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Wind River Valley #1
Wind River Wrangler
Still waters run deep . . .
From the moment Roan Taggart picked up the pretty redhead at the Jackson Hole airport, his training and experience told him she was spooked. She’s left New York City to visit the Wind River Ranch, where Roan is a wrangler, and just as he can pick up a horse’s mood, he can feel the tension coming off her body. And that vulnerability is triggering all his protective instincts. . .
Shiloh Gallagher likes the gray-eyed cowboy’s dry humor—and the Special Forces background that lends him a stoic, powerful presence. But she’s been scarred by trauma and her mother’s murder . . . and knows a strong man can be dangerous. She came to wide-open Wyoming to flee a threat that’s left her unable to write her novels. Now, as she rides horses with Roan and helps him build an isolated cabin, she’s slowly letting down her guard. But danger has followed her west, and they won’t have a future together unless they defeat a killer from her past. . .
From the moment Roan Taggart picked up the pretty redhead at the Jackson Hole airport, his training and experience told him she was spooked. She’s left New York City to visit the Wind River Ranch, where Roan is a wrangler, and just as he can pick up a horse’s mood, he can feel the tension coming off her body. And that vulnerability is triggering all his protective instincts. . .
Shiloh Gallagher likes the gray-eyed cowboy’s dry humor—and the Special Forces background that lends him a stoic, powerful presence. But she’s been scarred by trauma and her mother’s murder . . . and knows a strong man can be dangerous. She came to wide-open Wyoming to flee a threat that’s left her unable to write her novels. Now, as she rides horses with Roan and helps him build an isolated cabin, she’s slowly letting down her guard. But danger has followed her west, and they won’t have a future together unless they defeat a killer from her past. . .
342 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 25, 2016
839 people are currently reading
1645 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay McKenna
359 books2,496 followersI've lived six lives in one and it all shows up in the books I write, one way or another.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
May 8, 2017
2.5 Wow that's descriptive Stars
Wind River Wrangler was an okay read but just wasn't my jam. I had two problems with this book that really kept me from connecting with the story. For one it was slow moving. I mean slowwwwww. I am good with a slow burn as long as it doesn't get boring and at times I got bored. It moved so slow I felt like I was standing still. For 2 this book was so overly descriptive it bogged down the book and caused some of the slow pace. Everything in this book was described in such over the top detail that it got repetitive and tedious. Roan and Shiloh were both likeable characters. They had good character development, but them, their relationship and the story plot got lost in the abundance of details dumped on the reader. At least for me. To give an example their first kiss went on for paragraphs just a kiss ......paragraphs. Or here is a little quote of their lunch.
She spooned the potato salad, the three-bean salad onto her plate. Roan had brought thinly sliced beef sandwiches with horseradish mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato on them for their main course.
Did we really need to know it was "thinly" slice beef with "horseradish mayonnaise", lettuce and tomato really? Here is other example of detail dumping when Shiloh sees a chandelier Roan made.
Roan had twined two different types of wood around the main center post of the chandelier. One wood was reddish colored. The other, a deeper gold color, even more so than the cedar wood itself. They twined like vines, perhaps, four of them around each arm, to the end of it, so that there was a red and gold color on every other arm. And within the twined pieces of wood were highly faceted colored glass in blue, crystal clear, and green colors placed tastefully here and there. As the sunlight shot through the area, the crystals sparkled, creating a breathtaking collage of color. A the end of each arm of the chandelier was a light hanging down from it. And surrounding the top of the light was a tent like wooden roof with the twine of the colorful wood flowing around it. She pressed her hands against her heart as she absorbed all that Roan had done to create this piece of incredible art that was fully functional. How long had it taken him to carve and make it? The details were so intricate and delicate. So feminine, as if honoring the beauty of women. Shiloh was sure he didn't consciously realize that, but as she looked around, there was decided balance between the hard angles of the masculine and the curves of the feminine.
Come on it's just too much. And the whole book reads like that. I can't even tell you how many times it was mentioned that she was a writer and him a member of the black ops. I felt my eyes start to glaze over a few times. So while I did like Roan and Shiloh. And I did like the plot the pace and the detail dumping caused me to disconnect from the story and lose interest.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
Wind River Wrangler was an okay read but just wasn't my jam. I had two problems with this book that really kept me from connecting with the story. For one it was slow moving. I mean slowwwwww. I am good with a slow burn as long as it doesn't get boring and at times I got bored. It moved so slow I felt like I was standing still. For 2 this book was so overly descriptive it bogged down the book and caused some of the slow pace. Everything in this book was described in such over the top detail that it got repetitive and tedious. Roan and Shiloh were both likeable characters. They had good character development, but them, their relationship and the story plot got lost in the abundance of details dumped on the reader. At least for me. To give an example their first kiss went on for paragraphs just a kiss ......paragraphs. Or here is a little quote of their lunch.
She spooned the potato salad, the three-bean salad onto her plate. Roan had brought thinly sliced beef sandwiches with horseradish mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato on them for their main course.
Did we really need to know it was "thinly" slice beef with "horseradish mayonnaise", lettuce and tomato really? Here is other example of detail dumping when Shiloh sees a chandelier Roan made.
Roan had twined two different types of wood around the main center post of the chandelier. One wood was reddish colored. The other, a deeper gold color, even more so than the cedar wood itself. They twined like vines, perhaps, four of them around each arm, to the end of it, so that there was a red and gold color on every other arm. And within the twined pieces of wood were highly faceted colored glass in blue, crystal clear, and green colors placed tastefully here and there. As the sunlight shot through the area, the crystals sparkled, creating a breathtaking collage of color. A the end of each arm of the chandelier was a light hanging down from it. And surrounding the top of the light was a tent like wooden roof with the twine of the colorful wood flowing around it. She pressed her hands against her heart as she absorbed all that Roan had done to create this piece of incredible art that was fully functional. How long had it taken him to carve and make it? The details were so intricate and delicate. So feminine, as if honoring the beauty of women. Shiloh was sure he didn't consciously realize that, but as she looked around, there was decided balance between the hard angles of the masculine and the curves of the feminine.
Come on it's just too much. And the whole book reads like that. I can't even tell you how many times it was mentioned that she was a writer and him a member of the black ops. I felt my eyes start to glaze over a few times. So while I did like Roan and Shiloh. And I did like the plot the pace and the detail dumping caused me to disconnect from the story and lose interest.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
August 1, 2017
This book is S-L-O-W and I mean slow even a snail is quicker. I was quite bored really.
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a cowboy romance and well it was alright I guess. Actually it is bloody awful.
I find it hard to explain the beginning was good, the heroine Shiloh has a stalker so she goes out West to visit an old friend of her mothers. Shiloh has experienced some truly awful at such a young age but she still has a positive outlook on life and is a best-selling author. She has some self-confidence issues.
Roan Taggert former black-ops turned wrangler is the perfect Hero, he is patient, protective, kind and understanding and well men have to have some dipshit moments otherwise it is mediocre. Not a lot happened really. They get to know one another, they talk about having a relationship there is a strong and constant build up between them but that also kind of took all of the excitement out of the plot.
