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Virgin River #6
Temptation Ridge
Welcome back to Virgin River with the books that started it all…
Shelby McIntyre has big plans–plans that include finding Mr. Right. Her dream man will have a clean–shaven jaw, creases in his pants and hopefully an advanced degree. What she gets is rugged Luke Riordan.
At twenty–five, after five years as her mother's caregiver, it's time for Shelby to experience freedom and adventure. Time for travel, college, and romance. But when she visits Virgin River, she runs into Luke Riordan, decidedly not whom she has in mind.
A handsome Blackhawk pilot, Luke exited the army after twenty years, four wars and having been shot out of the sky three times. At thirty–eight he's tough and jaded. His major was in one–night stands, with a minor in commitment avoidance.
Technically, these two are all wrong for one another. But sometimes what you want and what you need are two different things…two very good things.
Shelby McIntyre has big plans–plans that include finding Mr. Right. Her dream man will have a clean–shaven jaw, creases in his pants and hopefully an advanced degree. What she gets is rugged Luke Riordan.
At twenty–five, after five years as her mother's caregiver, it's time for Shelby to experience freedom and adventure. Time for travel, college, and romance. But when she visits Virgin River, she runs into Luke Riordan, decidedly not whom she has in mind.
A handsome Blackhawk pilot, Luke exited the army after twenty years, four wars and having been shot out of the sky three times. At thirty–eight he's tough and jaded. His major was in one–night stands, with a minor in commitment avoidance.
Technically, these two are all wrong for one another. But sometimes what you want and what you need are two different things…two very good things.
419 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2009
3803 people are currently reading
10843 people want to read
About the author
Robyn Carr
161 books12.6k followers Robyn Carr is a RITA® Award-winning, eleven-time #1 New York Times bestselling author of over sixty novels, including the critically acclaimed Virgin River series and Sullivan's Crossing series. Robyn's new women's fiction novel, THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB, will be released in January 2024. The new hit Sullivan's Crossing TV series (season 1) inspired by Robyn's book series was released in the USA in the fall of 2023! Plus, season 5 of the worldwide fan-favorite Virgin River TV Series is now streaming on Netflix (July 2023) with two holiday episodes coming November 30, 2023. Both TV series have been renewed for another season!
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,136 reviews
June 29, 2023
I was genuinely moved by the emotion in the initial chapters. Once you delve into the story, you'll grasp what it is about and feel it as well. I didn't find myself particularly engrossed in Shelby and Luke's romance story. I anxiously awaited the appearance of our beloved characters, and they certainly made their presence felt. One aspect I appreciate about this series is the continued focus on the original characters who set the foundation for this storyline.
December 4, 2013
Wow, wow, wow! Another big winner by the talented Robyn Carr--this may be my favorite of the series since book #1, "Virgin River". There was just something about these characters that grabbed me emotionally. I loved the strength and courage of the heroine, Shelby McIntyre, who was determined to live her life to the fullest after spending years as her dying mother's devoted caretaker. And I loved the hero, former Army Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan, who may not have been what Shelby thought she was looking for, but boy was he ever perfect for her. Be sure to have a big box of Kleenex close by, especially if you're a big marshmallow like me, because you'll need it with this one.
After spending the last five years of her life caring for her beloved mother who was slowly dying from ALS, 25 year old Shelby has finally laid her Mom to rest, sold her house and packed her belongings, and is ready to move on with her life. It's time to get started on some things that have been on the back burner: take a vacation, see the world, enroll in college, get a job, and maybe find Mr. Right along the way. Shelby's version of Mr. Right is a clean cut guy in a polo shirt, styled hair and an advanced degree. But before she gets started on her grand adventure, she wants to spend some quality time with her uncle, retired Army General Walt Booth, at his ranch in the tiny California town of Virgin River. On her way into town she meets up with sexy, cocky, "he's so not what I'm looking for but boy I've got to have him" Luke Riordan.
Luke's 38, recently retired from the Army, and is looking to possibly settle down somewhere and get on with his post-army life. Luke and one of his four brothers recently acquired some property (complete with some run-down cabins) in Virgin River, with the idea of fixing them up and selling them for a profit. When he meets Shelby he's instantly attracted but thinks she's a teenager, and totally off limits. When he finds out she's actually 25, he's intrigued, but keeps telling himself it would be wrong, wrong, wrong to start something with her. He's not looking for love and marriage--he's tried that once and it was disasterous and humiliating--and Shelby looks like a forever kind of girl. But being around Shelby week after week is so tempting, and when she lets it be known that she is in fact not looking for marriage or forever--it would interfere with her plans--Luke is ready to give in. They begin a sizzling hot affair, and they are absolutely perfect for each other. They both think they can handle the no strings thing they've got going on, and that everything will be fine and dandy when Shelby eventually starts her new life in a few months. Neither expected that they would each fall head-over heels in love--but are they ready to admit that? Will Shelby give up her big plans for the future if Luke asks her to stay? Will Luke be willing to trust Shelby with his heart, or is he too battle scarred from his past relationships to even try? And can either of these two live without the other?
Loved, loved, loved everything about this one, from the main romance between Luke and Shelby, to the other romances between Shelby's Uncle Walt and former movie star Muriel, and Dr. Cameron Michaels surprising romance with one of Vanni's ("Second Chance Pass") girlfriends. I enjoyed catching up with all the town 'doings' in Virgin River. There's a birth, surprising pregnancies, another near town disaster where a lot of residents become heroes, and sadly, a death of a beloved character. There's some new characters introduced, including an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome who Luke befriends, the introduction of one of Vanni's flight attendant friends, and most importantly, the introduction of Luke's mother and two of Luke's 4 brothers. (Please Robyn Carr, write a story about at least one of them!)
The ending had me tied in knots! My heart nearly broke when Shelby thought stubborn Luke couldn't give her all that she needed, and that she wasn't enough for him (tissue alert) and decided to get on with her life as originally planned. Thank God for Luke's younger brother Aiden, who came through with a heart-to-heart with Shelby, revealing things about Luke that Shelby never knew. I loved when Shelby returned to confront Luke with what she knew, and when Luke finally declared his true feelings to Shelby, I just about melted.
Once again, the author's descriptive narrative immerses you in the tiny California town and it's colorful characters, and before long you'll be turning the pages so fast, dying to find out what's going to happen. I could not put this one down--I just fell in love with the hero and heroine--and it just about killed me when it looked like they wouldn't make a go of it. This is definitely one couple I hope to read more about. I'm also interested to see how pediatrician Cameron makes out with his budding romance--he has a lot of hurdles to overcome. And the 'senior' romance between Walt and reluctant movie star Muriel may be coming to a crossroads, and I can't wait to find out what direction it will lead to. These are all the reasons that I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in the series, "Paradise Valley".
If you are a fan of contemporary romance, do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in this wonderful series. It's sexy, hot, has colorful characters, interesting happenings, and most importantly, is very romantic. Hopefully there's many more books to come--5 big stars!
After spending the last five years of her life caring for her beloved mother who was slowly dying from ALS, 25 year old Shelby has finally laid her Mom to rest, sold her house and packed her belongings, and is ready to move on with her life. It's time to get started on some things that have been on the back burner: take a vacation, see the world, enroll in college, get a job, and maybe find Mr. Right along the way. Shelby's version of Mr. Right is a clean cut guy in a polo shirt, styled hair and an advanced degree. But before she gets started on her grand adventure, she wants to spend some quality time with her uncle, retired Army General Walt Booth, at his ranch in the tiny California town of Virgin River. On her way into town she meets up with sexy, cocky, "he's so not what I'm looking for but boy I've got to have him" Luke Riordan.
Luke's 38, recently retired from the Army, and is looking to possibly settle down somewhere and get on with his post-army life. Luke and one of his four brothers recently acquired some property (complete with some run-down cabins) in Virgin River, with the idea of fixing them up and selling them for a profit. When he meets Shelby he's instantly attracted but thinks she's a teenager, and totally off limits. When he finds out she's actually 25, he's intrigued, but keeps telling himself it would be wrong, wrong, wrong to start something with her. He's not looking for love and marriage--he's tried that once and it was disasterous and humiliating--and Shelby looks like a forever kind of girl. But being around Shelby week after week is so tempting, and when she lets it be known that she is in fact not looking for marriage or forever--it would interfere with her plans--Luke is ready to give in. They begin a sizzling hot affair, and they are absolutely perfect for each other. They both think they can handle the no strings thing they've got going on, and that everything will be fine and dandy when Shelby eventually starts her new life in a few months. Neither expected that they would each fall head-over heels in love--but are they ready to admit that? Will Shelby give up her big plans for the future if Luke asks her to stay? Will Luke be willing to trust Shelby with his heart, or is he too battle scarred from his past relationships to even try? And can either of these two live without the other?
Loved, loved, loved everything about this one, from the main romance between Luke and Shelby, to the other romances between Shelby's Uncle Walt and former movie star Muriel, and Dr. Cameron Michaels surprising romance with one of Vanni's ("Second Chance Pass") girlfriends. I enjoyed catching up with all the town 'doings' in Virgin River. There's a birth, surprising pregnancies, another near town disaster where a lot of residents become heroes, and sadly, a death of a beloved character. There's some new characters introduced, including an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome who Luke befriends, the introduction of one of Vanni's flight attendant friends, and most importantly, the introduction of Luke's mother and two of Luke's 4 brothers. (Please Robyn Carr, write a story about at least one of them!)
The ending had me tied in knots! My heart nearly broke when Shelby thought stubborn Luke couldn't give her all that she needed, and that she wasn't enough for him (tissue alert) and decided to get on with her life as originally planned. Thank God for Luke's younger brother Aiden, who came through with a heart-to-heart with Shelby, revealing things about Luke that Shelby never knew. I loved when Shelby returned to confront Luke with what she knew, and when Luke finally declared his true feelings to Shelby, I just about melted.
Once again, the author's descriptive narrative immerses you in the tiny California town and it's colorful characters, and before long you'll be turning the pages so fast, dying to find out what's going to happen. I could not put this one down--I just fell in love with the hero and heroine--and it just about killed me when it looked like they wouldn't make a go of it. This is definitely one couple I hope to read more about. I'm also interested to see how pediatrician Cameron makes out with his budding romance--he has a lot of hurdles to overcome. And the 'senior' romance between Walt and reluctant movie star Muriel may be coming to a crossroads, and I can't wait to find out what direction it will lead to. These are all the reasons that I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in the series, "Paradise Valley".
If you are a fan of contemporary romance, do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in this wonderful series. It's sexy, hot, has colorful characters, interesting happenings, and most importantly, is very romantic. Hopefully there's many more books to come--5 big stars!
