What do you think?
Rate this book
Thompson & Sons #4
Let It Ride
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author VIVIAN AREND.
--------
He’s her rock in the midst of the storm
When Maggie Ward’s world is shattered by sudden tragedy, the only person who makes her days bearable is Clay Thompson. Protective and caring, he’s everything she could ask for in a friend. But when Maggie starts longing for more than friendship, it’ll take a little heated seduction to convince this stubborn mechanic she’s ready to start living again.
She’s his heart, whether he knows it or not
Tough guy Clay is good at taking care of others. It’s what he does. But when the one woman he’s always desired needs him to take care of her, he’s faced with a new challenge. Suddenly it’s not just responsibility driving him, but a wild desire to make Maggie his.
Following his heart might get him the girl…but it could also mean sacrificing the family he’s held together for years.
--------
He’s her rock in the midst of the storm
When Maggie Ward’s world is shattered by sudden tragedy, the only person who makes her days bearable is Clay Thompson. Protective and caring, he’s everything she could ask for in a friend. But when Maggie starts longing for more than friendship, it’ll take a little heated seduction to convince this stubborn mechanic she’s ready to start living again.
She’s his heart, whether he knows it or not
Tough guy Clay is good at taking care of others. It’s what he does. But when the one woman he’s always desired needs him to take care of her, he’s faced with a new challenge. Suddenly it’s not just responsibility driving him, but a wild desire to make Maggie his.
Following his heart might get him the girl…but it could also mean sacrificing the family he’s held together for years.
199 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2015
181 people are currently reading
1329 people want to read
About the author
Vivian Arend
157 books2,624 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Vivian Arend loves to share the products of her over-active imagination with her readers. She writes contemporary, western, and light-hearted paranormal romances. The stories are humorous yet emotional, usually with a large cast of family or friends, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Vivian lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband of many years—her inspiration for every hero and a willing companion for all sorts of adventures.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 3, 2016
I've been a fan of Vivian Arend's writing for a long time now and I'm really loving the Thompson & Son's series. They're all really sweet and heartwarming romances with a small town feel to them and I love the way we're really getting to know all of the family so well by getting to revisit both previous and upcoming couples in each new book.
Maggie and Clay have been friends for a long time, in fact they could have become a couple years ago but their timing sucked and Maggie ended up falling in love and marrying someone else. Maggie had a happy and loving relationship until she lost Cameron in a tragic accident and her world was turned upside down. Clay has always been there for Maggie, he was friends with Cameron and although he's been in love with Maggie himself for years he knew how happy she was and had no intention of coming between his two closest friends. Since Maggie lost Cameron Clay has been her rock, he's the one she has been able to rely on and the only one that got her through her grief and heartbreak. Now that she's coming out the other side she starts to have much stronger feelings for her best friend and she's ready to put her heart on the line once more.
I love it when people get a second chance at love. Not everyone finds the love of their life the first time around, or even if they do it tragedy can tear it all apart but that doesn't mean they shouldn't be able to move on and find happiness elsewhere. I loved both Maggie and Clay, they're so obviously perfect for each other and they make a brilliant couple but they never try to make light of what Maggie had with Cameron, he was and always will be an important part of both their lives and that made me respect them even more. Maggie had been through so much and it was lovely to see her being able to move forward with her life and find happiness again.
Let it Ride is such a sweet story about two friends who become the world to each other and it definitely left me with a smile on my face.
Maggie and Clay have been friends for a long time, in fact they could have become a couple years ago but their timing sucked and Maggie ended up falling in love and marrying someone else. Maggie had a happy and loving relationship until she lost Cameron in a tragic accident and her world was turned upside down. Clay has always been there for Maggie, he was friends with Cameron and although he's been in love with Maggie himself for years he knew how happy she was and had no intention of coming between his two closest friends. Since Maggie lost Cameron Clay has been her rock, he's the one she has been able to rely on and the only one that got her through her grief and heartbreak. Now that she's coming out the other side she starts to have much stronger feelings for her best friend and she's ready to put her heart on the line once more.
I love it when people get a second chance at love. Not everyone finds the love of their life the first time around, or even if they do it tragedy can tear it all apart but that doesn't mean they shouldn't be able to move on and find happiness elsewhere. I loved both Maggie and Clay, they're so obviously perfect for each other and they make a brilliant couple but they never try to make light of what Maggie had with Cameron, he was and always will be an important part of both their lives and that made me respect them even more. Maggie had been through so much and it was lovely to see her being able to move forward with her life and find happiness again.
Let it Ride is such a sweet story about two friends who become the world to each other and it definitely left me with a smile on my face.
May 12, 2015
A solid 4 riding off into the sunset stars for Vivian Arend's Let It Ride. They say sometimes there's someone perfect for you at the specific moment in time and someone who is perfect for you for all time. I happen to agree with that statement and this is reflected in Let It Ride. Maggie and Cameron are perfect for each other for the years they are together but Fate is well aware that Maggie is ultimately best with Clay Thompson and ensures it happens.
Maggie and Clay have known each other for years but couldn't get it together in time so Maggie ended up with Cameron. From the bits the reader is allowed to see of Cameron, he's a good guy. It isn't hard to like him but the reader is also shown Clay. He's a fantastic guy and has loved Maggie for years. When Cameron is stripped from Maggie's life it is Clay who is her saving grace.