It was listed on numerous accounts that she is a write and that is why she is curious which drove me bonkers, yeah WE GET IT YOU ARE A WRITER. I knew who the stalker was and I hate it when that happens although the suspenseful moments were written rather well. But in some ways it is predictable.
Please note that this is my personal opinion and that in no way does it affect the overall opinions of this book. This book and author just isn’t for me.
Review can also be found @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Book received by Kensington Press in exchange for an honest review.
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a cowboy romance and well it was alright I guess. Actually it is bloody awful.
I find it hard to explain the beginning was good, the heroine Shiloh has a stalker so she goes out West to visit an old friend of her mothers. Shiloh has experienced some truly awful at such a young age but she still has a positive outlook on life and is a best-selling author. She has some self-confidence issues.
Roan Taggert former black-ops turned wrangler is the perfect Hero, he is patient, protective, kind and understanding and well men have to have some dipshit moments otherwise it is mediocre. Not a lot happened really. They get to know one another, they talk about having a relationship there is a strong and constant build up between them but that also kind of took all of the excitement out of the plot.
It was listed on numerous accounts that she is a write and that is why she is curious which drove me bonkers, yeah WE GET IT YOU ARE A WRITER. I knew who the stalker was and I hate it when that happens although the suspenseful moments were written rather well. But in some ways it is predictable.
Please note that this is my personal opinion and that in no way does it affect the overall opinions of this book. This book and author just isn’t for me.
Review can also be found @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Book received by Kensington Press in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2025
Wind River Wrangler is a slow building romance that will tug at your heart strings.
Shiloh knows someone is out to get her and no one believes her. Well, no one but her mother’s old friend…who offers Shiloh a place at her ranch to get away.
Roan is a ranch hand who knows immediately that Shiloh is a woman that he will have to treat with kid gloves. Her vulnerability instantly triggers all his protective instincts.
Neither new the threat was going to follow Shiloh. With Roan’s past military training and Shiloh’s gut instincts Shiloh might just survive.
McKenna pens a picturesque and beautifully visual tale of a slow building love story. Some suspense, some action and a connection that can be denied all make for the perfect read to cozy up with a cup of tea by the fire.
I received this ARC copy of Wind River Wrangler from Kensington - Zebra in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication October 25, 2016.
Shiloh knows someone is out to get her and no one believes her. Well, no one but her mother’s old friend…who offers Shiloh a place at her ranch to get away.
Roan is a ranch hand who knows immediately that Shiloh is a woman that he will have to treat with kid gloves. Her vulnerability instantly triggers all his protective instincts.
Neither new the threat was going to follow Shiloh. With Roan’s past military training and Shiloh’s gut instincts Shiloh might just survive.
McKenna pens a picturesque and beautifully visual tale of a slow building love story. Some suspense, some action and a connection that can be denied all make for the perfect read to cozy up with a cup of tea by the fire.
I received this ARC copy of Wind River Wrangler from Kensington - Zebra in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication October 25, 2016.
October 14, 2016
3.5 stars -
There is nothing like a hot cowboy who can wear a pair of Wrangler’s and is full of the protectiveness women crave.
This author has developed two great characters that balance each other perfectly and the heat radiating off them is almost tangible. I loved the instant attraction factor and yet the respect for boundaries is in full effect. When the gloves come off, however, the heat factor is awesome.
This book also includes a few twists along the way but some of the storyline is predictable too. The author does a great job and kicks it up a notch with some of the suspense and drama of the story. She offers plenty of interest and this book read easily and quickly.
One thing that did bug me was the number of times that she referred to Roan and his past “black ops” job. It really drove me a bit nuts by the 3rd or 4th reference and there is more too!
Overall, a good read that is a delicious diversion for the everyday rut. Fall in love with Roan and look forward for many more to come in the Wind River series.
There is nothing like a hot cowboy who can wear a pair of Wrangler’s and is full of the protectiveness women crave.
This author has developed two great characters that balance each other perfectly and the heat radiating off them is almost tangible. I loved the instant attraction factor and yet the respect for boundaries is in full effect. When the gloves come off, however, the heat factor is awesome.
This book also includes a few twists along the way but some of the storyline is predictable too. The author does a great job and kicks it up a notch with some of the suspense and drama of the story. She offers plenty of interest and this book read easily and quickly.
One thing that did bug me was the number of times that she referred to Roan and his past “black ops” job. It really drove me a bit nuts by the 3rd or 4th reference and there is more too!
Overall, a good read that is a delicious diversion for the everyday rut. Fall in love with Roan and look forward for many more to come in the Wind River series.
July 7, 2016
ARC received for review
3.5 stars
Well...there was a whole lot of internal dialogue by both Roan and Shiloh. After about the third time of them thinking basically the same thing they had thought 10 pages back, I started skimming. It was almost 70% before they finally made love. The best parts were with the bad guy. There was suspense and action, no thinking about over and over and over.
Plus there were some inconsistencies. She had her hair in a braid but a couple clicks over it was coming out of her ponytail. A chapter later she puts on an orange shirt, but he comments on her green shirt.
The bonus chapter for the next book sounds very intriguing.
3.5 stars
Well...there was a whole lot of internal dialogue by both Roan and Shiloh. After about the third time of them thinking basically the same thing they had thought 10 pages back, I started skimming. It was almost 70% before they finally made love. The best parts were with the bad guy. There was suspense and action, no thinking about over and over and over.
Plus there were some inconsistencies. She had her hair in a braid but a couple clicks over it was coming out of her ponytail. A chapter later she puts on an orange shirt, but he comments on her green shirt.
The bonus chapter for the next book sounds very intriguing.
October 14, 2017
So many things wrong here...
The repetitiveness: Over and over we read about the corners of their mouths tipping up or down, descriptions of the color of Shiloh's hair and eyes, that Shiloh is a "city slicker," that Roan was in black ops (more about that in a minute) and that Shiloh's a writer, she's a writer, she's a writer, she's a writer.
The contradictions: Shiloh thinks Roan is looking at her like she belongs to him, and then in the same paragraph, she's convinced he isn't attracted to her. Later, Shiloh thinks about how she is a commitment-phobe because of her daddy issues, and a few pages later, she's shocked when Roan points out that she's a commitment-phobe because of her daddy issues because she never realized that about herself.
The awkwardness: Even though we read over and over again that Shiloh is very observant because she is a writer, the actual writer of this book does not seem to be very observant because the dialogue is so awkward and clunky. Nobody talks like that.
The tell-not-show: So much info is just dumped out in the narrative or dialogue, especially in the first few pages of the book. There needs to be more showing and less telling especially since the telling is super repetitive.
Black ops: Black ops and special forces are not synonymous. Would he talk about being in special forces? Sure. Would he talk about being in black ops? No. These operations are highly classified, and he would not have been able to tell her that he was involved with black ops, even if they were married or blood relatives, even if he was no longer in the military.
