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Grand Valley #3

Ready for Wild

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Featuring Liora Blake’s signature “funny, endearing, and more than a little hot” (Library Journal) style, the third novel in the Grand Valley series features a rough-talking game warden going toe-to-toe with a TV star who unexpectedly turns his life upside down.

Braden Montgomery is certain about three things: one, luck is for suckers; two, time spent outdoors is what keeps him sane; and, three, when it comes to sharing his bed, there’s only one female he’s willing to put up with—his Chesapeake Bay retriever, Charley. Braden’s constructed his life on these beliefs, and he’s quite content with the status quo.

But when a moment of bad luck lands Braden toe-to-toe with a blonde bombshell with her own television show, his stubbornly structured reality begins to unravel.

As for Amber Regan, her brand has been built on camo, cut-offs, and cleavage. With her own hunting show on the foremost sports channel and enough social media followers to garner her plenty of endorsement deals, Amber’s come a long way from the tomboy in a small Texas town she once was. Unfortunately, ratings are down and her contract for next season is in limbo, so she’s in desperate need of a reboot to save her show—and filming a rough and tough archery elk hunt in Colorado might be the way to do just that. Too bad the local game warden grunts more than he speaks, seems determined to despise her—and makes her heart race in all the most inconvenient ways.

320 pages, Paperback

Published October 31, 2017

17 people are currently reading
849 people want to read

About the author

Liora Blake

14 books230 followers
Liora is a contemporary romance author living in Colorado. She writes because it's what she's always wanted to do, she writes novels because she likes to tell the whole story, and she writes romance because a happily ever after is the best kind of story to tell.

Note: Liora is not active on social media and does not maintain an author website. And while she would like to claim that's because she's been busy doing Very Important Things, it's more likely that she's just watching Gilmore Girls again.

For rights inquiries, please contact The Bent Agency.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Melissa.
647 reviews29.3k followers
September 21, 2017
Picking up the final book in a series is always a bittersweet experience, especially when it’s a series I’ve come to adore as much as Grand Valley. Saying goodbye to the charming little mountain town and all of the couples that have managed to steal my heart—not easy.

Despite the title, Ready for Wild, there was something about this storyline and scenario that felt a little tame; especially for Liora Blake. Don’t get me wrong, there's no question, this author can write. Her signature style has shone through with each unlikely couple—the humor, charisma, smart banter and undeniable chemistry—this time though, things landed on the milder end of the spectrum.

If you’ve read the previous books in the Grand Valley series, you’ve met Braden, the grumpy and grumbly game warden; a man of very few words. Or so I thought. Turns out, he wasn’t much of a curmudgeon after all, more of an undercover teddy bear.

I have a soft spot for grumpy and domineering guys—I don’t even understand it myself sometimes, but it is what it is—so getting a chance to see what was going on in Braden's head was enticing. The fact that he was a genuinely sweet guy, one that had plenty to say, kind of caught me off guard. Surprisingly, he didn't have the biting edge I was craving and caught feelings for Amber pretty quickly. That’s not to say I was disappointed though—anything but. Those dreamy sage eyes of his, yummy scruff, refreshing outlook on life, impressive kitchen skills and a book nerd to boot—need I say more?

In the beginning, my feelings were similar to Braden’s—Amber seemed like a person unworthy of my time and attention. Everything about her life felt staged—done in an attempt to gain more followers and sponsors—not genuine or real. As Braden started to peel back her layers, it was apparent there was more to the woman than just her social media persona or reality show with an obnoxious title.

Sometimes you meet people that manage to change your outlook—sometimes it’s even a fictional character. Not to sound all dramatic here, but I consider myself to be an anti-hunter. The thought of anyone taking an innocent animal's life for "sport" breaks my heart. Something about Braden’s beliefs touched me enough to consider the situation in somewhat of a different light. You'll never find me in the woods with a bow, but I can now appreciate the reality that not everyone is out to prove they're the superior beast. Can you tell I've been chugging the Braden kool-aid? #ihearttheyeti

“Sauerkraut, sauerkraut, sauerkraut.”

I wasn’t the only one that found Braden’s brutal honesty or outlook on life to be refreshing. The biggest takeaway for both me and Amber—you can’t ever go wrong being your true and authentic self.

*A HUGE thank you to Pocket Books for the gorgeous galley. Not only is the cover even prettier in person, but it looks stunning on my bookshelf. Mwah!
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,857 reviews467 followers
October 22, 2017
Very hot just like Braden! 4.5 Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love how you can just tell from the flow and the structure of the writing whether a book is going to capture your attention for the most part. From the first page, I knew this was going to be something special. I’m so happy I was not wrong about that.

