor horrible.
I received an AudioBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
March 11, 2016
Posted on What I'm Reading
Few weeks back I listened to Zane by Kimberly Lewis. At first, I was a little confused, because the heroine's accent didn't match the other characters. I assumed she was from Texas too. Yeah, never assume. It's not until later in the story (extremely later) that we find out where she's from, and that's when everything became clear. That aha moment. I hate being late to the party on that account. It could have been, because the narration or the fact the author didn't share that information until later. Overall, the narrator didn't do a bad job, just might need a little work.
Now the characters:
Kellan/Andi: Lets start with the positives. She left an abusive relation. She tried to make a plan for her escape. Truth be told that is one the hardest things to do. She had no one to turn to.
My issues: She did fairly well on her escape, but she kept her cellphone. Rule #1 ditch the cellphone and buy a cheaper burner. I'm surprise the ex didn't call the police to report the car stolen. There were a couple other issues, but I'm not going to nitpick. Downward spiral there.
Zane: The cowboy who doesn't trust Andi or whoever she is. I liked him. He was looking out for his family when Andi drops on his doorstep.
McKade Family: Luke, Norah, and their mother. They basically welcome Andi without question.
Eventually, Andi settles into life in Texas and she starts to feel at home. It starts to slow down during the middle of the book, because everything seems to be perfect for Andi and Zane. I got to the point, okay were is this possessive ex, because abusers don't normally let things go. Waiting and waiting for something to happen. Eventually it does, but it's the last couple of chapters and it seem it went all too quickly. It wasn't bad, and I liked the ending because it picked up the pace. I also had a couple issues with the epilogue, because somethings weren't completely cleared up.
Overall, Zane wasn't a bad read (listen). There were somethings that could have improved. I'm curious about what will happen to Norah and Luke in their own stories.
Few weeks back I listened to Zane by Kimberly Lewis. At first, I was a little confused, because the heroine's accent didn't match the other characters. I assumed she was from Texas too. Yeah, never assume. It's not until later in the story (extremely later) that we find out where she's from, and that's when everything became clear. That aha moment. I hate being late to the party on that account. It could have been, because the narration or the fact the author didn't share that information until later. Overall, the narrator didn't do a bad job, just might need a little work.
Now the characters:
Kellan/Andi: Lets start with the positives. She left an abusive relation. She tried to make a plan for her escape. Truth be told that is one the hardest things to do. She had no one to turn to.
My issues: She did fairly well on her escape, but she kept her cellphone. Rule #1 ditch the cellphone and buy a cheaper burner. I'm surprise the ex didn't call the police to report the car stolen. There were a couple other issues, but I'm not going to nitpick. Downward spiral there.
Zane: The cowboy who doesn't trust Andi or whoever she is. I liked him. He was looking out for his family when Andi drops on his doorstep.
McKade Family: Luke, Norah, and their mother. They basically welcome Andi without question.
Eventually, Andi settles into life in Texas and she starts to feel at home. It starts to slow down during the middle of the book, because everything seems to be perfect for Andi and Zane. I got to the point, okay were is this possessive ex, because abusers don't normally let things go. Waiting and waiting for something to happen. Eventually it does, but it's the last couple of chapters and it seem it went all too quickly. It wasn't bad, and I liked the ending because it picked up the pace. I also had a couple issues with the epilogue, because somethings weren't completely cleared up.
Overall, Zane wasn't a bad read (listen). There were somethings that could have improved. I'm curious about what will happen to Norah and Luke in their own stories.
August 23, 2012
What does one hot cowboy, a girl on the run and a middle-of-nowhere hick town make? A really cute western chick-lit story that is bound to entertain. That’s exactly what this is.
When I first started to read Zane, I was a little worried. The plot is a little tired and a bit predictable. Girl runs from evil ex into the arms of a strong man who falls for her and protects her from said boogie-man. That said, I found myself really enjoying the little touches Lewis uses to take that storyline and make it hers. A few nice western references here and there made me smile, since I myself am a western girl, especially the Ty Murray and Billy Currington name dropping. If anyone is wondering, I’d love to go to one of his after parties too!
What the story was lacking in plot it by far made it up with its characters. They were believable, relatable and I wanted to be friends with them by the end of the book. I particularly enjoyed the sibling rivalry between the two brothers and it helped bring that family to life for me. The romance arc felt natural between the two main protagonists, not the ‘ohmygoshIloveyouandwanttomarryyourightthissecond’ kind of love that’s so typical with the chick-lit books that drives me absolutely nuts. Lewis does a good job of getting the reader on Andi’s side and lusting after Zane and the heat between the two of them is downright sizzling and delicious.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy summer read with plenty of sexy spice, this is the book for you. I’d definitely recommend it as an intro into the western genre because it has enough of the lifestyle and lingo to place you in that setting without drowning you underneath it if you’re a city-slicker. It’s a well written book and worth the price of admission. The reader won’t be asked to ponder life’s big questions or solve environmental issues, but it’s fun, lighthearted and very entertaining.
