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The Bourbon Boys #1
Bourbon & Lies
In Fiasco, Kentucky, there is one rule: never fall for a Foxx brother. Any woman who did, ended up dead—or so the rumor goes. Townies call it a curse. But I’ve lived it, and I won’t survive it again.
I’m not a cop anymore, but I’ve seen enough danger to know that Laney Young, the beautiful stranger who just showed up in my small town, is running from it. She’s lying about where she came from and what she’s doing here.
I don’t want her near my family or the quiet life I’ve made for myself. But my brothers have other plans. Now she’s everywhere–working at my distillery, living in our guest house, calling me ‘cowboy’ and skinny-dipping in my horse trough.
But it’s the way she dishes out attitude from that pretty mouth of hers that has me wanting things I’ve sworn to myself I’d never want again. I should push her away, forget how her lips taste, and ignore how she makes me want more out of life again.
When her past shows up and mingles too closely with mine, her lies begin to unravel. The rules don’t matter anymore. I mess up, dig too far, and get too close. Only two things have the power to keep her safe now: bourbon and lies.
I’m not a cop anymore, but I’ve seen enough danger to know that Laney Young, the beautiful stranger who just showed up in my small town, is running from it. She’s lying about where she came from and what she’s doing here.
I don’t want her near my family or the quiet life I’ve made for myself. But my brothers have other plans. Now she’s everywhere–working at my distillery, living in our guest house, calling me ‘cowboy’ and skinny-dipping in my horse trough.
But it’s the way she dishes out attitude from that pretty mouth of hers that has me wanting things I’ve sworn to myself I’d never want again. I should push her away, forget how her lips taste, and ignore how she makes me want more out of life again.
When her past shows up and mingles too closely with mine, her lies begin to unravel. The rules don’t matter anymore. I mess up, dig too far, and get too close. Only two things have the power to keep her safe now: bourbon and lies.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2024
7632 people are currently reading
45774 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Wilder
9 books2,093 followersForever a hopeful romantic, I write deliciously witty and wild characters. My stories range from small-town swoon-worthy men to fiercely powerful families and lead characters who aren't afraid to ask for what they want.
You will always find a little bit of fate, a whole lot of steam, and a wildly romantic ride.
You will always find a little bit of fate, a whole lot of steam, and a wildly romantic ride.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,150 reviews
June 22, 2025
Idk what I was expecting from this but it started out good… a small town romantic suspense, cowboy with a filthy mouth, found family…. But I really didn’t feel like there was a ton of chemistry between the main couple, a bit insta lust. I liked the plot but I wanted more from it. Overall just average but not terrible! I still had fun at points but like…. Why did our MMC have to whip out the harmonica?! Ick. Ick. Ick.
July 16, 2024
"But in case you misunderstood me, honey. When I woke up with the taste of you on my tongue and the smell of you in my beard, I considered you mine."
SCREAMING!! This book had me feral, panting, and on the edge of my seat. We have romance, secrets, suspense and SPICE!!! This is legit one of my top favorite reads of the year, without a doubt! If you are a fan of Elsie Silver and Devney Perry do yourself a favor and add to your TBR IMMEDIATELY👏🏼👏🏼 Be prepared to fall HARD for the Foxx family.
Tropes & What to Expect
🧡romantic suspense
🧡Dual POV
🧡found family
🧡grumpyXsunshine
🧡small town/Kentucky setting
🧡slow burn
🧡witness protection
🧡HEA
Get ready to add another feisty, strong FMC to the list to love. Laney has the best energy! She commanded all the pages with her sunshiney personality and snarky remarks. She's not timid nor shy. She spoke her mind and was not holding back in her responses. I loved her comebacks especially when interacting with Grant aka cowboy. Grant was down bad.. the minute he lays eyes on Laney he is enamored but he HATES it. There was so much tension and angst but eventually he does give in to his feelings. Grant was so grumpy and is a man of few words so seeing him fall so hard had me kicking my feet and giggling🫠🤭
The spice was SPICING!!! Its a 3/5 spice🌶️rating for me! It's a slow burn but once it burns baby it BURNS!! There is a scene with tasting the bourbon and y’all it’s delicious 🥵🥵🤤 Nuff said
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!
Overall thoughts: Run and add to your TBR! If you're a fan of small town romances this should definitely be added to your list of books to read!
SCREAMING!! This book had me feral, panting, and on the edge of my seat. We have romance, secrets, suspense and SPICE!!! This is legit one of my top favorite reads of the year, without a doubt! If you are a fan of Elsie Silver and Devney Perry do yourself a favor and add to your TBR IMMEDIATELY👏🏼👏🏼 Be prepared to fall HARD for the Foxx family.
Tropes & What to Expect
🧡romantic suspense
🧡Dual POV
🧡found family
🧡grumpyXsunshine
🧡small town/Kentucky setting
🧡slow burn
🧡witness protection
🧡HEA
Get ready to add another feisty, strong FMC to the list to love. Laney has the best energy! She commanded all the pages with her sunshiney personality and snarky remarks. She's not timid nor shy. She spoke her mind and was not holding back in her responses. I loved her comebacks especially when interacting with Grant aka cowboy. Grant was down bad.. the minute he lays eyes on Laney he is enamored but he HATES it. There was so much tension and angst but eventually he does give in to his feelings. Grant was so grumpy and is a man of few words so seeing him fall so hard had me kicking my feet and giggling🫠🤭
The spice was SPICING!!! Its a 3/5 spice🌶️rating for me! It's a slow burn but once it burns baby it BURNS!! There is a scene with tasting the bourbon and y’all it’s delicious 🥵🥵🤤 Nuff said
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!
Overall thoughts: Run and add to your TBR! If you're a fan of small town romances this should definitely be added to your list of books to read!
November 27, 2024
2.5 stars
I ventured into this book with some expectations that weren’t met. first of all, it had such an enticing overall plotline that I was convinced I would love its orchestration: a secretive city-girl finding refuge—as a protected witness—in a southern small town, specifically in a distillery run by three very handsome and haunted brothers. and it was meant to get interesting once the sort of “attraction at first sight” between her and the celibate ex-cop brother—who lost his girlfriend years ago—was palpable and unbearable to resiste.
however, the problem resides in the fact that there was no concrete attraction or chemistry between the characters on paper, and I frankly didn’t care enough about them to be absorbed by it. the book is nearly a 500 pages block and ironically the romance arc was poorly explored. the suspense aspect of the narrative was underdeveloped at best and somewhat blurry in parts, making it hard to grab the reader’s attention. while I loved some of the hilarious side characters, the main ones lacked depth regarding their tragic pasts, aside from their supposed pull to one another, that resumed about their whole personality at some point in the storyline. but still, the cover is gorgeous.
———————
hope the book gonna eat as hard as the cover 😮💨!!
I ventured into this book with some expectations that weren’t met. first of all, it had such an enticing overall plotline that I was convinced I would love its orchestration: a secretive city-girl finding refuge—as a protected witness—in a southern small town, specifically in a distillery run by three very handsome and haunted brothers. and it was meant to get interesting once the sort of “attraction at first sight” between her and the celibate ex-cop brother—who lost his girlfriend years ago—was palpable and unbearable to resiste.
however, the problem resides in the fact that there was no concrete attraction or chemistry between the characters on paper, and I frankly didn’t care enough about them to be absorbed by it. the book is nearly a 500 pages block and ironically the romance arc was poorly explored. the suspense aspect of the narrative was underdeveloped at best and somewhat blurry in parts, making it hard to grab the reader’s attention. while I loved some of the hilarious side characters, the main ones lacked depth regarding their tragic pasts, aside from their supposed pull to one another, that resumed about their whole personality at some point in the storyline. but still, the cover is gorgeous.
