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The Hatfields and McCoys have nothing on the Butler and Avilla families. The feud between the families has been going on for decades and doesn't look like it will end anytime soon. But neither the feud, nor the fence between the wineries can keep two determined young lovers apart. Will their love heal the wounds of the past to reunite the families? Or will it drive the wedge deeper and make them choose family over love?

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2018

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About the author

Heather Slade

130 books1,336 followers
USA Today best-selling author of shamelessly sexy, edge-of-your seat suspense.

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5 stars
171 (62%)
4 stars
73 (26%)
3 stars
26 (9%)
2 stars
5 (1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Madm007.
1,164 reviews6 followers
July 23, 2017
This series just keeps me wanting more. I'm not sure where to start, it's all so, so good and getting so complex.
Maddox is now the oldest sibling of the Butler's since Cade has passed. He's forever been in love with Alex Avila, and she with him, but they just can't or won't admit it, even tho the feud between their families seems to be over. Oh, the heat between those two!!!
Maddox then finds out Cade left something for him and his brother, Naught, which adds more questions, confusion and secrets.
There's just so much to this series, and I'm loving every aspect, including insights into the winemaking industry.
I received an ARC from the author and giving an all thumbs up honest review of The Truce.
Profile Image for Sara Keenan.
171 reviews7 followers
July 24, 2017
The Truce, this is the second book in the Butler Ranch Series. This book starts off right where you ended in the first book, this is so nice, then you know you haven’t missed anything. In this book we get to see the viewpoint from Maddox Butler. Maddox has a woman in his life and she also happens to be friends with Peyton (1st book). These two have been together for over 20 years, but is there a future? Can either one commit? This is what these two are trying to figure out while still getting some surprised from Maddox’s late brother Kade. The secrets are coming out, the excitement of who you can trust and who you can’t, and who belongs with who. This book keeps you on your toes to what is going to happen! Very good read and now it’s the wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Candace.
303 reviews
July 25, 2017
The Truce
Heather Slade
Review by Candace Fox
5 Candi Kisses and some Honesty!!

Alex and Maddox have danced around each other for 20 years. When a scare happens that they both seems to realize it’s time to grow up and be adults. Problem is, they don’t tell each other that because of a fear of rejection neither will survive.
That’s when things get interesting and the ball never stops rolling. Suspense and intrigue abound. Love and tenderness is visible and only blind to those it affects.
Can’t wait for the next book to find out all the answers to my questions. Great read. I would definitely re-read this series. It’s gets you in the feels….

Profile Image for Chanel.
1,833 reviews
September 20, 2022
4.75. This cliffhanger was more intriguing than the first book. Maddox and Alex’s secret relationship comes to light in the first installment. They both kept denying the seriousness of their hook-ups until finally they admit their true feelings.
The cast of characters grows as does the mysteries . Why is Kade, a dead man at the center of all the issues?
Profile Image for Paula.
2,066 reviews8 followers
July 21, 2017
wonderful. I volunteered to read and review this advanced copy.
This is the second book in the Butler Ranch series .I really injoyed this story .
I couldnot put it down .It's full of emotion,close bonds,secrets,intrigue, and romance. I highly recommend this story as well as this series looking forward to the third story .So well written .So worth your time .5 stars all the way
223 reviews5 followers
August 19, 2017
Wow!

