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The lost cowboy… 

Thunder Mountain Ranch was the only place cowboy Cade Gallagher had ever called home. But after he and Lexi Simmons broke each other's hearts, he left it behind, along with his foster family. Since then, Cade has drifted, looking for something�anything�to call home. Until a call from Lexi changes everything… 

Cade has been gone too long. His foster mother is hospitalized, and the ranch is in deep financial trouble. Yet even as his world crumbles, Cade's hunger for Lexi is almost as tangible as the taste of her lips and the way her body fits deliciously against his. It's bittersweet surrender. But Lexi isn't the girl she used to be, and she's determined to have the hot cowboy in her bed only if she keeps him out of her heart. 

 

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 19, 2015

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382 people want to read

About the author

Vicki Lewis Thompson

498 books1,539 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestseller Vicki Lewis Thompson believes love makes the world go around and laughter makes the trip worth taking. The recipient of RWA’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award and the author of more than ninety books, Vicki pioneered a new kind of romance hero with Nerd in Shining Armor. Following the success of her nerd stories, Vicki launched a boisterous paranormal series featuring a matchmaking witch and wizard, an ADD dragon named George, and a black cat inspired by her own precocious feline, Eve.

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5 stars
177 (45%)
4 stars
131 (33%)
3 stars
59 (15%)
2 stars
11 (2%)
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9 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
May 29, 2015
Autry's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Vicki Lewis Thompson’s Midnight Thunder is packed with cowboys who define sweet talking alpha males. Each one of her cowboys holds a sweet spot for Thunder Mountain and the memories made there, however, Cade is coming home only to find out it may not be home for much longer.

From the moment Ms. Thompson introduced us to Cade, I knew he would be someone who has come from a hard past, one that may stand in the way of his future. But, Cade’s past allows him to bond with animals that might be a little tough to love or tough to train. His love for animals and how he commanded people to respect them is awe-inspiring. In the middle of a battle between him and an employer, Cade makes a life altering decision and leaves. Once he steps foot on Thunder Mountain his head starts finding ways to be alone with his former flame while tending to his hospitalized mother. He turned her down years ago and now Cade is coming back and coming on strong, but will it be enough to win Lexi over?

Lexi is a independent, tough woman who is determined to take her life into her own hands, no more bending to fit into other peoples molds. She had her heart broke years ago by the only cowboy she’s ever loved and now she has to face him again. Thunder Mountain has always been liked a second home to her, and calling Cade to rush home is not something she ever wanted to do. As soon as their eyes meet Lexi knows their magnetic pull is stronger than ever, clothes are flying and secrets are being revealed. Lexi’s commitments won’t allow her to put down stakes and jump into Cades arms. Even if it seems as if Cade is here to stay; but now she holds the cards, will she decide to move on with the relationship or move away from the relationship?

Midnight Thunder is an outstanding read, I loved it from the first minute. Both Cade and Lexi are strong independent people who love Thunder Mountain and it’s owners. Vicki did a fantastic job of tying the cast of characters together, while focusing on Cade and Lexi’s relationship. She was able to add stress and worry with his mother being hospitalized while adding sizzle and heat with the main couple. Thompson’s secondary characters were so real, so easy to relate to; the brothers, Finn and Damon are a hilarious to listen bicker back and forth. The plot flowed flawlessly and Ms. Thompson kept me engaged and kept the pages turning. I loved Midnight Thunder it is a fun, quick read with opportunity snatching cowboys, independent females and a family who sticks together!

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jonel.
1,717 reviews311 followers
April 9, 2016
Oh yes, this is one number that I would buy just based on the cover, but it’s what comes between the cover that kept my attention throughout. This really is a second chance romance that has it all. Thompson developed Thunder Mountain Ranch in such a manner that I could easily picture myself that. The tie in with the Sons of Chance was fantastic. I loved those men and women, and their ties to Thunder Mountain Ranch gave context to this new world that we’re getting to know.

Lexi & Cade’s story held me captive. The chemistry between them was off the charts. Cade’s story was so intimately crafted & well presented that I couldn’t help falling in love with him. His desire to battle his instincts to fit with the life he wants was heartening, yet at the same time he never gave up on who he really was on the inside. Ringo was a priceless addition to the story. He revealed so much about so many of major players in the story.

