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Red River #4
The Rebel's Return
Natalia Puccini has spent her entire life playing by her overbearing but well-intentioned Italian family's rules...except the one time she took a chance on a bad boy and fell hard. She's worked to get her life back on track so when Aiden McCann comes sauntering back into town with his heart-stopping smile, Natalia vows not to fall for him again. There's no way she'll let him mess with her perfectly planned life...and there's no way she'll let him near her heart again...
Now reformed and a self-made success, Aiden is tormented by regrets and secrets. He left Red River years ago filled with anger and resentment and a promise to never come back. But when his ill father needs help, Aiden knows it's time to face the mess he left behind, and face the one woman he never got over. It doesn't matter how beautiful or intriguing she is, though, because he'll never be able to give her what she needs. As soon as his father is healthy, Aiden is leaving Red River...for good.
Now reformed and a self-made success, Aiden is tormented by regrets and secrets. He left Red River years ago filled with anger and resentment and a promise to never come back. But when his ill father needs help, Aiden knows it's time to face the mess he left behind, and face the one woman he never got over. It doesn't matter how beautiful or intriguing she is, though, because he'll never be able to give her what she needs. As soon as his father is healthy, Aiden is leaving Red River...for good.
147 pages
First published August 22, 2016
22 people are currently reading
513 people want to read
About the author
Victoria James
30 books1,026 followersVictoria James is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 8, 2016
4 - "It meant everything." Stars!
The Rebel’s Return, is the fourth book in Victoria James’ Red River series. Having not read the previous three books, I found it could easily be read as a standalone.
I am not a stranger to this authors books, so I knew that this story would offer up three things, and that is great characters, a really well developed and multi directional plot, and lots of emotions, and she delivered up every point perfectly.
"I never got over you. No woman I’ve ever met has come close to being anything like you."
There is so much going on in Natalia and Aiden's story, that as a reader you are not just dealing with a second-chance reconnection between them, but also with Aiden and his estranged father as well (and boy did this pull on a few of the heart-strings). I think the part of the book between him and his father is as pivotal to the story-line as a whole as is the rebuilding of his relationship and trust with Nat was, and as everything starts to play out he realizes that staying in town for eight weeks and then leaving again without a by-your-leave may not be as easy as he was hoping it would be.
Focus on the end game and then get the hell out of town.
But it doesn’t end there, Nat is also having a sort late-twenties life assessment of herself, due to the fact her vapid cousin is getting married, and is not shy in making it known how little she thinks of the fact that Nat is still single and on the shelf, so having the love of her life, who then broke her heart come back to town ten years later to stir up all those old feelings is literally the icing on her cake.
"I thought about you every single day I was gone."
This is one of those books that doesn’t hugely stray off the map from A to B, but it is well written, the author pulls the emotions out of you as a reader for Aiden in particular, because he is a guy that is a whole lot of closed off when he first returns to town, but as things progress with Nat and then the situation with his father starts to develop, you see the vulnerability and feelings of inadequacy that he has tried to keep hidden for such a long time come to the surface. Bad-boy in others eyes, but as you go deeper you see he is more of a lost-boy than anything.
"You have no idea how far I would go to have a night with you."
I now feel the need to binge read the previous three books in the Red River Series. The author has great skills in setting up a town and its people, for her main characters stories to then play out around, and The Rebel’s Return is no exception. It was also good to see Victoria setting up other secondary characters to have their stories told in the future as well, I would happily return to Red River again and again.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The Rebel’s Return, is the fourth book in Victoria James’ Red River series. Having not read the previous three books, I found it could easily be read as a standalone.
I am not a stranger to this authors books, so I knew that this story would offer up three things, and that is great characters, a really well developed and multi directional plot, and lots of emotions, and she delivered up every point perfectly.
"I never got over you. No woman I’ve ever met has come close to being anything like you."
There is so much going on in Natalia and Aiden's story, that as a reader you are not just dealing with a second-chance reconnection between them, but also with Aiden and his estranged father as well (and boy did this pull on a few of the heart-strings). I think the part of the book between him and his father is as pivotal to the story-line as a whole as is the rebuilding of his relationship and trust with Nat was, and as everything starts to play out he realizes that staying in town for eight weeks and then leaving again without a by-your-leave may not be as easy as he was hoping it would be.
Focus on the end game and then get the hell out of town.
But it doesn’t end there, Nat is also having a sort late-twenties life assessment of herself, due to the fact her vapid cousin is getting married, and is not shy in making it known how little she thinks of the fact that Nat is still single and on the shelf, so having the love of her life, who then broke her heart come back to town ten years later to stir up all those old feelings is literally the icing on her cake.
"I thought about you every single day I was gone."
This is one of those books that doesn’t hugely stray off the map from A to B, but it is well written, the author pulls the emotions out of you as a reader for Aiden in particular, because he is a guy that is a whole lot of closed off when he first returns to town, but as things progress with Nat and then the situation with his father starts to develop, you see the vulnerability and feelings of inadequacy that he has tried to keep hidden for such a long time come to the surface. Bad-boy in others eyes, but as you go deeper you see he is more of a lost-boy than anything.
"You have no idea how far I would go to have a night with you."
I now feel the need to binge read the previous three books in the Red River Series. The author has great skills in setting up a town and its people, for her main characters stories to then play out around, and The Rebel’s Return is no exception. It was also good to see Victoria setting up other secondary characters to have their stories told in the future as well, I would happily return to Red River again and again.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
October 31, 2016
Natalia Puccini is the successful owner of her family's bakery. If only she wasn't so lousy with her relationships, especially the two that cheated on her. The most recent is now engaged to her traitorous cousin and Natalia has to do the family thing and serve as the brat's maid of honor. As if things couldn't get worse, her first love, Aiden McCann, is back in town after a ten-year absence.
This was a sweet story but tackled some pretty heavy themes...alcoholism, cancer, infidelity, trust, redemption...just to name a few. Aiden's absence had much more to do with his awful relationship with his father but the impact was the same. I enjoyed how their struggle to come to terms with the old relationship was woven into Aiden's issues involving his own family.
I was thrilled to learn Red River wasn't over and based on the ending, looks like we should be back here again. Aiden and Natalia are nice people who deserved a second chance. The scenes involving her cousin provided comic relief to the heavier issues but I was pretty satisfied with how all that turned out. I enjoyed this story and hope my instincts are correct about another book in the works.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
3.5 stars
This was a sweet story but tackled some pretty heavy themes...alcoholism, cancer, infidelity, trust, redemption...just to name a few. Aiden's absence had much more to do with his awful relationship with his father but the impact was the same. I enjoyed how their struggle to come to terms with the old relationship was woven into Aiden's issues involving his own family.