I got book #1 The Promise as an instafreebie. I read that book earlier today. I downloaded book #2 The Truce with my Kindle Unlimited after 11:00 pm. I couldn't sleep so I started reading #2 around 1:00 am and could not put it down. Each book is a stand alone as far as the main couple having their HEA. But there is an element of mystery that came off as slightly paranormal in the first book. The second book made the same thing look like someone pulling strings in the background, sort of like a puppeteer. So there is a small cliffhanger in that more mysterious moves are going on in the Butler family. But each new book has a new lead couple and the two previous books that couple had a very final scene that made it clear they were a couple. The reason I am stating this is that I have made it plain in previous reviews that I DON'T like cliffhangers. This is more on the level of what I view as a running common theme between books in a series. This one being the Butler family and some mysterious happenings to various family members. I am trying to be truthful but vague to avoid "spoilers". It fits all my points for a great book, it was well written and planned out; it kept my complete attention, meaning I did not stop reading once I started. It had a characters I could be invested in that got a satisfying HEA and I plan to down load the next book as soon as it is available. It won't be for a few weeks so it is on my list. So I highly recommend this series and author. SQ
Profile Image for Mary Dean.
747 reviews2 followers
October 30, 2017
*** Warning: Contains small spoilers ***
This is book two in the Butler Ranch series. The first book we learned about Peyton and Brodie. This book is the story of Maddox, Brodie's brother and Alex, Peyton's best friend. This is a tale of a relationship that started out as forbidden infatuation. The two families are enemies. Alex and Maddox shouldn't like each other when they first meet. But they can't deny their curiosity and attraction to each other. Then a death leads to the two families making a truce. And the love story of Maddox and Alex truly begins. What they think is just "hooking up" over the years becomes more. The frustrating part is that neither of them wants to admit it! This story isn't just focused on them. We also learn the outcome of the custody battle between Peyton and her ex husband, who all of a sudden wants to be a father because of his new wife's family. And Kade, Maddox & Brodie's deceased brother, comes into the picture. He has left behind more for the family. This book was fun to read. And it kept me guessing. Alex is my favorite character ever since she was introduced in book one. I am glad to read her story. I loved her relationship with Maddox. I highly recommend this book to fans of the first book. New readers will love this story, but I do suggest new readers read the first book.
27 reviews
July 31, 2017
This is the second in the Butler Ranch series and we learn more about the Butler family but also about their neighbors, the Avila family. And the oldest Butler brother, Cade, even though he is dead, continues to be a force in this family. The Avila and Butler families have been feuding for years. But when Maddox Butler saw Alex Avila as teenagers, sparks flew and have continued to fly for 20 years. When Alex’s dad died, the Butler family stepped up to help their neighbor in their time of need, thereby putting a truce into effect between these two families. But Alex and Mad continue to dance around one another. Mad finally realizes that Alex is the only woman for him and pursues her in earnest. But Alex continues to run. More secrets come out regarding Cade’s doings throwing the proverbial monkey wrench into the workings of both the Butler and Avila family. Can these two star-crossed lovers find their path to togetherness?
This is turning into an excellent series with a great storyline that goes far beyond the love story. There is a lot going on to hold my interest – and it really does. Can hardly wait for more!
Profile Image for Jennie Fortna.
2,756 reviews30 followers
July 30, 2017
ARC for honest review with no compensation 4.5 stars

The Truce is the 2nd book in the Butler Ranch series and just like the 1st book is does not disappoint….Heather Slade knows how to get you from Page 1. Love how this book begins right where the 1st book left off….can’t wait for the 3rd book.

Maddox Butler is the oldest son, now that his brother Kade died overseas and been friends with benefits and in love with Alex Avila for over 20 years but with the feud that started years before by their fathers they have not declared their feelings for each other. Seems Kade has left something for him and his brother Naughton along with a letter that was written before Kade passed away…this further adds to the suspense and secrets that Kade has left behind.

Will these two find their way to an HEA or will they just be friends with benefits until “the one” comes along?

Suspense, intrigue, secrets, unanswered questions to name a few…..couldn’t put the book down! !
240 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2017
If you haven't first read The Promise, book 1 in the Butler Ranch series you are going to very confused as to who is who in the first chapter of The Truce. It took me a little while to figure out who Brodie and Peyton were and just who were Alex and Maddox and exactly what was the relationship. It would seem that Alex and Maddox are star-crossed lovers who are afraid to admit that they love each other because they are afraid of being rejected. There are quite a few mysteries and secrets in this intriguing saga and though The Truce is not a cliff hanger there is a continuing theme in Butler Ranch series and the books must be read in order. If you like books that are emotional and full of close family ties, mystery, and romance you are going to love this book. I truly enjoyed it and hardily recommend reading The Truce

I received this book from the author and I am freely posting this fair and balance review.




Profile Image for CarolKat.
2,280 reviews29 followers
April 17, 2019
Maddox and Alex have been together for what seems like forever. The one thing neither of them has admitted to is that they are in love.

This book provides that journey while combining the mystery of Kade's bequests, a bond problem and a few other interesting issues.

Alex's brothers run Los Caballero's her family's winery. Gabe makes the wine, Enzo handles the business and Trev the sales. Now Enzo feels he needs to leave, Gabe is holding everything in and Rory Calder, the new owner of Tablas Creek is stirring up trouble.

Maddox finds out he and Naughton have inherited most of the Hess Estate and vineyard. How Kade managed that is yet another puzzle.

Alex decides to break things off with Maddox to try to find 'more'.

So much happens in this book, the heartbreak, the emotions, the things that are revealed about Kade, the winery gossip.

Of all of that I loved Maddox and Alex most of all, they have too much to throw it all away.
3,149 reviews18 followers
December 7, 2017
A Fascinating story within this Terrific series!!

This story tracks Butler brother Maddox and his on again off again love interest Alex – but they never express it in those terms. First kept apart by a family feud, then kept apart by circumstance and misconceptions we are treated to their journey. The journey of the family, new revelations about the eldest son Kade; killed in action and the struggle of these two main characters that are so perfect for each other and drive each other crazy.

When a circumstance makes them think they should be together, then again separate, we feel the yearning for so much more yet things which only the other can provide. Mystery and intrigue are served in equal parts with romance and humor making this a highly entertaining read. I highly recommend this book and this series!!

*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Profile Image for Melanie.
4,334 reviews34 followers
July 19, 2024
On of the first thing that dew me to reading this series is ts locale. It's an area I am very familiar with and love visiting. The added bonus of stellar characters involved in interesting and varied stories coupled with the strong emphasis on family and the wine making industry make this a must read. Maddox"s Truce picks up right where Brodie's Promise left off.

Maddox Butler and Alex Avila have had an on again, off again relationship for more than a decade. It's easy. It's comfortable. It's predictable. Maybe that's the problem. A health scare crystallized things in Alex's mind. It's time for a change. Couple that with the some surprises courtesy of th deceased Ade Butler, a nefarious plot to take over a family winery and some new beginnings for Maddox and Naughton. Excellent reading.
Profile Image for Kelly Crowley .
238 reviews
January 16, 2020
That's the second book in the series to end in a cliffhanger. Congratulations the couple gets together, but you didn't finish the story. So what, I have to go through the whole series to find out everything? Ugh. Completely rude. Not typing I don't like what I have read so far, but what if there is a reader that can't stand it? Doesn't want the whole series? That person won't know what happens.
Now.
Glad Maddox and Alex decided to grow up. Friends with benefits for years, when they have been in love with each other the whole time. Just acting like children. You know you're in love with each other, you know you want to be together, instead you play games like your five years old. Why do adults do that in books? I find it both annoying and boring.
Profile Image for Laila Viking.
4,090 reviews30 followers
August 3, 2017
An amazing story with twist and turns that are not predictable but still true to the story.
I love the chemistry, passion and hot scenes. I just had to keep on reading until the last page.
Some mysteries and secrets comes out and that makes the story more exciting.
My opinion is that you have to read the first book in the series before you read this one. Else you will not understand the storyline.
Alex and Maddox are a sweet couple and I just loved them. She is very stubborn but he can handle her, or at least he tries to.
Absolutely worth the read.

I volunteered to read and review this advanced Copy
Profile Image for Sandie.
683 reviews6 followers
August 3, 2017
This is the first book by author Heather Slade I've read and I really enjoyed it. I liked the close knit families of the Butlers and the Avilas. The characters were well developed and the book had a good story line. There is a hot love story between Maddox and Alex with lots of suspense, twists and turns. I wouldn't call this a cliff hanger but there are some unanswered questions. I am looking forward the third book in this series to hopefully found out more about the oldest brother Kade. On a personal note I really enjoyed the location of the book, it is set about 2 hours from my home town so that put a smile on my face.
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,280 reviews11 followers
August 6, 2017
Aww love aint it Great

Maddox a boy who saw a girl he wanted a man now who has a on and off relationship with a women who has spoiled him for all
others his Alex,,,,,,,
Alex has wanted this hoy for over 20 years anf yet they are in the same place they was when they started. Emotions run high, breaking points are reached and secrets are starting ti be told......... but most of all Alex needs to move on, she wanted a family but he wasnt a forever kind of guys........or was he
Heather Slade brings you great characters and emotions that will have you turning page looking for answers, wanting more
I cant wait to read book three!!!
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews38 followers
March 31, 2019
Fire and water brewing for 20 years. They pushed and pulled, in and out of bed with no pressure for more until it wasn't enough. If Maddox wants her in his life he's gonna have to do more and make sure she knows how he feels. It's time for both of them to grow up. Kade is still being the puppet master and has surprises not only for Naught and Maddox again with directions on when to deliver the surprise. But that's not all that's going on. If you haven't read this authors' book you have no idea what you're in for. Sit back and enjoy the ride because the Butler Clan and the Avila clan have a whole lot going on.
Profile Image for Meghan.
3,475 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2025
On the same page

Maddox and Alex. High school love and mixed messages has them always coming back, but now they reach a point where they grow up or move on. The overarching questions about Kade are very present and we learn more details about Kade, but they come with a slew of more questions. The family “feud” is explained and Maddox shines as a good guy. Sorcha is a lovely mom and the friendship/relationships are stronger than ever for these vineyard families. The danger or problem element is fairly obvious, but the background of Kades role and what other surprises exist is still around and very present. I like this couple and am excited for Naughts story!
Profile Image for Michelle Eriksen.
904 reviews11 followers
July 31, 2017
Expect the unexpected in the second book of the Butler Ranch Series, The Truce. Ms Slade has a lot of plot twists and some interesting things come out in this story that will have you trying to read faster so you can find out what will happen next. Maddox and Avila have had a unique relationship since she was a teenager, the spark was there but circumstances have maybe a little bit of stubbornness have made it seem impossible. A great romance with lots of steamy scenes and a great story-line. I can't wait to read more of this series.
Profile Image for Linda.
121 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2017
I received an ARC of this book which I voluntarily reviewed.
The truce is the second book in the Butler Ranch series and carries on right where the first ended except this time, Maddox and Alex are the focus. Maddox and Alex have been involved for twenty years but neither thinks the other is ready to commit. Let me say that Maddox is my favourite of all the brothers and I so wanted him to get his HEA ! Heather Slade is building up the suspense nicely with just a dash of paranormal added to boot! Can't wait for the next one!
3,562 reviews15 followers
June 15, 2020
Maddox is a fantastic contemporary romance by Heather Slade. Ms. Slade has provided readers with a well-written book. I love the characters in this series, especially Maddox and Alex. Maddox and Alex have had a secret relationship for years. Their story is loaded with drama, humor, sexy bits and suspense. I enjoyed reading Maddox and can't wait to read the next book in this series. Maddox is book 2 of The Butler Ranch Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
Profile Image for Kristina Rezac.
242 reviews4 followers
December 1, 2021
Maddox is the eldest brother after his presumed brothers death. Although he’s not my favorite Butler brother, he is all man and ready to protect what is his and those he loves. In his book you’ll get a good dose of winery noggin that is beyond fascinating from the head winemaker himself. You’ll also discover more of the fiesta Alex Avila in his book. You’ll see their ups and downs as a couple including some flashbacks. Maddox tries his best to keep the Butler family on track and he finally lets his heart take a dive. Definitely a HEA with some spice. More secrets are also revealed leading into this book and opening a can of worms for the next book.
Profile Image for Ashley Rose.
6 reviews
August 2, 2017
Another MUST READ by Heather Slade!

The Truce picks up right where The Promise (Book 1 in the Butler Ranch Series) leaves its reader, only this time focusing on two strong, independent, and incredibly stubborn, on and off lovers, Alex and Maddox. These two are the only ones who just can't seem to "see" that they are perfect for each other. The Truce is filled with western romance, wine, strong family traditions, mysteries and secrets, and more wine! (Wine and romance- the perfect combination!) With its strong characters, well written plot, detailed language, and incredible setting, The Truce (and the whole Butler Ranch series) is a MUST READ! Trust me, you won't be able to put it down! I am thoroughly looking forward to the third novel, The Secret.
Profile Image for Rachael.
1,215 reviews5 followers
August 1, 2017
The Truce is full of surprises and hidden agendas. As Maddox uncovers more secrets that his late brother Kade was keeping, he ends up with more questions than answers. I loved the continuing mystery surrounding Kade, as well as Alex and Maddox's love story. I can't wait until the next release to discover what secrets Naughton has been hiding.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary Advance Reader Copy.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14.6k reviews166 followers
July 31, 2017
The Truce by Heather Slade is a very good book. This complex romance is full of drama, passion and a forbidden love between feuding families. Well written and featuring a story that is detailed and so engrossing. A great read that is fun, emotional and sexy. I am posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.
98 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2021
Stellar

Another great book in this series. I was curious about Maddox and Alex seeing them a bit in the first book. Here was get both their story along with more background and intrigue that’s unfolding in a subplot. Certain as things progress we’ll get more mystery in Naughtons book. Can’t wait to see what this talented author brings us!
Profile Image for Kari.
4,074 reviews104 followers
September 2, 2024
I liked this one slightly more than the first in the series. They have been friend with benefits for years. It took a long time for them to admit they loved each other. There is some intrigue and more secrets about the eldest big brother come out here. I also don't feel like you can read this one as a stand alone.
1,246 reviews10 followers
August 9, 2017
Sweet

This is the story of Alex and Maddox. A true love story. Alex wants more than she thinks Maddox is willing to give her. Maddox is blown away by his dead brothers last gift to him and wants to share it with the only one that has ever had his heart Alex. Beautiful story.
Profile Image for Annette.
544 reviews
April 5, 2022
love Mad and Al

Maddox is another of the Butler brothers story. He and his brother Naughton have found out some info about their deceased brother Kade that leave them upset. Maddox and Alex face the truth of their relationship. A fun fast read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews