Awakening Veronica

Divine Creek Ranch #17

by Heather Rainier

[Siren Menage Everlasting: Erotic Cowboy Menage a Trois Romance, M/F/M, light consensual BDSM, spanking, flogging, capture role play, sex toys, HEA] Bullied all her life, Veronica Benedict has learned to withdraw rather than risk being hurt by those closest to her--but that's not the only type of bully she has to deal with. On a research trip, a fellow author introduces her to two Doms at a wedding. Travis McDaniel is disillusioned by life in Washington, D.C., and is back home in Divine, examining his future. Driven by the need to keep the citizens of Divine safe, Hank Stinson has put his loneliness and his secret desires aside--until he meets Veronica. Hank and Travis are captivated by the introverted author. Hank must decide if he needs this special kind of love more than he needs to be elected sheriff again, and Travis must choose between life in Divine and an opportunity to make a difference in the world. When they discover the bullying Veronica is enduring, their protective instincts come roaring to the surface. ** A Siren Erotic Romance

Genres: Menage, Romance, BDSM, Erotica, M F M, Erotic Romance, Westerns

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 20, 2013

About the author

Heather Rainier lives and writes in South Central Texas. Her stories offer up the content of her fantasies, with humor, tragedy, and triumph mixed in.

Heather's love of romance fiction began as a teenager when her mom gave her copies of Kathleen Woodiwiss's "The Flame and the Flower" and Bertrice Small's "Skye O'Malley". To this day she's pretty sure that was her mom's version of the "birds and the bees" talk.

Heather writes the type of novel she loves to read: More erotic and edgy than the mainstream, with plenty of sweet romance mixed in and a happily ever after guaranteed. Heather's favorite type of hero is the gentle, lovable giant but readers will discover a wide variety of heroes and alphas on the pages of her novels.

When not at her keyboard, Heather is usually busy corralling her teenagers, or loving on her smokin' hot husband, who thankfully loves to cook.

Heather invites readers to e-mail her at heather.rainier@yahoo.com and also to visit her website at www.heatherrainier.com

Reviews

[catzkc · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a couple others books by this author, in this series. I had enjoyed that they were normal book length, and had more character and plot development than other books by this publisher. This one however, very much disappointed me. There was no extra character development, and the plotting was rather simplified. The extra length mainly came from bedroom scenes, which I find quickly become redundant and repetitive. I'll probably still try some other books in the series, especially earlier ones, in hopes that this is just a one-off.

[Rosebud · Rating 4 out of 5]

This 17th installment in the "Divine Creed Ranch" series features a visitor to the town/ranch Veronica Benedict and hunky sheriff Hank Stinson & game warden Travis McDaniel.

They meet up at the wedding/joining ceremony of previously featured Maizy, Cody, Heath. and Spencer. Veronica is a published erotic romance author who is given a chance to talk to a Dom for research purposes for her current WIP book while she's in Divine for the wedding. The Dom just happens to be the sheriff of the town. Veronica's always had a thing for men in uniform.

Hank and Travis go way back as friends but have parted due to career paths. They are both at a crossroads in their careers to decide whether to continue, retire, or change up things. Meeting Veronica is the spark that has them looking to solidify a menage relationship and make their future work ... together.

This is a series that just keeps things interesting. In this standalone installment book the author looks at bullying. It was as enlightening as it was uncomfortable reading about the fictional events that erotic romance authors could be experiencing in their chosen craft. I have nothing but the utmost respect for authors so this book was very very disturbing if ANY of it has a realistic basis (well ... except for the adult content/menage parts). No one should EVER EVER be the victim of real life or cyber bullying. I don't know if this was a sort of catharsis or what but it did make an impact on me that I will be keeping in mind the next time I am in a online chat book discussion or event. Off my podium to discuss this book.