Maggie is sweet, caring, witty, fun loving, fragile, and resilient. She actually tackles her feelings for Clay quite well considering all that she's been through and the possible consequences of getting involved. Clay is the protector, the one always in control and tending to the needs of others. He can't help it considering his own past and being the oldest sibling. He cares for Maggie, shields her, and ultimately brings her back to the world of the living.
This story is sweet and is a good reminder that life is too short to spend it alone and hurting. It also points out how important it is that things feel right to you regardless of what others might think. Clay is so easily to like and I like him quite a bit. Maggie is easy to like, respect, and relate to. The writing ensures the reader can understand each character well and allows for both plot and character development over the course of the story.
Maggie and Clay have known each other for years but couldn't get it together in time so Maggie ended up with Cameron. From the bits the reader is allowed to see of Cameron, he's a good guy. It isn't hard to like him but the reader is also shown Clay. He's a fantastic guy and has loved Maggie for years. When Cameron is stripped from Maggie's life it is Clay who is her saving grace.
Maggie is sweet, caring, witty, fun loving, fragile, and resilient. She actually tackles her feelings for Clay quite well considering all that she's been through and the possible consequences of getting involved. Clay is the protector, the one always in control and tending to the needs of others. He can't help it considering his own past and being the oldest sibling. He cares for Maggie, shields her, and ultimately brings her back to the world of the living.
This story is sweet and is a good reminder that life is too short to spend it alone and hurting. It also points out how important it is that things feel right to you regardless of what others might think. Clay is so easily to like and I like him quite a bit. Maggie is easy to like, respect, and relate to. The writing ensures the reader can understand each character well and allows for both plot and character development over the course of the story.
May 17, 2024
Great Life Lesson
This is sweet and hot with a fantastic life lesson. Clay Thompson and Maggie Ward have had mutual crushes on each other for ages, but life had other plans for them. As tragic as the reason they're able to come together is, I love Maggie's second chance with the one she thought got away.
They both have big hearts. I love how they support each other and their community in different ways. When it comes to those who take issue with them being together, I absolutely love how Maggie tackles their whispers and glances. I may not agree, but I appreciate where Clay's heart is when faced with a naysayer.
The weddings were fun and a bit voyeuristic for someone. Extra hot, uncomfortable, and funny. Hehehe....
I received an author's copy of the audio book. The narrator, Tatiana Sokolov, is terrific as always. I do sometimes wish she had a companion for a duet read, but she manages to hold her own for all characters.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
This is sweet and hot with a fantastic life lesson. Clay Thompson and Maggie Ward have had mutual crushes on each other for ages, but life had other plans for them. As tragic as the reason they're able to come together is, I love Maggie's second chance with the one she thought got away.
They both have big hearts. I love how they support each other and their community in different ways. When it comes to those who take issue with them being together, I absolutely love how Maggie tackles their whispers and glances. I may not agree, but I appreciate where Clay's heart is when faced with a naysayer.
The weddings were fun and a bit voyeuristic for someone. Extra hot, uncomfortable, and funny. Hehehe....
I received an author's copy of the audio book. The narrator, Tatiana Sokolov, is terrific as always. I do sometimes wish she had a companion for a duet read, but she manages to hold her own for all characters.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
June 9, 2015
4.25 stars. really sweet romance about friends coming together in loss and finding love. full review coming to the blog soon.
May 28, 2015
3.5 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 10, 2015
He’s her rock in the midst of the storm
When Maggie Ward’s world is torn apart by sudden tragedy, the only thing that makes her days bearable is Clay Thompson’s unwavering presence. He’s protective, caring, and everything she could ask for in a friend. But when she finds herself longing for more than friendship, it will take a little seduction to convince the stubborn mechanic she’s ready to start living again.
She’s his heart, whether he knows it or not
Clay Thompson’s got the taking-care-of-others business down pat, only he’s never faced this particular challenge before—the one woman he’s always wanted is unexpectedly his to care for. Suddenly it’s not just responsibility driving him, but a wild desire to make Maggie truly his. But following his heart might mean sacrificing the family he’s held together for years.
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--LET IT RIDE is the fourth installment in Vivian Arend’s adult, contemporary Thompson and Sons erotic romance series focusing on the Thompson family of Alberta Canada. This is mechanic Clay Thompson, and Maggie Ward’s storyline-a friends to lovers story where two people are brought together through grief and loss.
Told from third person point of view LET IT RIDE focuses on the building relationship between Clay and Maggie following the death of Maggie’s husband Cameron. Cameron was one of Clay’s best friends, and Clay has been attracted to Maggie since the first time they met. What ensues is a mutual friendship between two people whose lives were affected by the death of someone they loved. But small town minds and small town gossip find our couple facing an uncertain future when guilt follows them wherever they go. While Maggie focuses on the present, Clay focuses on the gossip and judgmental eyes-including those of his widowed father.
The relationship between Clay and Maggie is one of friends to lovers. With the holidays approaching Clay and his family want to ensure that Maggie is never alone. As the storyline builds, so too does the relationship pushing Maggie and Clay into another realm of their relationship. The $ex scenes are intimate and romantic but felt a little bit tame in comparison to the other storylines as Clay and Maggie’s relationship was handled with care in light of her husband’s death. It is impossible to put a timeline on grief and sorrow. Everyone struggles differently; everyone moves forward at a different rate and in this there are a few townsfolk who try to make life uncomfortable for Clay and Maggie’s new found love.
