Casting Vows

Hearts of Gold #3

by Ariella Talix

Casting Vows is a story of lost love, found love, and misunderstood love. Three people with hearts of gold need to find their way through seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Danger strikes from all directions. Nothing is as it seems.

Nicolo Stark-James loves with his whole heart, but he finds there are despicable people who are willing to ruin everything.

Matty Remington needs to be safe, but he’s trapped. He has strong faith and a heart made for loving, but he needs to reconcile his love for God with his personal desires.

Eden Godwin might be the one to hold them all together, but her future isn’t her own to decide. She is pitted between love and saving her family from ruin.

Obligations are questioned, and promises are made that may not be kept. The duty to family, faith in God, and devotion to a lover seem to war with one another in this stunning and steamy MMF romance set in Los Angeles in the 1880s.

Genres: M M F, Historical Romance, Polyamory

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 16, 2024

About the author

Ariella Talix is a best-selling author from Indiana who writes spicy romance because she loves a great happy ending. Her books are all either MF or MMF (“swords” cross) stories for readers who share her belief that all love is beautiful.

Ariella’s novels are full of humor and suspense. She has written both historical and contemporary tales. Her “Hearts of Gold” series is a thrilling saga based on the 1849 California Gold Rush. This was inspired in part by family history and would make a fantastic miniseries (an author can dream). Her contemporary books are filled with adventure and people who can’t live without their dogs, cats, and horses. Her women are strong, and her men are swoon-worthy.

If you get a chance to attend a book signing event, she would love to meet you!

And, in case you were wondering, "Ariella Talix" is a Pun Name.

If you slip her a shot of tequila, she may act out a scene from one of her books. ;) For more information on her books, please visit www.AriellaTalix.com.

Reviews

[Rose Seals · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written, full of drama, trust, love, action, intrigue, suspense and steam. Nico and Matty are best of friends that turns to lovers when Matty needs help and support from being hurt by his father. Matty shows up one night - beaten and bleeding. Nico's family helps him along with the town's doctor. They patch him up and keep him safe till his broken ribs heal. Matty stays at their home till the Priest takes him away to hide him. No one hears from him for years. Nico in the meantime has been studying to be a Doctor. It's there he meets Eden, a nursing student. They fall in love but to Nico something it just not right and missing. Eden and Nico decide to marry and plan to meet his family and hers. On meeting his family , she sees that he has two fathers and a mother, all very familiar with each other. After explaining to him about them and the rest of his family, she does try to except it but then they go to ask the priest to marry them and find Matty. What a reunion there is between them, shocking Eden way to much. After some talking and sharing, she is able to accept what is happening just asking for some time. Has lots of great characters , action, steam and a special surprise. Would recommend to others.

I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical romance among three young people: Nico, Matty and Eden
MMF is one of my all-time favorite tropes. This author can write a very interesting and compelling story and when she writes a three way, all the better. As in previous books in this series, the story takes place during the 1800’s, in particular this story starts in Los Angeles in 1884 when best friends Nicolo Stark-James and Matty are 16yo. Matty comes to Nico bruised and battered one evening and needing help desperately. Matty’s father has beaten him again! Nico’s parents: Walter, Isaac and Suzette are loving, caring and wealthy. They arrange to allow Matty to stay with them and away from his father until he is well or until they can figure out how to help him. While Matty lives with Nico, they find a love for one another which is unconventional but so is Nico’s family so no big deal. Right? When arrangements are made that take Matty away from Nico and his family, supposedly for his safety, they lose contact with Matty. What happens next to these boys will be at times intriguing, sad, scary, and/or amazing. Wonderful ending. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.