Veronica's character needed a white knight so I'm truly happy Grandma Kate was there. That is one awesome lady. (This is the time I start singing "Matchmaker Matchmaker) Of course this being Divine that WOULD be two guys so enter Hank and Travis. It was really refreshing that there were two 'mature' guys main characters who were already established in their chosen careers. That added the uncertainly factor over would they risk putting themselves in the court of public opinion to find true love? Enter Tabitha Lester. I've had enough of HER character and her vendetta on polyamorous relationships. I think it's time for the author to have Tabitha 'sh*t, or get off the pot'.... (hint hint wink wink) :D

Adult content. The m-f-m menage action is HAWT with a BDSM flair. Travis & Hank are Doms while Veronica is a wanna be sub. By that I mean she's been looking for a D/s relationship and thought she had found with her recently ex boyfriend. Well, in Divine, Texas she's finally found it, sugarkink style, at the hands of two Doms who like her curvy figure and introvert personality.

Overall impression. While this is a book any fan of erotic romance books in general should read if only to get a glimpse of crazy stalker fans/trolls/bullies this is a book that I recommend to those who read contemporary sugarkink BDSM menage featuring characters who you sadly won't be able to find in your own home town city/state. If I could I'd move to Divine Texas, grab a chair and beverage of choice and live as a people watcher OR find Grandma Kate to let her know I need my own white knight. :D

[Lin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Heather Rainier’s newest addition to the Divine Creek series…..I have loved all of the books in this series, but this one touched my heard in so many ways. And yes, Hank finally got his story!

Veronica Benedict is a wonderful heroine in this story. Where others view her through what is acceptable in today’s society for what a woman should look and be like, Travis and Hank see Nika as a strong, beautiful, and sensitive woman who they want to be theirs. The road for these three people is not an easy one, but love can conquer all!

Heather Rainier brought forth in this book one of our society’s leading problems, bullying. Most people only see the public side of this issue – children and young teens bullying their peers. But Heather took this one step further – family bullying. This is not talked about but the fact is, some victims are not only bullied by peers but also by their own family – the ones that should be accepting and keeping them safe.

My hat is off to you, Heather! You bring your characters to life so that we may all feel as though they are our own friends and family. For this, we - your loyal readers and Divine Divas - say thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

[Tammy Faris · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are no words, strong enough, for how much I LOVED this book. The genius of Heather Rainier's writing is evident in ALL of her Divine Creek Ranch books. After reading Awakening Veronica, I can attest that she has now rocketed into a league of her own!
Awakening Veronica has everything that all romance novel readers want in a book. The heroes are sexy, take-charge, protective men who are not scared to share their emotions with the one they adore. The heroine transforms from a bullied introvert, into a courageous woman, from finally having someone(s) love her for herself and believe in her. The powerful underlying message that Ms. Rainier delivers in Awakening Veronica is one that every human being needs to hear and follow.
In Awakening Veronica, there is blazing hot sex, laugh out loud until you are almost peeing in your pants humor, heart stirring emotions, and the warm fuzzy feelings that ALL romance readers crave.
If you are already a fan of the Divine Creek Ranch Series, then add this one to your collection NOW!
If you haven't read any of Ms. Rainier's amazing books, then I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you start now!

[Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was INCREDIBLE in more then one way. This gave me the good kind of chills as it reminded me of a past that dealt with bullying and left me feeling glad that in this story there was a happily ever after. Reading Veronica's story was like looking in a mirror. I felt like I had a connection with this character and truly felt a kinship with her. I have to say this story will no doubt be my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE, with Divine Grace being 2nd. This book touched me in soooo many ways and had me smiling and so happy for Veronica as well as for Hank and Travis. Heather Rainier, you outdid yourself this time and I am SOOO VERY glad I found this series.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read every installment of this series but this one will always be special. As a victim of bullying I must say its inspiring. Its so easy to tell the fabulous Ms. Heather knows what she's doing. :-) a fabulous read!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites in this series!