———————
hope the book gonna eat as hard as the cover 😮💨!!
August 1, 2025
we could've had a cunty cowboy romance. instead, we got a country yeehaw mess.
January 3, 2026
Couldn’t have picked a better first read of 2026. I loved this—the kind of book that leaves you immediately wanting the next one.
🥃 The Premise
In Fiasco, Kentucky, everyone knows two things: the Foxx family makes incredible bourbon — and their love stories never end well.
So when Laney Young shows up at their distillery in the dead of night with nothing but secrets, Grant Foxx immediately senses trouble. A former cop haunted by loss, he knows she’s hiding something. But as suspicion gives way to undeniable attraction, resisting her proves harder than uncovering the truth.
♠️ Grant Foxx
Grumpy. Guarded. Devoted dog dad. Known for keeping people at arm’s length — with five years of celibacy to back it up… until Laney.
I loved how he’s gruff but flirty with her. From the moment he sees her, he’s completely down bad — and absolutely hates it. Watching this emotionally closed-off man fall slowly but irrevocably was everything.
Also: he opens doors for her and paints her toenails. Say less.
🍬 Laney Young
Instant favorite FMC. Sassy, bold, confident, and unapologetically herself—Laney is neither timid nor shy—and definitely not waiting to be rescued.
She gives Grant attitude from the start and holds her own in every interaction. Her quick wit had me giggling constantly, and I loved her body confidence and sharp tongue. No damsel energy anywhere in sight.
🕵️♀️ My Thoughts
This book hit the perfect balance of romantic suspense, tension, and spice.
The bourbon distillery setting was stunning and felt so fresh for a small-town romance. Bourbon isn’t just a job here—it’s a lifestyle, and the world-building made Fiasco feel alive. I genuinely wanted to book a bourbon tour by the end.
Grant and Laney’s banter? Immaculate. Flirty, playful, and bold—their chemistry felt effortless, with every glance and moment of tension building naturally.
The found family element deserves a special mention because it was done so well. Grant’s brothers (Ace and Linc), Linc’s daughters, Grandpa Griz, Laney’s new bestie Hadley (speakeasy-owning, non-judgmental badass icon)… and a retired K-9 dog?? Completely sold.
The audiobook also deserves praise — duet narration by Connor Crais and Samantha Brentmoor was chef’s kiss.
🧡 Final Take
By the time I finished, I was fully invested—in the couple, the Foxx family, and this bourbon-soaked little world. This was my first book by this author, and I’m already itching to read the next one. Do yourself a favor and read this. And grab the audiobook while you’re at it. 🔥
Tropes / What to Expect
🐎 Romantic Suspense
🥃 Small Town
🕵️♀️ Witness Protection
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🏡 Found Family
❤️🩹 No Third-Act Breakup
✨ Curvy FMC
🚓 City Girl x Former Cop
🐾 Retired K-9 dog
Spice
🥃 Bourbon play
👢 The boots stay on
🗣️ Dirty talk
👁️ “Look at me”
💥 Spanking
The Bourbon Boys Series
1. Bourbon & Lies — 5⭐️
2. Bourbon & Secrets — TBR
3. Bourbon & Proof — TBR
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
✧･ﾟ Pre-Read ･ﾟ✧
First book of 2026 📖✨
Romantic suspense feels like the right choice 🥃🧡
🥃 The Premise
In Fiasco, Kentucky, everyone knows two things: the Foxx family makes incredible bourbon — and their love stories never end well.
So when Laney Young shows up at their distillery in the dead of night with nothing but secrets, Grant Foxx immediately senses trouble. A former cop haunted by loss, he knows she’s hiding something. But as suspicion gives way to undeniable attraction, resisting her proves harder than uncovering the truth.
♠️ Grant Foxx
Grumpy. Guarded. Devoted dog dad. Known for keeping people at arm’s length — with five years of celibacy to back it up… until Laney.
I loved how he’s gruff but flirty with her. From the moment he sees her, he’s completely down bad — and absolutely hates it. Watching this emotionally closed-off man fall slowly but irrevocably was everything.
Also: he opens doors for her and paints her toenails. Say less.
🍬 Laney Young
Instant favorite FMC. Sassy, bold, confident, and unapologetically herself—Laney is neither timid nor shy—and definitely not waiting to be rescued.
She gives Grant attitude from the start and holds her own in every interaction. Her quick wit had me giggling constantly, and I loved her body confidence and sharp tongue. No damsel energy anywhere in sight.
🕵️♀️ My Thoughts
"Life's too unpredictable to worry how tidy it should be." He nudges my arm with his elbow. "Get messy."
This book hit the perfect balance of romantic suspense, tension, and spice.
The bourbon distillery setting was stunning and felt so fresh for a small-town romance. Bourbon isn’t just a job here—it’s a lifestyle, and the world-building made Fiasco feel alive. I genuinely wanted to book a bourbon tour by the end.
Grant and Laney’s banter? Immaculate. Flirty, playful, and bold—their chemistry felt effortless, with every glance and moment of tension building naturally.
"This woman who has no filter and calls me cowboy is the person I want to do life with. I don't need more time to tell me something I already know."
The found family element deserves a special mention because it was done so well. Grant’s brothers (Ace and Linc), Linc’s daughters, Grandpa Griz, Laney’s new bestie Hadley (speakeasy-owning, non-judgmental badass icon)… and a retired K-9 dog?? Completely sold.
The audiobook also deserves praise — duet narration by Connor Crais and Samantha Brentmoor was chef’s kiss.
🧡 Final Take
By the time I finished, I was fully invested—in the couple, the Foxx family, and this bourbon-soaked little world. This was my first book by this author, and I’m already itching to read the next one. Do yourself a favor and read this. And grab the audiobook while you’re at it. 🔥
Tropes / What to Expect
🐎 Romantic Suspense
🥃 Small Town
🕵️♀️ Witness Protection
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🏡 Found Family
❤️🩹 No Third-Act Breakup
✨ Curvy FMC
🚓 City Girl x Former Cop
🐾 Retired K-9 dog
Spice
🥃 Bourbon play
👢 The boots stay on
🗣️ Dirty talk
👁️ “Look at me”
💥 Spanking
The Bourbon Boys Series
1. Bourbon & Lies — 5⭐️
2. Bourbon & Secrets — TBR
3. Bourbon & Proof — TBR
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
✧･ﾟ Pre-Read ･ﾟ✧
First book of 2026 📖✨
Romantic suspense feels like the right choice 🥃🧡
June 26, 2024
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
'𝐁O𝐔R𝐁O𝐍 & 𝐋I𝐄S' Is a full length contemporary romance book by new to me author Victoria Wilder. Spoken in 'Dual perspectives.' Laney & Grant
I saw this pop up on here a time or two, one clicked it, jumped in pulling me in as soon as I started and enjoyed every minute of it.
'𝐓R𝐎P𝐄S' Grumpy & sunshine, Strangers to lovers, Found family, Slow burn, Ex-police officer, WITSEC.