The misogyny: It's sweet when Roan is polite and helpful. It's gross when he's sexist and assumes things about Shiloh because she's a woman.
I skimmed through about 60% of this book. I don't think I missed much.
The repetitiveness: Over and over we read about the corners of their mouths tipping up or down, descriptions of the color of Shiloh's hair and eyes, that Shiloh is a "city slicker," that Roan was in black ops (more about that in a minute) and that Shiloh's a writer, she's a writer, she's a writer, she's a writer.
The contradictions: Shiloh thinks Roan is looking at her like she belongs to him, and then in the same paragraph, she's convinced he isn't attracted to her. Later, Shiloh thinks about how she is a commitment-phobe because of her daddy issues, and a few pages later, she's shocked when Roan points out that she's a commitment-phobe because of her daddy issues because she never realized that about herself.
The awkwardness: Even though we read over and over again that Shiloh is very observant because she is a writer, the actual writer of this book does not seem to be very observant because the dialogue is so awkward and clunky. Nobody talks like that.
The tell-not-show: So much info is just dumped out in the narrative or dialogue, especially in the first few pages of the book. There needs to be more showing and less telling especially since the telling is super repetitive.
Black ops: Black ops and special forces are not synonymous. Would he talk about being in special forces? Sure. Would he talk about being in black ops? No. These operations are highly classified, and he would not have been able to tell her that he was involved with black ops, even if they were married or blood relatives, even if he was no longer in the military.
The misogyny: It's sweet when Roan is polite and helpful. It's gross when he's sexist and assumes things about Shiloh because she's a woman.
I skimmed through about 60% of this book. I don't think I missed much.
July 1, 2017
The premise sounded interesting. I enjoy western themes. The author's writing style was just not for me. I'm actually sad to say it, but I couldn't continue this book. My first DNF. It is dull, repetitive, predictable (I correctly guessed the stalker 3% into the story) and the pace is beyond slow. I never realized how much I'd dislike being told every detail of every movement and how it felt and what the character was thinking at the time. ie.. Finally a kiss and it takes nine long paragraphs. Four and a half pages for a chaste kiss! I'm done. I've been trying to make myself finish, but I just cannot do it.
~ Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley.
~ Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley.
October 25, 2016
Link to full review below! If you like Jennifer Ryan's Montana Men, you will enjoy this. Its a bit of a slow burn. See full review on The Book Disciple
December 27, 2016
Wind River Wrangler
Lindsay McKenna
Received from Netgalley
WIND RIVER WRANGLER is the first book in the Wind River Valley series. I have never read Lindsay McKenna before, but after reading this story, I'm excited to continue the series.
WIND RIVER WRANGLER is a very good contemporary romance with just the right amount of suspense and mystery thrown in to the mix. The twists and turns will keep you flipping the pages and before you know it, you are finished. Shiloh Gallagher is a romance writer in New York City and has been terrorized for the past six months. She is virtually a prisoner in her own home and she is about to break. Someone is stalking her! She hasn't written very much and needs to get away before her stalker is successful in hurting her. She takes up her mother's old friends offer to come out to her ranch in Wyoming. There she will meet Roan.
Roan is the sexy and rugged ranch hand who takes it upon himself to protect Shiloh. Roan is ex special forces and immediately picks up on Shiloh's vulnerability. They are instantly attracted to each other but are complete opposites. Shiloh has commitment issues and Roan does not believe in one night stands or flings. He plays for keeps. WIND RIVER WRANGLER is going to pull you right in and not let you go until the very last page. You are going to be instantly caught up in the bantering back and forth between Shiloh and Roan and cheering them on.
Shiloh's story of growing up and all she went through will break your heart. You can't help but want to reach into the pages and give her a hug. How can anyone live with so much fear? The police don't believe her and they feel like she is making the stalking up. What is it going to take to get them to take her seriously? You will not be able to stop yourself from falling in love with Roan. He truly cares for Shiloh and only wants to keep her safe. The drama these two go through will keep you on the edge of your seat. Shiloh's stalker is very good at driving her mad, but that is only because Roan wasn't around. Will Roan be able to keep her safe and convince Shiloh to believe in herself so they can move forward? You are going to have to read WIND RIVER WRANGLER to find out.
Lindsay McKenna
Received from Netgalley
WIND RIVER WRANGLER is the first book in the Wind River Valley series. I have never read Lindsay McKenna before, but after reading this story, I'm excited to continue the series.
WIND RIVER WRANGLER is a very good contemporary romance with just the right amount of suspense and mystery thrown in to the mix. The twists and turns will keep you flipping the pages and before you know it, you are finished. Shiloh Gallagher is a romance writer in New York City and has been terrorized for the past six months. She is virtually a prisoner in her own home and she is about to break. Someone is stalking her! She hasn't written very much and needs to get away before her stalker is successful in hurting her. She takes up her mother's old friends offer to come out to her ranch in Wyoming. There she will meet Roan.
Roan is the sexy and rugged ranch hand who takes it upon himself to protect Shiloh. Roan is ex special forces and immediately picks up on Shiloh's vulnerability. They are instantly attracted to each other but are complete opposites. Shiloh has commitment issues and Roan does not believe in one night stands or flings. He plays for keeps. WIND RIVER WRANGLER is going to pull you right in and not let you go until the very last page. You are going to be instantly caught up in the bantering back and forth between Shiloh and Roan and cheering them on.
Shiloh's story of growing up and all she went through will break your heart. You can't help but want to reach into the pages and give her a hug. How can anyone live with so much fear? The police don't believe her and they feel like she is making the stalking up. What is it going to take to get them to take her seriously? You will not be able to stop yourself from falling in love with Roan. He truly cares for Shiloh and only wants to keep her safe. The drama these two go through will keep you on the edge of your seat. Shiloh's stalker is very good at driving her mad, but that is only because Roan wasn't around. Will Roan be able to keep her safe and convince Shiloh to believe in herself so they can move forward? You are going to have to read WIND RIVER WRANGLER to find out.
October 26, 2016
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I picked this book because as a Wyoming native I’m always interested to see if authors “get” my home state. Lindsay McKenna does a good job capturing the natural beauty and harsh environs of the Wind River Range and nails the cowboy spirit we pride ourselves on. Roan Taggart and Maud Whitcomb epitomize the independence and strength of the state and its people.
Shiloh Gallagher confused me. At times, she was the sassy, strong woman Roan sees her as but most of the time she’s completely paralyzed by her past and her stalker. I can’t fathom how Roan has the patience to wait for her to decide she can commit to a relationship. I was tired early on of her vacillating between wanting Roan and being too afraid to try. It took her forever to sleep with him because of her fear that no relationship would live up to her parents’? The stalker was more understandable but I couldn’t imagine it overriding the growing love she feels for Roan the way it did. That just seemed odd to me. Initially Roan was sweet and so romantic to give her space but I even started thinking less of him for being willing to put up with her. The book was nearly over before the two finally get together.