[Glenda Bowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome story

[Tori · Rating 2 out of 5]

It took me four years and multiple attempts., I was skimming by the end

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some books I pick up and devour, others I savor and spread out over as much time as I can muster. This is in the latter category. I took my time reading this delicious book, nibble by yummy nibble! It was tough to put down, but I did not want it to end, so I dragged it out as long as possible. Ms Rainier always writes a thorough book, I have often said her stories are marathons and not sprints. This is no exception.

Hank has long been a character I was interested in getting a HEA, he has been seeming lonely lately. I thought he would be one of the MF pairings in the series, big surprise when he had a dishy best friend pop up in town. Travis is a nice addition to Divine, I loved his playfulness. This pair is a smexy cop sandwich I would not mind getting in the middle of any day of the week!!

Veronica, or Nika as she prefers, starts off shy and unsure. It was a joy to see her flourish in this environment. She has a huge well of hidden sass that comes to the forefront when she gets comfortable with her men!! I think she is now my favorite heroine in the series. I was most drawn to her playful spirit with a hint of rebelliousness. Give her time and she will be a force to be reckoned with!!!

The steam is uber hot!! Hello, Doms!! Yup, we are playing with some light BDSM. I love me a good spanking and the bondage and role play take it to a new level. I really enjoyed that is wasn't all protocols and strict rules. While I am intrigued by the genre, I am not into hardcore or slave/master stuff. Thank goodness things did not go there! We still get a feel for the lifestyle and the play is hot!! That last scene sent me straight to the cold shower!!

While things get steamy pretty quick into their relationship, it felt natural. They had plenty of talk and build to the bedroom action. It just felt right and the feelings came through as genuine. This book reminded me why I fell in love with this series in the first place.

The plot has a lot going on, but never seemed overcrowded. Everything came at a steady pace. I enjoyed most of the resolutions, I might not have been so kind to Tabitha. Ms. Rainier went more for the reason behind the bullying than completely villainizing the bullies, well most of them. It is a much higher road than many would take.

There are some real highlights in this book. I loved the playfulness and acceptance of the characters. There are a few laugh out loud moments Tabby Cat, the sheep, duct tape, mommy ate the baby, Woobie-Doms and a hilarious Drag Wheelchair race for charity. And those are only a few of the pink highlights on my kindle notes!! (pink is the color I use for favorite parts)

I was also delighted with the Grandma Kate visit! She is a feisty gal who reminds me of my own Gram. I love her spirit and all that she adds to the book. Hope she is able to make another visit!

The book is a mixed narrative that switches from the main characters POVs from section to section. There is also a bonus of getting Tabitha's POV a few times. It puts her in a whole new light. I do not think her resolution would been as believable without those insights into her life.

While I really enjoyed the read, I miss the old days when stories overlapped. It gave me more of a sense of things to come. It was always one of the things I loved and looked forward to in the earlier books in the series. It was always fun popping back to a scene from a previous book and seeing it from a whole other set of characters perspective. It added depth to the whole experience.

I can not wait to see what is going to happen next in the series! So many lovely single ladies introduced in the last three books. I hope bookstore owner Violet and Leah are up soon! And maybe even poor Presley Ann deserves a HEA, she isn't bad just spoiled and selfish.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shining Star award


Ms. Rainier touched on an important subject, bullying, but did not allow it to overwhelm this story. She allowed the reader to see what Veronica endured within her family and within her career which forced her to withdraw. But Ms. Rainier also allowed us to see the good in people. We got to see the support of new friends and new men. Veronica learned she was not alone and never had been as alone as she felt. And even as bullying was an overriding theme, Ms. Rainier did not forget this was a story about love. I adored Hank and Travis. Both men were mature and sure within their skin and I think that did nothing but help Veronica break free from her self-imposed isolation. With support and growing love, Veronica was able to become the woman she always meant to be. But back to the romance, Travis and Hank were old friends who never shared but wanted to. I loved how they were able to fall into old habits as Travis and Hank explored their future desires. I appreciated their patience as they showed Veronica her worth not only to them but also to herself. They both had a quiet strength that pervaded throughout this story. Veronica wasn’t the only one who felt safe with her men. Ms. Rainier’s gift was such that the reader could feel just how safe Hank and Travis’s arms could be.
I enjoy returning to Divine Creek Ranch as a rule and Ms. Rainier is one of my favorite authors. But I think that with Awakening Veronica, she took her story telling to a new level. Not only did she give us a well written story full of emotional depth, she gave us characters with a purpose while still giving us the joy of falling in love.

[SiKReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 17 in the Divine Creek Ranch Series. I have previous reviewed this series. I have to say that this book has been very anticipated by most fans of the series. Why you might ask, because we finally get the story on everyone's favorite Sheriff, Hank Stinson, a/k/a the Silver Fox. Throughout the series we get a definite "Dom" feeling from Hank and we wanted to know more about him. In Awakening Veronica, we finally do.

Again, Divine, Texas, and Lusty, Texas crossover, when Grandma Kate swoops in and takes her cousin, Veronica, to Divine as a guest to Maizy and her Bears' wedding. Veronica was in an emotionally/physically abusive relationship at home with her boyfriend. When she finally ends it, she goes to Lusty to meet up with her brothers for their wedding. From there, Hank and Travis (whom Veronica has met before....ahhhh fate) see her and the romance starts (just as Grandma Kate knew it would).

I can relate alot to Veronica. I was bullied because I was smart and overweight as a child. Other kids can be cruel. And, let's face it, family can be just as bad even though they do it with only their best intentions. No matter why or what you say to someone something it can hurt them. Think before you talk.

I liked this book, no I LOVED this book. Probably because I could relate to alot of it. I could see alot of myself as Veronica. If I could choose a character that is most like me......it would be her.

[Dami (Damiellar) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this book. I'm so pleased that Hank Stinson got a romance of his own (he definitely deserved one). Veronica's story was just right. Her behaviour subsequent to her background of being a victim of bullying rang true. As a result, she was slower to trust Hank and Travis and that was absolutely right. Her family...hmmm. I can see how different personalities could interact in that manner in that they believe they could 'tease' her out of her shell (I really *hate* that phrase let alone the very idea) BUT their turn around at the end of the book was a bit too easy to feel comfortable for me. I'd definitely be on Nika's side in that forgiveness is not something I could flick a switch on and would also be very much on the side of one more slip and they're gone from my life permanently.

I just loved catching up with previous groups (although there are still a couple of threads which I'm hoping may be further explored in future books) and as for the final outcome for Tabitha Lester it just goes to show that what you most hate in others is what you most fear is true about yourself. Although I defnitely didn't see her as having been involved with several bikers. Priceless!

Basically, this is another excellent addition to a great series (one of the few that I'll purchase as soon as I soon as I see the next book is available -- budget allowing of course)

[Caitlyn O'Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Veronica started the story as someone who was very timid. We soon realized that she is a woman who had been emotionally and psychologically bullied most of her life. What finally forced her to break away form her old life and move to Divine is a physical altercation with her boyfriend.

Heather does an amazing job showing the effects that this kind of abuse can have on a person. Then she brings in Hank and Travis, two men who are bound and determined to slay every dragon for Veronica. Travis met Veronica once long ago and has never forgotten her, and Hank is smitten from the minute he sets eyes on her. These two men immediately see her value, and want to help see how wonderful she really is, and how everything she has been told about herself is wrong.