[Jenni · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Casting Vows is the third book in the Hearts of Gold series. Two men one woman in this MMF historical romance tale set in the 1880’s of Los Angeles.
In this story we have Eden, Nico and Matty who find themselves attracted to one another. Nico and Matty had been best friends since they were kids and parted ways but now, they are standing face to face once more. Nico loves Eden but he also loves the man from his past. They all have some reconciliation of their pasts before moving on.
As I have said before I love a ménage that is done well with that sizzling connection you get but I felt a little cheated with this tale. I wanted more. I felt disconnected from the characters which distracted me from fully immersing myself in their lives and in this tale even though we caught up with old friends from the previous books.
If you like historical romance with MMF characters, then give this one a go.

[Amelia Stansell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book of the series. It is a MMF romance. It is set in the 1800’s Los Angeles. Matty goes to live with Nico after Matty’s father beats him again, things start to heat up between them two. The two boys get separated, and after sometime Nico meets Eden. The two decide to marry, and that’s when they run into Matty.

[Teri Ruscak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ariella Talix

Casting Vows (Hearts of Gold Book 3)

Triad

I loved this book! Arielle Talix writes the bringing together of 3 people in love so well!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two men and one woman lives are connected in so may different ways but it will not be easy for them all. They have so many problems in their own lives and they hope each of the others will help the others. How will they all get on? Can love bloom? What will others say? See how it will all go
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicolo, Nico to friends and family, is the youngest son from Issac, Walter, and Suzette (the trio from Fiddle and Fire). The family has relocated to Los Angeles and is flourishing. Nico has a best friend, Matty, who is in a difficult situation. Matty’s mother died when he was young. Ever since Matty’s father’s drinking problems have increased. Matty has now officially become his father’s punching bag. Matty never fights back.

When Matty shows up at Nico’s window after a brutal beating, Nico and his parents conspire with the local doctor to keep Matty. However, one evening as the family is enjoying dinner with friends, Matty’s father breaks into their home and steals Matty back. When Nico’s fathers take the cops to Matty’s house so that Matty’s father can be arrested for assault and brandishing a weapon, the adults step in and make a decision. Matty can’t stay with his father. A friend and local parish priest, Father Andrew, agrees to help Matty escape but doesn’t tell anyone where Matty goes.

Four years after Matty left, Nico was in the process of completing his final year of med school in San Francisco when he met Eden, a nursing student. Eden and Nico fall in love, despite part of Nico’s heart always belonging to Matty. After a courtship and romance, Eden and Nico get engaged and head home to LA. Nico will be learning to run a medical clinic. Eden has the option to work as a nurse in the clinic. Nico realizes that Eden is with child. When they go to their local church to talk to Father Andrew about marrying them, Eden and Nico find Matty.

Matty is just weeks away from taking his final vows to become a priest. Now I don’t want to spoil anything but there was some tomfoolery and shenanigans that led to this. The love Matty and Nico once had for each other is not dead. Matty and Eden feel an instant connection but there are sooooo many obstacles standing in the way. One huge one being the looming vows awaiting Matty. Secrets and sins are revealed. Decisions are made. Some other good stuff happens. There is a twist or two in there. Don’t for the spice.

Period romance is not my go to, but a decent read. If you like a historical romance with some heat, this series and story is for you!! This one reads fast and moves fast. So hang on!!