From a cranky male lead to a tough girl who is not afraid to do it on her own, the sparks were flying. Frequent sarcasm, humorous banter, sweet down-to-earth love and affection, plus plenty of off-the-charts steam make this a read to remember. It is the perfect ending to this series that I am so sad is ending.

Ms. Blake has managed to capture my heart with this book. Her style of writing combined so many different elements make it memorable, sexy, yet sweet and playful. The perfect contemporary romance that will pull your heartstrings.

* copy received for review consideration
Full review http://amidlifewife.com/ready-for-wil...
Profile Image for Sheyla ✎.
2,046 reviews673 followers
October 12, 2017


"My live wire"
"You were so worth waiting for. "


Ready for Wild delivers the perfect ending to the Grand Valley series!

Liora Blake has the perfect formula for romance and she has a perpetual fan in me. She knows how to mix two very different characters and make them irreplaceable to each other.

Amber Regan travels to Colorado to scout different areas for her hunting show. She has always loved the outdoors and her uncle taught her to hunt when she was just a kid. Her show was very popular and made her quite famous. It helps that her exterior is nothing short of a bombshell. Unfortunately, the last season of her show didn't get high ratings and in a desperate move, she believes if she comes back to her roots, she can make the big wigs renew her contract. She's determined to prove them and herself that she can do one hunt all by herself.

"This is when my body decides to perk up and take real, carnal notice of a man? And for this guy? Mr. Jolly Green Giant with a bad attitude?"


Braden Montgomery is one of the Grand Valley game wardens. He projects a "sourpuss attitude" and he appears to be grumpy most of the time. We met his character in the last two books and I was dying to see a smile on the face of this big guy. By chance or maybe by fate, Braden picks the short straw (literally) and it's the one chosen to meet Amber and her team. Of course, he is not blind and his body knows Amber is a knockout but he has nothing bad disdain for people who don't understand what being a hunter and respecting the prey is. He has all these preconceived ideas about Amber and he's not scared to share them aloud.

"The dark hair and the scruff, the serious sage eyes, and a sourpuss attitude many a woman would love to claim she single-handedly charmed into submission. All of that and he’s built like the caricature of a lusty lumberjack."


It was absolutely amazing reading the characters banter. I was smiling or laughing the whole way through Ready for Wild. So many great interactions and I love when Garrett was giving Braden a hard time and the scene with the selfie.

I loved discovering the real Braden and Amber. Amber was someone who took her job seriously. She knew how to respect nature despite being a hunter. She was a good sister and she cared for her co-workers. Braden's real personality was not surly. He was a book nerd who loved the outdoors and healthy eating. The scenes with his dog Charley had my heart melting. He also realized his preconceived ideas regarding Amber were wrong and he was man enough to admit it.

I have no idea why this is the last book in the series. Liora introduced two couples who could continue this series or a spinoff: Trey and Dayton and Colin and Teagan. I hope she gets to write their love stories.

Cliffhanger: No

5/5 Fangs

A complimentary copy was provided by Pocket Star via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Profile Image for Stacee.
3,083 reviews755 followers
October 21, 2017
I had only read the first book in this series, but I loved it and I was eager to get back to this setting.

Love love loved Amber and Braden. She’s sassy and smart and stands up for herself. He’s stubborn and stand off-ish, and a bit hardened. Together, they have excellent banter and chemistry for daaaaays. I love that they fought for each other and that they acknowledged there needed to be communication.

Plot wise it was loads of fun. There’s a great cast of friends and some mild bumps in the road, but it was mostly fluff. The angsty conflict didn’t last too long and the last chapter was damn near perfection. My only complaint is that I would have loved an epilogue or even one extra chapter.

Overall, a quick and sweet read. I’ll definitely be looking for Liora’s next book.

**Huge thanks to Gallery Books for providing the arc free of charge**
Profile Image for Mandi.
2,369 reviews732 followers
October 30, 2017
I didn't read the blurb before picking this one up (I loved book one and two so this was a given to read) and I didn't realize the heroine was a professional hunter. I'm just not into hunting in my romance books. I spent the entire book stressed that she was going to kill the bull elk - so I worried more about him than the romance. (And yes, I know this is a book and not real life - but guys - the elk)

But - well done grumpy hero - super grumpy - I loved him.

And it's sexy.

But hunting.

Review to come
Profile Image for Under the Covers Book Blog.
2,840 reviews1,342 followers
December 8, 2017
Ready for Wild is the third and last installment of Liora Blake’s Grand Series. Just like the previous book, Liora Blake writes a love story of two people from two different worlds.  