I also felt the lead up to climax was long and drawn out. There could have been more emphasis on Roan teaching Shiloh self-defense skills and all that body to body contact would have created sexual tension. The reveal of the stalker’s identity could have been more of a puzzle instead of just a blunt stating of who it was. There were a lot of repetitions of thoughts and other inconsistencies.
I kind of loved what ultimately happened to the stalker though it was almost anti-climactic.
With just a bit more work this could have been a much better book.
I picked this book because as a Wyoming native I’m always interested to see if authors “get” my home state. Lindsay McKenna does a good job capturing the natural beauty and harsh environs of the Wind River Range and nails the cowboy spirit we pride ourselves on. Roan Taggart and Maud Whitcomb epitomize the independence and strength of the state and its people.
Shiloh Gallagher confused me. At times, she was the sassy, strong woman Roan sees her as but most of the time she’s completely paralyzed by her past and her stalker. I can’t fathom how Roan has the patience to wait for her to decide she can commit to a relationship. I was tired early on of her vacillating between wanting Roan and being too afraid to try. It took her forever to sleep with him because of her fear that no relationship would live up to her parents’? The stalker was more understandable but I couldn’t imagine it overriding the growing love she feels for Roan the way it did. That just seemed odd to me. Initially Roan was sweet and so romantic to give her space but I even started thinking less of him for being willing to put up with her. The book was nearly over before the two finally get together.
I also felt the lead up to climax was long and drawn out. There could have been more emphasis on Roan teaching Shiloh self-defense skills and all that body to body contact would have created sexual tension. The reveal of the stalker’s identity could have been more of a puzzle instead of just a blunt stating of who it was. There were a lot of repetitions of thoughts and other inconsistencies.
I kind of loved what ultimately happened to the stalker though it was almost anti-climactic.
With just a bit more work this could have been a much better book.
November 3, 2017
DNF. Perhaps it was because I have recently read some brilliant books with h who have suffered abuse as a child, but I couldn't be bothered making it past Chapter 9. Key annoyances:
- Less than 24 hours after meeting the H, the h has disclosed her childhood sexual abuse (which she admits she has never told anyone before)
- The H because of his 'black ops' background is so brilliant about judging people, expressions and using his hightened 6th sense all the time. This is mentioned nearly every second page
- The constant amazement of the H that the h is both so childlike yet an adult that he instantly desires
- The psycho-analysing of the H to the h as to her past, her behaviours, her committment-phobias (and the h's response to this which was basically 'oh wow, you are so right, you are so wonderful to see me)
- The h is so perfect, she writes best seller romances (2 per year for 10 years), she volunteers to build homes for the poor and has skills in carpentry, she can ride a horse and learn to saddle and curry it so quickly, she is a team player, she is kind, she is beautiful..... Now, not saying someone can't be all that, but having to read about it for nearly one whole chapter was annoying.
Just too many good books out there and already waiting on my kindle to keep skipping pages in this. Plus, by Chapter 6 you know who the stalker is and I just couldn't care.
- Less than 24 hours after meeting the H, the h has disclosed her childhood sexual abuse (which she admits she has never told anyone before)
- The H because of his 'black ops' background is so brilliant about judging people, expressions and using his hightened 6th sense all the time. This is mentioned nearly every second page
- The constant amazement of the H that the h is both so childlike yet an adult that he instantly desires
- The psycho-analysing of the H to the h as to her past, her behaviours, her committment-phobias (and the h's response to this which was basically 'oh wow, you are so right, you are so wonderful to see me)
- The h is so perfect, she writes best seller romances (2 per year for 10 years), she volunteers to build homes for the poor and has skills in carpentry, she can ride a horse and learn to saddle and curry it so quickly, she is a team player, she is kind, she is beautiful..... Now, not saying someone can't be all that, but having to read about it for nearly one whole chapter was annoying.
Just too many good books out there and already waiting on my kindle to keep skipping pages in this. Plus, by Chapter 6 you know who the stalker is and I just couldn't care.
November 21, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
I liked things about this book, but there were also things about it that didn't work for me and felt a little forced.
I felt like the characters were trying too hard to be in a western, saying things like "rustle up dinner" and other things that made me feel like I was reading the script of a John Wayne film.
Roan and Shiloh, and the parts of the story that were focused on them were mostly compelling, although I found the pace to be a little choppy and some of their internal dialog to be a little forced.
I think for me this was a book that never quite got to it's full potential. I think it relied a little too much on the western setting to tell the story when I think there was a lot more story that could have been told with the characters. I also thought the idea of the stalker was unnecessary and drew away from the focus on Shiloh and Roan. I see why it was included, but a writer taking a retreat so they can write isn't an odd enough thing that it needed outside forces to make it believable.
Unfortunately, this book fell short for me.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
I liked things about this book, but there were also things about it that didn't work for me and felt a little forced.
I felt like the characters were trying too hard to be in a western, saying things like "rustle up dinner" and other things that made me feel like I was reading the script of a John Wayne film.
Roan and Shiloh, and the parts of the story that were focused on them were mostly compelling, although I found the pace to be a little choppy and some of their internal dialog to be a little forced.
I think for me this was a book that never quite got to it's full potential. I think it relied a little too much on the western setting to tell the story when I think there was a lot more story that could have been told with the characters. I also thought the idea of the stalker was unnecessary and drew away from the focus on Shiloh and Roan. I see why it was included, but a writer taking a retreat so they can write isn't an odd enough thing that it needed outside forces to make it believable.
Unfortunately, this book fell short for me.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
August 14, 2016
I won this book in a Goodreads First Reads contest.
I DNF at 100 pages. The plot was way too thin. I understand it is a romance novel so heavy on the longing to have sex, attraction, and having sex. There has to be some motivation beyond that to carry the story. This had the slimmest of motivations and the plot seemed like an afterthought. Instead there are chapters and chapters of cooking, getting horses ready to ride, ect all while describing how bad the characters wanted to have sex with one another while doing these mundane activities. If I had to hear how Roan made her nipples hard and sensitive against the cotton of her shirt/bra one more time, I would scream. Plus she is being stalked by a sexual predator yet Roan finds her child-like personality a huge turn on? Ick!
I am sure that many romance novel readers will adore this book. It just didn't work for me. I need a little more plot and motivation in the lives of characters than this book offered.
I DNF at 100 pages. The plot was way too thin. I understand it is a romance novel so heavy on the longing to have sex, attraction, and having sex. There has to be some motivation beyond that to carry the story. This had the slimmest of motivations and the plot seemed like an afterthought. Instead there are chapters and chapters of cooking, getting horses ready to ride, ect all while describing how bad the characters wanted to have sex with one another while doing these mundane activities. If I had to hear how Roan made her nipples hard and sensitive against the cotton of her shirt/bra one more time, I would scream. Plus she is being stalked by a sexual predator yet Roan finds her child-like personality a huge turn on? Ick!