Travis and Hank both have issues that they need to overcome, but as in real life, not everything is equal at all times, and right now Veronica needs to lean on them, more then they need to lean on her. This is a well-written book that had me agonizing with Veronica and thankful for the two great men in her life.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars! I have been in love with the Divine series since I first read Divine Grace. I thought Divine Grace was Mrs. Rainier best book of her series but Awakening Veronica is on the same level of her first book and maybe even surpass it. Her writing is amazing and the relation to real life is real! This book really reached out to her audience (especially me)! Her book might make you cry throughout the book but it’s worth it. To some readers this might hit directly on point to their heart because they can relate to some of the stuff that the main character goes through. I couldn’t put Veronica down and what happens to Tabitha the antagonist; well let’s just say it seems like her past is finally about to show! AND what an amazing story that will turn out if Mrs. Rainer decides to tell Tabitha’s story! (I really hope so!)

[Brea Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing and powerful book! I couldn't put it down!
As I read the story, it made me rethink and realize how some family and friends treated me over the years. A real eye-opener! I felt so much like Veronica in the story. Thank you Heather for not only entertaining me, but for enlightening me as well.
I was happy to see "Tabby Cat" (LOL) got hers! I just knew there was something to all that ranting. I would still love to hear her story thought! And Charity! That would be another great story! There is still one person I would like to find out about though. What ever happened to the character "Del Valle?" He was introduced early in the series and I thought he would be back by now since he was supposed to be dangerous. I love when you add the danger to the stories! Keep up the amazing writing!! Love the series!!

[Diane T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful tale with strong characters and HOT love scenes...lol. Heather Rainier continues to delight me with her Divine Creek Ranch series. Ms. Rainier manages to keep it fresh and interesting, in a big part due to her full bodied characters. She creates the type of people that you know or wish you knew and would love to live beside.

Veronica is a prime example of a woman who doesn't know her own worth. Watching this heroine come out of her shell and become the woman she was always meant to be made for a joyful read. Travis and Hank are the type of men anyone would be thrilled to find. Strong yet tender and just longing for someone to fill the empty space in their hearts.

I can not wait to see where Ms. Rainier goes next.

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word.....AMAZING!! and 10 stars for a review if that were possible. Heather Rainier has done it again with her latest story, "Awakening Veronica" from the Divine Creek series. I am not sure how Heather does it but she manages to write stories that grab you from the first word, tugs at your heartstrings and keeps your emotions on a roller coaster the entire time. She writes about issues that effect all of us. Most of us have been bullied at some point and can probably relate to Veronica. When she finally meets two HOT men, Travis and Hank, with a little help from Grandma Kate, they help her realize the gorgeous, sexy woman she is. I am so thrilled to see Hank, the sheriff of Divine finally get his HEA!! This story and the entire series will not disappoint!!!

[Cheryl (Gwyneiira's Book Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow wow wow! Two doms? Damn, I am game! I've been looking forward to Hank's story since forever and Heather definitely didn't disappoint. I'm quite amazed that it had actually worked with two doms in a relationship. Hank and Travis are damn fucking hot and I would love to have them in my life. I love how Hank and Travis respects Veronica's limits but pushed her boundaries, how they don't push for things to be done their way but lets Veronica sets the pace. I loved how Veronica transforms from someone so scared, nervous and introverted into a strong, confident woman under their love and guidance. I would love to have such men in my life...definitely.

I would definitely re-read this to my heart's content! One of my favs in the whole series.

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Veronica has always been bullied whether it was from her boyfriend(who soon becomes her ex), or her family or heck even some of her online readers, after being convinced to come to Lusty, TX to visit with her Grandma Kate and be there for her brothers engagement party she's off to Divine to see a real ménage wedding and get some truthful answers about Doms and ménages....Hank is happy his best friend who is more like a brother Travis has finally come back home and when they both realize the curvy gorgeous brunette who has some questions about Doms is also looking for a little domination they couldn't be happier to help her....really good story about bullying and overcoming it with a lot of love....onto the next

[SandyL · Rating 4 out of 5]

The next saga from Divine TX. Veronica (Nika) is a shy writer of romance stories who is branching out into writing erotic romances. Most of her family teased her about her shyness and her weight growing up, so she doesn't keep in contact with them. She goes to visit her Aunt (Grandma Kate from the Lusty CO series) and they end up in Divine where she meets Hank and reconnects with Travis, who she met years ago (and has been a fantasy since then.) The book is fun reading with some sexy ménage scenes. Apparently these guys are also supposed to be Doms, but really all they seem to do is threaten to spank her when she's naughty. Still, its a great story.