My final thoughts? Thompson is holding me captive with her latest series. I can’t wait to get back with this series. Finn & Chelsea have to have a story of their own. The lead in to Damon’s story is priceless beyond words.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Elaine.
4,441 reviews91 followers
April 1, 2022
Cade and Lexi used to be an item, but now they have a second chance 5 years later. Lexi has to phone Cade to inform him that his foster mother is in hospital. Then they find out the ranch is in financial straits. I love how this author writes the sex scenes in this story when Lexi and Cade reconnect - they are rather hot! 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Loved it. 5☆


Profile Image for Andrea Guy.
1,483 reviews67 followers
June 25, 2015
I am a sucker for a cowboy. I love stories where the heroes are ranchers. Midnight Thunder is one of those books and Vicki Lewis Thompson is an author that seldom disappoints.
The plot reminds me of a book I read not too long ago that had a foster child that returns home after one of his parents has health issues.

I loved that this book really figures heavily on Cade, rather than Lexi. Cade is a character that you simply have to love. He has a good heart and he's good with animals. I loved how he rescued Hematite and I also loved that he was a cat man. His kitty, Ringo is an awesome little guy.

So basically, Cade is the perfect man in my eyes. I also loved his other blood brothers. In fact, midway through this story I was already dying for Finn's book. He is a very intriguing character, and waiting to see if he gets his "happily ever after" with Chelsea is going to make me burst with anticipation.

But there is a romance going on here. Its a romance that started back in his high school days. I love second chance stories, even though I tend to wonder how anyone could pine after someone for several years.

The chemistry between Cade and Lexi is electric. These two are made for each other and they are written in such a way that you really root for them. I was also pleased that there was no huge conflict that separated them, where you have to wait for one of the characters to start behaving better and get on with their relationship.

I totally loved this book and look forward to reading the next 2 books!
Profile Image for Jo .
2,679 reviews68 followers
February 6, 2017
We learned about Cade Gallager in the Last Chance series when Molly went to look for her long lost cousin. Now we get to meet not only Cade but the other two men of the Thunder Mountain Brotherhood, Damon Harrison and Finn O’Roake. This is Cade’s story but Fin and Damon will each have their turn.

The series is an arc with Rosie and Herb, the boy’s foster family at the heart of the story line.

Cade’s first love is Lexi and he has never gotten over her even if he was the one to break it off and leave. Now he is back home and they are reconnecting. This time it is Lexi who holds back. Midnight Thunder is a story about finding your strengths and your way in life. It is a very good read. Now I just have to wait for the next two books to see how everything turns out.


My favorite character is Ringo the cat. I don’t know if Ringo won a contest to be included but if he did Thompson makes sure he gets star billing in the book.

Harlequin published Midnight Thunder by Vicki Lewis Thompson in 2015.

I received an ARC of Midnight Thunder from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Books and Spoons.
1,612 reviews32 followers
May 25, 2015
There were so many elements I love about this story.
The ranch where they fostered the troubled boys, the love, care and guidance they have received at the Thunder Mountain Ranch was touching and admirable. The results were still showing in a way the former foster children rushed to the bedside at the hospital, respected the parents, and wanted to whatever they could for their benefit.
Cade is a true horse whisperer, how he treated the horse, and Ringo, the cat, was a true witness to his character.
Cade and Lexi have electricity, attraction, and the connection that was sizzling. They were so adorable, sexy, and charming together. I enjoyed the fact that they didn't go twenty rounds around each other, denying their feelings, but acted on them.
The decision Cade makes towards the end was respectable, and admirable, even more so, considering the burning hot relationship they had. I am aware of the category length requirements, but the ending seemed a bit rushed, so much time and events were just skimmed over.
But overall I enjoyed the story, and I am looking forward to more installments in this series.
~ Four Spoons
Profile Image for Books, Coffee & Passion.
521 reviews64 followers
May 9, 2015
Books, Coffee & Passion

I’ve read a few of Vicki Lewis Thompson’s books, so my expectations were high especially after this awesome series teaser. I can say that Vicki didn't disappoint with this one.

It's a second love chance story that starts with Cade quitting his job on a ranch that doesn't feel much like home because his home was Thunder Mountain Ranch. Cade feels he can’t go back home because he broke Lexi's heart when he ended their relationship and he doesn't think he can deal with returning and seeing her again. In the exact moment he's looking for another job and leaving the ranch where he's been working, Lexi calls him to tell him his foster mom has been hospitalized. Cade doesn't hesitate to return home to his foster parents, Lexi and the Thunder Mountain Brotherhood.

I want to avoid spoilers so I'm just pointing out what I loved about this book. First of all, both Lexi and Cade don't play emotional games, I really loved how they spoke their mind with each other and their bluntness was kind of refreshing. Of course this means there’s not a lot of angst even though there are a few surprises through the book (that I liked, by the way). I also loved how the five years they've been apart didn't change their connection nor their feelings toward each other. Both of them are very strong characters but what makes this story so good is that every time they are together, we can totally see that they are made for each other and that they are much better together than apart.

I loved all the secondary characters including Hematite and Ringo, Herb and Rosie were very sweet too and of course, I'm looking forward for Damon and Finn's books. Especially Finn's because I really loved his interactions with Chelsea and I just wanted more and more of them but after reading the epilogue, which I found hilarious, I can't wait to read Damon's book next.

I received a copy of this book from Harlequin via NetGalley.
Profile Image for Catherine  Wright (Cat's Guilty Pleasure).
2,900 reviews1 follower
May 14, 2015
Cade has come back home after five years due to an emergency. His old flame Lexi is waiting to help him through it. They still have feelings for one another and while working on saving the ranch they embark on a new relationship, only this time they are being mature about it. Will they get back their passion or will they decide it's not worth the time this time?

This was a quick short read and I really liked it. The characters are all great and I loved how they all interacted with one another.

I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
5,411 reviews
May 23, 2015
I loved reading about Cade and Lexi, however I dropped a star as I felt like the HEA was rushed and the conclusion wasn't overly satisfying for this couple. I wish this had been a full-length novel, rather than the shorter Blaze length. Finn and Damon were excellent secondary characters and I can't wait for their stories. I hope we see more of Lexi and Cade to get a better idea of how their story concludes.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
March 23, 2015
Lexie does not beat around the bush at times, "Cade, do you want to have a philosophical discussion, or do you want to grab a condom and get into bed with me." She's bold times, "I’ve missed you, too.” She wrapped her hand around his c***. “Don’t I get a taste?" I liked this book I loved how after years two people come back together and can fall in love all over again
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,512 reviews86 followers
April 26, 2015
ARC received for review

No overdrawn emotional angst. Just a sweet second chance love story. Cade and Lexi reached a HEA, I guess. It was not just the ending that I would have liked. It almost makes it a three star instead of four. There is a nice set up for the next book in the epilogue.
4 reviews
April 5, 2021
Sets up a few things for other books in the series

It's good for setting up the Thunder Mountain Academy thing. I like Cade and I like Lexi and together they're great to. I just wanted a bit more of them together. I skimmed through a lot when the conversations were about the brainstorming and such. I was bored with all of that. Maybe it's cause I had read some of the others before book 1. Lexi and Cade's moments were so short. I just felt there could have been more filler with the couple.
689 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2018
Midnight Thunder

First time that I have read anything by this author. I really liked it. The story was strong and tough. Foster children that never forgot the foster parents they were blessed with and came together to help those parents thru tough times. Great book and wonderful storyline.
Profile Image for Virginia Boylan.
430 reviews11 followers
May 4, 2021
While this book was enjoyable reading, I wish it had shown more of Cade and Lexi’s personal relationship instead of making their lusts foremost in their mutual attraction. It would also have been nice to see Cade actually working through his career realization. The title also doesn’t seem to have much to do with the story.
90 reviews
December 20, 2023
Great series.

I have read more than 1 book in this series. They all are great reads. Love the stories & characters. I haven't read them in order but that's ok. Got to make sure I've read them all. Don't want to miss any part of the journey!!
666 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2024
Enjoyable read

Greatest character and a fun, engaging storyline. In this somewhat continuing saga, we can explore new characters and revisit snippets from previous storylines. Another enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Martina Spinaci.
155 reviews7 followers
July 28, 2018
E con questo romanzetto inizia la mia estate da fancazzista assoluta :P
Profile Image for Lisa W.
39 reviews
August 30, 2019
It was better than expected, for a Harlequin Romance!
Profile Image for Janine.
534 reviews
December 3, 2019
I liked it - up beat and romantic. Thanks for continuing the horse theme. I wish I could go to some place like that!
Profile Image for Cathie McManus.
1,464 reviews6 followers
December 25, 2020
Cade returns home. Both he and Lexi feel the old attraction immediately. It was funny to me to see what he does.
Profile Image for Sandy.
2,492 reviews10 followers
July 6, 2023
Loved it

So glad I saw this series. The stories are so great. The love can't be stopped. They all think they don't need a woman but they may just find out different.
Profile Image for Kristy.
1,578 reviews18 followers
February 1, 2024
Reread. Lexi and Cade (one of the original three) rekindle their chemistry right out of the gate. I love how they all come together to get things done!
771 reviews8 followers
December 21, 2015
Marriage is something that is not to be taken lightly but when the time is right the question will be answered with a yes.

Cade and his Thunder Mountain Ranch brothers are going to go through a scare. But Lexi will be there to help him through the turmoil and will be there to let them know what is going to be happening to their ranch is something is not done quickly. Cade and Lexi were a couple before he left and now he wanted to start where they left off but Lexi has changed and for her that is not possible. Cade needs to think about what he wants out of life. First of all Cade, Damon and Finn are going to have to think about how to save the ranch without changing their lives because their mom will smack them before they do anything drastic. The more time that Lexi and Cade spent the more they become closer and Cade knows that he loves her but now it’s going to be Lexi that doesn’t want to get married. He is going to have to think about what he wants but also help out his mom and dad so they won’t lose the ranch. In the middle of all of that he finds out that he has family that has been looking for him and his mother. This is going to throw him through a loop and one that he is not ready to face.

Midnight Thunder was a good read. I loved getting to know all of the characters and their different personalities. I enjoyed the dialogue in this story. I love Ms. Thompson’s story telling and her creativity. The chemistry between these two characters is sensual. I loved Cade’s character he was a sweetheart. I loved how he was able to rescue the horse that had captured his heart and of course the tabby cat. Then there was Lexi a woman that knew how to boil Cade’s blood. She is a very strong woman and very caring. The only thing that saddened me was not seeing Cade interact with his lost family and really hope that he has a chance during his brother’s books.

I totally recommend this read!

Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
Profile Image for Carole.
1,484 reviews17 followers
July 2, 2015
Although other readers loved the book, this was not one of my favourites by Vicki Lewis Thompson.

Interesting underlying plot to save the ranch that will carry through the three books in the series and I really liked the relationship between the foster brothers. Loved that the hero was 'the Singing Cowboy' a horse whisperer who used songs like Red River Valley to calm and tame an abused horse. Loved that all three strong male characters were suckers for the cat Ringo.

Steamy hot sex between hero and heroine, but I found some of their internal dialogue and interactions very sophomoric. Their relationship was certainly about lust, but their emotional relationships and reactions felt very 'high school' to me.

She seemed to be playing hard to get and 'let's just keep this about sex' under the guise not not wanting to give up her independent career. She goes on ad infinitum about not wanting to diminish herself by putting his needs first, as she did when they were younger, but I found her thought processes were very heavy handed in this area. It felt like she went to the other extreme by declaring that marriage was no longer in the cards for her - there was no compromise and finding balance that would have felt more mature, although she was represented as the one who had evolved.

This book also spent a fair bit of time setting up the relationships for the other two brothers.