I am sure that many romance novel readers will adore this book. It just didn't work for me. I need a little more plot and motivation in the lives of characters than this book offered.
Read
October 1, 2016Esta historia no es para mí.
Apenas he leído un 7% y no me está interesando.
Se trata de un romance con un gran caso de insta-lust y algunas repeticiones, que ya a estas alturas, me están poniendo un poco nerviosa. Así que lo dejo aquí.
No puntúo, no me parece justo.
ARC provided by Kensington Books via Netgalley.
This story is not my cup of tea.
I hardly have reached the 7% mark and it´s not interesting me.
This is a romance with a big case of insta-lust and some repetitions that, by now, are getting on my nerves. So I´ll quit now.
No rating. It wouldn´t be fair.
Apenas he leído un 7% y no me está interesando.
Se trata de un romance con un gran caso de insta-lust y algunas repeticiones, que ya a estas alturas, me están poniendo un poco nerviosa. Así que lo dejo aquí.
No puntúo, no me parece justo.
ARC provided by Kensington Books via Netgalley.
This story is not my cup of tea.
I hardly have reached the 7% mark and it´s not interesting me.
This is a romance with a big case of insta-lust and some repetitions that, by now, are getting on my nerves. So I´ll quit now.
No rating. It wouldn´t be fair.
March 2, 2019
I gave up at around 40%. I tried. Hard. I wanted to read this, as the story sounded like something I might like. Unfortunately, there's not much dialog. All was described, in minute detail. Again and again and again.
The story is slow moving and when I say that, I mean s-l-o-w! And mixed with the overly descriptive writing it's boring. As hell!
The story is slow moving and when I say that, I mean s-l-o-w! And mixed with the overly descriptive writing it's boring. As hell!
October 22, 2016
*3.5 stars* I'm a bit torn on this one. I did enjoy the overall story. It was like it was a two part story. First we had a romance. It was a nice slow build on the romance side. Then the suspense came into it. Which also was enjoyable but I think the two parts could have been blended a bit better. It was very drawn out. I enjoy good descriptive writing but this one had almost too much which slowed the pace of the story. It was nice to read a story were the hero wanted more than just a fling and the female was the one who was hesitant to commit. Roan was a wonderful strong willed alpha but he was also very perceptive. Shiloh had a life filled with trauma and now with someone stalking her she was unsure exactly who she could trust and lean on. Roan proved very quickly he was worth her trust. Together they were able to find her stalker and keep her safe.
A good read and one I would recommend with the caveat that there are some parts that can be skimmed over.
A good read and one I would recommend with the caveat that there are some parts that can be skimmed over.
September 15, 2019
I would like to thank Lindsay McKenna, Lyrical Press, and Kensington Publishing Corporation for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Spoilers
Shiloh Gallagher is stressed to the max. Someone has been stalking her for the last six months, and she’s become terrified and distracted to the point that she won’t leave her apartment and can’t write. Needing an escape to try to get her life back, she goes to visit the Wyoming ranch of her mother’s best friend. There she meets Roan Taggart, a sexy ex-military cowboy with understanding in his eyes and kindness in his heart. She bunks with him for the duration, and as they become friends and get to know one another, Shiloh relaxes and feels as though she can breathe again. She opens her heart to Roan and begins to think the future looks promising…but her stalker finds her, and terror plagues her once again.
I did not enjoy reading this book for a list of reasons, including verbosity, terminology, logic, and creepy factor. First, and not necessarily a bad thing per se, McKenna uses strange terminology. They’re not wrong, just unusual and rather startling in my opinion. They disrupted the flow for me. Here are a few examples: Food was “top drawer” aka really good. I’ve heard “top notch” but never “top drawer.” Also, Roan’s flesh “riffled” a lot—aka he got goosebumps. At one point he “ruthlessly dug into her opening eyes”—which made me wince because it sounded painful—aka he gazed at her intensely. Lastly, “tears jammed into Shiloh’s eyes.” Another wince. It was like McKenna was afraid of using common words and looked up synonyms on thesaurus.com. She should have just used the normal ones, because I’d have read those and not thought twice. These unusual ones were distracting, and I didn’t appreciate it the way she wanted me to.
Second, the verbosity. So many long, tedious paragraphs describing things over and over and over. Their first kiss lasted three or four pages—and my print is set at the smallest size. And while they were in the meadow, Shiloh’s hair was described four different ways within two pages. It just wasn’t necessary. I have a short attention span and little patience, so I appreciate short paragraphs and plots that progress quickly, or at least steadily. This book took me days to finish because I avoided reading it, knowing how boring it was. Don’t get me wrong, thought process and setting description is important, but this isn’t literary fiction. Exposition in moderation, please. Have your characters DO something.
Third, the creepy factor. Both Roan and Shiloh are guilty. He thought of her as “childlike” multiple times, and one of those times he got aroused looking at childlike freckles on her nose and cheeks. Just…no. No decent man should get turned on because a woman reminds him of a child. Youthful and innocent, sure, that’s different, but not childlike. Shiloh’s transgression was worse, though. While she and Roan are having sex, she wonders if that was how her parents had felt, too. As in, she wonders if their love had made their sex as wonderful as hers and Roan’s. … Why would she wonder what her parents’ sex felt like?! WHY?! Ewwww… If I was in her position, in bed with Roan, the very LAST thing I would think about is my parents having sex. And then she and Roan DISCUSS it. For god’s sake.
Fourth—a couple inconsequential things didn’t make sense. Roan’s military training had honed his senses and taught him to discern body language…but to the extent that he could practically read Shiloh’s mind? He knew her decisions before she made them. Maybe that’s realistic, but to me it sounds like something I’d hear on TV and doesn’t actually work that well in real life. Also, stalking them was a maniac who knew how to shoot several different kinds of guns, including high-powered hunting rifles—and they think it’s safe to keep the windows uncovered so he can see inside? They think it’s safe for Shiloh to step outside to watch the storm when they didn’t know where he was or what kind of weapon he might have or what he planned to do to them? *face smack* Come on. Mr. Ex-Special Forces should be smarter than that.
As for the plot, it had a lot of potential, but it was wasted on verbosity. I would happily exchange that odious meadow scene for one of suspense or action. I know she and Roan were spending time together, which is needed in a romance, but it needed an exciting plot point or two in between those of Roan and Shiloh having dinner (be still my heart!) and forcing small talk. Also, the grizzly bear that plays an important part in the climax should have been mentioned early in the book—seen by Roan and/or Shiloh from a distance or its roar heard or Roan warning Shiloh of it so she’s careful on her rides and walks—then it wouldn’t have seemed like a plot device thrown in for convenience. And I can’t believe no one thought to double check Anton Leath’s whereabouts before three-quarters in. Shiloh: But they were supposed to call me when he got out! Me: You have someone stalking you, and you don’t immediately check out your mother’s murderer, who threatened to kill you as well, because you were waiting for a freaking phone call?!