As luck might have it, Braden Montgomery, the Game Warden of the state of Colorado is assigned to give Amber Reagan a tour/guide to scout out the lands for her new show.  Amber happens to be the star of a hunting reality show looking for a new edge.  Unfortunately, Braden hates hunting shows and this starts them off to a very rocky start.  

I don’t blame him and like him, I already have my reservations about Amber. I thought she was superficial and a narcissist to boot.  I also thought she was just a “glorified shooter”.  A sell out.  All she cared about was making new edge to keep her show. She’s very Hollywood.  Such a different being from Braden who is pretty much a eat healthy and a tree hugger. Braden is serious and broody.  He was described to be with a hulking stature with a glowering scowl like Joe Manganiello.  That’s exactly how I pictured him as I read the book.  Definitely quite the opposite of Amber but as different as they are, they’re attraction is undeniable and there was no stopping their romance.

I sort of anticipated that Ms. Blake will show us a different side of Amber that will prove her worth to be with Braden. And I guess she did.  There’s more to that girl than meets the eye.  Unfortunately, she’s still my least favorite heroine of the series.  Fortunately, the overall story was a  fun read, and so is the rest of the series.  I’m looking forward to Ms. Blakes future work.

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Angela❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
Profile Image for Kini.
215 reviews
December 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I have read the previous two and was really looking forward to Braden's book. He is a surly game warden and gets tasked with helping out a reality star, Amber, on her quest to hunt in Colorado. This was kind of a enemies to lovers, but didn't have a ton of antagonist behavior, just the right amount for me. When Braden fell for Amber, he did it hard. Even though he had a crusty exterior, his interior was soft and gooey and wonderful. He appreciated Amber for more than just her body and sexuality. It was great to see him felled by his love. Amber was pretty kick ass with her hunting and such. It was nice to see really fit H/H with little to no shaming of others.

This book was way sexier than I remember the first two books being. So if you are looking for a book that has a high heat level, this might be for you.

There were some fun side characters, particularly Colin and Teigen that I wouldn't mind learning more about. And there are brief glimpses of characters from the first two books.

All told, this was a solid read and delivered a HEA for two characters that I believed in.
Profile Image for Dani (Dani Reviews Things).
547 reviews292 followers
November 8, 2017
Nothing like a book to expand your mind past the stereotypes and beliefs you had for another kind of life. That's one of my favourite things about reading: exploring other people's lives and trying out new ways of thinking. And that's what happened in this book. Much like Braden had to face his contempt for TV shows featuring hunting, I had to face my issues with hunting itself. I mean, Bambi, guys.

Luckily, this book was written in such a way that I was hooked on the characters and their attraction, enough to distract me from the fact that they enjoyed killing things. But more than that, it showed me that while there are idiots who go around doing it irresponsibly, there are people who go hunting for the challenge, and who don't do it just to hang up trophies but actually use the animal for sustenance. (For the record, I am one of those people Braden mentioned early on who is better off pretending the meat I buy is from a magical land where nothing gets hurt. I like steak too much to be a vegetarian, sorry.)

But enough about that. You want to know why I've given this book four stars, don't you? Well! A few reasons.

First of all, yes, the hunting thing. It was new ground for me, and it meant the characters were inherently different from others I've read. Both Braden and Amber are very self-reliant and hardy, able to handle the wilderness on their own for days on end. They had skills that are pretty enviable, such as archery and, well, basically just surviving without plumbing. I even made a vow to check protein bar packaging in the future.

They were also different in other ways. Amber was so sure of what she wanted, and she had no qualms with speaking her mind, taking no shit from Braden. She didn't apologise for liking both "masculine" and "feminine" things. She worked hard and took responsibility for her actions and her life. On the other hand, Braden was your typical brooding mountain man, but he went further than that, enjoying isolation and reading.

Braden earned a whole star on his own in one particular scene. There's a trend in romance novels to have these alpha males who have to swoop in and save the day. They want to protect their women from other men AKA stake their claim. This is often seen as swoony and caring, but it's also condescending and controlling to assume the women can't handle the situation or want their help. In Ready for Wild, there was one such scene where I was preparing myself for Braden to play the hero, but then he did something that actually made him a hero. I won't spoil it for you, but when you reach the scrawny cowboy scene, you'll know.

And it didn't stop there: he was very attentive to what Amber wanted when they overcame the tension between them. Which, by the way, was wonderfully shortlived because those two could not help themselves. Especially with Amber being so upfront about their shared attraction. There was no fade-to-black when these two got those pesky clothes out of the way, but I didn't find it overly gratuitous either. I really liked the creativity of some of the scenes. ;)

My one niggle? WHY did she have to be petite? Why are heroines always teeny tiny things? Why can't they be a normal height and size?

All in all, I liked this! It was sexy, fun, and educational, in a good way. I'll have to give the rest of the series a go soon!

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
-This review was originally posted on Love in a time of Feminism
Profile Image for Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers).
1,761 reviews143 followers
October 25, 2017
Ready for Wild is the third book in the Grand Valley series by the super talented Liora Blake. I love this series and I'm very sad to see it end! I've become very invested in these characters and their lives and I really do want more! Ready for Wild is Braden's story. I've been a fan of his surly, grouchy goodness since the beginning. And I knew the lady who was going to bring him to his knees was going to be fabulous. Braden is a game warden who literally drew the short straw to babysit a TV show star who's hot as hell and wears pink camo and high heels. She's everything he's against. Show off, wanna be hunter. They share barbs and she has an answer for every one of his jabs. Once he learns she's the real deal, he not only respects her, he wants her. Badly. But that would be a mistake, right? Amber is more than just her sexy good looks. She knows what she's doing. She's a real hunter. She knows the rules, the terrain and the animals. She loves doing the show because she makes the calls. She's been working for a long time to make something of herself and Braden is the first man in a long time to stir something inside her. She's not put off by his cranky ass. She's intrigued by his way of thinking and his straight forward answers. She also wants to wrap her entire body around his and feel his hardness. At first they seem like an unlikely pair, but they soon learn they have more in common than they thought possible. Can a few states and job uncertainty keep Braden and Amber apart? Will they figure out how to have it all? Oh man! I loved this story. Braden is perfection with his 6'5'' frame, bulging muscles, homemade healthy snacks and cooking abilities. I love his sweetness and his dirty AF mouth! Amber is hilarious! She's a tell it like it is girl and I love that about her! He's more than just a pretty face and she's determined to be who she is. Together they are hot, sexy, funny and sweet. Add in Charley, the perfect dog, and Ready for Wild is everything!

"Take us, Braden. Take us to your Fortress of Frosty Doom."

"Oh my God. Are you a firefighter, Braden? Or do you just play one in a calendar?"
"I'm on the volunteer squad, yes."

"Now explain yourself. Tell me what you're doing here, why you didn't tell me you were coming" - he pauses and works over a labored swallow - "and how long I have you for."

"I missed you. Losing you turned me into a real asshole. Fine. It turned me into a bigger asshole."
Profile Image for Christi Snow.
Author 69 books738 followers
October 31, 2017
My Review:
This was a sexy, fun story that I truly enjoyed. I love the idea of Amber. She's a sexy, blonde bombshell who models with guns in bikinis and has a hunting show where she's taken out on the most exclusive hunting ranches where she's completely catered to. She's everything Braden hates about hunting shows, so he's less than thrilled when he finds out that he's going to have to escort her out to the backcountry to see if she wants to bring her hunting show to his areas.

Braden is a game warden. He's grumpy and curmudgeonly and isn't shy about showing it. He's also not shy about showing how he feels about Amber's fluffy style. But as he takes her out, he suddenly realizes that while she definitely has a flighty, bimbo type style for the camera, Amber truly is the real deal. She grew up hunting and knows as much, if not more, than he does about the sport.

Suddenly his disdain switches to intrigue and fascination. I loved watching his attitude switch around for Amber. Unfortunately, Amber's show is on the chopping block and she's having to do everything she can to try and save it. If that means she has to pose and act, she will. Braden just doesn't get that aspect of her job, and that causes problems.

I've loved this series. It's completely different and creative and this book especially was fantastic. I'm a Texas girl, so the hunting aspect of it worked for me. There were a few minor details that made me stop (the drive between Ft. Worth and Austin...yeah, no), but overall I thought this book was EXTREMELY well done and researched. It was fun and sexy and I was questioning right up until the very end how in the world the author was going to make it work out between Braden and Amber.

It was a great book that's part of a great series. You can easily read any of the books as a stand alone, but I highly recommend the entire series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,579 followers
October 21, 2017
With Ready for Wild, the third book in the Grand Valley series (but only the second one that I've read - of this series, and by this author), it has become pretty clear to me that I may have stumbled upon a new favorite author.  It happened easily and naturally as I turned each page, a giant love-struck grin plastered obnoxiously across my face, and my tummy filled with those delicious butterflies that I will never ever get enough of.  I fell completely in love with Braden and Amber and, indeed, with the charming, effortless storytelling Ms. Blake has gifted us with in these books.

Grumpy heroes are my favorite.  I love that their feelings don't come easily and their resistance proves futile - especially when the heroine intent on busting down those walls and drawing out those reluctant smiles is as spirited and adorable as Amber Regan. These two were so much fun to read.  Braden is the best kind of grumpy hero: surly and domineering, with an irresistibly soft underbelly.  The banter between him and Amber was smart and hilarious (I actually giggled out loud more than once), and the chemistry is sizzling (no, really *fans self*, these two bring the heat). The whole thing just worked for me.  It was easy to lose myself in their love story, easy to allow these fantastic characters into my heart, and so easy to invest in their happily ever after.

I'm sad that this is the last in the Grand Valley series, but I'm hopeful that we may see some familiar faces moving forward (I wouldn't be opposed to a spin-off. Just...throwing that out there...).  In any case, I've enjoyed these Grand Valley books so much that regardless of what she writes, it's a sure thing that I'll be back for more! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
Profile Image for Heidi.
600 reviews14 followers
October 10, 2017
For a city girl who self-identifies as "indoorsy" I really shouldn't love a book about a game warden and the star of a hunting television show, but I do. I really, really do. You'll never catch me eating elk meat, let alone hunting for one, but I'll gladly read any romance novel Liora Blake wants to write about Amber Regan and Braden Montgomery.

Braden is a grumpy game warden in Colorado. He believes in sustainable living, prefers to be in solitude, and doesn't have a lot of patience for superfluous fluff. Amber Regan is the beautiful, smart-mouthed, and social media loving TV star he's been assigned to accompany as she scouts for her next hunting location. Obviously they have no business being into one another and yet, thankfully, there's absolutely no stopping their chemistry.

I'm not saying I'll be lacing up hiking boots anytime soon, but I'll crack open any book Liora Blake wants to write.
Profile Image for Linda Rea.
2,194 reviews16 followers
October 31, 2017
When Braden finds out he is stuck showing a film crew around the hunting area he is furious but when he meets the star of the show Amber he really thinks it’s ridiculous. Dressed in her pink camo looking more like a Barbie then anything else Braden is very surprised to find out there’s brains behind all that fluff. Amber has to make a show that will keep her on because the network wants to drop her so she and Braden scope out the area and Amber makes plans to come back. Amber is the spitfire that gets Braden up and moving, not being a grump but what happens when Amber goes back to Texas. She is the ying to his yang and he grounds her but she is losing what she knows and they may not be able to survive it.
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
Profile Image for Dawn.
1,465 reviews293 followers
October 19, 2017
This series is such an easy read for me. I connect quickly and fall hard for each of the couples. I am wondering though if we will leave Colorado and head to Texas now? There are some stories brewing in the lone star state. Hunting shows, outdoor life and a hot hulk of a man. Totally enjoyed.
Profile Image for CoffeeTimeRomance andMore.
2,046 reviews161 followers
September 17, 2017
Holy Hotness! Be careful not to fan the flames any higher! Ready For Wild has one super sparking couple. Braden and Amber are combustible together; they bring out the best and even maybe a bit of bad in each other. It was a pleasure to keep reading their journey. I kept finding myself cheering them on to what most readers want; a happy ending.
Matilda
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Profile Image for Tami .
1,123 reviews32 followers
August 27, 2017
3.5

Nice story.

This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
1,396 reviews11 followers
September 14, 2017
Outdoors man, meets outdoors woman. Braden is everything that I picture when I think of this. While Amber does only partially. She seems to be someone who could be happy in downtown NYC, but also just as happy on a two week hunting trip. Braden's dream woman if you ask me.
707 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2017
Why is this the last book in the series? WHY?? I love this series so much and each book just gets better and better.
I have a well-documented weakness for grumpy heroes but when you add in a smart, capable heroine and some amazing chemistry you have the recipe for my perfect book. I love that this series focuses on characters that I do not often read about or meet in real life. I love that these characters have histories and careers and act like adults. I love that they grow and change and their feelings for each other develop over time. These books are just so well written and a joy to read. I want more of them.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. And honestly- I think you should them.
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,468 reviews27 followers
November 10, 2017
Great romance by Liora Blake, with the right combination of sexy, sweet, and humor! Braden is a simple man who loves the outdoors, his job as a game warden, and his dog, Charley. He enjoys his simple life, but it’s about to get more complicated than he ever imagined. Amber is the star of her own outdoor hunting show, but her ratings are down. She needs to do something to boost those ratings or chance losing her show. She comes up with the idea of a big elk hunt in Colorado. One of the areas she is scouting happens to be where Braden works. When the two first meet, it’s fiery. Braden can’t stand what Amber represents, and Amber thinks he’s a jerk. Underneath all that antagonism is pure lust. They don’t know whether to kill or kiss each other. Can romance blossom between two polar opposites or do they have more in common than each is willing to admit?

Braden is complicated. He is sexy and rugged, but he admits himself that he has a “seventy-five-year-old cantankerous asshole who lives inside my thirty-two-year-old body.” He doesn’t believe in technology…this man doesn’t even have cable, and handwrites letters to his parents…no email. He spends all of his time outdoors, but hunting magazines drive him nuts. He refuses to watch hunting shows as he thinks it doesn’t give a realistic view of hunters. When Amber shows up, and he literally draws the short stick to be her scout, he’s NOT HAPPY. She represents all that he hates.
He is confused by Amber. When he first saw her poster, he thought she was a “sexed-up advertising cliché of a sportswoman,” but she stirred feelings in him he hadn’t had in a very long time. The only woman who shares his bed is his beloved dog, Charley. However, as he spends more time with Amber, he realizes she isn’t the woman on that poster, she’s much more, and that scares him. He has had his heart broken before, and he refuses to feel that way again.

Amber is a complicated character as well. She’s beautiful and has no qualms about using her beauty to her advantage. At least, that is how it appears at first glance. Spending time with Braden changes her, she questions how the shows and advertising are using her for her looks and not her intelligence or skill as a hunter, and she has to do some soul-searching within herself to determine what direction she wants her life to go.

The chemistry between these two is HOT! The heated banter just seems to continually drive it to scorching levels. There is a sweetness between them too. As they become closer, they question the longevity of their relationship and how they will come out of it in one piece. They made a promise to each other, “We said we would forget all the reasons this shouldn’t work and try to find just one reason it would.” I just kept hoping they would see what was right in front of them…they were in love with each other! I wanted them to find their HEA.

As you can tell, I loved Amber and Braden’s story. A lot of what made it so good was how Blake developed their personalities. They came alive for me. But, the plot and setting themselves were very good. Her descriptive writing put me everywhere the characters were whether it was on the trails or in the game warden’s office. The plot was also different. Sometimes romances tend to run together, and I can’t remember them. This one stands out. It’s a romance between a game warden and a television star. That idea was a genius move on Liora Blake’s part. She is a new author to me, but she is now on my go to list of favorite writers!

Profile Image for Amelia.
794 reviews22 followers
October 22, 2017
In the concluding story of the Grand Valley series, a man and woman enjoy being outdoors and both even like to hunt. While he is a game warden, she has her own TV show where hunting is the main topic. When they have to work together on a project, sparks fly when one issue after another is met with conflicting opinions. Yet even when his respect for nature battles with her flashy show ideas, there is still a simmering attraction between them that will not be denied. I laughed when a moment turned comical and repeatedly felt the heat of their passion. I was also deeply touched when this couple laid their hearts on the line. READY FOR WILD has very appealing characters plus an adventurous premise, and Liora Blake cleverly entwines delightful humor with heartfelt emotions to create a compelling story of unexpected romance.

Since Braden Montgomery likes the outdoors, he became a game warden in Colorado. At the present, he has no interest in having a relationship because of a past incident, so his time is devoted to his career and helping the community. When he gets word that a TV show about hunting might want to shoot some episodes around Grand Valley, he is not happy, even though the host of the program is female and temptingly hot.

After the area that he watches over is chosen to be the site of a televised elk hunt, Braden ends up spending much time with Amber Regan. While the couple often do not agree on a subject at first, he comes to realize there is much more to her than stunning looks and attention-grabbing clothes. Amber is trying her best to make this new series something hunters will enjoy watching, or there is a good possibility her show will not be renewed. Although Braden also entices her, she is not going to let him make decisions which could lead to her failing.

Though I live in the country and have always been around hunters, I have never been the one holding the gun. So it was interesting to read about a woman who can hold her own when it comes to knowing how to correctly track down her own dinner. Amber is very lively, says what she thinks, and is always ready for a good time. But there is also a side to her that wants something more in life, even if she is not completely aware of this fact. Braden has been burned by an ex-girlfriend, so he is cautious when it comes to women. But Amber is not like anyone whom he has encountered before, and their relationship is fiery from the start. At first it was different views which had them disagreeing and heated, but their arguments gradually turn to lust-filled fantasies coming true. These two are definitely enthusiastic when it comes to sex. Much soul-searching is also done by Amber and Braden, as Liora Blake gives them some difficult life choices.

Amusement is scattered all throughout the story, from witty comments to intelligent banter, and I always looked forward to Braden and Garrett conversing because their remarks where especially chuckle inducing. The scenes outdoors were vividly detailed and let me experience the moment to the fullest. READY FOR WILD has passionate romance, hilarity, and intense emotional circumstances.