I was thrilled to learn Red River wasn't over and based on the ending, looks like we should be back here again. Aiden and Natalia are nice people who deserved a second chance. The scenes involving her cousin provided comic relief to the heavier issues but I was pretty satisfied with how all that turned out. I enjoyed this story and hope my instincts are correct about another book in the works.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
3.5 stars
August 8, 2016
To say I was a wee bit excited when I discovered Victoria James had a new book coming out AND she was taking us back to Red River is a bit of an understatement. I have so much love for the characters in this series and the beautiful setting and returning was being like wrapped up in your favourite blanket; all warm and snuggly.
Everything about this worked for me and Victoria has taken the second-chance trope, combined it with a little angst and a lot of feeling and brought us another couple to fall in love with. Aiden McCann left Red River years ago under a cloud, but when he returns to support his unwell dad and sees Natalia Puccini again--the girl he loved and left--his feelings and regrets resurface. And so the battle begins because Nat refuses to let him hurt her again and I loved her for her stubbornness, honesty and loyalty despite her own insecurities.
Second-chance and redemption are firm favourites of mine and Victoria does them well. It never fails to surprise me how her stories can have you laughing one moment, sighing the next and then sniffling back the tears; she has a gift when it comes to making content which could easily become heavy, the opposite. You can't hide the fact that Aiden left a trail of destruction in his wake and is hiding vulnerabilities and inner torment, and as his layers are peeled away you see him for the wonderful man he is and is what this brings the emotional aspect: you simply can't not root for him and Nat to find their HEA.
With plenty of build-up and tension between Nat and Aiden as they rediscover and fight their feelings, The Rebel's Return a sweet, entertaining, heartfelt addition to the Red River series. It was lovely to see the Manning brothers again, bringing humour and those little reminders which if you've read their books you'll remember with a smile and, with something brewing between Natalia's brother and best friend, along with the appearance of Aiden's brother, I'm hoping we'll be treated to another couple of visits to what has become one of my happy places.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Everything about this worked for me and Victoria has taken the second-chance trope, combined it with a little angst and a lot of feeling and brought us another couple to fall in love with. Aiden McCann left Red River years ago under a cloud, but when he returns to support his unwell dad and sees Natalia Puccini again--the girl he loved and left--his feelings and regrets resurface. And so the battle begins because Nat refuses to let him hurt her again and I loved her for her stubbornness, honesty and loyalty despite her own insecurities.
Second-chance and redemption are firm favourites of mine and Victoria does them well. It never fails to surprise me how her stories can have you laughing one moment, sighing the next and then sniffling back the tears; she has a gift when it comes to making content which could easily become heavy, the opposite. You can't hide the fact that Aiden left a trail of destruction in his wake and is hiding vulnerabilities and inner torment, and as his layers are peeled away you see him for the wonderful man he is and is what this brings the emotional aspect: you simply can't not root for him and Nat to find their HEA.
With plenty of build-up and tension between Nat and Aiden as they rediscover and fight their feelings, The Rebel's Return a sweet, entertaining, heartfelt addition to the Red River series. It was lovely to see the Manning brothers again, bringing humour and those little reminders which if you've read their books you'll remember with a smile and, with something brewing between Natalia's brother and best friend, along with the appearance of Aiden's brother, I'm hoping we'll be treated to another couple of visits to what has become one of my happy places.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
May 28, 2017
ARC requested through Netgalley, and kindly provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
When Aiden returned to Red River to look after his sick father, he didn’t get a great reception from his former love, Natalia. Both fell hard when they were young and Aiden skipped town, leaving Natalia broken hearted.
Fast forward ten years and both Aiden and Natalia still felt a pull towards one another. Unfortunately, Aiden had not overcome his belief that he was not good enough for Natalia and after being hurt and humiliated one too many times, Natalia was not willing to let anyone near her heart again.
This story was told in the third person and gave us a view into both Aiden and Natalia’s lives in Red River, however, I was happy we got to focus a lot on Aiden and his relationship with his father. Setting the romance aside for a moment, I really enjoyed this part of the story. Aiden’s father was the opposite of a good father, but both were able to repair some of that damage and mend their relationship. Despite his father's terrible treatment of Aiden as a child, my heart still broke for him.
In many ways Natalia’s development seemed stunted as a result of her heartbreak as a teenager. I saw it in her relationship with her best friend Sabrina, in her always doing what was expected of her by her familiy and in her interactions with Aiden while he was trying to make things right with her. It was great watching things transform for her as Aiden broke down her walls and got back inside her heart. I especially loved the way Aiden stuck up for Natalia and showed her how distorted her perception of her self-worth was.
Loved this second chance romance!
I am super hopeful we will get to see a story about Sabrina and Dominic after all of the subtle hints dropped in this story. It would be even better if we also got to see Dylan come back to town in another book.
“When you think about me, you’re thinking about vomit?”
She nodded. “Pretty much. Welcome back to Red River, Aiden.”
When Aiden returned to Red River to look after his sick father, he didn’t get a great reception from his former love, Natalia. Both fell hard when they were young and Aiden skipped town, leaving Natalia broken hearted.
Fast forward ten years and both Aiden and Natalia still felt a pull towards one another. Unfortunately, Aiden had not overcome his belief that he was not good enough for Natalia and after being hurt and humiliated one too many times, Natalia was not willing to let anyone near her heart again.
This story was told in the third person and gave us a view into both Aiden and Natalia’s lives in Red River, however, I was happy we got to focus a lot on Aiden and his relationship with his father. Setting the romance aside for a moment, I really enjoyed this part of the story. Aiden’s father was the opposite of a good father, but both were able to repair some of that damage and mend their relationship. Despite his father's terrible treatment of Aiden as a child, my heart still broke for him.
“Their father just kept staring at them. Then their dad grinned and honked the horn. And then honked it again. And again. People stared. The nurse looked worried, like maybe he was going nuts.”
In many ways Natalia’s development seemed stunted as a result of her heartbreak as a teenager. I saw it in her relationship with her best friend Sabrina, in her always doing what was expected of her by her familiy and in her interactions with Aiden while he was trying to make things right with her. It was great watching things transform for her as Aiden broke down her walls and got back inside her heart. I especially loved the way Aiden stuck up for Natalia and showed her how distorted her perception of her self-worth was.
“He tilted his chin, smirk in place. “So what do Italians do better, Nat?”
She leaned forward. “Lots of things. Things you’ll never know about.”
Loved this second chance romance!
I am super hopeful we will get to see a story about Sabrina and Dominic after all of the subtle hints dropped in this story. It would be even better if we also got to see Dylan come back to town in another book.
August 25, 2016
I read the first two books in this series and liked them ,skipped #3,and enjoyed this latest entry into this series.This was a good old fashioned romance with a few kisses and absolutely no sex between the two MC's.