June 3, 2016
Shelby was amazing. Luke tried my patience, but I still loved him, too. I can understand his reluctance because of his past, but come on! And don't make the decision for your partner of what they want or need.
I'm looking forward to more of Abby and Cameron. I wanted to shake Abby, though.
Walt and Muriel have a great thing going, and I'm thrilled that we get to see romance with characters of this age. I mean, look at Harrison Ford! He's well past Walt's 60 (or is it 61? too lazy to look up) and Muriel's 56, but he's pretty darn sexy! Gives me something to look forward to! I want more!
I'm looking forward to more of Abby and Cameron. I wanted to shake Abby, though.
Walt and Muriel have a great thing going, and I'm thrilled that we get to see romance with characters of this age. I mean, look at Harrison Ford! He's well past Walt's 60 (or is it 61? too lazy to look up) and Muriel's 56, but he's pretty darn sexy! Gives me something to look forward to! I want more!
Read
August 29, 2015Please bear with me as I stumble through this review. I’ve been sitting staring blankly at the screen for a full minute, because I’m still not sure what I think of this book. It has some absolutely wonderful moments, and some powerfully tragic ones, too. But it seems like it’s taken me six books to finally start getting irritated with things that have bothered other readers right from the start.
For a start: Mel. I’ve never been particularly bothered by her character or the author’s penchant for using Mel’s character to promote women’s health issues (apart from the disastrous scene in the last book); but in this one I could totally see how readers would find her pushy and abrasive.
I was particularly bothered by the way she approached asking Preacher to cook healthier, low-fat food because she had gained weight. For a start, there was no asking, there was only demanding, and her approach was unnecessarily bullying and hostile. I didn’t get that at all – they are supposed to be friends, and Preacher is a gorgeous man.
Apart from that, if you’re not happy with what Preacher cooks, try making your own food. Even if you can’t cook, you can throw together a salad for goodness sake. No one is shoving the food down your throat. See? It bothered me. I’m sure many readers would say that is typical Mel behaviour, but I haven’t seen her in that light before.
I also felt that Mel ambushing virgin Shelby and submitting her to an intrusive on-the-spot pelvic exam without just cause (and detailing the whole thing to the reader) was a bit much. The overload of pregnancies still doesn’t bother me (albeit I can see that the overwhelming male response is implausible), but that scene did. I don’t like pushy people, and I saw that trait in Mel in this installment.
Finally, the author’s transitions to the parallel storylines and secondary romances are jarring. Some of them just came completely out of nowhere. We’re going along nicely, settling into the story and immersing ourselves in the Virgin River life and BAM! Along comes what appears to be a completely unrelated and random introduction of a totally different story. What? Who? Why?
It’s not that I even dislike these other stories - I actually enjoyed them a great deal - but there’s got to be a better way of introducing them, and crossing to them. It’s just not working and is very jarring for the reader and serves to completely pull you out of the other storylines. I was first attracted to the original Virgin River novel because it gave a feeling of comfort, but this is quite an uncomfortable way of reading, no matter how appealing the stories.
Finally, what is with the need to insert a random, large scale tragedy or threat to the town? I know I’m not reading romantic suspense here, so I don’t expect the author to randomly throw in some kind of danger for the sake of action or suspense. And that’s what it feels like. It just doesn’t fit with the general pace and feel of the novel, no matter how well it is written.
This is why I’m feeling conflicted about this one. I finish typing all that, and I’m wanting to give the book a low rating. Then, realising that I’ve said nothing of the plot, I get to thinking of the storylines and characters, and how much I enjoyed them. Then I want to give it a high rating. Probably we’ll end up somewhere in the middle, but I shall keep typing and see how I feel.
The primary romance in this one is between lovely 25 year old virgin Shelby, and 38 year old ex-army, emotionally unavailable Luke. I really enjoyed their romance. Neither was at all what the other was looking for, yet they somehow fit perfectly. They made it clear to each other that there would be no future, but neither was prepared for how hard they would fall. I wondered how the author was going to manage their HEA without the use of a magic wand, and I think it was handled realistically and with great emotion.
I really appreciated that Shelby and Luke’s story remained the focus of the book throughout. There was still a lot going on, but they remained central for the entire course of the book, start to finish, which is what I expect from a romance. The previous book in the series didn’t end with the primary couple’s HEA – they got that out of the way and disappeared before the end of the book. Thankfully the author got it right this time.
I also loved the introduction of Art’s character, a man with Downs syndrome, and I thought the author did a wonderful job with Art’s characterisation and the details surrounding his arrival in Virgin River. I absolutely loved reading about him and I hope we get to see lots more of him.
I didn’t expect to see much more of Cam after the last book, so I was surprised, and ultimately pleased to see him back in Virgin River again. I really enjoyed his storyline and as it is still unresolved, I’m looking forward to seeing how it progresses. He really deserves a HEA and I’m looking forward to seeing him get it. Oh, but the circumstances facilitating his return were devastating.
I’m not a reader who is often moved to tears over a book, but this one had me bawling. I’m not talking a quiet tear or two – this was noisy, messy sobbing. Unbelievable. I can’t remember the last time that happened. It says a lot about the author’s characterisations and ability to completely draw the reader in and have them connect and care about the characters so deeply, and in my case, unconsciously.
So how do I rate this book? I’m too tired now to continue arguing with myself over whether I should just disregard the parts that didn’t work for me and give this a four; then thinking about the fact that there were parts that irritated me, which means that it’s maybe closer to a three. Even if I go for 3.5, do I round up or down? Somebody stop me. What am I doing spending so much time agonising over a rating on GR anyway?
For a start: Mel. I’ve never been particularly bothered by her character or the author’s penchant for using Mel’s character to promote women’s health issues (apart from the disastrous scene in the last book); but in this one I could totally see how readers would find her pushy and abrasive.
I was particularly bothered by the way she approached asking Preacher to cook healthier, low-fat food because she had gained weight. For a start, there was no asking, there was only demanding, and her approach was unnecessarily bullying and hostile. I didn’t get that at all – they are supposed to be friends, and Preacher is a gorgeous man.
Apart from that, if you’re not happy with what Preacher cooks, try making your own food. Even if you can’t cook, you can throw together a salad for goodness sake. No one is shoving the food down your throat. See? It bothered me. I’m sure many readers would say that is typical Mel behaviour, but I haven’t seen her in that light before.
I also felt that Mel ambushing virgin Shelby and submitting her to an intrusive on-the-spot pelvic exam without just cause (and detailing the whole thing to the reader) was a bit much. The overload of pregnancies still doesn’t bother me (albeit I can see that the overwhelming male response is implausible), but that scene did. I don’t like pushy people, and I saw that trait in Mel in this installment.
Finally, the author’s transitions to the parallel storylines and secondary romances are jarring. Some of them just came completely out of nowhere. We’re going along nicely, settling into the story and immersing ourselves in the Virgin River life and BAM! Along comes what appears to be a completely unrelated and random introduction of a totally different story. What? Who? Why?
It’s not that I even dislike these other stories - I actually enjoyed them a great deal - but there’s got to be a better way of introducing them, and crossing to them. It’s just not working and is very jarring for the reader and serves to completely pull you out of the other storylines. I was first attracted to the original Virgin River novel because it gave a feeling of comfort, but this is quite an uncomfortable way of reading, no matter how appealing the stories.
Finally, what is with the need to insert a random, large scale tragedy or threat to the town? I know I’m not reading romantic suspense here, so I don’t expect the author to randomly throw in some kind of danger for the sake of action or suspense. And that’s what it feels like. It just doesn’t fit with the general pace and feel of the novel, no matter how well it is written.
This is why I’m feeling conflicted about this one. I finish typing all that, and I’m wanting to give the book a low rating. Then, realising that I’ve said nothing of the plot, I get to thinking of the storylines and characters, and how much I enjoyed them. Then I want to give it a high rating. Probably we’ll end up somewhere in the middle, but I shall keep typing and see how I feel.
The primary romance in this one is between lovely 25 year old virgin Shelby, and 38 year old ex-army, emotionally unavailable Luke. I really enjoyed their romance. Neither was at all what the other was looking for, yet they somehow fit perfectly. They made it clear to each other that there would be no future, but neither was prepared for how hard they would fall. I wondered how the author was going to manage their HEA without the use of a magic wand, and I think it was handled realistically and with great emotion.
I really appreciated that Shelby and Luke’s story remained the focus of the book throughout. There was still a lot going on, but they remained central for the entire course of the book, start to finish, which is what I expect from a romance. The previous book in the series didn’t end with the primary couple’s HEA – they got that out of the way and disappeared before the end of the book. Thankfully the author got it right this time.
I also loved the introduction of Art’s character, a man with Downs syndrome, and I thought the author did a wonderful job with Art’s characterisation and the details surrounding his arrival in Virgin River. I absolutely loved reading about him and I hope we get to see lots more of him.
I didn’t expect to see much more of Cam after the last book, so I was surprised, and ultimately pleased to see him back in Virgin River again. I really enjoyed his storyline and as it is still unresolved, I’m looking forward to seeing how it progresses. He really deserves a HEA and I’m looking forward to seeing him get it. Oh, but the circumstances facilitating his return were devastating.
I’m not a reader who is often moved to tears over a book, but this one had me bawling. I’m not talking a quiet tear or two – this was noisy, messy sobbing. Unbelievable. I can’t remember the last time that happened. It says a lot about the author’s characterisations and ability to completely draw the reader in and have them connect and care about the characters so deeply, and in my case, unconsciously.
So how do I rate this book? I’m too tired now to continue arguing with myself over whether I should just disregard the parts that didn’t work for me and give this a four; then thinking about the fact that there were parts that irritated me, which means that it’s maybe closer to a three. Even if I go for 3.5, do I round up or down? Somebody stop me. What am I doing spending so much time agonising over a rating on GR anyway?
April 8, 2021
So here we are joining the popular Virgin River. I can see why so many people love this series. Cause the romance is not just romance. But more than that.
For me, I enjoy this book OK. I do not mind the length that is 13 hours long. But something in the story is bit repeatative.
I like the fact that the romance is not just between Shelby and Luke but for people around them. I do wish Cameron and Abby has their own book.
Overall, OK read.
3 stars
For me, I enjoy this book OK. I do not mind the length that is 13 hours long. But something in the story is bit repeatative.
I like the fact that the romance is not just between Shelby and Luke but for people around them. I do wish Cameron and Abby has their own book.
Overall, OK read.