[Darcy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This one wasn't one of my favorites, mostly due to Veronica. I didn't like how much of a doormat she was. But considering how her family treated her, it was to be expected. I did like the bullying theme and how your family can be just as bad or worse than a stranger. I especially liked it when towards the end Veronica confronted her family, while her men were standing by, and let them know that behavior wouldn't be allowed any more, that if it continued they would be out of her life, the choice was theirs to make.

I also liked how Hank and Travis were able to draw Veronica out and show her life was more than what she had experienced.

[Denise H.]

Finally, Hank gets his wish...a beautiful sub for Travis and himself to cherish as their own. The minor issues fall away when Nika is in danger, but the whole town is rallying and even Kate from Lusty, TX fame helps. I love the Lusty, TX Series, too. (Cara Covington). The characters by Heather Rainier are deeply thoughtful, sexy and romantic and the story is suspenseful and interesting. We always learn something, and this time, it's how to protect yourself from, and how to deal with bullies. Tabitha's prior circumstance comes to light and we know why she hates the women so much!! Great romance, ENJOY !!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all the books in the Divine series. This has become my favorite by far. Heather Rainier creates characters that you are able to connect with and Veronica, Hank and Travis are the newest ones. Hank and Travis are perfect for Veronica. They protect her without stifling her. let her do her writing with out making her feel bad. Its amazing to read how she changes in this book. You will have all kinds of emotions while reading this book. I laughed hard and cried just as hard. Well done Ms. Rainier! Looking forward to the next one.

[Tonda Pasowicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved ! Loved !
From the very first chapter Heather ropes you in and no matter what going on around you, you are consumed in this story! There are surprises and life changes.
There are sexy love scenes that is so hot you squirm in your seat reading it! Every book that Mrs. Heather writes what every woman wishing she had what every woman in her books have! I bow to a great author and look forward to the next book!

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a great appreciation for this book, as someone who grew up being bullied. Out of all of the Divine book's this one is my favorite. I wish that all that.have been bullied had someone to show them the love and support the Veronica receives from her two men, and that more people would be held accountable for the awful things they say! Thank you Heather from the bottom ov my heart for this book!

[Happy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the main characters, Veronica and the two men, and their story. Read this right after reading Cara Covington's Love Under Two Quarterbacks, I'm such a fan of Grandma Kate's.

I'm still not a fan of Grace, she gives off he vibe of preference of Ethan over the other two. I hope Charity and Justin are not next to have a story. I like that try are the steady but quirky couple that have been there for everyone else.

[Patsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

You made one of my favorite series even better by including a much loved character from another author. Grandma Kate has got to be one of the most lovable characters ever written. I have read thousands of books over the years, and no that isn't an exaggeration, and Grandma Kate is definitely in the top five if not #1. I love all the Divine Creek books but this one is hands down the best. Can't wait to see what is next.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I am always happy when a new Heather Rainier book comes out. I have bought all so far in EBooks, and have most of them in paperback too. Working on collecting them all. Heather's characters are always strongly written and you care about them, and what happens. The scenes of Passion and Erotica are, WOW! Love these books, and Heather Rainier is a spectacular author.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I reread this just this week and enjoyed it as much this time as the previous time, so I believe it is time to start a reread on some of these books. Veronica is a writer and has become a recluse of sorts until her relative from Lusty Texas invites her for a working vacation with her when she goes to Divine Texas. I really would like to live in a few of these towns just based on the comaderie that you feel with each of groups and characters.