Our hero,the town rebel and bad boy returns to Red River 10 years after his painful break up with the heroine,the present owner of the town bakery.She has heaps of hurt still lingering and festering for his supposed cheating on her while they were a couple when she was 18 and he 22.Our rebel returns to town cause he lost the coin toss with his older brother to see who would come back to take care of their father while he gets his treatment for prostate cancer.There is no love lost with the father.And who does he meet upon return to town and his old childhood home but the heroine delivering a healthy meal to his father.And so begins this slow burn second chance at love romance.There were some very sweet moments particularly when the hero goes on bended knee to propose to the heroine in front of 400 wedding guests at her despised cousin's wedding to the heroine's former boyfriend..The former boyfriend cheated on the heroine too with the cousin .I can also see a potential book with the heroine's bff and brother,their is a story there to be sure.
As I mentioned before ,this was a slow burn romance which I found refreshing and enjoyable,a nice change of pace for me.
Our hero,the town rebel and bad boy returns to Red River 10 years after his painful break up with the heroine,the present owner of the town bakery.She has heaps of hurt still lingering and festering for his supposed cheating on her while they were a couple when she was 18 and he 22.Our rebel returns to town cause he lost the coin toss with his older brother to see who would come back to take care of their father while he gets his treatment for prostate cancer.There is no love lost with the father.And who does he meet upon return to town and his old childhood home but the heroine delivering a healthy meal to his father.And so begins this slow burn second chance at love romance.There were some very sweet moments particularly when the hero goes on bended knee to propose to the heroine in front of 400 wedding guests at her despised cousin's wedding to the heroine's former boyfriend..The former boyfriend cheated on the heroine too with the cousin .I can also see a potential book with the heroine's bff and brother,their is a story there to be sure.
As I mentioned before ,this was a slow burn romance which I found refreshing and enjoyable,a nice change of pace for me.
September 3, 2016
Netgalley for an Honest review. 3.5 Rating
A sweet love story on second chance romance.
Aiden was the town bad boy and Natalia was a good girl who did what was expected. Aiden's came from a dysfunctional family and Natalia's was a loving Italian family. These two were high school sweethearts. But Aiden broke Natalia's heart and left town.
Ten years later Aiden is back to take care of his sick Father. When Aiden and Natalia see each other again they each realize that they never stopped caring or loving each other. And so begins the rekindling of feelings, truths are revealed and some not very nice people finely get the comeuppance.
This was a very old fashion and sweet romance. Nice secondary characters and a steady pacing. Loved the theme of family and the old fashion values that ran throughout the story. Written well and not steamy/hot but sweet.
Always enjoy Victoria James books.
A sweet love story on second chance romance.
Aiden was the town bad boy and Natalia was a good girl who did what was expected. Aiden's came from a dysfunctional family and Natalia's was a loving Italian family. These two were high school sweethearts. But Aiden broke Natalia's heart and left town.
Ten years later Aiden is back to take care of his sick Father. When Aiden and Natalia see each other again they each realize that they never stopped caring or loving each other. And so begins the rekindling of feelings, truths are revealed and some not very nice people finely get the comeuppance.
This was a very old fashion and sweet romance. Nice secondary characters and a steady pacing. Loved the theme of family and the old fashion values that ran throughout the story. Written well and not steamy/hot but sweet.
Always enjoy Victoria James books.
August 30, 2016
4.5 heartwarming stars
The Rebel's Return was a well written and heartfelt read.
I'm a huge fan of Victoria James writing and once again she has given us an emotional and heartfelt story with characters that will touch your heart.
I loved The Rebel's Return, both Natalia and Aiden were likable, endearing and passionate characters.
It touched my heart watching them reconnect and learn to put past hurts behind them to open their hearts to each other. I truly loved them together, and had no doubt these two would have a happy and fulfilling life ahead.
If you're looking for a heartwarming read with characters that will entertain you and take on a emotional journey with their stories you will love The Red River series.
Each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Entangled Bliss via Netgalley for the advance copy.
The Rebel's Return was a well written and heartfelt read.
I'm a huge fan of Victoria James writing and once again she has given us an emotional and heartfelt story with characters that will touch your heart.
I loved The Rebel's Return, both Natalia and Aiden were likable, endearing and passionate characters.
It touched my heart watching them reconnect and learn to put past hurts behind them to open their hearts to each other. I truly loved them together, and had no doubt these two would have a happy and fulfilling life ahead.
If you're looking for a heartwarming read with characters that will entertain you and take on a emotional journey with their stories you will love The Red River series.
Each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Entangled Bliss via Netgalley for the advance copy.
August 15, 2016
I enjoyed this book! I'm super picky when it comes to second-chance romance and even though I really can't agree with all of Aiden's actions when he left years ago, I was really rooting for this couple! Aiden has always been in love with Natalia and he only wanted what was best for her, even if that meant it wasn't him. When he comes back to town, the old feelings they had are still there but Nat can't forget or forgive the past. Aiden isn't ready for her to find out the truth of his actions but can't resist the woman he's thought about every day for the last ten years. This is the first book I have read in this series and I enjoyed the story and the characters. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more by this author.
August 11, 2016
4.5 Stars! This was my first Victoria James book, and boy, did I enjoy! It was juicy, angsty, hostile, sweet ........ well, it was just darn good! The pages are filled with sassy, delectable characters, entertaining conversation, and a storyline which made me smile when reading it.
After leaving Red River a decade earlier, Aiden McCann rides back into town on his Harley, clad in his leather jacket, not looking forward to spending the next two months living under his father's roof. Aiden and his brother, Dylan, who also left Red River years ago, both had a rough childhood growing up with their father. When they get the news he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and needs help getting to his daily radiation treatments, they flip a coin and the loser has to go home to drive him to his appointments. Aiden lost the coin toss but his father doesn't want his help.
When Aiden lays eyes on his former girlfriend, Natalia Puccini, for the first time in ten years, his heart is ready to beat right out of his chest. She is that stunningly beautiful, and he finally feels alive seeing her again. While his heart is doing the happy dance, Natalia's nearly stops beating with rage because she is looking at her former cheating, bastard of a boyfriend who ripped her heart to shreds, then left town without a word.
Aiden and Natalia's journey back to each other was full of jealousy, lust, regret, anger, repentance and forgiveness. This combination of emotions had me burning through the pages!
*I received a copy of this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
After leaving Red River a decade earlier, Aiden McCann rides back into town on his Harley, clad in his leather jacket, not looking forward to spending the next two months living under his father's roof. Aiden and his brother, Dylan, who also left Red River years ago, both had a rough childhood growing up with their father. When they get the news he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and needs help getting to his daily radiation treatments, they flip a coin and the loser has to go home to drive him to his appointments. Aiden lost the coin toss but his father doesn't want his help.