3 stars
October 9, 2014
5+ stars – Contemporary Romance
I’ve been reading this series straight through from the very beginning over the past week and have found myself totally and happily immersed in the charming, small town community life of Virgin River.
The spotlight couple of Temptation Ridge is Shelby and Luke, and I really loved both characters and enjoyed their realistic romantic progression, but I wanted more of them and the ending left me yearning a bit. For some reason, this time around, the parallel storylines seemed more like a distraction and didn’t quite work as well for me as they did in the previous books. Maybe it’s because Shelby and Luke’s relationship is more complex and his personal issues and their obstacles didn’t seem to be totally resolved in the end.
Shelby, General Walt Booth’s niece and Vanni’s cousin, is a truly lovable heroine. After being the sole caregiver for her terminally ill mother for the past five years and enduring the pain of her loss, at age 25 she’s ready to face the world and wants to experience all the things she’s missed out on: school, travel, adventure, sex, and first love. Luke Riordan is a 38-year-old tough-edged ex-army Blackhawk pilot who recently retired after serving 20 years in hot combat zones like Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. He comes to Virgin River to restore some cabins he bought for investment property and for some much needed R&R. The last thing he wants is any sort of romantic entanglement or commitment, especially with an innocent, 25-year-old virgin with a retired army general for an uncle. He likes one night stands, doesn’t believe in love, and has no desire for a wife and kids. Shelby might be young, but she’s honest, emotionally strong, independent, direct, and knows exactly what she wants...and that’s Luke! Of course, Luke has a very painful past that’s scarred him emotionally and made him cynical of women, trust, and love, but Shelby is patient and determined to win his heart. They might be the last thing each expected to need or want, but wind up being exactly what they both need. I just wish more of the story had been devoted to their romance and would have liked a little bit more conclusion to their HEA, but hopefully Carr will give their relationship some face time in future books.
One disappointment for me was the super quick wrap-up of Joe and Nikki’s relationship from Second Chance Pass. I was really hoping they would be a spotlight couple and wanted more of their romance. Instead, we got another side tryst beginning between Nikki and Vanni’s friend Abby and Dr. Cameron Michaels, which I’m guessing will be continued in the next book, Paradise Valley.
Walt and Muriel’s vivacious relationship continues to grow, and their scenes are funny and sweet. Luke's friendship and emotional bond with a sweet-natured runaway with Down syndrome named Art is a nice addition to the story, and of course, the whole town embraces him as one of their own.
There’s the death of a beloved member of the community, an accident involving a school bus that provides some tense drama, and some funny moments with Mel giving Jack and Preacher the third degree over making her fat.
So, although it’s not my favorite book of the series, it’s still an engaging, touching addition to the extraordinary Virgin River series and worthy of big 5 stars!
Anyone think we’ll see more of Luke’s brothers in future books? Wouldn’t Sean and Aiden Riordan make fine Virgin River romantic heroes?
I’ve been reading this series straight through from the very beginning over the past week and have found myself totally and happily immersed in the charming, small town community life of Virgin River.
The spotlight couple of Temptation Ridge is Shelby and Luke, and I really loved both characters and enjoyed their realistic romantic progression, but I wanted more of them and the ending left me yearning a bit. For some reason, this time around, the parallel storylines seemed more like a distraction and didn’t quite work as well for me as they did in the previous books. Maybe it’s because Shelby and Luke’s relationship is more complex and his personal issues and their obstacles didn’t seem to be totally resolved in the end.
Shelby, General Walt Booth’s niece and Vanni’s cousin, is a truly lovable heroine. After being the sole caregiver for her terminally ill mother for the past five years and enduring the pain of her loss, at age 25 she’s ready to face the world and wants to experience all the things she’s missed out on: school, travel, adventure, sex, and first love. Luke Riordan is a 38-year-old tough-edged ex-army Blackhawk pilot who recently retired after serving 20 years in hot combat zones like Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. He comes to Virgin River to restore some cabins he bought for investment property and for some much needed R&R. The last thing he wants is any sort of romantic entanglement or commitment, especially with an innocent, 25-year-old virgin with a retired army general for an uncle. He likes one night stands, doesn’t believe in love, and has no desire for a wife and kids. Shelby might be young, but she’s honest, emotionally strong, independent, direct, and knows exactly what she wants...and that’s Luke! Of course, Luke has a very painful past that’s scarred him emotionally and made him cynical of women, trust, and love, but Shelby is patient and determined to win his heart. They might be the last thing each expected to need or want, but wind up being exactly what they both need. I just wish more of the story had been devoted to their romance and would have liked a little bit more conclusion to their HEA, but hopefully Carr will give their relationship some face time in future books.
One disappointment for me was the super quick wrap-up of Joe and Nikki’s relationship from Second Chance Pass. I was really hoping they would be a spotlight couple and wanted more of their romance. Instead, we got another side tryst beginning between Nikki and Vanni’s friend Abby and Dr. Cameron Michaels, which I’m guessing will be continued in the next book, Paradise Valley.
Walt and Muriel’s vivacious relationship continues to grow, and their scenes are funny and sweet. Luke's friendship and emotional bond with a sweet-natured runaway with Down syndrome named Art is a nice addition to the story, and of course, the whole town embraces him as one of their own.
There’s the death of a beloved member of the community, an accident involving a school bus that provides some tense drama, and some funny moments with Mel giving Jack and Preacher the third degree over making her fat.
So, although it’s not my favorite book of the series, it’s still an engaging, touching addition to the extraordinary Virgin River series and worthy of big 5 stars!
Anyone think we’ll see more of Luke’s brothers in future books? Wouldn’t Sean and Aiden Riordan make fine Virgin River romantic heroes?
January 2, 2013
I know there are a lot of fans who are thrilled with the updates about previous main characters, but I haven't been reading these in order. I was really bored reading about characters I didn't care about, and there were a lot of them. Not just the previous main characters, but newly introduced characters that were thrown in because the author wanted to have three romance plot lines. I'm usually all for secondary characters but one too many things were going on in this book.
January 9, 2020
4 Stars
These books are the perfect "getting into the holiday spirit" type of read. They have a quaint, almost Hallmark-movie type feel to them that leaves me feeling uplifted. That said, I don't think I'd have the patience to read them, as they're not as couple centered as I prefer in my romances. However, I've loved listening to them as I go about my day.
These books are the perfect "getting into the holiday spirit" type of read. They have a quaint, almost Hallmark-movie type feel to them that leaves me feeling uplifted. That said, I don't think I'd have the patience to read them, as they're not as couple centered as I prefer in my romances. However, I've loved listening to them as I go about my day.
May 18, 2023
Dit is een boek uit de Virgin River reeks. Hoewel ik de vorige boeken niet gelezen heb, ken ik al verschillende personages omdat ik de serie kijk op Netflix.
In dit boek gaat het vooral over Luke en Shelby.
Luke Riordan is een 38jarige man die een paar blokhutten en een huis gekocht heeft in Virgin River, met de bedoeling alles op de knappen en daarna terug te verkopen.
Shelby is een 25jarige jonge vrouw die jarenlang voor haar zieke moeder gezorgd heeft en na diens dood nu een tijdje bij haar oom Walt Booth komt logeren voordat ze wil besluiten hoe ze verder wil met haar leven.
Al bij de eerste ontmoeting tussen Luke en Shelby slaan de vonken over. Maar Luke, die al heel wat meegemaakt heeft, is niet van plan om zich te binden...
Natuurlijk gebeuren er nog veel andere dingen in Virgin River. Tussen Walt en Muriel bloeit er iets moois op, en de nieuwe dokter Cameron komt terug oog in oog te staan met de vrouw waarmee hij een heel mooie nacht beleefde, en die nu zwanger blijkt van een tweeling. Maar ze was vastbesloten om hem niets te laten weten, omdat ze een relatie niet op zo'n manier wilde beginnen. Maar beslist het lot nu anders? Dat blijft eigenlijk nog een vraagteken in dit boek, hun hernieuwde kennismaking is nog maar pril.
Er gebeurt ook iets vreselijks: op een ijzige en ijskoude dag, slipt de schoolbus en dreigt in een ravijn te vallen.
En dan is er Art, een 30jarige man met het syndroom van Down, die Luke aantrof in één van zijn blokhutten, en het was duidelijk dat Art mishandeld was. Luke trekt zich het lot van de jongeman aan en laat hem blijven en zorgt dat hij alles heeft wat hij nodig heeft, niet alleen in materieel opzicht, maar ook of sociaal vlak.
Dit was een meeslepend boek. Ik vind het leuk om de lotgevallen van de mensen van Virgin River te lezen, en met nieuwe personages kennis te maken.
Uitstekende feelgood roman zou ik zeggen.
In dit boek gaat het vooral over Luke en Shelby.
Luke Riordan is een 38jarige man die een paar blokhutten en een huis gekocht heeft in Virgin River, met de bedoeling alles op de knappen en daarna terug te verkopen.
Shelby is een 25jarige jonge vrouw die jarenlang voor haar zieke moeder gezorgd heeft en na diens dood nu een tijdje bij haar oom Walt Booth komt logeren voordat ze wil besluiten hoe ze verder wil met haar leven.
Al bij de eerste ontmoeting tussen Luke en Shelby slaan de vonken over. Maar Luke, die al heel wat meegemaakt heeft, is niet van plan om zich te binden...
Natuurlijk gebeuren er nog veel andere dingen in Virgin River. Tussen Walt en Muriel bloeit er iets moois op, en de nieuwe dokter Cameron komt terug oog in oog te staan met de vrouw waarmee hij een heel mooie nacht beleefde, en die nu zwanger blijkt van een tweeling. Maar ze was vastbesloten om hem niets te laten weten, omdat ze een relatie niet op zo'n manier wilde beginnen. Maar beslist het lot nu anders? Dat blijft eigenlijk nog een vraagteken in dit boek, hun hernieuwde kennismaking is nog maar pril.
Er gebeurt ook iets vreselijks: op een ijzige en ijskoude dag, slipt de schoolbus en dreigt in een ravijn te vallen.
En dan is er Art, een 30jarige man met het syndroom van Down, die Luke aantrof in één van zijn blokhutten, en het was duidelijk dat Art mishandeld was. Luke trekt zich het lot van de jongeman aan en laat hem blijven en zorgt dat hij alles heeft wat hij nodig heeft, niet alleen in materieel opzicht, maar ook of sociaal vlak.
Dit was een meeslepend boek. Ik vind het leuk om de lotgevallen van de mensen van Virgin River te lezen, en met nieuwe personages kennis te maken.
Uitstekende feelgood roman zou ik zeggen.