[Beverly Finnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rather enjoy this author. I also enjoy these particular books by this author. I’m glad this one ties back to previous books. Casting Vows brings the reader back in time where amongst these characters Menage relationships are common. It makes the books interesting. The ebbs and flows of the different situations. This one even more so because of the way it’s broken down.
Nico has a dear friend who takes some rather harsh beatings from his drunk father. And the last incident almost killed him. Nico loves Matty and not just as a friend. There’s a deep connection one he would never want to lose. However when they are forced to separate, Nico & Matty are both devastated. Not wanting to be away from the other. At the same time it was the only way to keep Matty safe.
Eden was in San Francisco to go to nursing school, but that was what she really wanted? It was brought to her attention by Nico’s need to ask questions that she realized what she was truly doing. It was an escape. A getaway from the ranch she grew up on. As for Nico he’s her everything, but all that’s about to change now that Matty is back. Will Eden be accepting of an unorthodox relationship?
Matty lived his life in the church after being whisked away for protection. So how can just seeing Nico again leave him with the urge to throw it all away. He’s the love of his life, yet he’s engaged. Though he feels attracted to Nico’s fiancee. So he’s going to have some tough decisions to make.
Do they connect and become one?
Is Nico really going to walk away from the Catholic Church?
Plenty of questions and so many answers. People who have read these books will be happy to learn that Nico is the son of one of our previous menage couple’s book. If not this book works well as a standalone novel but it’s more fun to start at the beginning.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving booking set back in time. This one was set in the 1800's! You start out meeting Nico and Matty when they are in their teens. Matty sneaks over to Nico's house after being beaten and bruised by his father. Everyone has witnessed his abuse and Nico's parents (Suzette, Isaac, and Walter) decide to do something about it. They take him in to bring him back to health. Nico cares for Matty while they plan on what to do. Nico and Matty fall for one another, but are torn apart. A Priest takes Matty away to hide him from his father and Nico must move on with his life. Matty is taken to the church and Nico starts to study to become a doctor. Hoping one day to come back home and run the practice for his mentor Nico dives into his studies. While away at school, Nico meets Eden who is a nursing student. She wants to do more with her life than be a cattleman's wife, but she's not sure if nursing is it or if she wants more. Eden and Nico fall for each other while attending school and go home with happy news. Wedding bells are in the future! But when they go to the church to see the Priest they find Matty! All grown up and back home to deal with his dying father's affairs. What a reunion this is going to be!!! Eden is in the middle of a first love and she's not sure where all their futures' are heading. Such a great book. So well written with the three main characters. Keep in mind that this is a MMF book. If that isn't for you then just move on from this one. If you don't mind it then grab this book! It's sad, full of action, scary, steamy, and just all around a wonderful book. I can't wait to read more of the series!!

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the Hearts of Gold series. This is a beautifully written MMF historical Romance. One thing I loved about this book is the amount of research the author does into the time period. The authors research is what makes this story come to life. It also shows how the relationship between our main characters would have been very unusual and also frowned upon by some people.

In this story we start off meeting Matty and Nico. They have been friends for years and as time progressed they realised that their love for each other was romantic. Just as their relationship starts to grow Matty is forced to leave to escape his abusive father.
Fast forward and Nico has moved on and met Eden. Nico falls in love with her and plans on marrying her however Matty is never far from his mind.
When Nico and Eden return to Nico's home they find Matty has returned and with him all the feelings that Nico has held for him return as well.
But what is he going to do? He can't lose Eden or Matty. He wants them both but will they agree to a relationship where there is 3 people instead of 2?
And will their relationship even stand a chance with everything against them. With people working against them and lies being told from people they should be able to trust will they even stand a chance of being happy together?
This is a beautiful story about finding love, losing love, finding it again and creating something so beautiful and completing the lives of all 3 people involved. This is a story of fighting for the love you want dispite the people and things that maybe against you.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicolo Stark-James and Matty Remington are best friends and have been for years, Nico is one of 5, whereas Matty is an only child, but the main difference between the two of them is that where there is love surrounding Nicolo, it is the opposite for Matty. Just as Matty and Nicolo are spending more time together, Matty leaves and Nicolo must move on with his life, but he struggles to leave him behind.

Nicolo soon is granted an opportunity he cannot turn down and so he moves to attend a specialist school, however, it is the 1880's in Los Angeles and it is a place where the Victorian values are strict and anything, or anyone not confirming to it is shunned, but as he progresses in his studies he meets an enigmatic young woman who is in a similar field, Eden Godwin by chance and as the two become acquainted, Nicolo realises she might be someone who can ease his heart.