When Aiden lays eyes on his former girlfriend, Natalia Puccini, for the first time in ten years, his heart is ready to beat right out of his chest. She is that stunningly beautiful, and he finally feels alive seeing her again. While his heart is doing the happy dance, Natalia's nearly stops beating with rage because she is looking at her former cheating, bastard of a boyfriend who ripped her heart to shreds, then left town without a word.
Aiden and Natalia's journey back to each other was full of jealousy, lust, regret, anger, repentance and forgiveness. This combination of emotions had me burning through the pages!
*I received a copy of this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
January 29, 2018
A very sweet and emotional read.
There were some very beautiful moments in the book, my favorite being when Aiden goes on to the stage and in front of all the wedding guests sets the record straight about what he led Natalia to believe ten years ago. I also liked that Natalia gave her snotty cousin a piece of her mind, even though, it was a very embarrassing moment for her. But it got overshadowed by Aiden's speech and subsequent proposal.
I also liked the start of the healing process between father and son relationship and loved the scene where the father unable to express his joy in words at the sight of both his prodigal sons, kept blowing the horn.
I was also very happy to see the Manning brothers making their appearances in the book and still teasing one another. I've been on a Red River series binge. Every book in the series has been a good one. Now, very keen to read about Natalia's brother, Dominic, and her best friend, Sabrina. Dying to know what's going on with those two and also Aiden's brother, Dylan.
Would recommend this series to anyone looking for a clean, heartwarming, small town romance
August 19, 2016
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 2.5 to 3 ***.
First of all, I am a fan of VJ and couldn't wait to read this new story. Unfortunately my expectations weren't met. I love a good second chance at love story but I also dislike adults who to struggle to communicate. MCs who hold each other to blame over events years and years ago and refuse to move on make me unhappy as a reader.
Natalia was still heart-broken over what happened to her and Aiden when she was 18 years old. She let her family treat her like dirt and had the self-confidence of an old shoe. Hard to get a lot of enjoyment out of her. Aiden was frustrating in a different way. Took way to long to learn why he left and the continued hidden references to it became annoying over time. One minute Natalia wouldn't have anything to do with Aiden, the next she was all in, then back to hating him again. I had relationship whiplash.
Not my favorite VJ read.
First of all, I am a fan of VJ and couldn't wait to read this new story. Unfortunately my expectations weren't met. I love a good second chance at love story but I also dislike adults who to struggle to communicate. MCs who hold each other to blame over events years and years ago and refuse to move on make me unhappy as a reader.
Natalia was still heart-broken over what happened to her and Aiden when she was 18 years old. She let her family treat her like dirt and had the self-confidence of an old shoe. Hard to get a lot of enjoyment out of her. Aiden was frustrating in a different way. Took way to long to learn why he left and the continued hidden references to it became annoying over time. One minute Natalia wouldn't have anything to do with Aiden, the next she was all in, then back to hating him again. I had relationship whiplash.
Not my favorite VJ read.
September 2, 2016
I rarely read second chance romances, because I usually don't believe the romance between the characters and the instalove/lust after so many years apart. But I love this author's works, so I thought I'd give it a chance. Sadly, it was a miss for me. I struggled to finish it.
July 25, 2017
second-chance + virgin + ok
November 16, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I admit, I have not (yet) read the earlier books in the Red River series. Yet that is an oversight that can easily be rectified – I just have to find the time to get to those earlier stories in a small town that I’d love to revisit from the beginning. Even though this was my first trip to Red River I wasn’t the least bit lost or confused. One of many things that I’ve always enjoyed about Victoria James’ stories is that I can fall right into the story of the current couple – going back to the earlier stories is always recommended, but it never takes away from what I’m reading right now. I won’t call this a standalone, but as a romance it certainly can stand on its own quite easily.
There’s something about second chance romance that touches us all. To be able to fix what went wrong with that one person who was the love of your life is a dream many people have had. For Aiden and Natalia, that dream is about to come true… eventually.
Aiden lost the coin toss with his brother on who was returning home to care for their ill father. The last place Aiden wanted to spend time was here. So, he’d do his time, help out his father (whether he wanted the help or not) and then get outta town as quickly as humanly possible. Or at least that was the plan right up until he ran into the one woman he’d thought about daily for the last decade was right there upon his arrival home. Natalia. Fate sure was messing with him today.
Ten years should have been long enough to get over him. Then why was her heart filled with equal parts of rage and hope when she set eyes on him again. Natalia wasn’t about to forgive and forget the pain Aiden had brought to her life, even to this very day. She would not fall for him or his lies again. She would deal with him as she needed to, but her heart was locked up tight. Now who was telling lies?
The Rebel’s Return is an endearing and realistic second chance at love romance. No one really knows the entire story of a loved one’s actions, and there are plenty of secrets and things left unsaid for Aiden and Natalia. I enjoyed watching this couple unravel the past and settle into a future that they always should have had. I’d definitely recommend this one and look forward to catching up on the rest of the town’s romances for myself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
I admit, I have not (yet) read the earlier books in the Red River series. Yet that is an oversight that can easily be rectified – I just have to find the time to get to those earlier stories in a small town that I’d love to revisit from the beginning. Even though this was my first trip to Red River I wasn’t the least bit lost or confused. One of many things that I’ve always enjoyed about Victoria James’ stories is that I can fall right into the story of the current couple – going back to the earlier stories is always recommended, but it never takes away from what I’m reading right now. I won’t call this a standalone, but as a romance it certainly can stand on its own quite easily.
There’s something about second chance romance that touches us all. To be able to fix what went wrong with that one person who was the love of your life is a dream many people have had. For Aiden and Natalia, that dream is about to come true… eventually.
Aiden lost the coin toss with his brother on who was returning home to care for their ill father. The last place Aiden wanted to spend time was here. So, he’d do his time, help out his father (whether he wanted the help or not) and then get outta town as quickly as humanly possible. Or at least that was the plan right up until he ran into the one woman he’d thought about daily for the last decade was right there upon his arrival home. Natalia. Fate sure was messing with him today.
Ten years should have been long enough to get over him. Then why was her heart filled with equal parts of rage and hope when she set eyes on him again. Natalia wasn’t about to forgive and forget the pain Aiden had brought to her life, even to this very day. She would not fall for him or his lies again. She would deal with him as she needed to, but her heart was locked up tight. Now who was telling lies?
The Rebel’s Return is an endearing and realistic second chance at love romance. No one really knows the entire story of a loved one’s actions, and there are plenty of secrets and things left unsaid for Aiden and Natalia. I enjoyed watching this couple unravel the past and settle into a future that they always should have had. I’d definitely recommend this one and look forward to catching up on the rest of the town’s romances for myself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
August 22, 2016
It's an interesting contemporary romance novel. It's well-written and has some amazing characters. I loved both Nat and Aiden. The story flowed perfectly. Although it did seem that there was too much history in characters' past but not enough is revealed to fully comprehend it. In any case it was a fun read and I quite enjoyed it.