February 26, 2009
Fantastic addition to the series. I agree with other reviews who rate this right up their with book 1 Virgin River. (I also agree that it was difficult not to read in one sitting!! I was up all night!) The main romance in this book is with Luke and Shelby, and it was a beautiful romance. Shelby is the kind of heroine I like to read: smart, fun, level-headed. We also get to see some continuing characters as well as meet a few new ones. There are a lot of emotions in this book from happy, funny, tearful, steamy, suspensful and more. I can't wait for the next book that comes out next month. I also hope we get a Christmas book again to hold us over until the next series comes out in 2010. I am hooked on this series.
July 8, 2011
In this journey back to Virgin River, we find three romances in play. The main storyline involves Shelby McIntyre, who is Walt Booth's niece. Shelby returns following her mother's death and after having sold their home. She plans to stay with Walt and his family for a while and then plans to start college next year. That is until she meets Luke Riordan on the way into town. Luke has recently retired from the Army and plans to decompress in Virgin River for the time being while he renovates the cabins on his riverfront property that he purchased with his brother, Sean, some years ago. Luke is 38 and Shelby is 25. He's skittish about her age and is commitment phobic. She's got him in her crosshairs.
Meanwhile, the romance between Walt and Muriel moves into higher gear. They finally realize that this is a friendship that's got some traction and finally acknowledge they are a couple.
Lastly, Abby MacCall Crawford, one of Vanni's best friends from her flight attendant days, is dealing with the demise of her marriage. She's part of Nikki's wedding party but doesn't want to let her friends know she's in trouble, even though they sense something is off. Abby has a memorable night with Cameron Michaels after the wedding (he just happened to be having dinner at the same hotel as the wedding reception). You may remember Cameron as the doctor Vanni's former mother-in-law was trying to set her up with following Matt's death. Cameron is hooked but Abby is pretty gun shy.
These romances are all going on in the midst of the day to day living of the other residents of Virgin River. As with the others in this series, old friends are also substantively woven into the storyline. It's what makes this series and this book so special.
I hated finishing this story so much I immediately started reading the next book in the series. There's something for everyone and this is one of the best so far.
Meanwhile, the romance between Walt and Muriel moves into higher gear. They finally realize that this is a friendship that's got some traction and finally acknowledge they are a couple.
Lastly, Abby MacCall Crawford, one of Vanni's best friends from her flight attendant days, is dealing with the demise of her marriage. She's part of Nikki's wedding party but doesn't want to let her friends know she's in trouble, even though they sense something is off. Abby has a memorable night with Cameron Michaels after the wedding (he just happened to be having dinner at the same hotel as the wedding reception). You may remember Cameron as the doctor Vanni's former mother-in-law was trying to set her up with following Matt's death. Cameron is hooked but Abby is pretty gun shy.
These romances are all going on in the midst of the day to day living of the other residents of Virgin River. As with the others in this series, old friends are also substantively woven into the storyline. It's what makes this series and this book so special.
I hated finishing this story so much I immediately started reading the next book in the series. There's something for everyone and this is one of the best so far.
February 20, 2009
Yet another excellent edition to the Virgin River series. I think I liked Second Chance Pass just a smidge more...so I'd probably rate this one 4.75 stars. But it was still a great book to read. I had a few minor quibbles, but overall, I enjoyed it a lot.
Temptation Ridge, the sixth book in the Virgin River series, takes up back to Virgin River where you catch up with existing characters, meet some new ones, see some previous ones return, and say a last goodbye to another. Shelby McIntyre, who was introduced in the previous book, is moving to Virgin River for a little while, planning to stay with her Uncle Walt and cousin Vanessa. On the way into town, she meets Luke Riordan, an retired army man coming to Virgin River to work on some property he owns.
After five years taking care of her invalid mother, Shelby has plans. Take a few months to herself, travel a little, then start nursing school. And if she happens to meet a guy somewhere in there, all the better. She knows just what kind of guy she wants...until she meets Luke. From the first there is a strong attraction between them. Luke tries to fight it. He believes he's no good for her. But Shelby, once she decides she wants Luke, doesn't let up. And soon the two are virtually playing house.
While elsewhere in Virgin River, Walt and Muriel move their relationship further, a beloved character dies, babies are born, pregnancies discovered, and a bunch of kids are put in danger. Pretty much everything you'd come to expect from a Virgin River novel.
I always enjoy coming back to Virgin River and getting to see what all the characters are up to. I just love Mel and Jack. They're kind of the heart and soul of the series. There were some scenes with Mel in this book that just broke my heart. I cried for like 10 pages straight.
I really liked Shelby in this book. She's such a strong, together heroine. Rather empowering to read about. I loved the way she handled the situation with Luke, especially near the end. Their romance was sweet yet hot. I do wish they'd gotten a little more attention during the first part of the book, but I was really happy that for once the last page (chapter) of the book dealt with the H/H instead of some other Virgin River couple.
If I had to quibble with one or two things...one would be the introduction of Abby and the reintroduction of Cameron. What's happened between them so far is very similar to Nikki and Joe from the last book. I just found a little bit of a lack of originality there. And the other thing would be that I thought it was weird that in the beginning, Mel was one this big kick about her weight but after that one chapter, it was never mentioned again. Grant it, she was rather distracted, but I just thought it was odd for something to be introduced like it was this big thing for her, then completely disappear.
They're just little quibbles, though. I liked everything else about the book. And I'm really looking forward to Paradise Valley...though I am a bit dubious about the potential heroine of that one.
Temptation Ridge, the sixth book in the Virgin River series, takes up back to Virgin River where you catch up with existing characters, meet some new ones, see some previous ones return, and say a last goodbye to another. Shelby McIntyre, who was introduced in the previous book, is moving to Virgin River for a little while, planning to stay with her Uncle Walt and cousin Vanessa. On the way into town, she meets Luke Riordan, an retired army man coming to Virgin River to work on some property he owns.
After five years taking care of her invalid mother, Shelby has plans. Take a few months to herself, travel a little, then start nursing school. And if she happens to meet a guy somewhere in there, all the better. She knows just what kind of guy she wants...until she meets Luke. From the first there is a strong attraction between them. Luke tries to fight it. He believes he's no good for her. But Shelby, once she decides she wants Luke, doesn't let up. And soon the two are virtually playing house.
While elsewhere in Virgin River, Walt and Muriel move their relationship further, a beloved character dies, babies are born, pregnancies discovered, and a bunch of kids are put in danger. Pretty much everything you'd come to expect from a Virgin River novel.
I always enjoy coming back to Virgin River and getting to see what all the characters are up to. I just love Mel and Jack. They're kind of the heart and soul of the series. There were some scenes with Mel in this book that just broke my heart. I cried for like 10 pages straight.
I really liked Shelby in this book. She's such a strong, together heroine. Rather empowering to read about. I loved the way she handled the situation with Luke, especially near the end. Their romance was sweet yet hot. I do wish they'd gotten a little more attention during the first part of the book, but I was really happy that for once the last page (chapter) of the book dealt with the H/H instead of some other Virgin River couple.
If I had to quibble with one or two things...one would be the introduction of Abby and the reintroduction of Cameron. What's happened between them so far is very similar to Nikki and Joe from the last book. I just found a little bit of a lack of originality there. And the other thing would be that I thought it was weird that in the beginning, Mel was one this big kick about her weight but after that one chapter, it was never mentioned again. Grant it, she was rather distracted, but I just thought it was odd for something to be introduced like it was this big thing for her, then completely disappear.
They're just little quibbles, though. I liked everything else about the book. And I'm really looking forward to Paradise Valley...though I am a bit dubious about the potential heroine of that one.
June 4, 2024
2022 re-read: What I said in 2021, only more so. Something I almost never ever say: the TV series is much much better than the books. The characters are not all young and beautiful, and they are far more interesting.
Summary of these books (and I am now up to book 10)
1)All the heroines are gorgeous, and for the most part have perfect figures. And they tend to be tall because:
2)All the heroes are tall. Apparently no male under 6' is allowed to live in the area.
3)Virtually all the heroes are retired or active military. If not, they are usually some kind of medical men.
4)There are lots and LOTS of accidents with condoms or birth control pills, because sooner or later, the heroine ends up pregnant, if not in her book then in a later book where she is a secondary character.
5)No matter what the circumstances, the woman always has the baby/babies. No one EVER discusses abortion.
6)Every time a baby is born the whole town seems to gather while the mother is in labor for a "birthing party", complete with food and drinks. UGH. And once the babies arrive, they get occasional walk-ons, but unless it's an integral part of the plot, they are easy kids who are forever napping.
Aside from the ones in books 8 and 9 who are little girls so cute that they make my saccharine alarm go off, and I myself am the mother of 2 daughters!
Meanwhile the women generally turn into June Cleaver housewives.
7)Everyone has money, except the poor locals upon whom they lavish support. There are whines about not having money, but aside from one or two girls from "the other side of the tracks," these folks have fancy homes and aren't staying up nights figuring out how to pay the bills.
8)Everyone is white, white, WHITE. The first black character appears around book 9, and it's mainly to shock a very conservative character.
9)There is one and only one Latino character, and while he doesn't wear a sombrero and sing mariachi, he plays Spanish guitar, is known for making carne asada, and "Mexican" seems almost a pejorative.
10) The sex between hero and heroine is always mind blowing. The best they've ever had. There is no bad sex in these books. Ever.
11)The most egregious issue I have with these books. While Carr does tackle spousal abuse, PTSD and other serious issues, they end up trivialized beneath the banal love stories. The bad spouses get theirs, and the characters with PTSD/alcoholism/other woes all find happy endings.
12)And yes, I know that these are Harlequin romances. That they are brain candy.
And unfortunately, they are highly addictive when you are going through a stressful period!
Summary of these books (and I am now up to book 10)
1)All the heroines are gorgeous, and for the most part have perfect figures. And they tend to be tall because:
2)All the heroes are tall. Apparently no male under 6' is allowed to live in the area.
3)Virtually all the heroes are retired or active military. If not, they are usually some kind of medical men.
4)There are lots and LOTS of accidents with condoms or birth control pills, because sooner or later, the heroine ends up pregnant, if not in her book then in a later book where she is a secondary character.
5)No matter what the circumstances, the woman always has the baby/babies. No one EVER discusses abortion.
6)Every time a baby is born the whole town seems to gather while the mother is in labor for a "birthing party", complete with food and drinks. UGH. And once the babies arrive, they get occasional walk-ons, but unless it's an integral part of the plot, they are easy kids who are forever napping.
Aside from the ones in books 8 and 9 who are little girls so cute that they make my saccharine alarm go off, and I myself am the mother of 2 daughters!
Meanwhile the women generally turn into June Cleaver housewives.
7)Everyone has money, except the poor locals upon whom they lavish support. There are whines about not having money, but aside from one or two girls from "the other side of the tracks," these folks have fancy homes and aren't staying up nights figuring out how to pay the bills.
8)Everyone is white, white, WHITE. The first black character appears around book 9, and it's mainly to shock a very conservative character.
9)There is one and only one Latino character, and while he doesn't wear a sombrero and sing mariachi, he plays Spanish guitar, is known for making carne asada, and "Mexican" seems almost a pejorative.
10) The sex between hero and heroine is always mind blowing. The best they've ever had. There is no bad sex in these books. Ever.
11)The most egregious issue I have with these books. While Carr does tackle spousal abuse, PTSD and other serious issues, they end up trivialized beneath the banal love stories. The bad spouses get theirs, and the characters with PTSD/alcoholism/other woes all find happy endings.
12)And yes, I know that these are Harlequin romances. That they are brain candy.
And unfortunately, they are highly addictive when you are going through a stressful period!
March 11, 2010
This was a good installment. I really liked Shelby and Luke. Shelby was a great romantic heroine. Different from a lot of the typical ones in that she wasn't experienced at all, but she wasn't a fluffy doormat, either. You can definitely see why Luke falls for her.
And why she falls for Luke. *throws ice water in face*
Anyway, there are some sad things that cause tears and some happy things that cause tears and a lot of smiles along the way. In short, a typical Virgin River book.
My one huge complaint is that it ends abruptly and I wanted either one more chapter or an epilogue. It wasn't fair to Luke and Shelby and their story to end it when Carr did, so I'm grumbling about that.
Of course it made me want to read the next book right away, but I realized the next book won't have more of the Luke/Shelby story so I'm fine taking a break.
I can't believe I'm only about half way through the series. There were some new characters introduced and maybe we'll see them in future stories. I wouldn't mind reading a story about each of those Riordan boys. Yum.
So ... yeah ... good. :D
And why she falls for Luke. *throws ice water in face*
Anyway, there are some sad things that cause tears and some happy things that cause tears and a lot of smiles along the way. In short, a typical Virgin River book.
My one huge complaint is that it ends abruptly and I wanted either one more chapter or an epilogue. It wasn't fair to Luke and Shelby and their story to end it when Carr did, so I'm grumbling about that.
Of course it made me want to read the next book right away, but I realized the next book won't have more of the Luke/Shelby story so I'm fine taking a break.
I can't believe I'm only about half way through the series. There were some new characters introduced and maybe we'll see them in future stories. I wouldn't mind reading a story about each of those Riordan boys. Yum.
So ... yeah ... good. :D
September 21, 2021
Shelby is 25 and Luke is 38. That's a bit of an age difference, to say nothing of the life experience difference. This is an interesting plot, add to that a mature romance and an ooops pregnancy and you have a very full book. And, Mel is feeling fat and wants Preacher to make less fattening food at the bar. I think it may have been a little over the top, plot wise.
Shelby is ready to begin her life. At 25 she has spent years as caregiver for her terminally ill mother. She doesn't regret a minute of this time, but it's time to move on and she does so without any regret. She wants to travel and attend school to become a nurse and . . . to have a romance.
Luke Riordan is a handsome, career Army Blackhawk pilot. At 38 he is retired and fixing up a home and vacation cabins in Virgin River with the aim of selling them and moving on. Planting roots and having a committed relationship is not in the plan. . . until he lays eyes on Shelby. And even then, he only wants a fling.
Movie star, Muriel and The General heat things up and Vanni's friend has a one night stand that results in . . . well you know how that is going to end. And they all end up in Virgin River. Can you say Soap Opera?
Shelby is ready to begin her life. At 25 she has spent years as caregiver for her terminally ill mother. She doesn't regret a minute of this time, but it's time to move on and she does so without any regret. She wants to travel and attend school to become a nurse and . . . to have a romance.
Luke Riordan is a handsome, career Army Blackhawk pilot. At 38 he is retired and fixing up a home and vacation cabins in Virgin River with the aim of selling them and moving on. Planting roots and having a committed relationship is not in the plan. . . until he lays eyes on Shelby. And even then, he only wants a fling.
Movie star, Muriel and The General heat things up and Vanni's friend has a one night stand that results in . . . well you know how that is going to end. And they all end up in Virgin River. Can you say Soap Opera?
July 12, 2012
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Robyn Carr has really been on a roll lately with the Virgin River series. When I first started the series, I enjoyed the stories, but wasn't quite as impressed as other readers seemed to be. However, with each book I've read, they seem to keep getting better and better. In Temptation Ridge, Ms. Carr builds on the character of Shelby MacIntyre who was first introduced in Whispering Rock and pairs her with a brand new hero who has just come to town, tough guy and former Black Hawk pilot, Luke Riordan. There are also a couple of secondary romances brewing, we get to visit with all the residents of Virgin River, including all the past heroes and heroines, and say goodbye to another beloved character who has been there since the beginning. I was very saddened by this character's passing, and have to say that I know the author is doing her job very well when she creates a character who seems so real, I can actually cry over their death. As always, coming back to Virgin River is like coming home to visit family.
Luke is the owner of a group of broken down hunting cabins just outside Virgin River. After retiring from the military, he comes to town to fix them up, intending to resell them for a profit, but ends up finding a place where he feels at home. Luke has a reputation as a playboy, but he's a total goner for Shelby from the moment he first sees her on the road into town. Thinking she's too young for him, he tries to keep his distance, but it only takes one look at her for him to prefer her demure innocence over a slutty willing woman he meets in a bar. Almost instantly he begins to loose his taste for casual sex and barely even realizes it. When Luke started getting jealous of his brother, Sean's ability to charm Shelby, it was rather funny, although I think he was only half kidding about murdering Sean for it.:-) Luke may be a little rough around the edges, but he's incredibly gentle with Shelby. He's such a considerate and tender lover, and their love scenes were absolutely perfect. What Luke does for Art, an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome is nothing short of wonderful. It all goes to show what a big heart Luke has even though he tries to hide it. I thought it was rather funny that Shelby seemed to be the one who was OK with the casual nature of their relationship, while Luke was the one who was experiencing deeper feelings and beginning to be bothered by her easy-going attitude. In spite of knowing he's falling in love with Shelby, he fights it tooth and nail, in part because of his ex-wife's cruel betrayal. He also thinks Shelby is too young to be tied down to a man who's considerably older than her and that she should experience more of life before making a commitment to any relationship. On the surface this seems like selfless reasoning and I did understand his issues, but Luke was such an incredibly stubborn man, I almost wanted to jump into the story and smack some sense into him. He was ready to give up the only woman who truly loved him for himself and made him happy. Normally, I'm not a fan of a secondary character giving away important information about a main character because it usually takes away valuable relationship development from the couple. However, in this case, without his brother, Aiden's intervention, I'm not sure Luke ever would have come to his senses.
I realized when I was quite a ways into the story that the author was writing most of the scenes from Luke's perspective. We don't get a whole lot of input from Shelby's point of view, so a lot of what we learn about her comes from the way that Luke and the other characters view her and her own actions. Shelby is a very sweet girl who spent several years of her youth caring for an ailing mother. She didn't have to do this. It was her choice, and I think this alone shows what a strong, determined young woman she is. Now that her mother has passed away, Shelby is ready to start a new life and wants to go to nursing school, but first she comes to Virgin River to spend some time with her Uncle Walt and cousin, Vanni. Even though Luke is nothing like the man she'd envisioned for herself, Shelby finds that she is very attracted to him almost immediately. For being shy and sheltered in her youth, Shelby certainly comes out of her shell and blossoms very quickly. She seems to really enjoy flirting and teasing with Luke and then watching him squirm. Shelby is very kind and caring, but she's also very headstrong and independent. She definitely goes after what she wants and what she wants is an experienced, attractive man like Luke to be her first lover. She didn't expect to fall in love with him so easily, but when she believes that Luke doesn't return her affection, she decides that maybe it's time to leave town. I really appreciated that Shelby was so mature about their relationship. Right from the start, Luke was honest with Shelby about not being a commitment sort of guy, so after giving him ample time to express his feelings, Shelby doesn't whine or cry or beg for things to be different. She merely tells him how she feels and leaves the ball in his court. I loved the way Shelby went toe-to-toe with Luke in the last few pages. I was beginning to doubt this couple having an HEA, but Ms. Carr really pulled it off through Shelby's determination and assertiveness.
As I mentioned earlier, there are a couple of secondary romances in Temptation Ridge. First we have Cameron who briefly dated Vanni in Second Chance Pass. I always liked him and thought he would make a good hero. Although I certainly didn't want him paired with Vanni, I was rather disappointed that such a nice guy got left out in the cold. Still, I thought we'd probably seen the last of him when that all ended, so I was very glad when he turned up again in this book. It looks like he has finally found a good match with Abby, one of Vanni's friends. Cameron is a real sweetheart. He's hot, he's a doctor, he loves kids, and he's kind and caring. I can't believe no one has snapped him up yet. I know I'd do it in a heartbeat. I just love how tender and gentle he is with Abby, trying to reassure her and allay her fears. Hopefully, he'll finally get the HEA he's been craving. It definitely looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Cameron in Virgin River, and I certainly can't say I'm complaining. I think he's going to make a great addition to the community. The other secondary romance is for Walt and Muriel. Muriel is very down to earth for a famous movie star, and Walt is just head over heels for her. They take things to the next level and experience a deepening of their relationship that began in Second Chance Pass. These two show that love isn't just for the young, but also the young at heart.
You can't have a Virgin River book without lots of secondary characters. All the previous heroes and heroines return. Jack and Mel are still the backbone of the town. I just love how Jack reassures Mel that her body is still beautiful to him, although I still think she was being a bit too self-conscious given the circumstances. I was very pleased however, to see that for once Mel was not giving Jack a hard time in this book. She did get a little bossy at one point, except this time it's directed at poor Preacher and his fabulous cooking. She was also a little meddlesome, but this time it was for a good reason and greatly helped a long-time resident of the town. I loved Mel's banter with Doc too. Mike and Brie welcome their first child, and I'm really starting to enjoy the birthing parties the town holds every time a new baby arrives. Preacher and Paige, Paul and Vanni, and Mike and Brie all move into their new homes. I was thrilled to see Joe and Nikki marrying, although I dearly would have loved to see more of this couple. They had really captured my attention with their brief but passionate secondary romance in Second Chance Pass. Tom stopped in for a quick visit before heading to West Point, and I'm really glad to see that he and Brenda are still a couple despite their youth and the long-distance nature of their relationship. We also get a pretty good introduction to Luke's two brothers, Sean and Aiden. Sean is more the carefree jokester, while Aiden is a little more serious and looking to settle down. These two become the heroes of Angel's Peak (#10) and Moonlight Road (#11) respectively.