Soon, the time of studying is over and careers are beckoning, so the conversation about family and love is high on the agenda, but Eden is shocked by some revelations and doesn't know what to think, especially when she goes to visit her family and sees the contrast between the two. These revelations and conversations lead to danger, strong emotions and contradictions between duty and love, especially when Matty and Nicolo are reunited, will love conquer all, or will it be ripped apart before it can truly begin? This is a historical fiction which is full of emotion, unusual circumstances and some very steamy action in between which will keep you hooked all the way through.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - 3.5 Stars

Casting Vows is the third book in the Hearts of Gold Series by Ariella Talix. This is another steamy historical romance, with a menage/why choose (MMF/MFM) story, set in the 1880’s Los Angeles.
We are pulled into a tale of passion, angst, drama, emotion, challenges, faith, family responsibilities and obligations vs passion and love, misunderstanding, and hope.
We follow Eden Godwin, Nicolo Stark-James (Nico), and Matty Remington as they face challenges, endure, tug on our heartstrings, and heat up the pages. And while the story is my favourite of the series, so far, and had all the ingredients that I normally love to find in a story- I still failed to fully connect with the characters and their story completely. And I’m still not sure why- it must be a ‘me’ thing.
But if you love historical details and settings, menage/why choose, emotion, angst, and steam- then you will probably want to get your hands on a copy of this book to explore.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Ariella Talix.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series by this author I have read. Similar to the other, it is a MMF historical romance starting in LA 1884 and follows the family and relationship of Nico, Matty and Eden.
Matty and Nico are firm friends since childhood, Nico and his family of mother, pa and papa take Matty under their wing, until he is taken away to school to remove him from his drunken father. Feelings do not change and as Nico moves forward to medical school, finding Eden and returning home to his surprise his childhood friend is back, can their relationship survive the changes, and grow, add in some angst when Nico takes Eden home to her family and finds himself in the middle of a land grab and an arranged marriage for Eden.
A well written and emotional book touching on the subject of poly relationships, family and religious issues. The world building is great and you feel as though you could be there, the characters are interesting and develop well as the story progresses.
I would certainly read more from this author.

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I may not have read the previous 2 books in the artics I have read another book or 2 by this author and I was ready to dive in 😉


Eden is bound by saving her family vs what her heart wants and she’s conflicted and I feel sorry for her …

Marty is at war with himself to a degree because what he wants isn’t always in line with what is godly , he has so much to give though of himself and if his heart ….

Nicolo reminds me a little of myself and my mindset , and questions I’m asking myself at the moment, he loves fast , wholeheartedly and with everything in him but people don’t always know how to handle that , some are threatened by it others run from it and then you have done that see an opportunity to abuse that beautiful heart and more often than not it leaves one disillusioned and questioning ….

All is not as it seems with this read and I asked myself many questions while reading this and I really struggled with my emotions at times but it’s because I live through my characters so you may experience it differently 🤷‍♀️

[Darla Yocom · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has such a beautiful story being told that I believe most readers will enjoy. If they do not immediately come to love the sweet and loving family of Nico, then they will soon adore the introduction to dear Eden.

The story shared a bit of Nico and Marty’s past before following him to medical school. He soon meets the delightful nursing student, Eden. As their friendship turns to new love, Eden notices Nico’s secrecy behind a story of betrayal from his past.

I loved how the story dove into the progression of Nico and Eden’s relationship, then the introduction of Matty again. Clearly this author knows how to express what an open and caring relationship can be amongst a family, no matter if they are blood or not. Family can look like many things and no one family are alike.

The steamy scenes were a brilliant addition to the story and not at all distracting from the true plot.

I enjoyed the historical aspect of the book and it truly created the perfect setting to balance out the story.

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!!