LET IT RIDE is a fast paced, romantic storyline with an ensemble cast of characters including all of the previous storyline couples and the Thompson family of siblings and mates. The storyline advances the series approximately nine to ten months wherein we are witness to two weddings and a look to the future for another couple. The youngest brother Troy Thompson’s life is in a bit of an uproar-his story will be told in A WILD RIDE-release date late 2015.
Vivian Arend blends loss and sorrow; friendship and love; letting go and moving forward. LET IT RIDE is sweet storyline without all of the angst and anxiety of walking away or second guessing what it is someone wants. Clay and Maggie are two mature adults who walk into their relationship knowing that life will not be easy, but losing someone you love, is much more difficult than falling in love.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 10, 2015
He’s her rock in the midst of the storm
When Maggie Ward’s world is torn apart by sudden tragedy, the only thing that makes her days bearable is Clay Thompson’s unwavering presence. He’s protective, caring, and everything she could ask for in a friend. But when she finds herself longing for more than friendship, it will take a little seduction to convince the stubborn mechanic she’s ready to start living again.
She’s his heart, whether he knows it or not
Clay Thompson’s got the taking-care-of-others business down pat, only he’s never faced this particular challenge before—the one woman he’s always wanted is unexpectedly his to care for. Suddenly it’s not just responsibility driving him, but a wild desire to make Maggie truly his. But following his heart might mean sacrificing the family he’s held together for years.
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--LET IT RIDE is the fourth installment in Vivian Arend’s adult, contemporary Thompson and Sons erotic romance series focusing on the Thompson family of Alberta Canada. This is mechanic Clay Thompson, and Maggie Ward’s storyline-a friends to lovers story where two people are brought together through grief and loss.
Told from third person point of view LET IT RIDE focuses on the building relationship between Clay and Maggie following the death of Maggie’s husband Cameron. Cameron was one of Clay’s best friends, and Clay has been attracted to Maggie since the first time they met. What ensues is a mutual friendship between two people whose lives were affected by the death of someone they loved. But small town minds and small town gossip find our couple facing an uncertain future when guilt follows them wherever they go. While Maggie focuses on the present, Clay focuses on the gossip and judgmental eyes-including those of his widowed father.
The relationship between Clay and Maggie is one of friends to lovers. With the holidays approaching Clay and his family want to ensure that Maggie is never alone. As the storyline builds, so too does the relationship pushing Maggie and Clay into another realm of their relationship. The $ex scenes are intimate and romantic but felt a little bit tame in comparison to the other storylines as Clay and Maggie’s relationship was handled with care in light of her husband’s death. It is impossible to put a timeline on grief and sorrow. Everyone struggles differently; everyone moves forward at a different rate and in this there are a few townsfolk who try to make life uncomfortable for Clay and Maggie’s new found love.
LET IT RIDE is a fast paced, romantic storyline with an ensemble cast of characters including all of the previous storyline couples and the Thompson family of siblings and mates. The storyline advances the series approximately nine to ten months wherein we are witness to two weddings and a look to the future for another couple. The youngest brother Troy Thompson’s life is in a bit of an uproar-his story will be told in A WILD RIDE-release date late 2015.
Vivian Arend blends loss and sorrow; friendship and love; letting go and moving forward. LET IT RIDE is sweet storyline without all of the angst and anxiety of walking away or second guessing what it is someone wants. Clay and Maggie are two mature adults who walk into their relationship knowing that life will not be easy, but losing someone you love, is much more difficult than falling in love.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 18, 2015
4,5 stars
The previous Viv Arend book I read, didn't quite work for me so it was with a bit of trepidation that I started this one. I'd been warned that this was a sad book and I needed to get the tissues ready. The warnings were accurate as from the first few pages a heavy feeling settled in my heart and tears were hovering inside my eyes, threatening to fall at the slighest thing. And they did fall, just not as much as I feared or expected and mostly they fell at the ending, being happy tears.
The more I read, the stronger this achy feeling in my heart got and I was completely immersed in Maggie's grief and struggle to move one after her loss and Clay's struggle to honor his friend and respect Maggie's feelings and just be there for her as a friend despite his romantic feelings for her.
But it wasn't all sadness and grief. I smiled several times at the dry wit both Maggie and Clay had and at the shenanigans of Troy (mainly) and Mitch. The dating service stuff made me laugh out loud. I loved how the family bond is strong and Thompsons and Colemans come together on both happy and sad occassions.
And I was also captivated by the sexiness of the story. It wasn't dirty but there was sexual attraction especially from Clay in the beginning and it sparked with sensual tension. When Molly started contributing to the sexual attraction and it became mutual the sexiness just jumped off the pages.
I really, really loved the main couple of LET IT RIDE.
Clay is so sweet and cute. Commanding, gruff Clay all aflutter because of Molly and her touching him.
Maggie is so brave and resilient and has a great sense of humor. And together they were just perfect, surrounded by an equally perfect secondary cast.
Though the first half of this awesome book was sad, the second half was fun and sexy and romantic and it gave me a perfect happy end with happy tears and a few emotional sobs. This series is one of my alltime faves by Vivian Arend.
Favorite Scene:
- the drive to the charity gala > It was super sexy and I felt so bad for Clay and his neccesity to keep his feelings hidden.
Favorite Quotes:
Gage laughed and patted Clay on the back, bringing him into the center of the room. “You should be nicer to your big brother,” he scolded Katy. “He’s here especially to see you.”