I loved their first meeting, interaction, Laney's just been dropped off into the unknown, a place that will keep her away from danger, struggling to sleep she gets up out of bed and is wandering around in a long tee-shirt with no pants, when a hot guy rides up on a horse, promptly giving him the nickname Cowboy. A few sassy comments and barbs thrown about set up the scene perfectly. 📚 'I'v𝐞 𝐝e𝐟n𝐢t𝐞l𝐲 𝐦a𝐧a𝐠e𝐝 𝐭o p𝐢s𝐬 𝐨f𝐟 𝐆r𝐚n𝐭 𝐅o𝐱x
j𝐮s𝐭 𝐛y e𝐱i𝐬t𝐢n𝐠 𝐢n h𝐢s s𝐦a𝐥l t𝐨w𝐧. A𝐧d I t𝐡i𝐧k I l𝐢k𝐞 𝐢t'
She's promptly put to work at their distillery and placed in the vacant cabin right next door to the last person she wants to be around. Grant's cop spidery instincts kick in and he knows this little liar is hiding something. He's a man of a few words, a few grunts, a few glares, a cold shoulder is usually Grant's choice of language.
But ever so slowly she pulls him out of his protective shell he's surrounded himself with and starts opening up to everything Laney has to offer.
The trough scene had Yellowstone, Beth vibes going on being a huge fan of that series it was hard not to compare the two heroines, both tough and sassy, which had me really liking the heroine in this.
This is definitely a book worth reading, and one I highly recommend.. * Teasers used are off the authors facebook page*
May 21, 2025
the audiobook did its job, i didnt think and definitely enjoyed the ride THE MOUTH OF THAT MAN!!!!
rtc
i want to not think and have fun, i hope this one bring it! starting it as an audiobook!
rtc
i want to not think and have fun, i hope this one bring it! starting it as an audiobook!
July 20, 2025
grant foxx + bourbon = my new favorite problem.
April 30, 2025
Come for the cowboy, stay for the chemistry
and maybe bring tissues for the ending.
Wow. Just… WOW.
This book seriously deserves way more hype than it’s getting. Like, I need everyone to pause whatever they’re doing and go read it immediately. I listened to the audiobook and let me tell you the narration? Perfection. Grant’s dirty talk in my ear? Weak. In. The. Knees.
We’re talking small town cowboy romance with a dash of murder and a little bit of mystery, and it was such a refreshing twist that kept the story exciting. It was kind of giving safe Haven, which is one of my favorite movies ever.
Now let’s talk about the chemistry. The banter between Grant and Laney? Flirty, playful, bold it had me grinning like a fool. These two burned HOOOOTTTT. All the playful back-and-forth between Grant and Laney made their eventual fall for each other feel so much more meaningful. The way their feelings developed felt incredibly natural their love story just flowed beautifully.
This isn’t the spiciest book out there, but when the spice hits, it hits. The scenes are written so well some of my favorites ever, honestly. And don’t even get me started on that scene in Grant’s kitchen. It’s permanently living rent-free in my head
One of the things I loved most was how this story showcased just how brave and fearless women can be. Laney kept showing up not just for herself, but for the people she cared about and as a reader, I felt genuinely proud of her. She’s no damsel in distress. She’s a freaking fighter, through and through.
And let me be honest here: I was not prepared for the ending. I’m talking full-blown crying. Cowboy romances always hit me right in the heart, and this one? Straight to the soul. It’s officially going on my forever recommend list.
Between the intriguing plot, the perfect spice, the fire chemistry, and that layered family dynamic I honestly think this book was perfection. I cannot wait to dive into book two
And shout out to my girl Julep up you perfect little baby angel THE GOODEST GIRL THERE IS😭😭😭😭
and maybe bring tissues for the ending.
Wow. Just… WOW.
This book seriously deserves way more hype than it’s getting. Like, I need everyone to pause whatever they’re doing and go read it immediately. I listened to the audiobook and let me tell you the narration? Perfection. Grant’s dirty talk in my ear? Weak. In. The. Knees.
We’re talking small town cowboy romance with a dash of murder and a little bit of mystery, and it was such a refreshing twist that kept the story exciting. It was kind of giving safe Haven, which is one of my favorite movies ever.
Now let’s talk about the chemistry. The banter between Grant and Laney? Flirty, playful, bold it had me grinning like a fool. These two burned HOOOOTTTT. All the playful back-and-forth between Grant and Laney made their eventual fall for each other feel so much more meaningful. The way their feelings developed felt incredibly natural their love story just flowed beautifully.
This isn’t the spiciest book out there, but when the spice hits, it hits. The scenes are written so well some of my favorites ever, honestly. And don’t even get me started on that scene in Grant’s kitchen. It’s permanently living rent-free in my head
One of the things I loved most was how this story showcased just how brave and fearless women can be. Laney kept showing up not just for herself, but for the people she cared about and as a reader, I felt genuinely proud of her. She’s no damsel in distress. She’s a freaking fighter, through and through.
And let me be honest here: I was not prepared for the ending. I’m talking full-blown crying. Cowboy romances always hit me right in the heart, and this one? Straight to the soul. It’s officially going on my forever recommend list.
Between the intriguing plot, the perfect spice, the fire chemistry, and that layered family dynamic I honestly think this book was perfection. I cannot wait to dive into book two
And shout out to my girl Julep up you perfect little baby angel THE GOODEST GIRL THERE IS😭😭😭😭
September 15, 2025
dnf @24%. It was too insta-lusty for my liking
December 5, 2024
RTC………😐
I’m buried in ARCs, but I’m putting them on hold to dive into this book that’s been making the rounds on my timeline. The cover, featuring a young Tom Selleck, (lol) immediately caught my eye! 😚 I appreciate a good bourbon 🥃 so hoping for the best 🤠
April 4, 2025
Just reread this with the audio and it was wonderfully narrated by Connot Crais & Samantha Brentmoor. It was in Duet and I enjoyed it even more this time around. I gobbled it up!
Now onto my review!
I was immediately sucked into this story, which begins with a bit of tragedy. It was quiet and thoughtful in places and quite romantic in others. Just a very solid and enjoyable start to a series.
Laney, who has been put in WITSEC, and she finds herself staying right next door to Grant. She just wants safety and peace from the horrors of her past.
Grant, an ex-cop, helps with the family business and is very distrustful of the gorgeous new neighbor with secrets in her eyes. He doesn't trust her near his family and he's REALLY annoyed that his retired K-9, Julep, has cozied up with her.
But it doesn't take long for their close proximity to wear him down. How can he help it when all the other Foxx men AND his dog are so taken with her. It's not long before he's calling her 'honey' and damn if it didn't give me some tingles. I mean... he's the whole package for me and I loved him. Once he started to fall for her and slowly slip past her defenses... it was really beautiful.
There were a few low spots and a lot of characters that got introduced. However, by the time I was finishing... I just didn't care about those little things. I mean... look at this..
"I want to be with you. It's that simple. Nobody asked me to choose, but it's you, baby. You're what I've been waiting on. Brave. Smart. Fiery and sweet. And what I want."
Yup... I'm sold, Cowboy.
I highly recommend it and I can't wait for book 2 in the Bourbon Boys. This was my first Victoria Wilder and I will be a return customer for sure!
5 stars
3.5 on the spice scale
*Thank you to The Author Agency & the author for an ARC of this title.*
*Reread with an ALC from the author.*
.
.
.
Reread in 2025 via Audio!
Now onto my review!
I was immediately sucked into this story, which begins with a bit of tragedy. It was quiet and thoughtful in places and quite romantic in others. Just a very solid and enjoyable start to a series.
Laney, who has been put in WITSEC, and she finds herself staying right next door to Grant. She just wants safety and peace from the horrors of her past.
Grant, an ex-cop, helps with the family business and is very distrustful of the gorgeous new neighbor with secrets in her eyes. He doesn't trust her near his family and he's REALLY annoyed that his retired K-9, Julep, has cozied up with her.
But it doesn't take long for their close proximity to wear him down. How can he help it when all the other Foxx men AND his dog are so taken with her. It's not long before he's calling her 'honey' and damn if it didn't give me some tingles. I mean... he's the whole package for me and I loved him. Once he started to fall for her and slowly slip past her defenses... it was really beautiful.
There were a few low spots and a lot of characters that got introduced. However, by the time I was finishing... I just didn't care about those little things. I mean... look at this..
"I want to be with you. It's that simple. Nobody asked me to choose, but it's you, baby. You're what I've been waiting on. Brave. Smart. Fiery and sweet. And what I want."
Yup... I'm sold, Cowboy.
I highly recommend it and I can't wait for book 2 in the Bourbon Boys. This was my first Victoria Wilder and I will be a return customer for sure!
5 stars
3.5 on the spice scale
*Thank you to The Author Agency & the author for an ARC of this title.*
*Reread with an ALC from the author.*
.
.
.
Reread in 2025 via Audio!
December 8, 2025
hell yeah
December 18, 2024
just had an aneurysm trying to remember how to spell bourbon just to find this for my tbr lmao it better be worth it when i pick up up after that bs 😂😭
July 26, 2025
okay no cause this actually ate. i really had a few mixed thoughts along the way but over all, a really strong opening to a series that i think is gonna DEVOUR in books 2 and 3! i literally downloaded book 2 straight after finishing this!
if you’re looking to add dark romance elements to your cowboy romances, this is the one for you 💛. spicy, swoon worthy and tear jerking (yes, it did get me welling up at the end for the first time in a while)
lincoln, IM COMING FOR YOU BBY IM SO READY!!
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️. also kudos to the audio because it was DUET and soooooo delicious! enjoy my thoughts while reading:
- tropes: dark romance, small town, no 3rd act breakup
- the banter is BANTERINGGGG
- no cause Hadley is the funniest bish ever 😂
- fkn hell the spice in this is gonna be so good
- bahahah “the only speed she has is fast” 😂😂😂
- omg the spice jeeeezuz
- him painting her nails 🥹
- okay it lost points for calling it a she
- omg the memory box 😭😭
- no cause maybe i love him??? like i’m getting teary
- okay LOVE A NO 3RD ACT BREAKUP!!
- also omg that’s how you do a last act conflict!! loved it, i got teary
- anytime a dog is heavily involved in a book 😭 tears down my face, snot out my nose
- “BEND OVER TO THE FRONT, TOUCH YA TOESSSSSS” 🤪🔥🔥
- no cause i literally downloaded book 2 straight away because i KNOW it’s gonna be fkn good
if you’re looking to add dark romance elements to your cowboy romances, this is the one for you 💛. spicy, swoon worthy and tear jerking (yes, it did get me welling up at the end for the first time in a while)
lincoln, IM COMING FOR YOU BBY IM SO READY!!
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️. also kudos to the audio because it was DUET and soooooo delicious! enjoy my thoughts while reading:
- tropes: dark romance, small town, no 3rd act breakup
- the banter is BANTERINGGGG
- no cause Hadley is the funniest bish ever 😂
- fkn hell the spice in this is gonna be so good
- bahahah “the only speed she has is fast” 😂😂😂
- omg the spice jeeeezuz
- him painting her nails 🥹
- okay it lost points for calling it a she
- omg the memory box 😭😭
- no cause maybe i love him??? like i’m getting teary
- okay LOVE A NO 3RD ACT BREAKUP!!
- also omg that’s how you do a last act conflict!! loved it, i got teary
- anytime a dog is heavily involved in a book 😭 tears down my face, snot out my nose
- “BEND OVER TO THE FRONT, TOUCH YA TOESSSSSS” 🤪🔥🔥
- no cause i literally downloaded book 2 straight away because i KNOW it’s gonna be fkn good
on-hold
September 17, 2024Self note:
On hold at 3%
Welp, a dead girlfriend that apparently he loved (or still??? Although it's been 5 years later at the present time) isn't my jam. Not sure if I'll continue this, so on hold atm. 🤷♀️
Also, not sure if I'm right, but when I used the word "women" in search functionality, it seemed like all the other men in this series loooove to sleep around. 🫠 I think their names are Griz, Ace, and Linc, probably siblings. Not sure if Grant (MMC) does too. 🤷♀️
Aside from having women, their commonality is that all of them lost a special someone, a person they deeply loved. Guess that's why the blurb says this: "never fall for a Foxx brother. Any woman who did, ended up dead..."
Anywaaaay, now I'm more hesitant to read this series, but to each their own, I suppose.
On hold at 3%
Welp, a dead girlfriend that apparently he loved (or still??? Although it's been 5 years later at the present time) isn't my jam. Not sure if I'll continue this, so on hold atm. 🤷♀️
Also, not sure if I'm right, but when I used the word "women" in search functionality, it seemed like all the other men in this series loooove to sleep around. 🫠 I think their names are Griz, Ace, and Linc, probably siblings. Not sure if Grant (MMC) does too. 🤷♀️
Aside from having women, their commonality is that all of them lost a special someone, a person they deeply loved. Guess that's why the blurb says this: "never fall for a Foxx brother. Any woman who did, ended up dead..."
Anywaaaay, now I'm more hesitant to read this series, but to each their own, I suppose.
March 17, 2025
4.5⭐️
I LOVED this!!! It takes a lot for me to love a small town romance, but this was the perfect balance of small town/mystery/found family
Laney has to be relocated the the Foxx Brothers family home/estate (where they have a very successful brand of bourbon and distilleries) under witness protection, the Foxx family feel like they’re cursed as all the women they have loved before have died.
Grant is still grieving the loss of his partner from 5 years when Laney arrives and turns his world upside down, but he knows she’s keeping secrets.
The found family in this was AMAZING! I absolutely loved Hadleys character, I loved Lark & Lily -Lincoln’s kids 🥹 I loved the romance in this, and I loved watching Grants character development!
Also he literally has the dirtiest mouth it was making me blushhhhh (the spice in this is so good)
The setting was amazing, I loved the aspect of the bourbon it added something new to just have a ranch in a small town and all of it was perfect!
I just wish there was a bit more to do with the WITSEC plot to balance the story out and I definitely would’ve given this 5 stars!
I LOVED this!!! It takes a lot for me to love a small town romance, but this was the perfect balance of small town/mystery/found family
Laney has to be relocated the the Foxx Brothers family home/estate (where they have a very successful brand of bourbon and distilleries) under witness protection, the Foxx family feel like they’re cursed as all the women they have loved before have died.
Grant is still grieving the loss of his partner from 5 years when Laney arrives and turns his world upside down, but he knows she’s keeping secrets.