[Jennifer P Ramos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read another one of Talix’s novels and loved the characters and engaging storyline. This one although is set within a historical fiction background, these new characters and storyline do not disappoint. The author does such an excellent job of historical context and placing background and depth to her characters to help make the storyline relatable. Another thing that I did not realize until I started reading this novel was that it is part of a Historical Fiction series but each in the series is stand alone so you can give this one a try and if you love it, you can pick up previous ones to give them a try as well. Set in the 1880s in Los Angeles, Nico and Matty have known each other since childhood. Even now they have now found each other again, their connection in helping one another has made a lasting impression. Matty and Nico end up living together and find a deeper connection towards one another. Along comes Eden whose attraction towards Nico draws her in and develops liking with one another. I very much enjoyed the storyline and connection between characters.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ariella Talix has a unique talent—she can make us believe in unlikely romantic situations. Then, she gets us to love the characters, all interesting and worth spending hours knowing and even thinking about for days after we finish her book. This time, she brings us a son of one of her earlier Gold Rush couples, who falls for his best friend as a youth. Circumstances separate them, and Nico moves on to medical school, where he meets Eden, a woman studying nursing. When they return to his parents' home to get married, they are shocked to find Matty, his first love, in the local church. More complications ensue, but they manage to find their way with the help of the older couples we met in the author's previous books. The romances are intense and passionate, and the rest of the story is compelling.

I received an ARC for free from BookSirens and happily left this review.

[Micalah · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you pick up an Ariella Talix Historical Romance you can expect drama, trauma, intrigue, angst, strong main characters, action, suspense, love, and steam. The only thing that differs in her novels from your average romance is they usually involve three main characters, in this book it was two MMC and one FMC, Nico, Eden, and Matty. Casting Vows was no different. This is book 3 in a series, I did read book 2, but have not had a chance to read book one. The way the characters struggle with their own experiences, emotions, and traumas I love to watch them progress and grow throughout the books. I enjoy how the characters in each book stay throughout the series to come back around and support the new characters throughout their experiences, it’s not so much that you have to read them in any particular order just an added bonus if you have read previous books.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable and engaging MMF historical romance. I was transported back to Los Angeles in the 1880’s by the descriptive narrative and the historical details. Nicolo Stark-James is ready to love with his whole heart, but discovers that some despicable people want to ruin it. Meanwhile, Matty Remington longs to feel safe rather than trapped. As a man of strong faith he’s trying to reconcile his love for God with his personal desires. Eden Godwin could be the one to hold all three of them together, if only her future was her own. She must decide between love and saving her family from ruin. The storyline kept me happily turning the pages. I loved the three main characters, Nicolo, Matty and Eden and felt invested in their story. The chemistry between the three of them sizzled off the page and led to some steamy MMF scenes. Another entertaining story in the ‘Hearts of Gold’ series.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series which is just as great as the previous two books. This is a series that keeps getting better and better with each book. I enjoy this author’s ability to pull me into the character’s world with ease and have me turning pages fast. This is a well written story that is fast paced and engaging. A story of second chances, past loves and tough challenges. Three people who need each other to face family challenges, faith in God and a future that is left in another’s hands to decide. I enjoyed these characters and what they brought to the story. They are connectable and made the story easy to read. An entertaining story that takes place in the 1880’s and one you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this book.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Casting Vows (Hearts of Gold Series) by Ariella Talix

Casting Vows is the third book in the Hearts of Gold Series and is a Historical Romance that will have you turning the pages till the end. I’ve read other books by this author and this may be my favorite yet. I love a good Historical Romance and this one definitely checks all those boxes. The characters are relatable and fully developed and make the story come to life. This is a fast paced story about three people and second chances at love , tough love and past loves. A story that had my emotions all over the place but in a good way. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Casting Vows (Hearts of Gold Series) by Ariella Talix. This is a historical romance set in the 1800s that will keep you flipping pages late in the night. Its the story of Matty & Nico who are great friends at a young age. Eventually Matty is taken in by Nico's family to get him away from his drunken father. Nico goes off to college and returns with a new girlfriend in tow, Eden. Nico and Matty have always had feeling for one another so when Eden enters the picture its a new playing field. Nico doesn't think he will see his friend again but when he returns with Eden he is shocked to find Matty home. Can the three make a relationship work out with all three of them? This is a very steamy, romantic, historical read that will keep you flipping pages late into the night.