These people weren’t the brightest bulbs in the box. Likable on the surface, but after finishing the book and analyzing it, I don’t have much respect for either of them anymore. They were also annoying because they were constantly getting turned on by one another. The wind rustled her hair—boner! He ate breakfast—wet! She itched her nose—he needed a cold shower. He stepped into the house—she had to cross her legs to contain the heat. Being attracted to someone is more than being physically attracted to them all the time.
There was a dedication in the front of the book that said the fans would make out on this book because the WRITING DREAM TEAM was back together for it.
Right.
noapologybookreviews.com
keeneyeediting.com
Spoilers
Shiloh Gallagher is stressed to the max. Someone has been stalking her for the last six months, and she’s become terrified and distracted to the point that she won’t leave her apartment and can’t write. Needing an escape to try to get her life back, she goes to visit the Wyoming ranch of her mother’s best friend. There she meets Roan Taggart, a sexy ex-military cowboy with understanding in his eyes and kindness in his heart. She bunks with him for the duration, and as they become friends and get to know one another, Shiloh relaxes and feels as though she can breathe again. She opens her heart to Roan and begins to think the future looks promising…but her stalker finds her, and terror plagues her once again.
I did not enjoy reading this book for a list of reasons, including verbosity, terminology, logic, and creepy factor. First, and not necessarily a bad thing per se, McKenna uses strange terminology. They’re not wrong, just unusual and rather startling in my opinion. They disrupted the flow for me. Here are a few examples: Food was “top drawer” aka really good. I’ve heard “top notch” but never “top drawer.” Also, Roan’s flesh “riffled” a lot—aka he got goosebumps. At one point he “ruthlessly dug into her opening eyes”—which made me wince because it sounded painful—aka he gazed at her intensely. Lastly, “tears jammed into Shiloh’s eyes.” Another wince. It was like McKenna was afraid of using common words and looked up synonyms on thesaurus.com. She should have just used the normal ones, because I’d have read those and not thought twice. These unusual ones were distracting, and I didn’t appreciate it the way she wanted me to.
Second, the verbosity. So many long, tedious paragraphs describing things over and over and over. Their first kiss lasted three or four pages—and my print is set at the smallest size. And while they were in the meadow, Shiloh’s hair was described four different ways within two pages. It just wasn’t necessary. I have a short attention span and little patience, so I appreciate short paragraphs and plots that progress quickly, or at least steadily. This book took me days to finish because I avoided reading it, knowing how boring it was. Don’t get me wrong, thought process and setting description is important, but this isn’t literary fiction. Exposition in moderation, please. Have your characters DO something.
Third, the creepy factor. Both Roan and Shiloh are guilty. He thought of her as “childlike” multiple times, and one of those times he got aroused looking at childlike freckles on her nose and cheeks. Just…no. No decent man should get turned on because a woman reminds him of a child. Youthful and innocent, sure, that’s different, but not childlike. Shiloh’s transgression was worse, though. While she and Roan are having sex, she wonders if that was how her parents had felt, too. As in, she wonders if their love had made their sex as wonderful as hers and Roan’s. … Why would she wonder what her parents’ sex felt like?! WHY?! Ewwww… If I was in her position, in bed with Roan, the very LAST thing I would think about is my parents having sex. And then she and Roan DISCUSS it. For god’s sake.
Fourth—a couple inconsequential things didn’t make sense. Roan’s military training had honed his senses and taught him to discern body language…but to the extent that he could practically read Shiloh’s mind? He knew her decisions before she made them. Maybe that’s realistic, but to me it sounds like something I’d hear on TV and doesn’t actually work that well in real life. Also, stalking them was a maniac who knew how to shoot several different kinds of guns, including high-powered hunting rifles—and they think it’s safe to keep the windows uncovered so he can see inside? They think it’s safe for Shiloh to step outside to watch the storm when they didn’t know where he was or what kind of weapon he might have or what he planned to do to them? *face smack* Come on. Mr. Ex-Special Forces should be smarter than that.
As for the plot, it had a lot of potential, but it was wasted on verbosity. I would happily exchange that odious meadow scene for one of suspense or action. I know she and Roan were spending time together, which is needed in a romance, but it needed an exciting plot point or two in between those of Roan and Shiloh having dinner (be still my heart!) and forcing small talk. Also, the grizzly bear that plays an important part in the climax should have been mentioned early in the book—seen by Roan and/or Shiloh from a distance or its roar heard or Roan warning Shiloh of it so she’s careful on her rides and walks—then it wouldn’t have seemed like a plot device thrown in for convenience. And I can’t believe no one thought to double check Anton Leath’s whereabouts before three-quarters in. Shiloh: But they were supposed to call me when he got out! Me: You have someone stalking you, and you don’t immediately check out your mother’s murderer, who threatened to kill you as well, because you were waiting for a freaking phone call?!
These people weren’t the brightest bulbs in the box. Likable on the surface, but after finishing the book and analyzing it, I don’t have much respect for either of them anymore. They were also annoying because they were constantly getting turned on by one another. The wind rustled her hair—boner! He ate breakfast—wet! She itched her nose—he needed a cold shower. He stepped into the house—she had to cross her legs to contain the heat. Being attracted to someone is more than being physically attracted to them all the time.
There was a dedication in the front of the book that said the fans would make out on this book because the WRITING DREAM TEAM was back together for it.
Right.
noapologybookreviews.com
keeneyeediting.com
October 20, 2016
2.5 Stars
This wasn't really my thing, which surprised me. I picked this up on name recognition, knowing I had never read any of her previous work but generally enjoy "western" type stories. It got better towards the end, but I seriously considered DNFing it until the halfway point. I'm not one for flowery language and this had way too much for me.
and then this
I'm not generally a picky reader, but this didn't work for me. I liked the last quarter of the book, so my rating got bumped up a little, but I spent too long questioning why I was reading this book. All that being said, there was a chapter excerpt from the next book in the series... and it sounds interesting (without all the floweriness) so I may give it a shot.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This wasn't really my thing, which surprised me. I picked this up on name recognition, knowing I had never read any of her previous work but generally enjoy "western" type stories. It got better towards the end, but I seriously considered DNFing it until the halfway point. I'm not one for flowery language and this had way too much for me.
When Shiloh smiled, Roan's heart widened like windows being thrown open to allow sunlight into his dark soul.
and then this
He would take her to places she'd never known existed except in his arms, him inside her, him loving her until she melted like hot syrup all around him. Geez. She had it bad!
I'm not generally a picky reader, but this didn't work for me. I liked the last quarter of the book, so my rating got bumped up a little, but I spent too long questioning why I was reading this book. All that being said, there was a chapter excerpt from the next book in the series... and it sounds interesting (without all the floweriness) so I may give it a shot.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2018
This author has a gift for words. She's an incredible wordsmith and has one of the largest vocabularies I've ever heard. Her sentences are just downright pretty. Nevertheless, I couldn't finish the book. After reading four chapters, I quit. The book was a bit too slow for my taste and I found it repetitious. After putting it down for an hour, I gave it another chance and read another four chapters. Maybe I was expecting too much from the 'back cover description' or maybe in too big of a hurry, or maybe my definition of a romantic suspense is different than most but eight chapters without any action lost my attention. One last thought---although up to chapter eight didn't score even a single kiss, McKenna expresses sensual with a capital S. At the expense of being repetitious myself, she truly has a gift for words.