I voluntarily reviewed the book from the publisher via NetGalley, and all comments are my honest opinion
Profile Image for Renae McKenzie.
148 reviews37 followers
November 10, 2017
So I started reading Ready for Wild in the middle of a reading slump, and also when I really should have been studying for my exams... but I'm so glad that I was procrastinating hard and decided to pick this book up! Blake delivers a delightful read with humours and witty banter between characters that I just absolutely loved.

I did find the writing style  to be a little wordy, which made it difficult at times for me to understand what was going on. This mainly occurred when Amber and Braden were talking hunting specifics, because that information flies straight over my head in the best situations. I was able to still work out the general idea of what was going on, however, this by no means meant that I understood it - this was a situation where I just sat back and enjoyed the ride, and maybe learnt a thing or two. You never know when being able to whip our some random hunting trivia might come in handy.

Now, to the MCs. I’m a bit on the fence about Braden. While I like that he’s a straight shooter and says what he means - I'm a big believer in honesty is the best policy - but man, does he over think everything! Every time I was in his head, I just wanted to shake him a but and yell, "JUST BE IN THE MOMENT!" Honestly, for someone that  prides himself on linking the simpler things in life, he sure has a tendency to make things ten times more dramatic than they need to be. Overall he is a kind and generally good person - who can fault that?

I really quite enjoyed reading Amber's spunk and attitude towards everyday moments and challenges. She's not the greatest communicator of her feelings - girl, I can relate! - but Braden is good for her in that sense, pushing her comfort zones and encouraging Amber to allow herself to feel rather than bottle up. Though, I did feel as though her character was lacking a bit. Braden and  and her brother, Trey, kept alluding to this ‘hidden’ side of her personality, but other than a couple of tiny glimpses of it here and there, there wasn't really much to support and convince me of this.

Love, love, love, Trey. He better have his own book... BRB *goes and Google searchs* So, it hasn't been written yet, which is disappointing, however, the style of writing in this novel suggests that there is going to be a book about him.... I guess there's nothing left to do except wait and hope.

Also, Collin and Teagan. So cute! That is all.

So I'm off to go read the first two books in the standalone Grand Valley series, so I'll leave you with a few reasons to read this book; you like hunting, you enjoy witty banter that builds sexual tension, you love dogs, you love a HEA story.

Want to see more of my reviews? Come check out my blog, Rolling with the Moments.
Profile Image for Barb Lie.
2,094 reviews4 followers
October 30, 2017
Ready for Wild by Liora Blake is the 3rd and final book in her Grand Valley series, and it reads very well as a standalone. We met Braden Montgomery, our hero, previously, as he is a game warden, who hates hunters, especially those on TV. Meet Amber Regan, our heroine, who is a tv star on a sports channel hunting show. We know to be ready for the explosions. 🙂

Amber and her team come to Colorado to film an Elk hunt, as she is desperately trying to reboot her career. When Braden is assigned to help Amber and her team, he is unhappy, and shows his feelings openly to them all. However, Amber knows all about hunting, and is determined not to let a grumpy negative Braden ruin this project. In a short time, Braden will feel a strong attraction to Amber, and does all he can to fight it off. Amber is not only gorgeous, but she is overly friendly and outgoing, and uses her charms to try and get the loner Braden to be more sociable; not to mention she is enjoying watching the hunky game warden.

What follows is a slow built romance that becomes sizzling, as their chemistry together is off the wall. In time, Braden begins to accept Amber’s profession and finds he is falling in love with her. Amber is also falling hard for Braden, but she is desperate to get her career on track, and when things do not go her way, she looks at other alternatives, which Braden feels would be beneath her. Besides their hot romance, their constant bickering and banter was also fun. They each had their own issues, which made a permanent relationship unlikely. Braden knows he will lose Amber, and just when we are about to give up, things will change that will bring some surprises, and a wonderful happy ever after.

Ready for Wild was a fun entertaining romance, with an unlikely couple that won us over very quickly. It was nice to watch a grumpy Braden, and the vivacious Amber rise above their differences, using their love of hunting and their combustible lust for each other. No question that this was a hot sexy story. Liora Blake once again gives us another fun romance, that had a bit of everything, humorous, sensual, fun bantering and a sexy delightful couple. We will all miss our visits to Grand Valley.

Barb
The Reading Cafe
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,305 reviews106 followers
November 20, 2017
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Ready for Wild is an angsty, sweet, funny, and hot romance that had me hooked! Braden and Amber are characters that had something from the moment they met, even if they drove each other crazy!

Braden is the “Jolly Green Giant” of Colorado. He enjoys his job as a park ranger, and the solitude he has. The outdoors is what he loves and coming home to his dog Charley. He doesn’t have any drama, and he wants to keep it that way. When Amber and her film crew show up and disrupt his solitude he wants to hate her, but there’s an attraction there that he can’t deny. Amber has one last shot to save her show, and this hunt in Colorado is it, she just wishes that Braden wasn’t so judgey with her and she could reel her attraction in a bit.

Watching these two try to fight their attraction, and realize that maybe they are not as different as they think they are is an interesting read. They know the odds are against them, and the risks could be high, but watching Amber try to get Braden to take a chance is hilarious. She goes out of her way to break his hard shell and she’s definitely the aggressor with him. Since this book was told in dual point of view I loved watching Braden break down and watch him soften towards her and see him start to look forward to hearing from her and the lust build up between them.

The relationship between Braden and Amber isn’t easy and they have a lot to overcome, but it is definitely worth it. They are both stubborn and hardheaded and push each other to their limits over and over again. Neither one of them really knew what they were getting into when they started to fall for each other, and that’s the best type of relationship. This story definitely pulled at my heartstrings and made me want to pull my hair out at times, but it was perfect for these two characters. If you’re looking for a rugged mountain man, and a go getter girl who can bring him to his knees, then I highly suggest picking up Ready for Wild by Liora Blake today, trust me, you won’t regret it.

I have received this book as a member of the XOXperts, XOXO After Dark’s official street team, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jae Mod.
1,719 reviews219 followers
November 12, 2017
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **

Let’s get wild! As in the great outdoors. In Liora Blake’s Ready For Wild, the third book in the Grand Valley series, a game warden goes head to head with a reality TV star.

For Braden Montgomery only three things in life are guaranteed to be true. Luck is for suckers. The outdoors keep him sane. And the only woman allowed in his bed is his dog, Charley. He’s lived a content life built around these beliefs and is quite happy with how things are. Mainly that everyone leaves him alone. Too bad he drew the short straw and now has to deal with a TV host and her reality show invading his sanctuary.

Amber Regan’s hit hunting show is dropping in ratings and her contract is on the line. She has worked hard to build a brand based around the three C’s: camo, cut-offs and cleavage. Needing to secure her contract and bring the ratings back up, Amber agrees to film an archery elk hunt in the wilderness of Colorado. But when she arrives and meets the game warden in charge, she realizes that it may be harder than she thought to get her show back on track.

Who knew that reading about a sourpuss would leave you smiling for almost an entire book! Braden is grumpy and typically communicates in grunts. Once he opens up and you get to know him you discover how much depth there is to this giant teddy bear. Amber came off a little fake to me at first, but I think that was intentional. I always think of reality TV as fake and the people who star in those shows as the same. Therefore, I took it as purposefully done that Amber seemed that way at the beginning. Like Braden, once you get to know her and her past struggles you find yourself liking her, if only just a little.

This was a fun read filled with lots of humor, sarcasm and bickering. Braden and Amber butting heads make this book truly entertaining. Pick this one up and fall in love with a grumpy teddy bear! FOUR wild stars.



Profile Image for Brigitte .
1,611 reviews23 followers
October 29, 2017
A Game Warden and a TV personality. An unlikely combination which is seamlessly executed.

Braden is a Game Warden. He lives with his dog, Charley and likes his solitary life outside of his work. He is grumpy and doesn't communicate much, except with his few friends. His ex is the reason for his lifestyle.

Amber is the star of a TV hunting show. Growing up wasn't so glamorous and she doesn't want to go back there. She is also popular with the media.

Amber has arranged a shoot in Grand Valley, the very place where Braden works. He is not too receptive to the idea, but unfortunately he draws the short straw to shadow her. He doesn't really have any choice. He already has preconceived ideas about Amber. None, very flattering. To his horror, he likes her and she takes great delight in rubbiing him up the wrong way. He soon discovers that her show doesn't reflect her true personality and the reasons why she is doing this particular shoot. Her job is on the line.

They develop a comfortable, but somewhat tentative relationship. Their banters, face to face and through texts are great fun and full of innuendos. Soon, they find themselves in deeper than anticipated. Their lifestyles are so different that the future doesn't look too hopeful. Can they find a compromise?

I like Braden's straightforward approach. He speaks his mind. Amber is independent, proficient and goes after what she wants. They might appear to be opposites, but the sizzling chemistry is blatantly obvious.

The story has a steady flow and the characters are well developed. It's an interesting storyline where everything is well captured. It's fun and easy to read. Well worth reading.

I was kindly issued with an eARC from NetGalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
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