Natalia has to endure her bi**ch of a cousin. It's not bad enough that she is marrying her ex-boyfriend but in addition to that she never gives up a chance to humiliate Nat. But as they say family is family so she must try to ignore it all. At least that's what everyone expects of her. So that's in the middle of all the chaos when Aiden returns. He was Nat's one true love until he decided that she wasn't enough for him and then moved out of town. After almost ten years, and he is even hotter and more desirable. Nat never got over him and now she has no idea how to protect her heart...
Aiden never thought that his return to his childhood home will be so difficult. Firstly. his father is being as bad as ever and secondly, there is Nat. He has no idea how to resist her beauty and charm. She is a perfect woman. She is gorgeous, funny, and kind. Now that he is back he can see he still loves her. This time he won;t let her down and earn back her love. Because it's obvious that they belong together...
Cute, funny, charming, and lovable Nat..... hot, irresistible, and persuasive Aiden... together they've perfect chemistry and a romance that all readers will enjoy reading about.
Natalia has to endure her bi**ch of a cousin. It's not bad enough that she is marrying her ex-boyfriend but in addition to that she never gives up a chance to humiliate Nat. But as they say family is family so she must try to ignore it all. At least that's what everyone expects of her. So that's in the middle of all the chaos when Aiden returns. He was Nat's one true love until he decided that she wasn't enough for him and then moved out of town. After almost ten years, and he is even hotter and more desirable. Nat never got over him and now she has no idea how to protect her heart...
Aiden never thought that his return to his childhood home will be so difficult. Firstly. his father is being as bad as ever and secondly, there is Nat. He has no idea how to resist her beauty and charm. She is a perfect woman. She is gorgeous, funny, and kind. Now that he is back he can see he still loves her. This time he won;t let her down and earn back her love. Because it's obvious that they belong together...
Cute, funny, charming, and lovable Nat..... hot, irresistible, and persuasive Aiden... together they've perfect chemistry and a romance that all readers will enjoy reading about.
August 31, 2016
Victoria James takes readers back to Red River with The Rebel’s Return. This is the fourth book in the series and is definitely a standalone read.
Natalia Puccini and Aiden McCann have a history together filled with young love and broken hearts. Aiden grew up with a less than ideal upbringing. His mother died when he was extremely young and his father lost himself to the bottle. With little to no guidance, young Aiden became a bad boy. The only one who believed in Aiden was a young Natalia. Natalia had the perfect, ideal family with loving and supportive parents. She thought her future was bright with Aiden’s love and working in her parent’s bakery. But the future she envisioned wasn’t meant to be.
Aiden left Red River, breaking Natalia’s heart, swearing he would never return. Ten years later, his father’s illness brings him back to face the bad memories of the past and the one woman he could never forget. Now, he has eight weeks to capture the heart of the only woman he’s ever loved.
The Rebel’s Return is classic Victoria James. This is a sweet romance that pulls at your heartstrings and if you didn’t believe in love, turns you into a believer. Aiden and Natalia have to overcome trust issues and feelings of unworthiness to claim the love they deserve and have been searching for. The characters in this book are incredible. I love the way the townspeople rally around each of them, never truly pushing, but dropping little subtle hints.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.**
Rating: 4.5
Natalia Puccini and Aiden McCann have a history together filled with young love and broken hearts. Aiden grew up with a less than ideal upbringing. His mother died when he was extremely young and his father lost himself to the bottle. With little to no guidance, young Aiden became a bad boy. The only one who believed in Aiden was a young Natalia. Natalia had the perfect, ideal family with loving and supportive parents. She thought her future was bright with Aiden’s love and working in her parent’s bakery. But the future she envisioned wasn’t meant to be.
Aiden left Red River, breaking Natalia’s heart, swearing he would never return. Ten years later, his father’s illness brings him back to face the bad memories of the past and the one woman he could never forget. Now, he has eight weeks to capture the heart of the only woman he’s ever loved.
The Rebel’s Return is classic Victoria James. This is a sweet romance that pulls at your heartstrings and if you didn’t believe in love, turns you into a believer. Aiden and Natalia have to overcome trust issues and feelings of unworthiness to claim the love they deserve and have been searching for. The characters in this book are incredible. I love the way the townspeople rally around each of them, never truly pushing, but dropping little subtle hints.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.**
Rating: 4.5
July 25, 2016
'The Rebel's Return' is classic Victoria James: tooth-achingly sweet and so light that you can flutter away with stars in your eyes, especially with the Mayberry-like characters that populate the fictional town of Red River who always manage to get their heads screwed on in the right place at the very end.
I'd thought the Red River series complete, but jumped on this resurrected storyline just to revisit the cast of characters who now are part of the nosy ensemble as they watch Natalia and Aiden dance around each other, get over a decade-long wound and find their HEA. Pairing-wise, it all seemed a little too perfect as Nat and Aiden never quite wanted anyone else but each other, even as Aiden's stupid mistake - and his inexplicable inability to own up to it until the very end - tore them apart. I did like Natalia's personal convictions and her straight and narrow road of going down the path she wanted to go, but felt Aiden needed to grow a spine, own up to his actions because I simply thought at times, that Nat truly deserved much better than him.
Because of its length, this book wastes absolutely no time on doling out bucket loads of angst. James's focus is and has always been really, a paved way to domestic bliss, even if some much-needed conflict and depth of character do get sacrificed a wee bit in the process.
*ARC by netgalley
(piningly grateful, as always)
I'd thought the Red River series complete, but jumped on this resurrected storyline just to revisit the cast of characters who now are part of the nosy ensemble as they watch Natalia and Aiden dance around each other, get over a decade-long wound and find their HEA. Pairing-wise, it all seemed a little too perfect as Nat and Aiden never quite wanted anyone else but each other, even as Aiden's stupid mistake - and his inexplicable inability to own up to it until the very end - tore them apart. I did like Natalia's personal convictions and her straight and narrow road of going down the path she wanted to go, but felt Aiden needed to grow a spine, own up to his actions because I simply thought at times, that Nat truly deserved much better than him.
Because of its length, this book wastes absolutely no time on doling out bucket loads of angst. James's focus is and has always been really, a paved way to domestic bliss, even if some much-needed conflict and depth of character do get sacrificed a wee bit in the process.
*ARC by netgalley
(piningly grateful, as always)
February 2, 2017
The second chance at love story is sure to win the hearts of everyone that reads The Rebel's Return.
Natalia Puccini is the one girl that Aidan McCann let get away. Never feeling he was good enough for her he high-tailed it out of Red River ten years ago with absolutely no plans on returning. When he discovers that his father is ill, he finds himself smack dab in the middle of the one place he had no desire to be - until she walked through his father's door.