The found family in this was AMAZING! I absolutely loved Hadleys character, I loved Lark & Lily -Lincoln’s kids 🥹 I loved the romance in this, and I loved watching Grants character development!
Also he literally has the dirtiest mouth it was making me blushhhhh (the spice in this is so good)
The setting was amazing, I loved the aspect of the bourbon it added something new to just have a ranch in a small town and all of it was perfect!
I just wish there was a bit more to do with the WITSEC plot to balance the story out and I definitely would’ve given this 5 stars!
April 30, 2025
I have had the pleasure of reading some new authors this year and absolutely LOVING them! I am HAPPY to say that this was one of those. I have had this series on my radar for a minute and finally gave in when the audio came out and one my book besties couldn't stop raving about it. I could not put this one down. I started it on a Saturday and got like 4 chapters in and then basically read the rest in one sitting. The setting was STUNNING. I found myself wondering if I would be into doing a whiskey tour (not a whiskey drinker LOL). The characters were amazing- main and side alike. I loved that they were both broken in a way. That Laney and Grant had both been through so much and had reason for being and acting where they were in life. The chemistry and banter was wonderful! I mean who doesn't love good banter. I love it when the FMC puts the guy in his place which happened in this one multiple times. I loved that Grant needed someone outside of his immediate family and maybe small town who didn't know his whole story to help him get out of his rut. I loved the tension between them. the buildup was phenomenal. We got glimpses and wants but ultimately a friendship where the foundation grew and grew until they couldn't fight it anymore. The chemistry in the spicy scenes was unmatched. I loved that this had a cowboy vibe but really these men were all whiskey men which is a similar vibe in my opinion. What was the icing on the cake for me though was the suspense aspect. The way that Victoria wove in the tidbits of what Laney had been through and then how it came back for her was perfect. These two were just wonderful together. They helped each other get through the blah they had been living to find how amazing life could be with the right person.
After an intense situation, Laney finds herself being dropped off in the middle of bourbon country at a local distillery. But not just any distillery. Foxx Bourbon distillery. As a previous bartender she knows the prestige that is Foxx. Now she is tasked with blending in, making up a backstory and surviving here until her handler can come up with a more long term plan. What she doesn't expect is Grant Foxx. The man who makes her sass come out. Who wakes her up and makes her feel things she hasn't felt in a while. The man who makes her remind herself she isn't staying indefinitely. And now somehow he is her neighbor. And the longer she hangs out with him the more she realizes she need a friend. Even though there is this simmering connection between them, neither of them are ready to address it so they build on an amazing friendship. A friendship that has some blurred lines. A friendship where Grant is an ex cop and KNOWS she is hiding something. A friendship where you kiss each other like your life depends on it. A friendship where you open up about mistakes and things you never have with anyone. A friendship where Laney realizes it is so so much more. She wants to plant roots. She wants to stay invested in this. She wants things she doesn't know if she can have. And then her past comes back to haunt her. One thing she said she would never do is put anyone in danger so she might have to leave. What she doesn't expect though is that Grant doesn't want to let her go. He is in it for the long haul just like she is.
Grant has been living life day to day. Ever seen tragedy struck him five years ago, he has been working at his family's distillery, but not really invested in anything beyond that until her. Laney Young. He knows she is hiding something. But still she intrigues him. She stirs something in him that hasn't been stirred in a long time. But he isn't willing or ready to open himself up especially to a stranger no matter how much his family acts like her being here isn't a big deal. But he can't avoid her since she now lives next door. He is surprised at how easy building a friendship with her is. How easy things are in general with her. It's like she fits in this life with him and his family and this place. Slowly but surely he starts to lower his walls and sees that she does too. They keep tempting each other. Ever so close to crossing lines but then they draw back. Who will give in first? He knows if he does he won't be able to stop. Which is exactly what happens. He gives in and then he is allll in. Laney is his in all ways that matter. And when she opens up more about her past he is in even more awe of everything she has overcome to get to where she is. But there is more. More she isn't ready to tell him and when it comes for her, Grant knows that he will stop at nothing to keep her safe. He will follow her anywhere because she is it for him.
OMG I can't say enough about this book and this world and these characters. I am ecstatic that there are two more books but also super sad that we will then be done in this world. Maybe Victoria will stay here for a while though- just seems like there is so much material here! Like I said reading this felt like I was stepping into a different world. A world of luxury in the middle of Kentucky with some hot men who know what they are doing with their trade. Grant was such a wonderful man. He had been through so much and that curse followed him and his family around until Laney. And Laney who had been through everything. She swore she wouldn't let go for a man but she just hadn't found the RIGHT man. This was a wonderful journey that I can't recommend enough!! The audio (from what I listened) was also fabulous!!
A quote that stuck with me:
"With bourbon, there are rules. And if those rules aren't followed, then it can't be considered bourbon. It's chemistry, oak, fire, and time. I know what it means to toast or char. And time is the only thing that feels too slow when you want to stop remembering, and too fast when you look book. Bourbon needs time, and no matter how fast or slow you want time to move, it doesn't make a difference. "
After an intense situation, Laney finds herself being dropped off in the middle of bourbon country at a local distillery. But not just any distillery. Foxx Bourbon distillery. As a previous bartender she knows the prestige that is Foxx. Now she is tasked with blending in, making up a backstory and surviving here until her handler can come up with a more long term plan. What she doesn't expect is Grant Foxx. The man who makes her sass come out. Who wakes her up and makes her feel things she hasn't felt in a while. The man who makes her remind herself she isn't staying indefinitely. And now somehow he is her neighbor. And the longer she hangs out with him the more she realizes she need a friend. Even though there is this simmering connection between them, neither of them are ready to address it so they build on an amazing friendship. A friendship that has some blurred lines. A friendship where Grant is an ex cop and KNOWS she is hiding something. A friendship where you kiss each other like your life depends on it. A friendship where you open up about mistakes and things you never have with anyone. A friendship where Laney realizes it is so so much more. She wants to plant roots. She wants to stay invested in this. She wants things she doesn't know if she can have. And then her past comes back to haunt her. One thing she said she would never do is put anyone in danger so she might have to leave. What she doesn't expect though is that Grant doesn't want to let her go. He is in it for the long haul just like she is.
Grant has been living life day to day. Ever seen tragedy struck him five years ago, he has been working at his family's distillery, but not really invested in anything beyond that until her. Laney Young. He knows she is hiding something. But still she intrigues him. She stirs something in him that hasn't been stirred in a long time. But he isn't willing or ready to open himself up especially to a stranger no matter how much his family acts like her being here isn't a big deal. But he can't avoid her since she now lives next door. He is surprised at how easy building a friendship with her is. How easy things are in general with her. It's like she fits in this life with him and his family and this place. Slowly but surely he starts to lower his walls and sees that she does too. They keep tempting each other. Ever so close to crossing lines but then they draw back. Who will give in first? He knows if he does he won't be able to stop. Which is exactly what happens. He gives in and then he is allll in. Laney is his in all ways that matter. And when she opens up more about her past he is in even more awe of everything she has overcome to get to where she is. But there is more. More she isn't ready to tell him and when it comes for her, Grant knows that he will stop at nothing to keep her safe. He will follow her anywhere because she is it for him.