Virgin River is a very symbiotic community. When Mel said it's almost more like a commune than a town, she couldn't have been more right. I just love the way everyone works together to help everyone else out. It's like a modern frontier settlement where people, in some ways, depend on each other for survival. If only this town were real, I'd love to go there for a visit or maybe even to live, but alas, it only exists in the mind of Robyn Carr. I'm so glad that she has chosen to share it with her readers and will be greatly looking forward to my next visit. I've been very excited for Ricky's story for a long time, and he's next up in Paradise Valley.
Robyn Carr has really been on a roll lately with the Virgin River series. When I first started the series, I enjoyed the stories, but wasn't quite as impressed as other readers seemed to be. However, with each book I've read, they seem to keep getting better and better. In Temptation Ridge, Ms. Carr builds on the character of Shelby MacIntyre who was first introduced in Whispering Rock and pairs her with a brand new hero who has just come to town, tough guy and former Black Hawk pilot, Luke Riordan. There are also a couple of secondary romances brewing, we get to visit with all the residents of Virgin River, including all the past heroes and heroines, and say goodbye to another beloved character who has been there since the beginning. I was very saddened by this character's passing, and have to say that I know the author is doing her job very well when she creates a character who seems so real, I can actually cry over their death. As always, coming back to Virgin River is like coming home to visit family.
Luke is the owner of a group of broken down hunting cabins just outside Virgin River. After retiring from the military, he comes to town to fix them up, intending to resell them for a profit, but ends up finding a place where he feels at home. Luke has a reputation as a playboy, but he's a total goner for Shelby from the moment he first sees her on the road into town. Thinking she's too young for him, he tries to keep his distance, but it only takes one look at her for him to prefer her demure innocence over a slutty willing woman he meets in a bar. Almost instantly he begins to loose his taste for casual sex and barely even realizes it. When Luke started getting jealous of his brother, Sean's ability to charm Shelby, it was rather funny, although I think he was only half kidding about murdering Sean for it.:-) Luke may be a little rough around the edges, but he's incredibly gentle with Shelby. He's such a considerate and tender lover, and their love scenes were absolutely perfect. What Luke does for Art, an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome is nothing short of wonderful. It all goes to show what a big heart Luke has even though he tries to hide it. I thought it was rather funny that Shelby seemed to be the one who was OK with the casual nature of their relationship, while Luke was the one who was experiencing deeper feelings and beginning to be bothered by her easy-going attitude. In spite of knowing he's falling in love with Shelby, he fights it tooth and nail, in part because of his ex-wife's cruel betrayal. He also thinks Shelby is too young to be tied down to a man who's considerably older than her and that she should experience more of life before making a commitment to any relationship. On the surface this seems like selfless reasoning and I did understand his issues, but Luke was such an incredibly stubborn man, I almost wanted to jump into the story and smack some sense into him. He was ready to give up the only woman who truly loved him for himself and made him happy. Normally, I'm not a fan of a secondary character giving away important information about a main character because it usually takes away valuable relationship development from the couple. However, in this case, without his brother, Aiden's intervention, I'm not sure Luke ever would have come to his senses.
I realized when I was quite a ways into the story that the author was writing most of the scenes from Luke's perspective. We don't get a whole lot of input from Shelby's point of view, so a lot of what we learn about her comes from the way that Luke and the other characters view her and her own actions. Shelby is a very sweet girl who spent several years of her youth caring for an ailing mother. She didn't have to do this. It was her choice, and I think this alone shows what a strong, determined young woman she is. Now that her mother has passed away, Shelby is ready to start a new life and wants to go to nursing school, but first she comes to Virgin River to spend some time with her Uncle Walt and cousin, Vanni. Even though Luke is nothing like the man she'd envisioned for herself, Shelby finds that she is very attracted to him almost immediately. For being shy and sheltered in her youth, Shelby certainly comes out of her shell and blossoms very quickly. She seems to really enjoy flirting and teasing with Luke and then watching him squirm. Shelby is very kind and caring, but she's also very headstrong and independent. She definitely goes after what she wants and what she wants is an experienced, attractive man like Luke to be her first lover. She didn't expect to fall in love with him so easily, but when she believes that Luke doesn't return her affection, she decides that maybe it's time to leave town. I really appreciated that Shelby was so mature about their relationship. Right from the start, Luke was honest with Shelby about not being a commitment sort of guy, so after giving him ample time to express his feelings, Shelby doesn't whine or cry or beg for things to be different. She merely tells him how she feels and leaves the ball in his court. I loved the way Shelby went toe-to-toe with Luke in the last few pages. I was beginning to doubt this couple having an HEA, but Ms. Carr really pulled it off through Shelby's determination and assertiveness.
As I mentioned earlier, there are a couple of secondary romances in Temptation Ridge. First we have Cameron who briefly dated Vanni in Second Chance Pass. I always liked him and thought he would make a good hero. Although I certainly didn't want him paired with Vanni, I was rather disappointed that such a nice guy got left out in the cold. Still, I thought we'd probably seen the last of him when that all ended, so I was very glad when he turned up again in this book. It looks like he has finally found a good match with Abby, one of Vanni's friends. Cameron is a real sweetheart. He's hot, he's a doctor, he loves kids, and he's kind and caring. I can't believe no one has snapped him up yet. I know I'd do it in a heartbeat. I just love how tender and gentle he is with Abby, trying to reassure her and allay her fears. Hopefully, he'll finally get the HEA he's been craving. It definitely looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Cameron in Virgin River, and I certainly can't say I'm complaining. I think he's going to make a great addition to the community. The other secondary romance is for Walt and Muriel. Muriel is very down to earth for a famous movie star, and Walt is just head over heels for her. They take things to the next level and experience a deepening of their relationship that began in Second Chance Pass. These two show that love isn't just for the young, but also the young at heart.
You can't have a Virgin River book without lots of secondary characters. All the previous heroes and heroines return. Jack and Mel are still the backbone of the town. I just love how Jack reassures Mel that her body is still beautiful to him, although I still think she was being a bit too self-conscious given the circumstances. I was very pleased however, to see that for once Mel was not giving Jack a hard time in this book. She did get a little bossy at one point, except this time it's directed at poor Preacher and his fabulous cooking. She was also a little meddlesome, but this time it was for a good reason and greatly helped a long-time resident of the town. I loved Mel's banter with Doc too. Mike and Brie welcome their first child, and I'm really starting to enjoy the birthing parties the town holds every time a new baby arrives. Preacher and Paige, Paul and Vanni, and Mike and Brie all move into their new homes. I was thrilled to see Joe and Nikki marrying, although I dearly would have loved to see more of this couple. They had really captured my attention with their brief but passionate secondary romance in Second Chance Pass. Tom stopped in for a quick visit before heading to West Point, and I'm really glad to see that he and Brenda are still a couple despite their youth and the long-distance nature of their relationship. We also get a pretty good introduction to Luke's two brothers, Sean and Aiden. Sean is more the carefree jokester, while Aiden is a little more serious and looking to settle down. These two become the heroes of Angel's Peak (#10) and Moonlight Road (#11) respectively.
Virgin River is a very symbiotic community. When Mel said it's almost more like a commune than a town, she couldn't have been more right. I just love the way everyone works together to help everyone else out. It's like a modern frontier settlement where people, in some ways, depend on each other for survival. If only this town were real, I'd love to go there for a visit or maybe even to live, but alas, it only exists in the mind of Robyn Carr. I'm so glad that she has chosen to share it with her readers and will be greatly looking forward to my next visit. I've been very excited for Ricky's story for a long time, and he's next up in Paradise Valley.
August 22, 2015
Definitely enjoyed this one, it wasn't a single couple story but several. New characters were added to Virgin River, Luke Riordan a former black hawk pilot and Shelby, General Booth's niece.
The Riordan's are going to be exactly what the series needed, 5 soldier brothers that will be rolling off their service and likely bound for Virgin River. Muriel and Walt (General Booth) have sparked a lovely romance, she formerly Hollywood royalty and he all Army they make for a fun couple. Then there is this sweet character Art, a man who has down syndrome who has been abused and is taken in by Luke. And just to make sure the next novel has a couple to work with there is Abby and Cam. Cam is now the new doctor in VR and Abby is there to escape the tabloid press (Won't say more on that because that would really be a spoiler).
Back to Luke and Shelby, he's just a great character if Jack wasn't there Luke would definitely be the next Jack. A giving heart, loyal, brave and the willingness to help. He's learning the VR ropes, so he's not quite Jack.. who is in a word social, Jack is the heart beat of VR and we wouldn't have it any other way. Shelby is strong but very inexperienced 25 year old, but mature well beyond her years (her life hasn't been easy). Luke is 39, he sees no future for them but they both start a romance thinking it'll be a nice diversion. And for once in a VR romance the girl isn't pregnant.... lol we joke about VR's water.
Therese Plummer narrated.
Story and narration a solid 4.25 sorry couldn't award it a 5, those stories have to touch my heart. psst... Angst usually does it for me.
The Riordan's are going to be exactly what the series needed, 5 soldier brothers that will be rolling off their service and likely bound for Virgin River. Muriel and Walt (General Booth) have sparked a lovely romance, she formerly Hollywood royalty and he all Army they make for a fun couple. Then there is this sweet character Art, a man who has down syndrome who has been abused and is taken in by Luke. And just to make sure the next novel has a couple to work with there is Abby and Cam. Cam is now the new doctor in VR and Abby is there to escape the tabloid press (Won't say more on that because that would really be a spoiler).
Back to Luke and Shelby, he's just a great character if Jack wasn't there Luke would definitely be the next Jack. A giving heart, loyal, brave and the willingness to help. He's learning the VR ropes, so he's not quite Jack.. who is in a word social, Jack is the heart beat of VR and we wouldn't have it any other way. Shelby is strong but very inexperienced 25 year old, but mature well beyond her years (her life hasn't been easy). Luke is 39, he sees no future for them but they both start a romance thinking it'll be a nice diversion. And for once in a VR romance the girl isn't pregnant.... lol we joke about VR's water.
Therese Plummer narrated.
Story and narration a solid 4.25 sorry couldn't award it a 5, those stories have to touch my heart. psst... Angst usually does it for me.
November 10, 2019
Audiobook: Narrator – Therese Plummer
Once again, this narrator does an incredible job of bringing the characters of Virgin River to life. This one had some additional drama to it and she performed these scenes to perfection.