“Whatever it is he wants, no.”
Clay winked at his friend as he teased his sister, his foul mood dissipating rapidly. “You’re breaking my heart.”
“Awww. You need repair supplies? There’s a stapler on the desk, or Crazy Glue on the top shelf. Take your pick.”
He hesitated for a moment before giving her another of his breath-stealing hugs. Like usual, she felt cared for and guarded as he held her, and like usual, it seemed far too short a time before he set her free and headed out.
The previous Viv Arend book I read, didn't quite work for me so it was with a bit of trepidation that I started this one. I'd been warned that this was a sad book and I needed to get the tissues ready. The warnings were accurate as from the first few pages a heavy feeling settled in my heart and tears were hovering inside my eyes, threatening to fall at the slighest thing. And they did fall, just not as much as I feared or expected and mostly they fell at the ending, being happy tears.
The more I read, the stronger this achy feeling in my heart got and I was completely immersed in Maggie's grief and struggle to move one after her loss and Clay's struggle to honor his friend and respect Maggie's feelings and just be there for her as a friend despite his romantic feelings for her.
But it wasn't all sadness and grief. I smiled several times at the dry wit both Maggie and Clay had and at the shenanigans of Troy (mainly) and Mitch. The dating service stuff made me laugh out loud. I loved how the family bond is strong and Thompsons and Colemans come together on both happy and sad occassions.
And I was also captivated by the sexiness of the story. It wasn't dirty but there was sexual attraction especially from Clay in the beginning and it sparked with sensual tension. When Molly started contributing to the sexual attraction and it became mutual the sexiness just jumped off the pages.
I really, really loved the main couple of LET IT RIDE.
Clay is so sweet and cute. Commanding, gruff Clay all aflutter because of Molly and her touching him.
Maggie is so brave and resilient and has a great sense of humor. And together they were just perfect, surrounded by an equally perfect secondary cast.
Though the first half of this awesome book was sad, the second half was fun and sexy and romantic and it gave me a perfect happy end with happy tears and a few emotional sobs. This series is one of my alltime faves by Vivian Arend.
Favorite Scene:
- the drive to the charity gala > It was super sexy and I felt so bad for Clay and his neccesity to keep his feelings hidden.
Favorite Quotes:
Gage laughed and patted Clay on the back, bringing him into the center of the room. “You should be nicer to your big brother,” he scolded Katy. “He’s here especially to see you.”
“Whatever it is he wants, no.”
Clay winked at his friend as he teased his sister, his foul mood dissipating rapidly. “You’re breaking my heart.”
“Awww. You need repair supplies? There’s a stapler on the desk, or Crazy Glue on the top shelf. Take your pick.”
He hesitated for a moment before giving her another of his breath-stealing hugs. Like usual, she felt cared for and guarded as he held her, and like usual, it seemed far too short a time before he set her free and headed out.
May 11, 2015
** 3.5 stars **
It’s no secret that I enjoy Ms. Arend’s style of writing and have enjoyed all of the books in the Rocky Mountain House series and Let It Ride is no exception to that rule. I found it to be a quick read with sweet, emotional and fun moments, not only between Clay and Maggie, but with the rest of the characters who make an appearance in it. And though I did enjoy it in it’s entirety, I found Clay and Maggie’s romance to be lacking in heat in comparison to the other HEA’s in the series. It’s not that I didn’t like either Clay or Maggie, because I did. Nor is it that I didn’t think they belonged together because from the beginning you could tell that they were friends and as the story progresses you see just how good they are together, but when they finally move past the friend zone it felt more sweet than firey.
But what I really liked was how the various stages of Maggie’s grief and healing were handled and the role that Clay played in it. We get to see her not only at her most vulnerable, but at her strongest and while she does accept help from those who care about her, she does much of it on her own. Clay’s determination to be there for Maggie and put her needs before his was something that I really liked about him as well as how he kept a good balance at pushing her without stepping over the line. And the various reactions of some of the townsfolk over what they perceived to be going on between Clay and Maggie and their own responses to them was also done well, one in particular did surprise me, but it made sense. The other part that I liked, and what I really enjoy about this series, was catching up with the rest of the Thompson family and even some of the Coleman’s. We get to see where they all are in their relationships and a few things occur had me grinning.
Overall: While Clay and Maggie’s HEA was a little mild heat wise for me, this was still an enjoyable read and good addition to the series. It also did a great job at peaking my interest in Troy, the youngest Thompson male, and just what his story is.
~ I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review ~
It’s no secret that I enjoy Ms. Arend’s style of writing and have enjoyed all of the books in the Rocky Mountain House series and Let It Ride is no exception to that rule. I found it to be a quick read with sweet, emotional and fun moments, not only between Clay and Maggie, but with the rest of the characters who make an appearance in it. And though I did enjoy it in it’s entirety, I found Clay and Maggie’s romance to be lacking in heat in comparison to the other HEA’s in the series. It’s not that I didn’t like either Clay or Maggie, because I did. Nor is it that I didn’t think they belonged together because from the beginning you could tell that they were friends and as the story progresses you see just how good they are together, but when they finally move past the friend zone it felt more sweet than firey.