A lot has changed in Natalia Puccini's life since Aidan McCann ripped her heart to shreds and left Red River. She's taken over her family's business, moved out on her own, and continued to pick up the pieces of her broken heart. When the sexiest man she's ever seen saunters back into town, she's determined to keep her heart on lock down.
The connection between Nat and Aidan is evident from their initial encounter and continues to grow stronger with each turn of the page. We also get to see a side of Aidan that was expertly crafted by the author - vulnerable and unsure of his place in the world due to the loss of his mother and unstable childhood that followed. The book closely follows the building/rebuilding of a relationship between father and son; one that will make you cry as you put yourself in the shoes of both Aidan and his father. Each man has layers of grief and layers of excuses they use to hide it.
Aidan and his father aren't the only ones hiding their grief under layers. Nat was destroyed when Aidan left Red River and the author portrayed her quite well as a broken character. The events that unfolded prior to Aidan fleeing significantly shaped Nat into who she is today. His reappearance forces her to deal with her feelings; betrayal, love, insecurity.
Victoria James is one of my favorite authors. I've read almost all of her novels - the few I haven't are definitely on my list. Her writing is realistic and the subject matter is believable. Her heroines and her heroes are not perfect but they are perfect for one another. Victoria James writes impassioned and realistic contemporary romances and each book manages to evoke emotional responses from me. At the very least, I tear up during some part of the novel. Her characters are believable and realistically written. Sometimes she touches on topics that are sensitive but she has the ability to write them with class and respect.
The plot, themes, drama, and passion in The Rebel's Return will pull the reader in and keep them engaged. There is true emotion that can be felt by those readers that become one with the books they read. I am able to get lost in the novels and put myself right into the middle of them. I feel for the characters and drawing on my emotions is what makes a book worth 5 stars for me. If I hurt with them, cry with/for them, laugh, or get angry, then the author did a fantastic job and has written the perfect book for me.
Review copy courtesy of the author, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts about this book are my own.
Natalia Puccini is the one girl that Aidan McCann let get away. Never feeling he was good enough for her he high-tailed it out of Red River ten years ago with absolutely no plans on returning. When he discovers that his father is ill, he finds himself smack dab in the middle of the one place he had no desire to be - until she walked through his father's door.
A lot has changed in Natalia Puccini's life since Aidan McCann ripped her heart to shreds and left Red River. She's taken over her family's business, moved out on her own, and continued to pick up the pieces of her broken heart. When the sexiest man she's ever seen saunters back into town, she's determined to keep her heart on lock down.
The connection between Nat and Aidan is evident from their initial encounter and continues to grow stronger with each turn of the page. We also get to see a side of Aidan that was expertly crafted by the author - vulnerable and unsure of his place in the world due to the loss of his mother and unstable childhood that followed. The book closely follows the building/rebuilding of a relationship between father and son; one that will make you cry as you put yourself in the shoes of both Aidan and his father. Each man has layers of grief and layers of excuses they use to hide it.
Aidan and his father aren't the only ones hiding their grief under layers. Nat was destroyed when Aidan left Red River and the author portrayed her quite well as a broken character. The events that unfolded prior to Aidan fleeing significantly shaped Nat into who she is today. His reappearance forces her to deal with her feelings; betrayal, love, insecurity.
Victoria James is one of my favorite authors. I've read almost all of her novels - the few I haven't are definitely on my list. Her writing is realistic and the subject matter is believable. Her heroines and her heroes are not perfect but they are perfect for one another. Victoria James writes impassioned and realistic contemporary romances and each book manages to evoke emotional responses from me. At the very least, I tear up during some part of the novel. Her characters are believable and realistically written. Sometimes she touches on topics that are sensitive but she has the ability to write them with class and respect.
The plot, themes, drama, and passion in The Rebel's Return will pull the reader in and keep them engaged. There is true emotion that can be felt by those readers that become one with the books they read. I am able to get lost in the novels and put myself right into the middle of them. I feel for the characters and drawing on my emotions is what makes a book worth 5 stars for me. If I hurt with them, cry with/for them, laugh, or get angry, then the author did a fantastic job and has written the perfect book for me.
Review copy courtesy of the author, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts about this book are my own.
September 16, 2016
Natalia Puccini has spent most of her life doing the right thing, especially to keep her overbearing family off her back. The one time she went rogue, she fell for a bad boy who broke her heart before he left town. Ten years later, Nat's not married, because when she moved on, that boy cheated on her with her cousin, and now she's the maid of honor in their wedding. If that's not a big enough nightmare, the boy who broke her heart, finally comes home for a visit. Nat has busted her butt to put her life back together, but she can't keep the thought of "what's wrong with her," from invading her thoughts. Former bad boy, Aiden McCann has straightened his life up, and with his brother, is a self made success. He left Red River, and the girl he loved, filled with anger and a vow to never come back. However, Aiden's father is sick, so he's home to help him, and has no choice but to face his past. He's never stopped loving Nat, but he still believes he's not good enough for her, plus when his father is better, he's leaving town for good.
OMG The Rebel's Return is the first book that I've read by this author, and I LOVED IT! The character development is great, with an entertaining cast of secondaries rounding it out perfectly. I loved Nat so very much, that I was ready to kick everyone's butt who hurt her, as I became fully emersed in the story cover to cover. Victoria James' talented writing style was very addicting, which had me devouring the story in one sitting. Her well placed humor, and witty dialogue had me laughing until my sides hurt. Then, on top of that, she wrote some f-bomb worthy twists that had me yelling out loud. My issue, which kept it from being a perfect read, was the rushed ending. I wanted more for Aiden and Nat, and I'm not to proud to beg for more (hint hint)! So the bottom line is that I cannot wait to read more by this talented author in the near future, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND The Rebel's Return!
OMG The Rebel's Return is the first book that I've read by this author, and I LOVED IT! The character development is great, with an entertaining cast of secondaries rounding it out perfectly. I loved Nat so very much, that I was ready to kick everyone's butt who hurt her, as I became fully emersed in the story cover to cover. Victoria James' talented writing style was very addicting, which had me devouring the story in one sitting. Her well placed humor, and witty dialogue had me laughing until my sides hurt. Then, on top of that, she wrote some f-bomb worthy twists that had me yelling out loud. My issue, which kept it from being a perfect read, was the rushed ending. I wanted more for Aiden and Nat, and I'm not to proud to beg for more (hint hint)! So the bottom line is that I cannot wait to read more by this talented author in the near future, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND The Rebel's Return!
August 17, 2016
When I found out Victoria James was taking us back to Red River with a new book I wanted to do cartwheels (that would not have been pretty) and I am happy to say she delivered a great story for the return! This is a fantastic second chance story.
Aiden McCann left Red River ten years ago angry, resentful, and disillusioned. He's carried the guilt of leaving Natalie all these years and knows it won't be easy to make it up to her now that he has returned. Not only does he need to set things right with Natalie, but he needs to try and mend his always strained relationship with his ailing father.