I’m not a fan of pushing and pulling, and this has quite a bit of it, but I loved the characters as well as the story between this hero and heroine so each time it annoyed me, I’d push it aside in my mind. Of course, as most of the other books in this series, this story doesn’t just revolve around the “main” couple but the other residents of Virgin River as well as any who will eventually be a permanent fixture in town. Romance is a huge part of this community and no one is immune. But this author isn’t afraid to remind the reader that these characters live a “real” life, which has concerned me a time or two with what I might run into in future installments. I love everyone in this town and my heart breaks for them when they hurt and rejoices with them when they see the fulfillment of their dreams.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
Once again, this narrator does an incredible job of bringing the characters of Virgin River to life. This one had some additional drama to it and she performed these scenes to perfection.
I’m not a fan of pushing and pulling, and this has quite a bit of it, but I loved the characters as well as the story between this hero and heroine so each time it annoyed me, I’d push it aside in my mind. Of course, as most of the other books in this series, this story doesn’t just revolve around the “main” couple but the other residents of Virgin River as well as any who will eventually be a permanent fixture in town. Romance is a huge part of this community and no one is immune. But this author isn’t afraid to remind the reader that these characters live a “real” life, which has concerned me a time or two with what I might run into in future installments. I love everyone in this town and my heart breaks for them when they hurt and rejoices with them when they see the fulfillment of their dreams.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
July 6, 2017
Re-read for Wobble 2016.
Just as good the second time round. One of the great small town series.
Just as good the second time round. One of the great small town series.
February 28, 2011
Edited review
Three and a half stars. Temptation Ridge is not a badly written book, but I have some serious issues with the direction the series is taking. I'm sure you all know right from the get go that this is less of a review and more of a rant. Those of you who follow my status updates on GoodReads will have a fair idea what I thought of this book.... but since I have a hard time keeping quiet... *grin*
So, where to start? Certain things still work well with this series - I love the small town feel, the connections between the various characters. What isn't working for me is the the 'collecting'. In a way, JR Ward does the same thing...characters appear that are just what the 'collective' ('You Will Be Assimilated' [sorry, had to be said *grin*]) needs. For example, this book sees the introduction of not only a character who renovates cabins for rent (thus providing tourists with local accommodation) but also a character who becomes the new family physician (he is also a trained paediatrician, which will come in very handy [see below]) for the town....lucky coincidence, huh? And I know for a fact that an OB GYN will be making an appearance in a forthcoming book. Actually, it is slightly disconcerting how many of the characters have careers related to women's health and children... But onward and upward...err....
Early in the book I read this stunning paragraph:
...Shelby had been thinking, I want to join the ranks of women my age, women who are my friends, both old and new, and have what they have - the relationship building, romantic and physical love, idealism and passion and even the struggles. She wanted all of it. She was due. She wanted to be whole. She wanted a man.
(And those bolded words reflect the italicized words in the original text.) Those of you who are thinking of getting your eyes tested need not. You did indeed read what you just read. The heroine of Temptation Ridge (Shelby) wants to be whole...and to be whole she needs a man. I wondered what my problem was... /sarcasm. Which leads me nicely into the main theme of the book, a theme that seems to be the be all and end all for every character - marriage and children. And when I say every character I mean the men too - they hold birthing parties for goodness sake! Now, don't get me wrong, marriage and children isn't a bad thing. And I don't have a problem with happy families either (I'm just not quite sure what one is). But...families come in all different shapes and sizes, some with children, some without, some heterosexual, some homosexual, some related by blood and some by love. Yes the author is writing a heterosexual contemporary romance, but...once the characters fall in love does marriage plus children have to appear over the horizon like a tropical storm? For everyone? And in case you think I'm exaggerating, I've been reliably informed that Shelby (the heroine) falls pregnant straight away (not quite sure where that leaves her college plans) and, directly after giving birth discusses additions to the family. *heads desk* (And the pregnancy rate for previous heroines? 60% [And I'm not counting the heroine of the previous book who gave birth to her first child and then fell in love with the hero.]) Now, I'll admit, I haven't had children, so I could be completely wrong...but IIRC friends who have given birth have informed me that the last thing new mothers want to talk about straight after labour is having more babies! (To be fair, said friends did say that they started forgetting how bad the labour was as time progressed - probably nature's way of attempting to ensure women have more than one child :) But still!!! Would it hurt for the author to include a couple that might want to wait to have a child...or not want to have a child? *shock horror* And what about a couple who can't have a child...nope, had that with the heroine of the first book (Virgin River) and she had a miracle pregnancy...two actually.
The difference between the current (and previous) heroine(s) and 'other female characters' is quite...obvious:
He'd get into her without falling in love when she was a young women clearly designed for true love, for permanence.
Some good, old-fashioned, all-American, slutty girls, hanging out in the bar and buying drinks for straight men...They had high, perky boobs and fluffy hair. In spite of himself, he briefly considered how much sexier Shelby was in her jeans and boots, her white shirts with rolled-up sleeves and fresh face, leaving everything to the imagination.
OK. I think I can spot the difference. *rolls eyes* Oh, and before I forget - this heroine is small! And just in case I forgot that detail I was provided with numerous reminders - four in the first love scene - with the hero commenting twice that the heroine could only weigh 110 pounds. (I looked that up - that's only 50 kg!) I get it, she's tiny. Enough already! And then there is the 'I've fallen in love' moment. More and more I want to get inside a character's head and understand why they fall in love...what draws them to the other person. And more and more that doesn't seem to happen. Don't tell me you're in love....tell me why!
I could go on (and on :) about how darn nice every character is, how beautiful all the women in the town are and how everyone seems to love having numerous (and frank) discussions about sex and women's health. But, I'm sure my ranting has gone on long enough. This book, this series, is pure sugar. (Dentists everywhere will run screaming.) And you'd think, with all these issues, it would be easy to walk away. And part of me does want to give up on the series entirely...but part of me wants to know what happens with certain characters. *SIGH*
So, do you have a series you should probably walk away from, but you just can't give up?
Three and a half stars. Temptation Ridge is not a badly written book, but I have some serious issues with the direction the series is taking. I'm sure you all know right from the get go that this is less of a review and more of a rant. Those of you who follow my status updates on GoodReads will have a fair idea what I thought of this book.... but since I have a hard time keeping quiet... *grin*
So, where to start? Certain things still work well with this series - I love the small town feel, the connections between the various characters. What isn't working for me is the the 'collecting'. In a way, JR Ward does the same thing...characters appear that are just what the 'collective' ('You Will Be Assimilated' [sorry, had to be said *grin*]) needs. For example, this book sees the introduction of not only a character who renovates cabins for rent (thus providing tourists with local accommodation) but also a character who becomes the new family physician (he is also a trained paediatrician, which will come in very handy [see below]) for the town....lucky coincidence, huh? And I know for a fact that an OB GYN will be making an appearance in a forthcoming book. Actually, it is slightly disconcerting how many of the characters have careers related to women's health and children... But onward and upward...err....
Early in the book I read this stunning paragraph:
...Shelby had been thinking, I want to join the ranks of women my age, women who are my friends, both old and new, and have what they have - the relationship building, romantic and physical love, idealism and passion and even the struggles. She wanted all of it. She was due. She wanted to be whole. She wanted a man.
(And those bolded words reflect the italicized words in the original text.) Those of you who are thinking of getting your eyes tested need not. You did indeed read what you just read. The heroine of Temptation Ridge (Shelby) wants to be whole...and to be whole she needs a man. I wondered what my problem was... /sarcasm. Which leads me nicely into the main theme of the book, a theme that seems to be the be all and end all for every character - marriage and children. And when I say every character I mean the men too - they hold birthing parties for goodness sake! Now, don't get me wrong, marriage and children isn't a bad thing. And I don't have a problem with happy families either (I'm just not quite sure what one is). But...families come in all different shapes and sizes, some with children, some without, some heterosexual, some homosexual, some related by blood and some by love. Yes the author is writing a heterosexual contemporary romance, but...once the characters fall in love does marriage plus children have to appear over the horizon like a tropical storm? For everyone? And in case you think I'm exaggerating, I've been reliably informed that Shelby (the heroine) falls pregnant straight away (not quite sure where that leaves her college plans) and, directly after giving birth discusses additions to the family. *heads desk* (And the pregnancy rate for previous heroines? 60% [And I'm not counting the heroine of the previous book who gave birth to her first child and then fell in love with the hero.]) Now, I'll admit, I haven't had children, so I could be completely wrong...but IIRC friends who have given birth have informed me that the last thing new mothers want to talk about straight after labour is having more babies! (To be fair, said friends did say that they started forgetting how bad the labour was as time progressed - probably nature's way of attempting to ensure women have more than one child :) But still!!! Would it hurt for the author to include a couple that might want to wait to have a child...or not want to have a child? *shock horror* And what about a couple who can't have a child...nope, had that with the heroine of the first book (Virgin River) and she had a miracle pregnancy...two actually.
The difference between the current (and previous) heroine(s) and 'other female characters' is quite...obvious:
He'd get into her without falling in love when she was a young women clearly designed for true love, for permanence.
Some good, old-fashioned, all-American, slutty girls, hanging out in the bar and buying drinks for straight men...They had high, perky boobs and fluffy hair. In spite of himself, he briefly considered how much sexier Shelby was in her jeans and boots, her white shirts with rolled-up sleeves and fresh face, leaving everything to the imagination.
OK. I think I can spot the difference. *rolls eyes* Oh, and before I forget - this heroine is small! And just in case I forgot that detail I was provided with numerous reminders - four in the first love scene - with the hero commenting twice that the heroine could only weigh 110 pounds. (I looked that up - that's only 50 kg!) I get it, she's tiny. Enough already! And then there is the 'I've fallen in love' moment. More and more I want to get inside a character's head and understand why they fall in love...what draws them to the other person. And more and more that doesn't seem to happen. Don't tell me you're in love....tell me why!
I could go on (and on :) about how darn nice every character is, how beautiful all the women in the town are and how everyone seems to love having numerous (and frank) discussions about sex and women's health. But, I'm sure my ranting has gone on long enough. This book, this series, is pure sugar. (Dentists everywhere will run screaming.) And you'd think, with all these issues, it would be easy to walk away. And part of me does want to give up on the series entirely...but part of me wants to know what happens with certain characters. *SIGH*
So, do you have a series you should probably walk away from, but you just can't give up?
February 20, 2021
Dit was echt mijn favo deel in de serie (so far..) In dit deel spelen een aantal nieuwe koppels de hoofdrol maar komen er ook onverwachte oude bekende terug. Een verdrietige gebeurtenis en een spannende redding! Dit boek heeft echt alles!
Ik kan dan ook niet wachten op de volgende delen!
Ik kan dan ook niet wachten op de volgende delen!
February 27, 2009
Loved it! I've enjoyed all the Virgin River books, but this is the best one since the first hit the shelves, imo. Be sure to read the series in order because the characters continue to develop with each book.
Neat reading about the earlier characters and getting updated on them: Mel and Jack, Brie and Mike, Preacher (John) and Paige, Walt and Muriel, and many more. This book did not have the Shady Brady (Dan) character in it, though.
The two main characters in this one were Luke Riordan and Shelby (Walt's niece). Loved their story. One thing that keeps me so engrossed in this series is the straightforwardness of the heroines. They don't play coy games and are very direct, upfront, strong and independent. What I love most of the heros is their absolute love and adoration for their wives and families.
There were two other romances running through this one: Walt and Muriel (very sweet); Cameron and Abbey. I would like to have read more about Cameron and Abbey and can't wait for their story to develop.
There was some sadness in this book, so have some tissues handy. There was also some great laughs with Luke's brother's and his mom who had "the look" down pat.
This is a book I will re-read one day. It put a smile on my face and I was sad to see it end.
Neat reading about the earlier characters and getting updated on them: Mel and Jack, Brie and Mike, Preacher (John) and Paige, Walt and Muriel, and many more. This book did not have the Shady Brady (Dan) character in it, though.
The two main characters in this one were Luke Riordan and Shelby (Walt's niece). Loved their story. One thing that keeps me so engrossed in this series is the straightforwardness of the heroines. They don't play coy games and are very direct, upfront, strong and independent. What I love most of the heros is their absolute love and adoration for their wives and families.
There were two other romances running through this one: Walt and Muriel (very sweet); Cameron and Abbey. I would like to have read more about Cameron and Abbey and can't wait for their story to develop.
There was some sadness in this book, so have some tissues handy. There was also some great laughs with Luke's brother's and his mom who had "the look" down pat.
This is a book I will re-read one day. It put a smile on my face and I was sad to see it end.
May 28, 2017
This was pretty good if you like community oriented stories about everyday ordinary people.
Virgin River is a small town in the California mountains. There are many books in the series. The first book is about Jack the bartender meeting and falling in love with Mel. Each book focuses on a different couple. This book is Luke and Shelby. Characters in early books continue to have parts in future books. Many of the guys are former military guys. Everyone in town is friendly to everyone else. The locals frequently eat dinner together at Jack’s place. They help each other. Lots of love, marriage and babies.
I’ve read two books in the series and the start of another. They seem to be similar in that someone new moves to Virgin River and they fall in love and marry by the end of the book. That’s an ok formula if that’s what you’re in the mood for. Most of the characters are ordinary everyday people. I prefer stories and characters that are more unique and different.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 406 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: about 6. Setting: current day Virgin River a small town in the California mountains. Copyright: 2009. Genre: relationships fiction and contemporary romance.
Virgin River is a small town in the California mountains. There are many books in the series. The first book is about Jack the bartender meeting and falling in love with Mel. Each book focuses on a different couple. This book is Luke and Shelby. Characters in early books continue to have parts in future books. Many of the guys are former military guys. Everyone in town is friendly to everyone else. The locals frequently eat dinner together at Jack’s place. They help each other. Lots of love, marriage and babies.
I’ve read two books in the series and the start of another. They seem to be similar in that someone new moves to Virgin River and they fall in love and marry by the end of the book. That’s an ok formula if that’s what you’re in the mood for. Most of the characters are ordinary everyday people. I prefer stories and characters that are more unique and different.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 406 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: about 6. Setting: current day Virgin River a small town in the California mountains. Copyright: 2009. Genre: relationships fiction and contemporary romance.
January 17, 2016
Title: Temptation Ridge (A Virgin River Novel)
Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira Books
Series: Virgin River #6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Reviewed:
"Temptation Ridge" by Robyn Carr was a beautiful contemporary novel of the Virgin River #6 that featured three romances. The main storyline was of Shelby McIntyre and Luke Riordan...then it moves on to Walt Booth and Muriel and lastly Abby MacCall and Cameron Michaels. Be prepared for a read of not only romances that are going on in this small California town but where you will find the people will come together in sadness, in rescue times, along with plenty of babies being born, pregnancies, town near disaster, abuse, a homeless man with 'Down's Syndrome,' and a town drunk.
The characters were all well developed, believable and colorful bring out a well written read of suspense, humorous, tearful and even some sexy scenes that will keep you interested turning the pages to see what will happen nest.
I found "Temptation Ridge"a well written romance novel that I would definitely recommend to you as very good read.
Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira Books
Series: Virgin River #6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Reviewed:
"Temptation Ridge" by Robyn Carr was a beautiful contemporary novel of the Virgin River #6 that featured three romances. The main storyline was of Shelby McIntyre and Luke Riordan...then it moves on to Walt Booth and Muriel and lastly Abby MacCall and Cameron Michaels. Be prepared for a read of not only romances that are going on in this small California town but where you will find the people will come together in sadness, in rescue times, along with plenty of babies being born, pregnancies, town near disaster, abuse, a homeless man with 'Down's Syndrome,' and a town drunk.
The characters were all well developed, believable and colorful bring out a well written read of suspense, humorous, tearful and even some sexy scenes that will keep you interested turning the pages to see what will happen nest.
I found "Temptation Ridge"a well written romance novel that I would definitely recommend to you as very good read.
February 7, 2017
5 Temptation Stars
Boy Howdy! I LOVE this series!!!! ♥♥♥♥
If you have already read this book then you know you need the tissues.. That’s all I am going to say on that.
We have meet Shelby in other books and we root for her because she really hasn’t had it easy for a long time. But she take it all in stride that girl. She meets Luke who comes to Virgin River to build his cabins.
He finds a place like no other in Virgin River and he finds himself falling in love with a women who may not have a lot of experiences but she sure knows what she wants. You could say she tilts things on its axess in a why Luke isn’t ready for.
Characters from other books, Bree has a baby girl! I was so happy for her and Mike ♥
Cheryl the towns drunk.. well we get an update on her. The movie star Marial and Walt things heat up with these two. So cute!!
I love the narrator she is so great she is making want to keep going on even though I have other books to read… but next book is Rick so I HAVE to go right in to it no matter what.. then I will read something else promise. ;-)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Boy Howdy! I LOVE this series!!!! ♥♥♥♥
If you have already read this book then you know you need the tissues.. That’s all I am going to say on that.
We have meet Shelby in other books and we root for her because she really hasn’t had it easy for a long time. But she take it all in stride that girl. She meets Luke who comes to Virgin River to build his cabins.
He finds a place like no other in Virgin River and he finds himself falling in love with a women who may not have a lot of experiences but she sure knows what she wants. You could say she tilts things on its axess in a why Luke isn’t ready for.
Characters from other books, Bree has a baby girl! I was so happy for her and Mike ♥
Cheryl the towns drunk.. well we get an update on her. The movie star Marial and Walt things heat up with these two. So cute!!
I love the narrator she is so great she is making want to keep going on even though I have other books to read… but next book is Rick so I HAVE to go right in to it no matter what.. then I will read something else promise. ;-)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
April 10, 2009
Temptation Ridge is the 5th book in Robyn Carr's series about the people in Virgin River, and the 2nd in the 2nd "trilogy". This is mainly Shelby & Luke's story, although others have side stories in the book.
Pro's:
Shelby & Luke - good, believable romance
Luke - tough and masculine hero, alpha male
Mel & Jack - love their continuing storyline
Art - I really enjoyed reading a storyline about a disabled person that wasn't condescending
Con's:
Vanni - cannot stand her character. Too much of a know it all.
Walt & Muriel - I'm not into elder love stories.
Cameron & Abby - yuck! That's all I have to say.
The absolute plethora of new BETA MALES! What's the deal Ms Carr? Your original trilogy had Jack, Preacher and Mike and now all you can give me is Paul and Walt and a teenage boy??
I think you need to read it if nothing else to keep the storyline current. I'm hoping for better things to come as I recently found out there's another trilogy to come. Maybe this author will revert to the male lead of old....Jack, Preacher and Mike.
Pro's:
Shelby & Luke - good, believable romance
Luke - tough and masculine hero, alpha male
Mel & Jack - love their continuing storyline
Art - I really enjoyed reading a storyline about a disabled person that wasn't condescending
Con's:
Vanni - cannot stand her character. Too much of a know it all.
Walt & Muriel - I'm not into elder love stories.
Cameron & Abby - yuck! That's all I have to say.
The absolute plethora of new BETA MALES! What's the deal Ms Carr? Your original trilogy had Jack, Preacher and Mike and now all you can give me is Paul and Walt and a teenage boy??
I think you need to read it if nothing else to keep the storyline current. I'm hoping for better things to come as I recently found out there's another trilogy to come. Maybe this author will revert to the male lead of old....Jack, Preacher and Mike.
December 12, 2013
This author is going to kill me. I read a 5 stars rating book then a 2 stars. Then a 5 again, then a 2 again. I just don't know what to make about this series. Loved books 1,2,4 and this one. Almost hated books 3 and 5.This was an amazing story. So sweet. I'm not writing a review because there are so many already. Just wanted to say I adored this one. They main characters made an amazing couple.
I must admit I do not have much hopes for the next book. I already hate Cam's heroine. I loved, loved the Riordan brothers. Still this series will never make it into my favs shelf. I just feel like something is missing in these books.
I am giving up on this series, not because I don't like it but because the books in it have started to feel too similar. I enjoyed some reads in it but there are just too many books in the series and I have not enjoyed some of the ones I already read, so I don't feel excited about reading the rest. Maybe I'll change my mind in the future and give it another try... but for now Good bye Virgin River series.
I must admit I do not have much hopes for the next book. I already hate Cam's heroine. I loved, loved the Riordan brothers. Still this series will never make it into my favs shelf. I just feel like something is missing in these books.
I am giving up on this series, not because I don't like it but because the books in it have started to feel too similar. I enjoyed some reads in it but there are just too many books in the series and I have not enjoyed some of the ones I already read, so I don't feel excited about reading the rest. Maybe I'll change my mind in the future and give it another try... but for now Good bye Virgin River series.
March 8, 2015
This series is very good. I continue to come back, for the characters, the story and the fine portraits of love, grace and community.
September 1, 2022
Shelby and her Mr. Right Luke is a story you don't want to miss. I really enjoyed this trip back to Virgin River. I highly recommend this series.
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