October 24, 2016
McKenna's new series launcher definitely sets the stage well for upcoming novels. Throughout the story McKenna takes the time to explain a lot of the technical aspects of the story and the characters' lives. It made everything supremely easy to understand. As much as I loved the details, sometimes it was a little too much, detracting from the story. I found I was about 2/3 of the way through the book before anything really happened with the plot proper. Don't get me wrong, there was lots of character development and scene setting, which one would expect in the first novel in a series, but a lot of the time I felt that was all that happened. It was still an enjoyable read but not one that I couldn't put down.
There was loads of character and relationship development at the beginning of this novel. I enjoyed getting to know the main characters so well but felt that it stalled the forward motion of the plot as a whole. The author switches views between the main characters to let readers get both of their feelings and thoughts. Sometimes I felt as if this was done a little too quickly & I felt a little jarred from the story, but for the most part it really added to the tale. Also, the predictability of the identity of the 'bad guy' was also, well, predictable. From the moment he was first mentioned in the story I knew he'd be back. That said, what McKenna did with said character was interesting.
As a whole this was an enjoyable story with likable, original characters. McKenna is off to a good start with this new series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
There was loads of character and relationship development at the beginning of this novel. I enjoyed getting to know the main characters so well but felt that it stalled the forward motion of the plot as a whole. The author switches views between the main characters to let readers get both of their feelings and thoughts. Sometimes I felt as if this was done a little too quickly & I felt a little jarred from the story, but for the most part it really added to the tale. Also, the predictability of the identity of the 'bad guy' was also, well, predictable. From the moment he was first mentioned in the story I knew he'd be back. That said, what McKenna did with said character was interesting.
As a whole this was an enjoyable story with likable, original characters. McKenna is off to a good start with this new series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2016
The main characters are well written and have depth; their strengths and weaknesses compliment each other. Shiloh is a romance writer and I found this to be an interesting occupation for the heroine of the story. Roan, former Black Ops and wrangler, is a man of few words. The play of the characters is well done and flows nicely throughout the story. Since Roan knows about PTSD, it helps him deal with Shiloh's situation; a stalker that's been screwing up her life for the past six months; living in fear and practically paralyzing her in her home in New York City. For her own sanity, Shiloh decides to head out to Wyoming where she'd been invited to stay with one of her mother's best friends, on her ranch. That's how Roan and Shiloh meet.
I received an uncorrected proof of this story from the publisher, Kensington Publishing Corp., through Net Galley, for an honest review. That said, there were a couple of inconsistencies and some “over-the-top” repetition/redundancy of the sexual tension/attraction of the two main characters early in the story that is hopefully addressed/corrected in the released version of the book.
I received an uncorrected proof of this story from the publisher, Kensington Publishing Corp., through Net Galley, for an honest review. That said, there were a couple of inconsistencies and some “over-the-top” repetition/redundancy of the sexual tension/attraction of the two main characters early in the story that is hopefully addressed/corrected in the released version of the book.
December 11, 2019
Great premise, poorly written
It started out with a completely unlikable heroine. The writing wasn't particularly great, but I really wanted to like this series so I pressed on. It didn't get any better unfortunately. Shiloh went from mildly annoying to TSTL at the end. You're so scared of a stalker that you can't look through a peephole on a door that has 4 locks but you're going to run around outside by yourself when you know he's in the vicinity?? C'mon. I had hoped maybe this was just an older book hence the writing style and character development, but no, not that old. Also we don't need to be reminded every other page that Roan was "black ops" and yet we were. I loved the idea of these books but was super disappointed in the execution.
It started out with a completely unlikable heroine. The writing wasn't particularly great, but I really wanted to like this series so I pressed on. It didn't get any better unfortunately. Shiloh went from mildly annoying to TSTL at the end. You're so scared of a stalker that you can't look through a peephole on a door that has 4 locks but you're going to run around outside by yourself when you know he's in the vicinity?? C'mon. I had hoped maybe this was just an older book hence the writing style and character development, but no, not that old. Also we don't need to be reminded every other page that Roan was "black ops" and yet we were. I loved the idea of these books but was super disappointed in the execution.
May 22, 2019
Very Disappointing!
This was such a disappointment! First of all the author must have spent a third of the book describing how the 2 characters lusted after each other. Rea((*!!!- I mean is that all they could write? And then they didn't' do anything because, she was afraid of commitment, and he didn't' want to scare her etc etc etc, on and on and on!! Second complaint I have is the 1,000 times the heroine said BLACK OPS!!! over and over it was said, maybe 2 or 3 times on a page. Third was the ending and how this BLACK KPS trained person goes off and leaves her alone knowing this psycho is out there. Terrible writing, terrible book.
This was such a disappointment! First of all the author must have spent a third of the book describing how the 2 characters lusted after each other. Rea((*!!!- I mean is that all they could write? And then they didn't' do anything because, she was afraid of commitment, and he didn't' want to scare her etc etc etc, on and on and on!! Second complaint I have is the 1,000 times the heroine said BLACK OPS!!! over and over it was said, maybe 2 or 3 times on a page. Third was the ending and how this BLACK KPS trained person goes off and leaves her alone knowing this psycho is out there. Terrible writing, terrible book.
June 6, 2021
The main character is a writer, I know that because it's mentioned every page.
March 14, 2019
Since there are so many reviews for this book, I'm going to keep this short. I loved the writing in this story. I actually felt Shiloh's terror of her stalker. Tired of not being able to leave her apartment, she left New York to stay with an old family friend in Wyoming. But there was so much more to this story than a woman hiding from a stalker. She found a man she could depend on and love. The love scenes were different than any I had ever read and I read A LOT. They actually made love not just had sex. Even though I loved this book and the author's writing, there were a couple of things that I didn't like, such as how often these two thought about wanting the other. And something Shiloh did near the end was dumb. She was a very intelligent woman so this didn't fit her personality.
I recommend this book to romance fans who like a bit of suspense in their stories.
I recommend this book to romance fans who like a bit of suspense in their stories.
March 25, 2017
1st in the Wind River Valley romance series. Shiloh Gallagher is being stalked in her home in NYC so she decides to escape to her family friend's ranch in Wyoming where she meets cowboy Roan Taggart. Despite the instant attraction they have for each other, there's a lot of time spent yearning. I liked how the descriptions of the land and how the characters' personalities were delved into. A must read if you like your romances with Alpha males and limited but quality sex scenes.
Thanks for the copy of the book Lindsay and the bookmark too!
Thanks for the copy of the book Lindsay and the bookmark too!
April 5, 2018
I really want to like this book but man, what a slow paced romance. I mean, the Hero's so gentle and polite, he practically wait up until 60% of the story to start the romancing thing. I was quite bored and when things start heating up, I can't just bring myself into it. So yeah, good plot but not exactly my favorite.