OMG I can't say enough about this book and this world and these characters. I am ecstatic that there are two more books but also super sad that we will then be done in this world. Maybe Victoria will stay here for a while though- just seems like there is so much material here! Like I said reading this felt like I was stepping into a different world. A world of luxury in the middle of Kentucky with some hot men who know what they are doing with their trade. Grant was such a wonderful man. He had been through so much and that curse followed him and his family around until Laney. And Laney who had been through everything. She swore she wouldn't let go for a man but she just hadn't found the RIGHT man. This was a wonderful journey that I can't recommend enough!! The audio (from what I listened) was also fabulous!!
A quote that stuck with me:
"With bourbon, there are rules. And if those rules aren't followed, then it can't be considered bourbon. It's chemistry, oak, fire, and time. I know what it means to toast or char. And time is the only thing that feels too slow when you want to stop remembering, and too fast when you look book. Bourbon needs time, and no matter how fast or slow you want time to move, it doesn't make a difference. "
October 17, 2024
*looks at MMC on cover* close enough, welcome back Joel from The Last of Us
✨4
🌶️2.5
📖~448 pages
📚Interconnected series with same cast of characters but different main couples
🎬Contemporary, western style romance
❓Would I Recommend? Yes!
✏️Review:
Bourbon & Lies by Victoria Wilder is a contemporary, western style romance that serves as the kickoff to the Bourbon Boys series and the introduction to the Foxx family – particularly the three Foxx(y) brothers.
Trope/plot quick hits:
🧩 City girl in hiding FMC x former cop cowboy MMC
🧩 Smalltown setting (Fiasco, Kentucky)
🧩 Dog companion
🧩 Dual FMC/MMC POV
🧩 First person, present tense
🧩 Sub plot elements of suspense and mystery
🧩 Strong on the banter between MCs
🧩 Grumpy x sunshine(ish)
🧩 Family dynamics/found family (for FMC)
After unexpectedly interrupting a vicious crime – daughter of an FBI agent and all – and the victim escapes and survives, Laney Young now has a target on her back: victim thief. She’s taken into witness protection and dropped in the middle of a southern small town – Fiasco, Kentucky to be exact – where locals are family, tourists are strangers, and everyone knows the Foxx brothers have a love curse. Rumor goes that any woman involved with a brother ended up dead. Sounds superstitious, but Grant Foxx has lived it (as have his brothers, in different ways).
But immediate sparks fly between Laney and Grant, both in lust and in anger over the secrets between them. They push each other’s buttons, but then pull each other close, almost giving in until the very last moment. Grant is worried that Laney’s going to disrupt his hard-earned quiet life more than he can ever handle again, and Laney is worried about her situation, and whether or not she’s putting the man and the family she’s beginning to fall for at risk.
Safety:
🚩 Description of injuries from physical violence/torture
🚩
🚩 FMC and the dog companion get put into a dangerous situation
🚩 Discussions of mental health and past trauma
🚩 Past OW: To make a long story short, if you were OK with the ‘OW’ stuff in It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey, this should be OK to you
Like I said above, the romance between Laney and Grant is the star of the show here. The book skips between both of their POVs, which was a nice treat because we got to see the other’s reactions to things from the previous chapters. Being in both their heads only deepened the characters that much more. The romance itself was FIREY HOT. The tension between these two! Their banter would just go back and forth, innuendo after innuendo. By the time they got together, it was like FINALLY. I wouldn’t say this was a slow-burn romance, because their attraction and lust were pretty evident from the start, but I was impressed by how long the book held out on the spice. But when it happened… whew!
Spice:
🔥 Sexual tension galore
🔥"Honey" and "cowboy" as pet names
🔥Dirty talking
🔥Open door spice, explicit
To end this review, let me talk about some of the quibbles I had with Bourbon & Lies, because there was just a general one here that kept me from rating this higher.
Quibbles:
⛔️ More nuanced writing and dialogue
While Wilder’s writing is pretty good and overall satisfying, I would’ve loved to see more nuance and better timing in it. Some of the dialogue would become OTT really fast, and the innuendos would become a little too obvious that the building tension would slowly eek out versus simmer. Too much of a good thing is still too much, so I’d love to see a more deft hand with characterizations and dialogues between characters, and just a tighter narrative and pacing overall. The components are all there!
I’m excited to dive into this world and see the love stories of the other Foxx brothers.
🔮
Symbol Key
✨= star level, 🌶️= spice level, 📖= total pages (usually on my iPhone screen), 📚= series or standalone, 🎬= genre, 🧩= tropes/elements, 🚩= potential safety/triggers, 🔥= spice/kink elements, ⛔️= quibbles/complaints,🔮= ending
✨4
🌶️2.5
📖~448 pages
📚Interconnected series with same cast of characters but different main couples
🎬Contemporary, western style romance
❓Would I Recommend? Yes!
✏️Review:
Bourbon & Lies by Victoria Wilder is a contemporary, western style romance that serves as the kickoff to the Bourbon Boys series and the introduction to the Foxx family – particularly the three Foxx(y) brothers.
Trope/plot quick hits:
🧩 City girl in hiding FMC x former cop cowboy MMC
🧩 Smalltown setting (Fiasco, Kentucky)
🧩 Dog companion
🧩 Dual FMC/MMC POV
🧩 First person, present tense
🧩 Sub plot elements of suspense and mystery
🧩 Strong on the banter between MCs
🧩 Grumpy x sunshine(ish)
🧩 Family dynamics/found family (for FMC)
After unexpectedly interrupting a vicious crime – daughter of an FBI agent and all – and the victim escapes and survives, Laney Young now has a target on her back: victim thief. She’s taken into witness protection and dropped in the middle of a southern small town – Fiasco, Kentucky to be exact – where locals are family, tourists are strangers, and everyone knows the Foxx brothers have a love curse. Rumor goes that any woman involved with a brother ended up dead. Sounds superstitious, but Grant Foxx has lived it (as have his brothers, in different ways).
But immediate sparks fly between Laney and Grant, both in lust and in anger over the secrets between them. They push each other’s buttons, but then pull each other close, almost giving in until the very last moment. Grant is worried that Laney’s going to disrupt his hard-earned quiet life more than he can ever handle again, and Laney is worried about her situation, and whether or not she’s putting the man and the family she’s beginning to fall for at risk.
Safety:
🚩 Description of injuries from physical violence/torture
🚩
🚩 FMC and the dog companion get put into a dangerous situation
🚩 Discussions of mental health and past trauma
🚩 Past OW: To make a long story short, if you were OK with the ‘OW’ stuff in It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey, this should be OK to you
Like I said above, the romance between Laney and Grant is the star of the show here. The book skips between both of their POVs, which was a nice treat because we got to see the other’s reactions to things from the previous chapters. Being in both their heads only deepened the characters that much more. The romance itself was FIREY HOT. The tension between these two! Their banter would just go back and forth, innuendo after innuendo. By the time they got together, it was like FINALLY. I wouldn’t say this was a slow-burn romance, because their attraction and lust were pretty evident from the start, but I was impressed by how long the book held out on the spice. But when it happened… whew!
Spice:
🔥 Sexual tension galore
🔥"Honey" and "cowboy" as pet names
🔥Dirty talking
🔥Open door spice, explicit
To end this review, let me talk about some of the quibbles I had with Bourbon & Lies, because there was just a general one here that kept me from rating this higher.