When I first started to read Zane, I was a little worried. The plot is a little tired and a bit predictable. Girl runs from evil ex into the arms of a strong man who falls for her and protects her from said boogie-man. That said, I found myself really enjoying the little touches Lewis uses to take that storyline and make it hers. A few nice western references here and there made me smile, since I myself am a western girl, especially the Ty Murray and Billy Currington name dropping. If anyone is wondering, I’d love to go to one of his after parties too!
What the story was lacking in plot it by far made it up with its characters. They were believable, relatable and I wanted to be friends with them by the end of the book. I particularly enjoyed the sibling rivalry between the two brothers and it helped bring that family to life for me. The romance arc felt natural between the two main protagonists, not the ‘ohmygoshIloveyouandwanttomarryyourightthissecond’ kind of love that’s so typical with the chick-lit books that drives me absolutely nuts. Lewis does a good job of getting the reader on Andi’s side and lusting after Zane and the heat between the two of them is downright sizzling and delicious.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy summer read with plenty of sexy spice, this is the book for you. I’d definitely recommend it as an intro into the western genre because it has enough of the lifestyle and lingo to place you in that setting without drowning you underneath it if you’re a city-slicker. It’s a well written book and worth the price of admission. The reader won’t be asked to ponder life’s big questions or solve environmental issues, but it’s fun, lighthearted and very entertaining.
May 29, 2013
Read more of my reviews at http://onlytrickinthebook.blogspot.com
I purchased this one on an Amazon whim because I was needing a quick cowboy fix. If you've read modern western romance it is going to be predictable, but you will enjoy it just the same. This book was everything I wanted it to be. It has your typical out of place character fighting not to fall in love with someone who equally doesn't want to fall in love with them.... we all know how that ends up. It also contained the suspense of knowing your past will always come back to haunt you.
Still, Ms. Lewis finds ways to throw shockers into the plot. Andi is brave, strong and apparently into grand theft auto. We see a relatable and honest character through brief journal entries as they are mixed into the story of 'Zane'. Zane is salty and sweet all at the same time. He is a classic case of an incredibly confident man who has a heart of gold. Together, they strike sparks off each other from the beginning. Too bad their feisty and independent personalities get in the way at the start. But trust me, they make up for it - wink, wink.
Ms. Lewis takes an average, seen before plot and turns it into a fairy-tale romance. The courting seems to take a natural course, the hard love between family members, and the strong backbone of the heroine make this book. When you turn the final page you will feel giddy all over and appreciate the escape. This was a perfect read for some relaxing down time.
The one thing I couldn't quite get passed in this plot was that Andi steals a car and seemingly gets away with it. Even heroines escaping the hands of a dangerous man can't ignore the justice system, or maybe they can? It is fiction after all.
Yet another series I am sure to fall in love with.
I purchased this one on an Amazon whim because I was needing a quick cowboy fix. If you've read modern western romance it is going to be predictable, but you will enjoy it just the same. This book was everything I wanted it to be. It has your typical out of place character fighting not to fall in love with someone who equally doesn't want to fall in love with them.... we all know how that ends up. It also contained the suspense of knowing your past will always come back to haunt you.
Still, Ms. Lewis finds ways to throw shockers into the plot. Andi is brave, strong and apparently into grand theft auto. We see a relatable and honest character through brief journal entries as they are mixed into the story of 'Zane'. Zane is salty and sweet all at the same time. He is a classic case of an incredibly confident man who has a heart of gold. Together, they strike sparks off each other from the beginning. Too bad their feisty and independent personalities get in the way at the start. But trust me, they make up for it - wink, wink.
Ms. Lewis takes an average, seen before plot and turns it into a fairy-tale romance. The courting seems to take a natural course, the hard love between family members, and the strong backbone of the heroine make this book. When you turn the final page you will feel giddy all over and appreciate the escape. This was a perfect read for some relaxing down time.
The one thing I couldn't quite get passed in this plot was that Andi steals a car and seemingly gets away with it. Even heroines escaping the hands of a dangerous man can't ignore the justice system, or maybe they can? It is fiction after all.
Yet another series I am sure to fall in love with.
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