July 3, 2025
I read this because it was set in the Tetons, where I was going to be visiting. I wouldn’t say I would recommend it but it wasn’t bad!
March 5, 2019
I enjoyed this, and really liked the main characters. Wind River Ranch is a place I would love to visit. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
September 23, 2016
***I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review***
"Wind River Wrangler" Wind River Valley #1 is by author Lindsey McKenna.
My rating is between 2.75 and 3 Stars
I remember for sure that I read a few Lindsey Mckenna novels years ago. But I honestly don't remember which ones they were or what I thought about them. So with that said, I didn't know what to expect with "Wind River Wrangler." What I know for sure is after reading the blurb, I was eager to read it.
This was the slowest paced book I have ever read! I do mean SLOW. The story advanced at a snails pace; the plot seemed almost an afterthought as it was mostly in the background for the majority of the book. In my opinion, this novel could have been cut at least 100 pages.
Our heroine is a quiet writer from NYC. She had endured horrific circumstances in her past and now she has to deal with a stalker. Shiloh Gallagher has been living in fear and seclusion for the past six months. The police won't help her; they think she is making the whole stalker issue up. A writer's imagination and all that. Shiloh can't live in fear anymore so she makes arrangements to spend a couple of months on the ranch of a family friend. Shiloh leaves NYC for the vast beauty of Wyoming. I understood the reasons that Shiloh had for being an emotional mess; I truly sympathized with her. However, after a while of reading her same thoughts over and over, I found her character to be whiny and weak.
Roan Taggart, ex military Special-Ops, is a wrangler on the ranch. He is drawn to Shiloh from almost the moment he meets her. It wasn't her beauty that called out to him; it was her sad, desperate eyes and vulnerability. These traits brought out Roan's protective instincts. Roan believed Shiloh when she told him about her stalker and he promised to keep her safe.
Roan and Shiloh had strong chemistry and they were good for each other. Roan was a sweetheart. I really liked his character. However the build up of their relationship was so slow that I worried it wasn't going to work out for them. They didn't have their first kiss until around 43%. They didn't come together intimately until around 70%. That was a long time to wait given all the sexual tension going on. Shiloh was the insecure of the two, worrying about taking their relationship to the next level. It was unbelievable how overly patient and kind Roan was with her regarding waiting until she was "ready." Nothing seem to get to this guy.
Their love scenes were very tame. Not really descriptive, so after all that sexual tension build-up, it was boring. Sweet but boring all the same. What frustrated the heck out of me, something I haven't experienced before, was all the repetitive dialogue and monologue. Not to mention the scene set-ups were overly descriptive. I didn't need to have all five of my senses on alert constantly. There were times I felt like I was reading from a script. In addition, Roan and Shiloh and constantly, constantly, constantly repeated their dialogue and of mundane conversations. The biggest disappointment was when the stalker finally made his move. It was predictable. For someone as intelligent as Shiloh, I can't believe the idiotic choices she made. Roan was constantly talking about his military expertise so I was eagerly waiting that to come into play. I don't want to say what happened but it was ridiculous and dissatisfying, especially after all the anxiety caused by the stalker.
I want to mention one more thing...since this was an ARC and is not yet released, it still may be in the editing stages. But if not, I should mention that there were a lot of misspells. Also throughout, the sentences would end at one or two words before continuing onto the next line. That drove me crazy.
There are more novels to this series in the making but I don't think I will read them. However, Lindsey McKenna has been writing a long time and she has many, many great reviews. I think I might like to backtrack and read on older one. I'm always openminded to an author/novel. Just because I don't like one book doesn't mean I won't like any.
"Wind River Wrangler" Wind River Valley #1 is by author Lindsey McKenna.
My rating is between 2.75 and 3 Stars
I remember for sure that I read a few Lindsey Mckenna novels years ago. But I honestly don't remember which ones they were or what I thought about them. So with that said, I didn't know what to expect with "Wind River Wrangler." What I know for sure is after reading the blurb, I was eager to read it.
This was the slowest paced book I have ever read! I do mean SLOW. The story advanced at a snails pace; the plot seemed almost an afterthought as it was mostly in the background for the majority of the book. In my opinion, this novel could have been cut at least 100 pages.
Our heroine is a quiet writer from NYC. She had endured horrific circumstances in her past and now she has to deal with a stalker. Shiloh Gallagher has been living in fear and seclusion for the past six months. The police won't help her; they think she is making the whole stalker issue up. A writer's imagination and all that. Shiloh can't live in fear anymore so she makes arrangements to spend a couple of months on the ranch of a family friend. Shiloh leaves NYC for the vast beauty of Wyoming. I understood the reasons that Shiloh had for being an emotional mess; I truly sympathized with her. However, after a while of reading her same thoughts over and over, I found her character to be whiny and weak.
Roan Taggart, ex military Special-Ops, is a wrangler on the ranch. He is drawn to Shiloh from almost the moment he meets her. It wasn't her beauty that called out to him; it was her sad, desperate eyes and vulnerability. These traits brought out Roan's protective instincts. Roan believed Shiloh when she told him about her stalker and he promised to keep her safe.
Roan and Shiloh had strong chemistry and they were good for each other. Roan was a sweetheart. I really liked his character. However the build up of their relationship was so slow that I worried it wasn't going to work out for them. They didn't have their first kiss until around 43%. They didn't come together intimately until around 70%. That was a long time to wait given all the sexual tension going on. Shiloh was the insecure of the two, worrying about taking their relationship to the next level. It was unbelievable how overly patient and kind Roan was with her regarding waiting until she was "ready." Nothing seem to get to this guy.
Their love scenes were very tame. Not really descriptive, so after all that sexual tension build-up, it was boring. Sweet but boring all the same. What frustrated the heck out of me, something I haven't experienced before, was all the repetitive dialogue and monologue. Not to mention the scene set-ups were overly descriptive. I didn't need to have all five of my senses on alert constantly. There were times I felt like I was reading from a script. In addition, Roan and Shiloh and constantly, constantly, constantly repeated their dialogue and of mundane conversations. The biggest disappointment was when the stalker finally made his move. It was predictable. For someone as intelligent as Shiloh, I can't believe the idiotic choices she made. Roan was constantly talking about his military expertise so I was eagerly waiting that to come into play. I don't want to say what happened but it was ridiculous and dissatisfying, especially after all the anxiety caused by the stalker.
I want to mention one more thing...since this was an ARC and is not yet released, it still may be in the editing stages. But if not, I should mention that there were a lot of misspells. Also throughout, the sentences would end at one or two words before continuing onto the next line. That drove me crazy.
There are more novels to this series in the making but I don't think I will read them. However, Lindsey McKenna has been writing a long time and she has many, many great reviews. I think I might like to backtrack and read on older one. I'm always openminded to an author/novel. Just because I don't like one book doesn't mean I won't like any.
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