Loved her Last Chance Ranch series, but this book just did not do it for me. Final Rating 2.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Trudy Miner.
415 reviews7 followers
June 26, 2015
Cade Gallagher, Damon Harrison and Finn O'Rourke are the Thunder Mountain Brotherhood, formed when they were foster brothers at the Thunder Mountain Ranch run by the only people they ever considered parents Rosie and Herb. Now Rosie lies in Sheridan Hospital with a possible heart attack and Lexi Simmons, Cade's former significant other calls him and sends him hurrying home. Cade also alerts Damon and Finn who then rush back as well. Preparing the unused cabins for the arrival of Damon and Finn, Cade and Lexi discover that passion still flares between them but Cade broke her heart when he left. As they try to work out their problems while dealing with Rosie's health problems, trying to save the ranch with the other Brotherhood guys and figuring out what he really wants to do with his life, Cade has his hands full. Can Cade and Lexi find what they once had? How will they all save Thunder Mountain Ranch? What's next for the other members of the Brotherhood?

This is one of my favorite authors. All the elements of the story are there in the great way she writes them. I can usually read her books with ease; not this time and I don't know why. I had trouble connecting with the characters and buying into the story. I don't think it was the story though, maybe me: I'm not sure where the problem lies but it took me over a week to read a book it should have taken me no more than three days to read.
Profile Image for Christy Roberts.
1,514 reviews49 followers
May 7, 2020
I have looked for this book for ages and finally found it the beginning of this month. I gave a three because Lexi annoyed me near the end refusing to say yes to Cade's proposal when what was all she wanted 5 years before.

Cade comes back to Thunder Mountain Brotherhood when Lexi calls that his foster mom is in the hospital. He brought not only a horse with him but a cat named Ringo from his former job. His foster brothers Damon and Finn also show up to help.

Rosie and Herb are close to loosing the ranch where they grew up at. They come up with a plan on saving it that want put them in financial jeopardy either making it into an academy for teenagers 16-18.

Lexi and Cade pretty much pick up where left off five years before but they both in different places now. He finds out that he has family on his mom who died side of family who want to know him and thought he was forever lost. Lexi has riding clinics that she does that are all over the state.

By end Cade tells her that when she wants to she can propose to him since she's all about being in charge now.

Rosie got to come home no heartache but broken heart syndrome from the thought losing the ranch. Posey scheme what happened.

I gave this 4 star first time, but this go around Lexi was ugh even more so. I hope in later books she stops her devia act.
Profile Image for Kame.
802 reviews38 followers
May 2, 2015
3 1/2 stars

Cade hasn't been home in five years, he just can't see Lexi again. Then Lexi calls to tell him his foster Mom is in the hospital; and nothing will stop him from going home.

I had a soft spot in my heart for Cade. First of he is a cowboy, second he is sort of battered but loved along the way. Lexi I really liked her at first but then to me she got really defensive about a topic in a way that I felt was uncaring to Cade. I don't want to be more specific because I am not a fan of spoilers. They did have a "five years doesn't matter" connection, and I enjoyed how Lexi fit into the plot. There "private" time lived up to the Blaze title.


There were two plots in this book. One about Cade and Lexi and the next that will be the plot that runs through most of the "Thunder Mountain Ranch" series. Cade and Lexi's plot was expected, nothing earth shattering and the ending sort of left me wanting and wondering what the future holds for these two. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot of the series and it will be the reason I will read the future books.

Vicki Lewis Thompson is an author that is a comfort read for me, I have read all her cowboy books and always look forward to the next.

I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
6,576 reviews237 followers
June 14, 2015
I can see why author, Vicki was excited to present this new series. The brotherhood of Cade, Damon, and Finn is a great one. Of course, they are not bad looking either. I really liked Cade and Lexi's story. They were meant for each other. I thought that Vicki did a nice job of portraying how they had both matured in the five years of separation. Lexi became independent and Cade matured into a good man. Their relationship was better for it.

Although I do have to say that the sex between them was smoking hot. My favorite part was when it was raining and they were doing the deed in the back of Cade's pickup. I laughed at the description that the author used so much so that I had to read it to me husband and I started laughing again. It was "The rain dribbled between his thighs and mingled with her juices until they were both slippery as otters."

I am looking forward to reading Damon and Finn's stories.
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