[Shadel ayerbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Casting Vows (Hearts of Gold Series) by Ariella Talix is a great historical romance series

Nicolo Stark-James has a deep love for someone, but he discovers that there are vile people out there who would do anything to destroy it. Matty Remington is confined and needs to be safe. He needs to balance his love for God with his own desires, even if he has a deep faith and a compassionate heart. Eden Godwin may be the one keeping them all together, but she doesn't get to choose what happens to her after this. She must choose between being loved and keeping her family afloat.

Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings us into their world. I couldn’t put the book down.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite authors! I’ve read quite a few of their books because they are able to craft such an engaging experience of a story. The way they can pull you in almost immediately and somehow hold your attention the entire way through is incredible. There is plenty of action, danger, romance, and steam within these pages. I enjoyed how the “alternate” lifestyle was written instead of making it taboo. There are definitely some twists and turns that took me by complete surprise as well. It’s an emotional rollercoaster even from the beginning with Nico’s poor beaten body. The setting is also absolutely perfect. I felt transported to L.A. in the 1800’s! If you enjoy historical romances with a beloved MMF trope, please don’t pass this up! You’ll love it and go back for more!

[Michelle Heyboer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for a reunion that promises to be unforgettable! Eden is caught in the whirlwind of first love, and the uncertainty of the future adds to the excitement. The book is a masterpiece, brilliantly crafted around three dynamic characters. It's important to note that this is an MMF romance, so it may not be everyone's cup of tea. However, if that's your genre, then you're in for a treat! This book is a rollercoaster of emotions – it's poignant, packed with action, terrifying at turns, and undeniably steamy. Above all, it's an exceptional read that leaves you eager for more. If you're on the lookout for a book that offers all this and more, don't hesitate to dive into this one. The series promises even more thrills, and I'm just as excited to see where it goes next!

[Carol Demmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing story. Nico has loved Matty since they were boys and when Matty's life was put into danger, he slips away in the middle of the night without saying good-bye. Nico is devastated and he doesn't find him until he seeks a priest to wed him to Eden. He is immediately overwhelmed with his love for Matty and for Eden at the same time. This book explores the unconventional love that two men had and want, and how that love will involve Eden who loves Nico but sees that he also loves Matty. I always loved reading Ariella's books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

THis was a great 5 star read. This is the third book in the series and I really enjoyed it. I really liked all three characters and their story. Nicolo, Eden and Matty bring you into their world and their journeys. My emotions were all over the place. Matty and Nicolo have a history and when Nicolo returns home with Eden and sees Matty old feelings come back to life. Can these three have a HEA together? What will the final decision be?
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more from this author. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was going to happen for these three. If you like MMF and historical romance, 1-click and get started today.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a well written historical romance story that has the added element of being a MMF romance story. It is a book that is really easy to engaged with and become invested in what is happening.
I loved the dynamics between the characters. They each seemed to have so much to give and their interactions were well crafted and interesting. I thought the author did a great job at intertwining them together. The overall story line was one that I enjoyed. It was well developed and I enjoyed the pace the author had created. This book is a great addition to the series and one I thoroughly enjoyed.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, there's a lot going on in this book. I loved it.

The characters are engaging, especially Matty, and I loved seeing the people from previous books show up again. You could still enjoy this book without reading them in order though.

For me, it was just the right mix of steam and plot, and I learned some things I hadn't known about that happened in early Los Angeles.

All in all, I highly recommend Casting Vows.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[itsallaboutbooksandmacarons · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the fast pace of the book incredibly engaging. It kept me eagerly flipping through the pages, eager to see what would happen next. Each character's growth throughout the story was a highlight for me, as they all faced challenges and evolved in meaningful ways.

Witnessing them achieve their goals was immensely satisfying and added depth to the narrative. Overall, the combination of a swift narrative pace and compelling character development made the book a thoroughly enjoyable read for me.