Quibbles:
⛔️ More nuanced writing and dialogue
While Wilder’s writing is pretty good and overall satisfying, I would’ve loved to see more nuance and better timing in it. Some of the dialogue would become OTT really fast, and the innuendos would become a little too obvious that the building tension would slowly eek out versus simmer. Too much of a good thing is still too much, so I’d love to see a more deft hand with characterizations and dialogues between characters, and just a tighter narrative and pacing overall. The components are all there!
I’m excited to dive into this world and see the love stories of the other Foxx brothers.
🔮
Symbol Key
✨= star level, 🌶️= spice level, 📖= total pages (usually on my iPhone screen), 📚= series or standalone, 🎬= genre, 🧩= tropes/elements, 🚩= potential safety/triggers, 🔥= spice/kink elements, ⛔️= quibbles/complaints,🔮= ending
May 21, 2025
3 ⭐️ admittedly, i was lured into reading bourbon and lies by its vampy, mysterious cover. i guess that’s why they say not to judge a book by it’s cover… the story wasn’t nearly as enticing.
it only took me 1089 years to finish this book. it was a good start but it really lost me along the way. i think it was much longer than it needed it be. the middle of the book was so dull that i heavily considered dnf’ing it. the ending did pick up but not enough to change my opinion of the book as a whole.
to be blunt - it’s an average read. i liked the witness protection angle but it’s such a small part of the story that it wasn’t prominent enough to keep me engaged. the romance is mid. the plot is meh. the characters are whatever.
nothing new here.
it only took me 1089 years to finish this book. it was a good start but it really lost me along the way. i think it was much longer than it needed it be. the middle of the book was so dull that i heavily considered dnf’ing it. the ending did pick up but not enough to change my opinion of the book as a whole.
to be blunt - it’s an average read. i liked the witness protection angle but it’s such a small part of the story that it wasn’t prominent enough to keep me engaged. the romance is mid. the plot is meh. the characters are whatever.
nothing new here.
June 25, 2024
What a great story!
The characters are really connected and the slow burn is the amazing choice for this book!
It’s worth reading!
The characters are really connected and the slow burn is the amazing choice for this book!
It’s worth reading!
June 16, 2024
Yes. So much yes.
This was for me.
Straight chokehold.
The banter in this book 🔥
Laney was a top tier FMC, loved her
Grant, “cowboy”, youngest brother, filthy mouth
I loved the Kentucky setting and the bourbon aspect.
The spice was spicing.
The mystery/suspense was excellently done.
Both of these twos backstory’s was so well thought out and put together.
This was so fun yet serious at the same time.
Found family & interesting and fun side characters.
Excited for the other brothers.
This was for me.
Straight chokehold.
The banter in this book 🔥
Laney was a top tier FMC, loved her
Grant, “cowboy”, youngest brother, filthy mouth
I loved the Kentucky setting and the bourbon aspect.
The spice was spicing.
The mystery/suspense was excellently done.
Both of these twos backstory’s was so well thought out and put together.
This was so fun yet serious at the same time.
Found family & interesting and fun side characters.
Excited for the other brothers.
August 25, 2025
3.5 ✨
This definitely did what I needed it to do! A super easy relaxing read. The mystery was just enough to keep me interested in this book. I am curious how the rest of the series goes so I will be continuing!
I loveeee the distillery setting!! It wasn't a ranch or a vineyard, it was something completely new to me so I loved that! I loved the small town and the Bourbon Boys!
The ending was pretty good too!! I enjoyed that type of action in a romance book! (I couldn't with the spice so I skipped all those scenes, sorry😂)
September 18, 2025
4.5⭐️ this was so fun. this was the perfect mix of small town romance and romantic suspense. and all characters were so well written. you have so many different archetypes of characters, and they’re all so perfectly imperfect. i cannot WAIT to read the rest of this series xx
June 14, 2024
Books like this are why I started by account. It feels like it's been so long since I read a new-to-me author and absolutely went feral for the book.
I saw this book on a Tiktok, and the cover knocked me on my butt. So I tracked it, applied for an ARC, picked it up the moment it landed in my library... and it did not disappoint.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Bourbon & Lies by Victoria Wilder
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Bourbon Brothers character series. Book 1.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Romantic Suspense
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Strangers to lovers, found family, slow burn, ex-police officer, WITSEC.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Laney comes to the Foxx family distillery in the dead of night under mysterious circumstances. Everything about her raises Grant's hackles. But he can't help being drawn to the woman living next door, first because of her beauty and then because he thinks she might be the one to finally heal him.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: When I love a book this much, it's hard for me to not rant and rave and be coherent in how I praise it - but let's give it a try.
This book grabbed me by the throat in the first chapter and dragged me along straight to the finish. I never put it down, stayed up late, and didn't regret it one bit.
Laney was the type of character I love - smart, saves herself, sassy and completely unapologetically herself. Grant was this broken brood of a man, and the way he fell for Laney, fast and slow at the same time, was so freaking good. Reading his POV had me legit squealing at points.
The setting for this book got me, too. I always love the romance books that teach me something, and the distillery and bourbon background was so cool. Fair warning, I lived a few miles from the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky, so the setting probably hit true more than it normally would.
The tension and spice for this couple were perfect. There's a scene with... well, let's call it "bourbon play" that made me pant into my Kindle. I also LOVED the set up for the rest of the brothers. I can't wait to see where this series goes.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀: If you like this - the small town, cowboy romance with a slight kiss of darkness, I also highly recommend the Runaway Ranch series by Ava Hunter.
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
I saw this book on a Tiktok, and the cover knocked me on my butt. So I tracked it, applied for an ARC, picked it up the moment it landed in my library... and it did not disappoint.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Bourbon & Lies by Victoria Wilder
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Bourbon Brothers character series. Book 1.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Romantic Suspense
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Strangers to lovers, found family, slow burn, ex-police officer, WITSEC.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Laney comes to the Foxx family distillery in the dead of night under mysterious circumstances. Everything about her raises Grant's hackles. But he can't help being drawn to the woman living next door, first because of her beauty and then because he thinks she might be the one to finally heal him.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: When I love a book this much, it's hard for me to not rant and rave and be coherent in how I praise it - but let's give it a try.
This book grabbed me by the throat in the first chapter and dragged me along straight to the finish. I never put it down, stayed up late, and didn't regret it one bit.
Laney was the type of character I love - smart, saves herself, sassy and completely unapologetically herself. Grant was this broken brood of a man, and the way he fell for Laney, fast and slow at the same time, was so freaking good. Reading his POV had me legit squealing at points.
The setting for this book got me, too. I always love the romance books that teach me something, and the distillery and bourbon background was so cool. Fair warning, I lived a few miles from the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky, so the setting probably hit true more than it normally would.
The tension and spice for this couple were perfect. There's a scene with... well, let's call it "bourbon play" that made me pant into my Kindle. I also LOVED the set up for the rest of the brothers. I can't wait to see where this series goes.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀: If you like this - the small town, cowboy romance with a slight kiss of darkness, I also highly recommend the Runaway Ranch series by Ava Hunter.
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
June 27, 2024
♾️/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
I NEED A GRANT FOXX!!!
Lordyyyy this book was 🔥🔥🔥
Victoria Wilder knows how to write Romantic Suspense.. WOW. This was my first book by her and I’m already looking up her others to download. Her writing is so freaking good and honestly I’m mad at myself for not finding her sooner. She had me flying through this book with all the suspense and the spice.. Holy Cowboy the spice is top-tier!! 🥵
When I tell you I was on the edge of my seat reading this ending I physically was sitting at the edge of my bed freaking out. This book gave me some Jeffery Dahmer vibes and moments gave me chills!!!
I instantly fell in love with Laney, she is this spit fire woman with so much sass and the dirtiest mouth 😉. I love the chemistry with her and Grant and honestly I think his mouth might be a little dirtier 😆. Don’t even get me started on their night of 4th of July 🥵
Victoria did such an amazing job with the side characters and I’m wishing I had the rest of the series already 😭I have a feelings Ace’s book is going to be soooo good.
If you love…
-Romantic Suspense
-Witness Protection
-Secret Identity
-Opposites Attract
-Small Town
-Found Family
READ THIS BOOK!!
3/5 🌶️
I NEED A GRANT FOXX!!!
Lordyyyy this book was 🔥🔥🔥
Victoria Wilder knows how to write Romantic Suspense.. WOW. This was my first book by her and I’m already looking up her others to download. Her writing is so freaking good and honestly I’m mad at myself for not finding her sooner. She had me flying through this book with all the suspense and the spice.. Holy Cowboy the spice is top-tier!! 🥵
When I tell you I was on the edge of my seat reading this ending I physically was sitting at the edge of my bed freaking out. This book gave me some Jeffery Dahmer vibes and moments gave me chills!!!
I instantly fell in love with Laney, she is this spit fire woman with so much sass and the dirtiest mouth 😉. I love the chemistry with her and Grant and honestly I think his mouth might be a little dirtier 😆. Don’t even get me started on their night of 4th of July 🥵
Victoria did such an amazing job with the side characters and I’m wishing I had the rest of the series already 😭I have a feelings Ace’s book is going to be soooo good.
If you love…
-Romantic Suspense
-Witness Protection
-Secret Identity
-Opposites Attract
-Small Town
-Found Family
READ THIS BOOK!!
November 3, 2025
Мені тут здалося, що я останнім часом читаю занадто багато трилерів 🙈 тож вирішила в аудіо взятися за цей любовний роман, який вже давно був у моїх бажанках.
І по ходу читання я нарешті сформулювала думку, який тип любовних історій мені справді до душі. Для мене важливо не просто, щоб була романтична лінія, а ДЕ саме все відбувається і ХТО ці герої — чим вони живуть, яке в них минуле, що їх оточує і ЩО, КРІМ КОХАННЯ, рухає сюжет. Тропи для мене не головне: якщо мені цікаві герої й сама історія, я готова прийняти будь-який сюжетний поворот. Мабуть, тому я так люблю ковбойські любовні романи — у них завжди є схожа атмосфера, але кожна серія має свій настрій 🐎🤠
Це перша книжка, події якої розгортаються на дистилерії — місці, де роблять бурбон, тут не cowboys, а bourbon boys 🥃 у нас є не тільки любовна лінія, а і лінія розслідування (тому ця книжка позиціонує себе як романтичний саспенс).
Здавалося б, все моє, але попри все це історія мене не зачепила. І локація, і задум, і поєднання любовної лінії з розслідуванням мені сподобалися, проте саме кохання здалося зовсім неживим. Я просто не повірила в почуття героїв — вони ніби з’явилися нізвідки і розвивалися без емоцій. Сцени 18+ теж виявилися нудними й однаковими, без жодної іскри.
Головна героїня спочатку мені навіть подобалася, але під кінець я втратила розуміння її мотивів. Головний герой — просто звичайний, без жодної риси, яка б виділила його серед сотень подібних персонажів. А ще під кінець стало помітно, що авторка, схоже, не до кінця розібралася з тим, як працює програма захисту свідків у США, тому ця частина сюжету вийшла зім’ятою і нелогічною. Єдина сцена, яка чітко запамʼяталася в книзі — сцена в барі, коли вона працювала там і попустила того чувака, який її бісив.
Тому за локацію 5, за сюжет і героїв 2. Ставлю бурбон бойз 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
І по ходу читання я нарешті сформулювала думку, який тип любовних історій мені справді до душі. Для мене важливо не просто, щоб була романтична лінія, а ДЕ саме все відбувається і ХТО ці герої — чим вони живуть, яке в них минуле, що їх оточує і ЩО, КРІМ КОХАННЯ, рухає сюжет. Тропи для мене не головне: якщо мені цікаві герої й сама історія, я готова прийняти будь-який сюжетний поворот. Мабуть, тому я так люблю ковбойські любовні романи — у них завжди є схожа атмосфера, але кожна серія має свій настрій 🐎🤠
Це перша книжка, події якої розгортаються на дистилерії — місці, де роблять бурбон, тут не cowboys, а bourbon boys 🥃 у нас є не тільки любовна лінія, а і лінія розслідування (тому ця книжка позиціонує себе як романтичний саспенс).
Здавалося б, все моє, але попри все це історія мене не зачепила. І локація, і задум, і поєднання любовної лінії з розслідуванням мені сподобалися, проте саме кохання здалося зовсім неживим. Я просто не повірила в почуття героїв — вони ніби з’явилися нізвідки і розвивалися без емоцій. Сцени 18+ теж виявилися нудними й однаковими, без жодної іскри.
Головна героїня спочатку мені навіть подобалася, але під кінець я втратила розуміння її мотивів. Головний герой — просто звичайний, без жодної риси, яка б виділила його серед сотень подібних персонажів. А ще під кінець стало помітно, що авторка, схоже, не до кінця розібралася з тим, як працює програма захисту свідків у США, тому ця частина сюжету вийшла зім’ятою і нелогічною. Єдина сцена, яка чітко запамʼяталася в книзі — сцена в барі, коли вона працювала там і попустила того чувака, який її бісив.
Тому за локацію 5, за сюжет і героїв 2. Ставлю бурбон бойз 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 11, 2025
I loved every second of this book, and the audio was the cherry on top.
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Buddy reading with my bestie Bella <3
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Buddy reading with my bestie Bella <3
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October 7, 2024Do I have a new favorite romantic suspense author!?!?
From the start, I was hooked on this romance. The heroine is witness protection and she's placed on the property of a distillery owned by the Foxx family. She lives right across from Grant and they immediately butt heads and banter like crazy. Obviously there's an attraction there and they fall for each other the more time they spend around each other.
I really loved Grant's character and how we knew he was damaged from the prologue. He was so closed off to everyone, but I loved how he felt himself wanting to let someone in for the first time with Laney. His relationship with his family was great and I'm so excited for his brothers' books!
I loved the suspense at the end and just couldn't get enough of this book!
From the start, I was hooked on this romance. The heroine is witness protection and she's placed on the property of a distillery owned by the Foxx family. She lives right across from Grant and they immediately butt heads and banter like crazy. Obviously there's an attraction there and they fall for each other the more time they spend around each other.
I really loved Grant's character and how we knew he was damaged from the prologue. He was so closed off to everyone, but I loved how he felt himself wanting to let someone in for the first time with Laney. His relationship with his family was great and I'm so excited for his brothers' books!
I loved the suspense at the end and just couldn't get enough of this book!
June 25, 2025
I’m genuinely so surprised that I enjoyed this one so much. I found myself VERY intrigued in the the plot tbh, the romance was a lil fast but boy was it steamy and I still enjoyed it.
Gonna need to start drinking bourbon
Gonna need to start drinking bourbon
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