But what I really liked was how the various stages of Maggie’s grief and healing were handled and the role that Clay played in it. We get to see her not only at her most vulnerable, but at her strongest and while she does accept help from those who care about her, she does much of it on her own. Clay’s determination to be there for Maggie and put her needs before his was something that I really liked about him as well as how he kept a good balance at pushing her without stepping over the line. And the various reactions of some of the townsfolk over what they perceived to be going on between Clay and Maggie and their own responses to them was also done well, one in particular did surprise me, but it made sense. The other part that I liked, and what I really enjoy about this series, was catching up with the rest of the Thompson family and even some of the Coleman’s. We get to see where they all are in their relationships and a few things occur had me grinning.
Overall: While Clay and Maggie’s HEA was a little mild heat wise for me, this was still an enjoyable read and good addition to the series. It also did a great job at peaking my interest in Troy, the youngest Thompson male, and just what his story is.
~ I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review ~
July 3, 2015
Review copy provided by author
I'm a huge fan of Vivian Arend and absolutely love her Thompson & Sons and Rocky Mountain House series. I was really excited to finally get Clay Thompson's story.
I enjoyed Let It Ride very much. I have to say it was tough to read Maggie and Clay's loss when Maggie's husband Cameron dies. Cameron was the love of Maggie's life and Clay's best friend. I have to admit this book made me cry a few times. I knew Clay had always been attracted to Maggie and knew he would never act on that attraction if he didn't know Maggie wanted him in return.
I loved that Maggie was the one to make the first move. Honestly Clay and Maggie becoming a couple worked for me better because Maggie was the one to make that first move. I worried how their friends and family would react to their relationship, and knew there would be someone who wouldn't agree with them moving on together. I have to say it still broke my heart who and how the person approached Clay about the situation.
While Let It Ride started out sad, it ended up being a wonderful emotion filled romance. I’m a fan of reading books in a series in order, but do feel like you could read Let It Ride as a stand-alone and not be too lost in the series.
I'm a huge fan of Vivian Arend and absolutely love her Thompson & Sons and Rocky Mountain House series. I was really excited to finally get Clay Thompson's story.
I enjoyed Let It Ride very much. I have to say it was tough to read Maggie and Clay's loss when Maggie's husband Cameron dies. Cameron was the love of Maggie's life and Clay's best friend. I have to admit this book made me cry a few times. I knew Clay had always been attracted to Maggie and knew he would never act on that attraction if he didn't know Maggie wanted him in return.
I loved that Maggie was the one to make the first move. Honestly Clay and Maggie becoming a couple worked for me better because Maggie was the one to make that first move. I worried how their friends and family would react to their relationship, and knew there would be someone who wouldn't agree with them moving on together. I have to say it still broke my heart who and how the person approached Clay about the situation.
While Let It Ride started out sad, it ended up being a wonderful emotion filled romance. I’m a fan of reading books in a series in order, but do feel like you could read Let It Ride as a stand-alone and not be too lost in the series.
September 27, 2016
Maggie Ward had it all until it was ripped away from her. Grieving she leans on friend Clay Thompson, he is a rock and pushes her to live life again.
Clay always thought Maggie was the one that got away. He is trying to be a friend, but his feelings for Maggie are growing and it is becoming difficult to keep those feeling secret. Until one day he sees that Maggie might share the same feelings, can he act on it or will it tear them apart?
Entertaining, it was a little quick in some spots though. I liked Clay from the get go, he is wonderful where Maggie is concerned. Sweet story.
Clay always thought Maggie was the one that got away. He is trying to be a friend, but his feelings for Maggie are growing and it is becoming difficult to keep those feeling secret. Until one day he sees that Maggie might share the same feelings, can he act on it or will it tear them apart?
Entertaining, it was a little quick in some spots though. I liked Clay from the get go, he is wonderful where Maggie is concerned. Sweet story.
June 10, 2015
Reviewed at Dear Author: http://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/ov...
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
May 31, 2015
Love this town, love these people and LOVED this book!!!!
Back before there were Thompson and Sons, and back before the 6 pack ranch series stretched to include all the Coleman boys, we met Clay Thompson. He was a rival for the affections of one of our heroes. He was sweet and manly, but was just chasing the wrong girl
Now when this series began, I have been patiently waiting for his HEA, because, darn it, he was a nice guy and he served one!
Finally, Clay's story and, what, he has to lose his new best friend to get his girl?? Wow, like, this could be so bad, but really, it isn't. It is amazing to watch the relationship grow between these two. Really, his best bud's widow ends up with him, and they work together through the pain, the hurt and the loss. Not until all that is manageable do they realize, wait, I like, I really like this person
They then have to figure out how to approach the other, and then, what and how to approach the town, and his family, and a whole other host of issues. Luckily, they keep the big picture in mind, especially since they both understand how fragile life can be and keep things in perspective
Oh, and there is the sweetest wedding followed by a bad-ass surprise as we catch up with some other Thompson's along the way that will melt your heart
Did I mention I love this series and the people in the this town?? Well I do and this is exactly why!!
Back before there were Thompson and Sons, and back before the 6 pack ranch series stretched to include all the Coleman boys, we met Clay Thompson. He was a rival for the affections of one of our heroes. He was sweet and manly, but was just chasing the wrong girl
Now when this series began, I have been patiently waiting for his HEA, because, darn it, he was a nice guy and he served one!