Natalie has spent her entire life dealing with her very loving but incredibly overbearing large Italian family. The one time she ventured to do what she really wanted she fell in love with Aiden McCann and was hurt terribly. Now she plays it safe and goes with the flow. Until Aiden returns turning her life upside down. Again!
Put this one on the must read list! I highly recommend it.
Aiden McCann left Red River ten years ago angry, resentful, and disillusioned. He's carried the guilt of leaving Natalie all these years and knows it won't be easy to make it up to her now that he has returned. Not only does he need to set things right with Natalie, but he needs to try and mend his always strained relationship with his ailing father.
Natalie has spent her entire life dealing with her very loving but incredibly overbearing large Italian family. The one time she ventured to do what she really wanted she fell in love with Aiden McCann and was hurt terribly. Now she plays it safe and goes with the flow. Until Aiden returns turning her life upside down. Again!
Put this one on the must read list! I highly recommend it.
August 25, 2016
I loved this book. The connection between Natalia and Aiden was just beautiful. The turmoil they went through - his guilt and regret, her heartbreak and self doubt. Beautifully written and heartfelt. I could feel her insecurities, her pain, her low self worth, especially dealing with her cousin (ay, that woman!). But I admired her staying true to herself and not settling. Aiden had his own demons to overcome. And he did so and his reasoning for doing so captured my heart. This book was read with my heart and a huge lump in my throat. The other relationships in this book were healed and brought a tear to my eye. So good that I want more from these other characters.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
October 11, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the publisher
THE REBEL'S RETURN was a quick paced read and I had no trouble keeping up even though I haven't yet read the first three books in the series. Aiden and Natalia, or Nat as he calls her, haven't seen each other in ten years. He and Dylan left to straighten out their lives and Aiden broke Nat's heart after telling her he had slept with someone else since she was saving herself for marriage. He and his older brother Dylan worked themselves ragged but were able to create a lucrative business, The Mobile Mechanic. When Aiden returns to their small town because of his dad's illness - he lost the coin toss with his brother, Dylan - Nat and he dance around each other a lot and it was heartbreaking especially since they not only still had chemistry but they still seemed to love each other. He's trying to make amends, she doesn't believe that he won't leave her again and Aiden tries to do everything in his power to show that he's changed - but has he? Will they get a second chance at love? It doesn't help that everyone in Red River continues to see him as he was - a screw up - especially her brother Dominic who used to be his best friend. Nat continually doubts herself even though she's taken over the family bakery and has taken it to a whole new level.
There were a few stories going on at once and they were interwoven nicely. Nat's cousin, Francesca, was a piece of work and I couldn't believe how hurtful both her words and her actions were and that she always seemed to get away with it. Nat's best friend, Sabrina, was always there for her but had her own unrequited love going on. There was no love lost between Aiden and his dad who all but abandoned him at three years old and Dylan at seven after the death of his wife and their mom. Nat though had taken his dad under her wing and was caring for him by providing healthy food choices for him to eat. That shook up Aiden tremendously. I was cheering for Aiden and Nat to settle their differences although few others were.
There are family and friends, lots of emotions, tears, regrets, anger, hurt, doubts, reconnecting, reminisces, the lost years, growing up, laughter, happiness, romance, loving and love. Fences are trying to be mended while others are being put in their place. There is an unexpected happily ever after after some surprises and nice closure especially with the epilogue.
Victoria James is a new to me author and I will be adding her other books to my always growing TBR pile including the first three books in the RED RIVER SERIES: A RISK WORTH TAKING, THE BEST MAN'S BABY and THE DOCTOR'S FAKE FIANCEE.
Favorite Quote: He didn't let go of her arm. "I'm trying to prevent you from getting killed. You would rather walk onto a two-lane bridge than stand her with me?"
Book provided by the publisher
THE REBEL'S RETURN was a quick paced read and I had no trouble keeping up even though I haven't yet read the first three books in the series. Aiden and Natalia, or Nat as he calls her, haven't seen each other in ten years. He and Dylan left to straighten out their lives and Aiden broke Nat's heart after telling her he had slept with someone else since she was saving herself for marriage. He and his older brother Dylan worked themselves ragged but were able to create a lucrative business, The Mobile Mechanic. When Aiden returns to their small town because of his dad's illness - he lost the coin toss with his brother, Dylan - Nat and he dance around each other a lot and it was heartbreaking especially since they not only still had chemistry but they still seemed to love each other. He's trying to make amends, she doesn't believe that he won't leave her again and Aiden tries to do everything in his power to show that he's changed - but has he? Will they get a second chance at love? It doesn't help that everyone in Red River continues to see him as he was - a screw up - especially her brother Dominic who used to be his best friend. Nat continually doubts herself even though she's taken over the family bakery and has taken it to a whole new level.
There were a few stories going on at once and they were interwoven nicely. Nat's cousin, Francesca, was a piece of work and I couldn't believe how hurtful both her words and her actions were and that she always seemed to get away with it. Nat's best friend, Sabrina, was always there for her but had her own unrequited love going on. There was no love lost between Aiden and his dad who all but abandoned him at three years old and Dylan at seven after the death of his wife and their mom. Nat though had taken his dad under her wing and was caring for him by providing healthy food choices for him to eat. That shook up Aiden tremendously. I was cheering for Aiden and Nat to settle their differences although few others were.
There are family and friends, lots of emotions, tears, regrets, anger, hurt, doubts, reconnecting, reminisces, the lost years, growing up, laughter, happiness, romance, loving and love. Fences are trying to be mended while others are being put in their place. There is an unexpected happily ever after after some surprises and nice closure especially with the epilogue.
Victoria James is a new to me author and I will be adding her other books to my always growing TBR pile including the first three books in the RED RIVER SERIES: A RISK WORTH TAKING, THE BEST MAN'S BABY and THE DOCTOR'S FAKE FIANCEE.
Favorite Quote: He didn't let go of her arm. "I'm trying to prevent you from getting killed. You would rather walk onto a two-lane bridge than stand her with me?"
October 5, 2020
This read was alright. I didn't enjoy it as much as the previous books. I just had a hard time wrapping my head around Aiden's betrayal and why he did it. (SPOILERS) I get that he felt he wasn't good enough for Nat and he wanted to get his life together. Her brother him to leave her alone so we was leaving to get his life on the right track. Ok, I get that. However they way he did it just didnt make sense to me. He tells her he cheated on her bc she didn't put out, oh and he did this in front of a crowd of people.... really?? How is humiliating her her best interest? How can you justify that? So of course afterwards she thinks it's all her fault and that she should have slept with him and then he wouldn't have left. The story was ok and the characters were good as usual. This part of the story was just hard for me.
May 24, 2021
Loved Natalia and Aiden! Natalia was so nice and trying to get through her cousin's wedding when Aiden returns to town. Aiden turns Natalia's world upside down. Everywhere she turns he is. Aiden is trying to take care of his father and realizes that Natalia still sees his father. Natalia is still mad at Aiden about what happened 10 years ago and Aiden is too chicken to tell Natalia the truth until an event happens that he can't let pass. This was a great book!
February 28, 2021
I feel like Aiden’s 10 years away was a bit much for this story. Maybe 5 would’ve been better and his secret to me was sort of stupid. I find that Natalia’s brother and father were referenced as if they were in previous books and known characters but they really weren’t. I hope her brother and best friend have a book. I would definitely read it.
November 8, 2021
From the Red River series we learned men who casually bang other women are good, women who screw other guys are not. Virgin women in their thirties won't bother with the lack of groveling even if their beaus messed up big time. I just can't.
January 10, 2019
Wow a love story
July 31, 2019
My Musings
I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally charged romance with engaging characters and an Interesting plot. Can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally charged romance with engaging characters and an Interesting plot. Can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
June 9, 2022
Simple novella, had its flaws but still cute!
September 12, 2016
I can find that I am sometimes a little too judgemental when it comes to second chance romance stories and that is only because in real life I’m not one for going backwards, I am very much a believe that if something was big enough, important enough to split two people who were destined to be together apart in the first place going back can often be a step in the right direction. So with that twitching away at the back of my mind I picked up The Rebel’s Return not actually sure that I was going to be able to engage completely but I have spent time out in the naughty corner because this book deserved better than my initial reticence, it was a super romance, a tale that almost defied the time they spent apart and a relationship that was just biding its time so to speak.
Aidan has been out of town for years, a decade to be exact but now he is back and the pain of the past is accompanying him. With an ailing father to care for, he is back because he needs to be and had the flip of a coin gone the other way he would have never set foot in the town again, after all there is nothing much between him and his old man nowadays, except hostility but the responsibility is now firmly on his shoulders so he has saddled up and is doing what needs to be done. Just his luck though that one of the first people he bumps into is Natalia as she delivers his dad a meal.
Natalia has spent so long loathing Aidan since the day he broke her heart and skipped out of not only town but her life too. She still seethes with resentment for what she believes to have happened when they were together, but was his cheating the truth or was it a means to an end? Did he engineer their demise in an honourable attempt to ensure that she got the best, even if that wasn’t him?
I liked the fact the author was willing to give them both the opportunity to explore how being in close proximity made them feel. The fact that it was ok for Natalia to continue to feel the pain that had become almost rooted in her soul, she couldn’t just forgive and forget and nor should she because had Aiden been around, had he explained what was going through his head she wouldn’t have had to endure years of angst, so despite the fact he did what he did for the right reasons, reasons that even after ten years he wasn’t ready for her to know, he was still responsible for the pain that she continued to harbour and that played heavy on his conscience because Natalia was the woman that he had never forgotten, she had lived in his soul every minute of every day and now being back in town, being around her again he wasn’t willing to give up on a flicker that just maybe they could have what they lost all those years ago, what he threw away.
But could they? Would they be able to see past the hurt and the pain and would they be able to find a solid footing to build a new happiness, away from the memories that have tainted their lives for so long?
Well I didn’t think it was possible but I certainly hope so, this pair had so much to work through, so many doors that were closed to them that I wanted them to find an honesty, a purpose that they could share together, a path forward that was enough for them both and that would give them both a way to resolve the pain of their past.
But when Aiden drops to his knees at her cousin’s wedding reception and proposes, well the guy knock all my objections right out the park. He knew how much she hated having to be there, watching her cousin marry her ex was hardly the way she would have wanted to spend her day, so with hundreds of friends and family he took her breath away and showed her (and me) that he finally understood, he got who she was and was willing to do whatever it took to take away her sadness, he turned a day she would have rather forgot into one that she would always remember! That was a beautiful thing.
A solid read that was initially a slow burner, concentrating not exclusively but primarily on the emotion of the situation, there was more than enough emotion in the story to hold my attention and I found the characters really rather engaging, their situation was relatable and so was their response and I think if anything that is what I took from the story.
The author wrote and honesty read, one that gave me cause to think and consider…great work.
Aidan has been out of town for years, a decade to be exact but now he is back and the pain of the past is accompanying him. With an ailing father to care for, he is back because he needs to be and had the flip of a coin gone the other way he would have never set foot in the town again, after all there is nothing much between him and his old man nowadays, except hostility but the responsibility is now firmly on his shoulders so he has saddled up and is doing what needs to be done. Just his luck though that one of the first people he bumps into is Natalia as she delivers his dad a meal.
Natalia has spent so long loathing Aidan since the day he broke her heart and skipped out of not only town but her life too. She still seethes with resentment for what she believes to have happened when they were together, but was his cheating the truth or was it a means to an end? Did he engineer their demise in an honourable attempt to ensure that she got the best, even if that wasn’t him?
I liked the fact the author was willing to give them both the opportunity to explore how being in close proximity made them feel. The fact that it was ok for Natalia to continue to feel the pain that had become almost rooted in her soul, she couldn’t just forgive and forget and nor should she because had Aiden been around, had he explained what was going through his head she wouldn’t have had to endure years of angst, so despite the fact he did what he did for the right reasons, reasons that even after ten years he wasn’t ready for her to know, he was still responsible for the pain that she continued to harbour and that played heavy on his conscience because Natalia was the woman that he had never forgotten, she had lived in his soul every minute of every day and now being back in town, being around her again he wasn’t willing to give up on a flicker that just maybe they could have what they lost all those years ago, what he threw away.
But could they? Would they be able to see past the hurt and the pain and would they be able to find a solid footing to build a new happiness, away from the memories that have tainted their lives for so long?
Well I didn’t think it was possible but I certainly hope so, this pair had so much to work through, so many doors that were closed to them that I wanted them to find an honesty, a purpose that they could share together, a path forward that was enough for them both and that would give them both a way to resolve the pain of their past.
But when Aiden drops to his knees at her cousin’s wedding reception and proposes, well the guy knock all my objections right out the park. He knew how much she hated having to be there, watching her cousin marry her ex was hardly the way she would have wanted to spend her day, so with hundreds of friends and family he took her breath away and showed her (and me) that he finally understood, he got who she was and was willing to do whatever it took to take away her sadness, he turned a day she would have rather forgot into one that she would always remember! That was a beautiful thing.
A solid read that was initially a slow burner, concentrating not exclusively but primarily on the emotion of the situation, there was more than enough emotion in the story to hold my attention and I found the characters really rather engaging, their situation was relatable and so was their response and I think if anything that is what I took from the story.
The author wrote and honesty read, one that gave me cause to think and consider…great work.
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