Finally, Clay's story and, what, he has to lose his new best friend to get his girl?? Wow, like, this could be so bad, but really, it isn't. It is amazing to watch the relationship grow between these two. Really, his best bud's widow ends up with him, and they work together through the pain, the hurt and the loss. Not until all that is manageable do they realize, wait, I like, I really like this person
They then have to figure out how to approach the other, and then, what and how to approach the town, and his family, and a whole other host of issues. Luckily, they keep the big picture in mind, especially since they both understand how fragile life can be and keep things in perspective
Oh, and there is the sweetest wedding followed by a bad-ass surprise as we catch up with some other Thompson's along the way that will melt your heart
Did I mention I love this series and the people in the this town?? Well I do and this is exactly why!!
May 19, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I always love a good best-friends-to-lovers story. This book is a sweet love story where the hero and the heroine start out as the closest of friends before they fall in love. It was also a bit sad, especially the part where the tragedy happened.
I liked the heroine because she did not let the tragedy drag her down. I think she was very brave with how she faced each day after what happened. She reached out and stayed connected to her friends and continued to live her life. I also liked the hero because he was strong, dependable and loyal. I really like how he handled the conflict with his father, choosing not to tell anybody, so they would not have to bear the hurt or the memory, even if he himself was deeply hurt.
This book is not going to rock you world or tear you heart into pieces. What this book will do is give you a dose of sugar exactly the way you'd like it. The storyline is common, but it is one that never gets old. The way that Vivian Arend wrote the whole book was satisfying, and I enjoyed every minute,
I always love a good best-friends-to-lovers story. This book is a sweet love story where the hero and the heroine start out as the closest of friends before they fall in love. It was also a bit sad, especially the part where the tragedy happened.
I liked the heroine because she did not let the tragedy drag her down. I think she was very brave with how she faced each day after what happened. She reached out and stayed connected to her friends and continued to live her life. I also liked the hero because he was strong, dependable and loyal. I really like how he handled the conflict with his father, choosing not to tell anybody, so they would not have to bear the hurt or the memory, even if he himself was deeply hurt.
This book is not going to rock you world or tear you heart into pieces. What this book will do is give you a dose of sugar exactly the way you'd like it. The storyline is common, but it is one that never gets old. The way that Vivian Arend wrote the whole book was satisfying, and I enjoyed every minute,
May 21, 2015
Such a touching read.
Maggie Ward is a woman who has her world torn apart on one bitter cold wintry day. Her whole life completely changed in a tragic turn of events. Afterwards she is left withdrawn and muddling through her night and days. Everything is so quiet. There's only one person who even makes it bearable, Clay Thompson. He is her friend. He don't push or try to crowd her. He's just there. He listens and has held her when she cries. Always lending a helping hand and just keeping her sane.
Clay is a protective man and he knows how to help people in need. He had to step up at a young age for his own family. Now he just wants to help Maggie. He is drawn to her and everything is better when she is around. Clay has always been loyal to his family in every way. Now something may get in his way.
Let It Ride is more than romance. It is about friendship and going the extra mile for a friend. The romance is definitely there after Maggie and Clay finally get on the same page.
Vivian Arend great job. I can't wait for the next one. Thank you for your hard work.
Maggie Ward is a woman who has her world torn apart on one bitter cold wintry day. Her whole life completely changed in a tragic turn of events. Afterwards she is left withdrawn and muddling through her night and days. Everything is so quiet. There's only one person who even makes it bearable, Clay Thompson. He is her friend. He don't push or try to crowd her. He's just there. He listens and has held her when she cries. Always lending a helping hand and just keeping her sane.
Clay is a protective man and he knows how to help people in need. He had to step up at a young age for his own family. Now he just wants to help Maggie. He is drawn to her and everything is better when she is around. Clay has always been loyal to his family in every way. Now something may get in his way.
Let It Ride is more than romance. It is about friendship and going the extra mile for a friend. The romance is definitely there after Maggie and Clay finally get on the same page.
Vivian Arend great job. I can't wait for the next one. Thank you for your hard work.
May 14, 2015
I love when a books grab my attention and have me emotionally invested from the start, Let It Ride did just that. It had me sad at the beginning and very happy at the end and in between it had me hot and bothered during the sex scenes as well as had me rooting for the hero and heroine. It's a really sweet and fun read, one that I enjoyed quite a lot. At its core Let It Ride deals with loss, finding the strength to go on and love again and not feel guilty for that love or the fact that you've moved on.
I loved slipping back into the Thompson fold, getting caught up on past couples while enjoying Maggie and Clay's journey to happily ever after.
I'm gonna be sad to see this series come to an end but at the same time I can't wait for Troy's story. If you're a fan of this series you will enjoy this latest installment even if this is your first you'll enjoy it, it's a wonderful story.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley
I loved slipping back into the Thompson fold, getting caught up on past couples while enjoying Maggie and Clay's journey to happily ever after.
I'm gonna be sad to see this series come to an end but at the same time I can't wait for Troy's story. If you're a fan of this series you will enjoy this latest installment even if this is your first you'll enjoy it, it's a wonderful story.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley
June 30, 2015
This book honestly had me crying. Clay and Maggie had me on such an emotional roller coaster. The author took lots of time to develop the characters and made you feel as if you were living it with them. I'm so glad to see Clay get his happily ever after. Now...what the heck is up with our bad boy, Troy???
May 22, 2015
It wasn't my favourite book, but it was still a great read.
October 9, 2015
I liked this book but I didn't love it. I think I struggled with the quickness of the relationship and the relationship prior to the accident.
June 30, 2024
Let It Ride is book 4 in the Thompson and Sons series. It follows the oldest, Clay Thompson, on his journey to finding love while working through guilt of loving his friend's widow.
Clay always had a crush on Maggie and was finally ready to ask her out when his mother passed away. Because of what he needed to do for his family, he had to let Maggie go. When she came home married, he realized they were never meant to be and he became friends with Cam.
While traveling to visit family in Montana, Maggie and her husband, Cameron, are in a bad car accident. Maggie loses Cam due to his injuries. When she returns home, Clay is there to help her recover both physically and emotionally.
Clay has always taken care of people. When his mother passed away years ago, he stepped up and took care of all of his younger siblings. He would take Katie and her friend, Janey, shopping for clothes and tell them when the outfits made them look like princesses. He, basically, raised Troy and Katie while his father, Keith, grieved.
After recovering from the accident, Maggie realizes she wants more from Clay. She wants intimacy. But Clay is determined to just be her friend and help her heal and grieve. So it looks like she will need to seduce him to get what she wants.
Maggie does not want to forget Cam, but she wants to live life. She wants intimacy. She wants a partner. And she wants Clay. The question now is, does Clay want her?
When Clay brings Maggie to a family dinner, his father gets very upset with him. Keith believes that Clay should leave Maggie alone. His philosophy is that she found her one true love and she should love him until the day she dies. He tells Clay that he will not be at family dinners if he and Maggie will be there.
Will Clay be able to move beyond his father's words and sentiment? Will he tell Maggie what Keith said to him? Will they discuss it or will he make a unilateral decision? So many questions to be answered.
I understand Keith's resistance to such a quick relationship between Clay and Maggie. I do not agree with it, but I understand it. He is old school. When he lost his wife, he lost a part of himself. He chose to remain loyal to her and not move on. But he should not force that same philosophy on others.
Tatiana Sokolov has narrated all of the books in this series, and proves yet again why the author selected her to narrate another one. Her voice is smooth and she manages to have a good grip on the emotions running through the characters.
Clay always had a crush on Maggie and was finally ready to ask her out when his mother passed away. Because of what he needed to do for his family, he had to let Maggie go. When she came home married, he realized they were never meant to be and he became friends with Cam.
While traveling to visit family in Montana, Maggie and her husband, Cameron, are in a bad car accident. Maggie loses Cam due to his injuries. When she returns home, Clay is there to help her recover both physically and emotionally.
Clay has always taken care of people. When his mother passed away years ago, he stepped up and took care of all of his younger siblings. He would take Katie and her friend, Janey, shopping for clothes and tell them when the outfits made them look like princesses. He, basically, raised Troy and Katie while his father, Keith, grieved.
After recovering from the accident, Maggie realizes she wants more from Clay. She wants intimacy. But Clay is determined to just be her friend and help her heal and grieve. So it looks like she will need to seduce him to get what she wants.
Maggie does not want to forget Cam, but she wants to live life. She wants intimacy. She wants a partner. And she wants Clay. The question now is, does Clay want her?
When Clay brings Maggie to a family dinner, his father gets very upset with him. Keith believes that Clay should leave Maggie alone. His philosophy is that she found her one true love and she should love him until the day she dies. He tells Clay that he will not be at family dinners if he and Maggie will be there.
Will Clay be able to move beyond his father's words and sentiment? Will he tell Maggie what Keith said to him? Will they discuss it or will he make a unilateral decision? So many questions to be answered.
I understand Keith's resistance to such a quick relationship between Clay and Maggie. I do not agree with it, but I understand it. He is old school. When he lost his wife, he lost a part of himself. He chose to remain loyal to her and not move on. But he should not force that same philosophy on others.
Tatiana Sokolov has narrated all of the books in this series, and proves yet again why the author selected her to narrate another one. Her voice is smooth and she manages to have a good grip on the emotions running through the characters.
March 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this story! It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention the entire time. Clay had a thing for Maggie back in high school but due to circumstances and how things changed when his mom died nothing ever happened or came of it. Her family moved away and when she came back she was married to another man. Clay and her husband, Cameron became good friends as well as Clay and Maggie being good friends. Tragedy strikes and Cam is gone. Maggie is left to pick up the pieces and figure out how to move forward and in the midst of all of that Clay is a rock steady presence for her. I loved how they continued to build their friendship and then how things moved into more. Clay never pushed, he always wanted what was best for Maggie and what she needed. I loved how the two of them moved forward and the care they had for each other. This story was really sweet. I thought it was really well done with the death of a spouse and then moving forward with a close friend of them both. The story was well done and I was engaged with the characters from the beginning. I can't wait for the next Thompson to fall.
The narrator did a great job with the story and characters and bringing it to life.
The narrator did a great job with the story and characters and bringing it to life.
June 9, 2019
Such a sad start to this story but what a sweet read.
Emotionally gripping and heartrending as two close friends become more after tragedy happens.
For Clay, he just had an ember reignite for Maggie.
For Maggie things aren’t so simple. Though she had a spark for Clay years previously, she had a solid love and marriage with Cameron.
My belief is to each to their own, and as a friend I would have supported them, even though I am not sure that she had the time to grieve properly but no one knows what another person is feeling or thinking.
Saying that, everyone handles grief differently and Clay was able to relate with Maggie about Cameron on an everyday basis.
I feel Cameron would have been happy for them.
Not quite sure what Keith, the fathers problem was, as it is never explained to us, just dealt with.
Emotionally gripping and heartrending as two close friends become more after tragedy happens.
For Clay, he just had an ember reignite for Maggie.
For Maggie things aren’t so simple. Though she had a spark for Clay years previously, she had a solid love and marriage with Cameron.
My belief is to each to their own, and as a friend I would have supported them, even though I am not sure that she had the time to grieve properly but no one knows what another person is feeling or thinking.
Saying that, everyone handles grief differently and Clay was able to relate with Maggie about Cameron on an everyday basis.
I feel Cameron would have been happy for them.
Not quite sure what Keith, the fathers problem was, as it is never explained to us, just dealt with.
March 3, 2019
Maggie had a very difficult x after her husband but people grieve 4 all different time limits and sum move on after they finally accept things and sum don't but he has had strong feelings 4 her but he tried 2 b innocent on his feelings and just b there 4 her when she needed him. The boys have been good friends 4 yrs now and I bet Cameron told him 2 look after her 4 him if sumthing ever happened 2 him. Even though his dad was being a total asshole and lives in the old ages he realized that this is 1 St his son has wanted 2 b with sumone and just cause he will probably always b in mourning over the love of his life don't mean others will be 2. The old guy proved that. They both deserve 2 b happy again and they will never 4get Cameron ever.
February 25, 2025
Loved Clay and Maggie. Great story about second chances and best friends widow.
Maggie's husband is one of Clay's best friends. When Cameron is killed in a car accident, Clay steps in to help Maggie and take care of her during her grieving. But he has feelings for Maggie that started back in their school days that are coming back again. He tries to keep them hidden but is he really successful? Only months after her husbands death she decides to let Clay know she wants more that just friendship. Will people be happy for them or condemn her for moving on so quickly or think Clay pushed to quickly?
Maggie's husband is one of Clay's best friends. When Cameron is killed in a car accident, Clay steps in to help Maggie and take care of her during her grieving. But he has feelings for Maggie that started back in their school days that are coming back again. He tries to keep them hidden but is he really successful? Only months after her husbands death she decides to let Clay know she wants more that just friendship. Will people be happy for them or condemn her for moving on so quickly or think Clay pushed to quickly?
May 17, 2019
Clay Thompson has always had a thing for Maggie Ward, but when she marries someone else he becomes friends with her husband and life goes on. But when Maggie's husband is tragically killed, Clay is there to help her pick up the pieces. And although he can't stop having feelings for Maggie, he can hide them. But as time goes by and Maggie starts healing, she finds she also has feelings for Clay. I really enjoyed this book in the Rocky Mountain House series. Both Maggie and Clay had to deal with town members judging Maggie as well as their own guilt about moving on.
May 4, 2021
Let It Ride is the fourth in Vivian Arend’s Thompson & Sons series, set in the small town of Rocky Mountain House in Alberta, Canada.
Maggie Ward and Clay Thompson have known each other for years. Sweethearts then friends, as Maggie married and her husband Cameron became one of Clay’s best friends as well. Then when a terrible tragedy strikes, their friendship helps them hold together and then move on and forward.
Vivian Arend’s story is beautifully moving, dealing with loss and healing and family. A keeper.
Maggie Ward and Clay Thompson have known each other for years. Sweethearts then friends, as Maggie married and her husband Cameron became one of Clay’s best friends as well. Then when a terrible tragedy strikes, their friendship helps them hold together and then move on and forward.
Vivian Arend’s story is beautifully moving, dealing with loss and healing and family. A keeper.
June 16, 2021
Second Chance
Clay and Maggie’s story. Moving story of Maggie finding a second love with the oldest Thompson son. Sadly some of the good people in town don’t think it’s appropriate for Maggie to move on with Clay. That includes Keith, the Thompson dad who has never moved past his wife’s death. Each of the boys has suffered from Keith’s reaction to their mom’s death. For Clay, that has involved stepping up and keeping both the family & the business together.
Clay and Maggie’s story. Moving story of Maggie finding a second love with the oldest Thompson son. Sadly some of the good people in town don’t think it’s appropriate for Maggie to move on with Clay. That includes Keith, the Thompson dad who has never moved past his wife’s death. Each of the boys has suffered from Keith’s reaction to their mom’s death. For Clay, that has involved stepping up and keeping both the family & the business together.
August 4, 2020
Clay and Maggie’s story is absolutely perfect. Years of friendship with Cameron leaves a huge hole in Clay’s heart when his friend is killed and Maggie becomes a widow. He vows to take care of her in tribute to his best friend while they both grieve and start to mend their broken hearts. Friendship and a new relationship blooms in this sweet and romantic addition to the Thompson and Sons series.
December 24, 2017
2.5 Stars
- Very Tame for VA!
- Romance bloomed far too early....Couldn't get my head around fact that they got together only a couple of months after Cameron died!
- Nothing special about story, feel like I've read it many times before.
Disappointed!!!
- Very Tame for VA!
- Romance bloomed far too early....Couldn't get my head around fact that they got together only a couple of months after Cameron died!
- Nothing special about story, feel like I've read it many times before.
Disappointed!!!
May 11, 2025
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
So emotional and lots of happy tears.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
So emotional and lots of happy tears.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
December 27, 2017
This book made me ugly cry. BIG SNOTTY, MESSY CRYING Y'ALL. So good.
May 15, 2017
This one was more 3.5 stars, but still loved it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews