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The Champions #2
Whiplash
Fans of edge of your seat romance and readers of B.J. Daniels, Lindsay McKenna, and Diana Palmer won’t want to miss this electrifying and genuine new page-turner from the bestselling romance legend.
When Val Champion returns to the family ranch, she’s ready to put her past behind her. Her dreams of a Hollywood acting career have become a nightmare of fear. But once she sees rodeo man Casey Bozeman facing down a bull in the arena, she knows she’s no safer at home. Face to face with her first and only true love, Val can’t deny her still powerful feelings for Casey. Feelings she can never act on again…
Val’s the one who got away, the woman who broke his heart so hard he still feels the sting. But there’s no denying Casey’s still drawn to the fiery beauty. And there’s no way he can stand by when the high stakes Professional Bull Riding finals in Vegas bring out the danger Val’s been running from. Suddenly the rugged cowboy is willing to risk it all for her once more, even if it means facing down those secrets lurking in her unforgettable eyes…
When Val Champion returns to the family ranch, she’s ready to put her past behind her. Her dreams of a Hollywood acting career have become a nightmare of fear. But once she sees rodeo man Casey Bozeman facing down a bull in the arena, she knows she’s no safer at home. Face to face with her first and only true love, Val can’t deny her still powerful feelings for Casey. Feelings she can never act on again…
Val’s the one who got away, the woman who broke his heart so hard he still feels the sting. But there’s no denying Casey’s still drawn to the fiery beauty. And there’s no way he can stand by when the high stakes Professional Bull Riding finals in Vegas bring out the danger Val’s been running from. Suddenly the rugged cowboy is willing to risk it all for her once more, even if it means facing down those secrets lurking in her unforgettable eyes…
272 pages, Hardcover
First published August 31, 2021
561 people are currently reading
6988 people want to read
About the author
Janet Dailey
391 books1,839 followersJanet Anne Haradon Dailey was an American author of numerous romance novels as Janet Dailey (her married name). Her novels have been translated into nineteen languages and have sold over 300 million copies worldwide.
Born in 1944 in Storm Lake, Iowa, she attended secretarial school in Omaha, Nebraska before meeting her husband, Bill. Bill and Janet worked together in construction and land development until they "retired" to travel throughout the United States, inspiring Janet to write the Americana series of romances, where she set a novel in every state of the Union. In 1974, Janet Dailey was the first American author to write for Harlequin. Her first novel was NO QUARTER ASKED.
She had since gone on to write approximately 90 novels, 21 of which have appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List. She won many awards and accolades for her work, appearing widely on Radio and Television. Today, there are over three hundred million Janet Dailey books in print in 19 different languages, making her one of the most popular novelists in the world.
Janet Dailey passed away peacefully in her home in Branson on Saturday, December 14, 2013. She was 69.
Born in 1944 in Storm Lake, Iowa, she attended secretarial school in Omaha, Nebraska before meeting her husband, Bill. Bill and Janet worked together in construction and land development until they "retired" to travel throughout the United States, inspiring Janet to write the Americana series of romances, where she set a novel in every state of the Union. In 1974, Janet Dailey was the first American author to write for Harlequin. Her first novel was NO QUARTER ASKED.
She had since gone on to write approximately 90 novels, 21 of which have appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List. She won many awards and accolades for her work, appearing widely on Radio and Television. Today, there are over three hundred million Janet Dailey books in print in 19 different languages, making her one of the most popular novelists in the world.
Janet Dailey passed away peacefully in her home in Branson on Saturday, December 14, 2013. She was 69.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
March 14, 2023
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the second book in the Champions series. I have to read and review the first book in this book series, and I really enjoyed the first book in this series. This book is all about Val Champion. I loved learning Val's back story. I also loved that some of the other characters in the first book is in this book, and I loved that this book has a more closer look at the bulls. This book is a great mixed of suspense and romance. I loved Val and Casey. This book is fast pace and pulled me into it so fast. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington Publishing Corporation) or author (Janet Dailey) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
March 26, 2023
I really liked book #1, Whirlwind, and I will be going on to read book #3, but this one did not work for me. Casey is a wonderful hero and made this story bearable for me, but Val just aggrevated me from start to finish. Also, the first two thirds of the book is alot of Val repeating bad decisions and never being honest with her sisters or Casey.
August 23, 2021
BOOK BLURB
Fans of edge of your seat romance and readers of B.J. Daniels, Lindsay McKenna, and Diana Palmer won’t want to miss this electrifying and genuine new page-turner from the bestselling romance legend.
When Val Champion returns to the family ranch, she’s ready to put her past behind her. Her dreams of a Hollywood acting career have become a nightmare of fear. But once she sees rodeo man Casey Bozeman facing down a bull in the arena, she knows she’s no safer at home. Face to face with her first and only true love, Val can’t deny her still powerful feelings for Casey. Feelings she can never act on again…
Val’s the one who got away, the woman who broke his heart so hard he still feels the sting. But there’s no denying Casey’s still drawn to the fiery beauty. And there’s no way he can stand by when the high stakes Professional Bull Riding finals in Vegas bring out the danger Val’s been running from. Suddenly the rugged cowboy is willing to risk it all for her once more, even if it means facing down those secrets lurking in her unforgettable eyes…
My Thoughts
Took a couple of days to read as kept choosing You Tube videos and movie watching over the book.
Then I powered through the second half as things got more intense.
As those before me have stated I also have mixed feelings towards this books content and particularly Val herself as the lead character.
I did however think that overall meeting the Champion family and, more importantly to me, experiencing second hand the powerful excitement of what goes on in the rodeo arena behind the scenes was well worth my time.
This is a true second chance at love romantic suspense that actually delivered better than I hoped it would once all the secrets were revealed and the story was over.
Having missed reading first book feel this second one stands alone quite well with an ending that guaranteed I would dearly love to read a third!
[EArc from Netgalley]
May 26, 2021
I picked up this book because I've enjoyed others by Janet Dailey. But there is something different about this book. Janet Dailey passed away in 2013, so I am assuming Whiplash was written by a ghostwriter. I was never able to conjure up any empathy for the heroine, Val. She never seemed to able to move past her sordid past and terrible mistakes to embrace the present opportunities. That gave me no reason to root for her.
Whiplash is set in the world of the National PBR (Professional Bullriding) Finals rodeo event in Las Vegas, Nevada. I loved the way the author set the scene and took me inside the rodeo arena to see the action close-up. When a man climbs on the back of a 1,800-pound bull and the chute is opened, anything can happen - and does.
Casey Bozeman is the hero in this story and I immediately fell in love with him. He is one of those people we all know, who will step up to help anyone in need. His job is to protect the cowboys that ride the bulls. And more times than one, he had to collide with the angry bull to save another man's life.
Casey and Val fell in love when they were teenagers. But that was years ago. And after Val left with no explanation and dropped off the face of the earth, he was left with a broken heart and life. But he put himself back together and even tried marriage, which failed. He finally came to grips with the notion he could never love anyone the way he loved Val, but she was gone. That is until she turns up with her family at the PBR. But Val is in trouble. The kind of trouble that threatens lives. You don't cross the mafia and live. And yet Casey is determined to help her and to get her back into his bed.
There were parts of this book that I loved. The older sister, Tess, the younger sister, Lexie, and her husband Shane were all great characters. They are united with one goal and that is to save their ranch and produce some stock bulls to ride into the big money in the rodeo arena. Each character has flaws, but they form a united front. Val is the outsider, even though she's come back home after leaving a drug and alcohol rehab treatment. The troubles Val brings to their door, are monumental and can end it all. She repetitiously has thoughts of remorse, but her actions don't back up those thoughts. She has deep dark secrets that she keeps hidden along with the scars on her body.
The author drops hints throughout the book as to what her secret is, but until it all comes out, the reader is left to wonder what it is that keeps this beautiful woman so conflicted. I commend the author for that.
While I loved the rodeo setting and enjoyed the plot, I would like to have seen Val be more genuine instead of trying to manipulate everyone, including the men who were determined to kill her. She is playing a deadly game with innocent lives.
The star of the show was a bull named Whiplash. Even though he's been bred to be bucking stock for the rodeo, he's young and easily traumatized. But it took his fury to bring down the antagonist.
The story comes to a satisfactory conclusion with an overall happy ending.
With less repetitious thoughts and scenes, this could be a stronger story.
Whiplash is set in the world of the National PBR (Professional Bullriding) Finals rodeo event in Las Vegas, Nevada. I loved the way the author set the scene and took me inside the rodeo arena to see the action close-up. When a man climbs on the back of a 1,800-pound bull and the chute is opened, anything can happen - and does.
Casey Bozeman is the hero in this story and I immediately fell in love with him. He is one of those people we all know, who will step up to help anyone in need. His job is to protect the cowboys that ride the bulls. And more times than one, he had to collide with the angry bull to save another man's life.
Casey and Val fell in love when they were teenagers. But that was years ago. And after Val left with no explanation and dropped off the face of the earth, he was left with a broken heart and life. But he put himself back together and even tried marriage, which failed. He finally came to grips with the notion he could never love anyone the way he loved Val, but she was gone. That is until she turns up with her family at the PBR. But Val is in trouble. The kind of trouble that threatens lives. You don't cross the mafia and live. And yet Casey is determined to help her and to get her back into his bed.
There were parts of this book that I loved. The older sister, Tess, the younger sister, Lexie, and her husband Shane were all great characters. They are united with one goal and that is to save their ranch and produce some stock bulls to ride into the big money in the rodeo arena. Each character has flaws, but they form a united front. Val is the outsider, even though she's come back home after leaving a drug and alcohol rehab treatment. The troubles Val brings to their door, are monumental and can end it all. She repetitiously has thoughts of remorse, but her actions don't back up those thoughts. She has deep dark secrets that she keeps hidden along with the scars on her body.
The author drops hints throughout the book as to what her secret is, but until it all comes out, the reader is left to wonder what it is that keeps this beautiful woman so conflicted. I commend the author for that.
While I loved the rodeo setting and enjoyed the plot, I would like to have seen Val be more genuine instead of trying to manipulate everyone, including the men who were determined to kill her. She is playing a deadly game with innocent lives.
The star of the show was a bull named Whiplash. Even though he's been bred to be bucking stock for the rodeo, he's young and easily traumatized. But it took his fury to bring down the antagonist.
The story comes to a satisfactory conclusion with an overall happy ending.
With less repetitious thoughts and scenes, this could be a stronger story.
February 11, 2022
This is a very well written family saga/ranching/cowboy/romance - set in the world of bullfighting and rodeos. There's a lot of bullfighting action, drama, family secrets, some second chance romance, (Casey and Val), mystery and it's written from several points of view. I also advise that you read "Whirlwind" before this one, as this story is a continuation and there are spoilers for the first book. I have to admit that I'm not a fan of this type of women's fiction story, but I can appreciate the writing, which I assume to be partially or fully penned by a ghostwriter. There is a lot of internal narration and the back story is the main focus and not the romance. My thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in return for my opinion.
January 18, 2022
Picked this up at my local library and while driving home thought…wait a second; didn’t Dailey pass away several years ago? As it turns out she did which probably had something to do with the fact that I did not find this book to be on par with past novels and didn’t enjoy this book all that much. I haven’t read any recent Dailey books but enjoyed past novels and found her to be a master at writing a romantic novel full of action and great writing – all lacking in this book. I now find myself wondering who wrote the book and why the big secret that it was not Dailey. At the end of the novel there is an Authors Notes page and it’s all about Dailey and it reads as if she was still alive and well. This novel had far too many sub plots and finding no connection to any of the characters I decided that unfortunately, this was a DNF or me.
February 26, 2023
3-1/2 stars
Another comfortable read with Janet Dailey. This is book 2 of the Champion series about three sisters who breed and raise bulls for rodeo competitions. This book focuses on the middle sister, Val, and her relationship with Casey. Val is not a very likable character and has very few redeeming qualities. It was hard for me to see why Casey would be drawn to her as she was so terribly self-centered and glum and secretive. But the story was still engaging as there were some twists and challenges along the way, and I always looked forward to listening to it each day.
Another comfortable read with Janet Dailey. This is book 2 of the Champion series about three sisters who breed and raise bulls for rodeo competitions. This book focuses on the middle sister, Val, and her relationship with Casey. Val is not a very likable character and has very few redeeming qualities. It was hard for me to see why Casey would be drawn to her as she was so terribly self-centered and glum and secretive. But the story was still engaging as there were some twists and challenges along the way, and I always looked forward to listening to it each day.
June 3, 2022
Read this book if you enjoy westerns, second chance romance, and family bonds.
This story is a continuation of the famous Champion family following the Hollywood drop out sister, Val. Val returned to the family ranch and bull riding business after leaving rehab and a failed movie career behind. Trying to keep her head up and be a strong partner to her sisters, she packs up and heads to Vegas for a rodeo. What she doesn't realize is her past in Vegas has found a way to catch up with her and outside the glamour of Hollywood, Val had some more dangerous demons than she's shared with her family. What will she do to keep herself and her family safe?
I'm glad I gave the second book in this series a chance but gosh, I didn't love it at all. The characters felt way more disconnected in this book and their communication and stubbornness is so unbelievable you cannot even empathize with them. The romance was also AWFUL, I cringed during the steamy scenes and felt like Casey (Val's love interest) was just so unrealistic. All I felt finishing this was blah.
This story is a continuation of the famous Champion family following the Hollywood drop out sister, Val. Val returned to the family ranch and bull riding business after leaving rehab and a failed movie career behind. Trying to keep her head up and be a strong partner to her sisters, she packs up and heads to Vegas for a rodeo. What she doesn't realize is her past in Vegas has found a way to catch up with her and outside the glamour of Hollywood, Val had some more dangerous demons than she's shared with her family. What will she do to keep herself and her family safe?
I'm glad I gave the second book in this series a chance but gosh, I didn't love it at all. The characters felt way more disconnected in this book and their communication and stubbornness is so unbelievable you cannot even empathize with them. The romance was also AWFUL, I cringed during the steamy scenes and felt like Casey (Val's love interest) was just so unrealistic. All I felt finishing this was blah.
April 27, 2021
The latest book in the Champion family series is another great read. Val had returned home after her failure in Hollywood. She returns with many secrets but finds refuge with her family and the ranch. The family is going to Las Vegas to compete in the rodeo bull riding competitions with their bulls Whirlwind and Whiplash. Val sees her old love from her youth and tries to fight the attraction and protect the secret she carries. Also she comes face to face with her past when she lived in Vegas and finds a threat to her and her family! The family is still struggling with the ranch and are faced with losing it. Val and her family are forced to deal with Val’s past and the threat to the ranch.
Thanks to Janel Dailey
Thanks to Janel Dailey
September 8, 2021
Thank you Janet Dailey and Goodreads for this interesting book. It had a scary mobster out for Val’s life, a lost love, Casey, who she is reunited with for a time and a cattle ranch that may be lost. The reader learns much about riding bucking bulls and how very dangerous the sport is. The story had a bit of everything, perhaps a few too many extraneous details but it was worth four stars.
December 20, 2021
The main protagonists in this story are Val Champion and former high school sweetheart, Casey Bozeman. The background of this story are bull riders with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR). So I found this book is doubly interesting. I have followed the PBR for many years. Casey, a former bull rider himself, is now working as a bullfighter (formerly called "rodeo clowns".) Val returns t0 the family ranch after many unsuccessful years struggling to be a actress in Hollywood. But before she leaves Hollywood, Casey witnesses a mob hit on her present boyfriend. The mob knows she is a witness and sends a hitman to kill Casey before she can testify against the man who ordered the hit. Casey, meanwhile, ran into Val at a PBR event in Las Vegas. Val informed Casey what she witnessed before returning to the family ranch. Casey is concerned for Val's safety and will do all he can to protect Val from danger. This was Janet Dailey at her best writing. I found the story packed with intrigue, romance and yes, murder.
September 1, 2021
Whiplash is the second book in Janet Dailey’s The Champions series. Val Champion has returned to the family fold leaving behind dreams of stardom and nightmares of drugs, alcohol, and being involved with very dangerous people. She is home to heal and bond with her sisters Tess and Lexie. When it is apparent how important it is to her family that she attend the PBR finals in Las Vegas she agrees to go in spite of the specters from her last time there.
While Val does her best to make excuses to stay in their room, she is coaxed to attend the events when their bulls are participating. Her reasons are twofold. She doesn’t want to be seen and recognized by those that might be hunting her and she doesn’t want to see the love of her life, the one she left behind, Casey Bozeman. Even so, both happen.
Casey is a protector. He protects bull riders by being a bullfighter and he protects people he loves regardless of whether or not he is asked. With the deep secrets Val carries she feels she deserves nothing good from anyone, and especially not Casey who she wronged so deeply.
This is an interesting story diving into the rodeo world as well as the underworld. With emotion and action this is a solid tale. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
While Val does her best to make excuses to stay in their room, she is coaxed to attend the events when their bulls are participating. Her reasons are twofold. She doesn’t want to be seen and recognized by those that might be hunting her and she doesn’t want to see the love of her life, the one she left behind, Casey Bozeman. Even so, both happen.
Casey is a protector. He protects bull riders by being a bullfighter and he protects people he loves regardless of whether or not he is asked. With the deep secrets Val carries she feels she deserves nothing good from anyone, and especially not Casey who she wronged so deeply.
This is an interesting story diving into the rodeo world as well as the underworld. With emotion and action this is a solid tale. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
September 1, 2021
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
3.75 Hearts Janet Dailey has more books than I can believe and yet her stories are still as loved as ever.
In this story we meet Val and Casey and enjoy their second chance at true love. Val returns with some difficult situations in her wake. Casey is a PBR and the sparks fly when Val and Casey see each other again. But when they go to Vegas the trouble Val hoped to leave behind follows her.
First let me say I am against rodeos so I hated that aspect of the book and not sure if that is why it took me a little bit to get into the story. But I finally started enjoying the book when the suspense really started to get heated.
Dailey is one of my favorites but I want to say I am not exactly sure if this book is Dailey herself or a ghostwriter. She sadly passed almost a decade ago and while I have heard she had a lot of books that she had never published I am not sure if we have moved pass those to a new writer using her name.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 Hearts Janet Dailey has more books than I can believe and yet her stories are still as loved as ever.
In this story we meet Val and Casey and enjoy their second chance at true love. Val returns with some difficult situations in her wake. Casey is a PBR and the sparks fly when Val and Casey see each other again. But when they go to Vegas the trouble Val hoped to leave behind follows her.
First let me say I am against rodeos so I hated that aspect of the book and not sure if that is why it took me a little bit to get into the story. But I finally started enjoying the book when the suspense really started to get heated.
Dailey is one of my favorites but I want to say I am not exactly sure if this book is Dailey herself or a ghostwriter. She sadly passed almost a decade ago and while I have heard she had a lot of books that she had never published I am not sure if we have moved pass those to a new writer using her name.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
Whiplash
Janet Dailey
August 31, 2021
Valerie Champion left home when she was 17. Just finishing high school, she left her soul mate to find a job in a big city. She loved Casey Bozeman desperately but knew he needed to pursue his career and find a mate more suited than she. Val grew up in Arizona on a cattle ranch with her sisters Lexie and Tess. They loved the big spread of land and working with the animals. Val hated the chores, dirt and expectations involved with living there. She wanted to go to LA and find work as an actress, make movies. Leaving meant breaking Caseyś heart but she knew they both needed something different. Unfortunately as the years passed Val headed in the wrong direction. In order to find her dream on a movie set she had to comply with men who made promises that required her to accept their illicit ways. Although she was in a few films, her parts were small, as was her pay. Alcohol and drugs became a necessity she found she would do anything to acquire. In time after too much violence and dependency she admitted herself into rehab. The thugs who were after her couldn't find her there. Once finished ,she could go home.
Whiplash is a page-turner mystery that gives us a close-up look at Valś life once she decided to return to Arizona, become whole again. Daileyś mysteries circle around living within the cattle country. Love, remorse, regret are all a part of the characters and their family. Whiplash by Janet Dailey will be published by Kensington Books on August 31, 2021. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this latest in The Champions series. Readers who enjoy Janet Daileyś books will find this exciting and tantalizing. Do enjoy!
Janet Dailey
August 31, 2021
Valerie Champion left home when she was 17. Just finishing high school, she left her soul mate to find a job in a big city. She loved Casey Bozeman desperately but knew he needed to pursue his career and find a mate more suited than she. Val grew up in Arizona on a cattle ranch with her sisters Lexie and Tess. They loved the big spread of land and working with the animals. Val hated the chores, dirt and expectations involved with living there. She wanted to go to LA and find work as an actress, make movies. Leaving meant breaking Caseyś heart but she knew they both needed something different. Unfortunately as the years passed Val headed in the wrong direction. In order to find her dream on a movie set she had to comply with men who made promises that required her to accept their illicit ways. Although she was in a few films, her parts were small, as was her pay. Alcohol and drugs became a necessity she found she would do anything to acquire. In time after too much violence and dependency she admitted herself into rehab. The thugs who were after her couldn't find her there. Once finished ,she could go home.
Whiplash is a page-turner mystery that gives us a close-up look at Valś life once she decided to return to Arizona, become whole again. Daileyś mysteries circle around living within the cattle country. Love, remorse, regret are all a part of the characters and their family. Whiplash by Janet Dailey will be published by Kensington Books on August 31, 2021. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this latest in The Champions series. Readers who enjoy Janet Daileyś books will find this exciting and tantalizing. Do enjoy!
August 30, 2021
This is a book that has a lot of information about the rodeo and the hardships of living that life. While I enjoyed the book, I found it difficult to connect to Val. I wanted to sympathize with her, but it took so long to find out what all of her secrets were, it was hard to be all in with her. I also found it hard to remember who the book was about because there was so much to do with her sister. Casey, on the other hand, stole my heart. He had a heart of gold and would do anything to protect those he loves.
The intrigue of who was after Val and why was what kept me turning the pages. Finding out all of the reasons why she never came home and kept pushing Casey away (even though she led him on, in my opinion) was also worth reading. The culmination of this story was heart stopping and I wish Casey and Val would have had a more in depth conversation after everything that happened, but I was still satisfied. The epilogue has me wanting the next book to see what happens.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
The intrigue of who was after Val and why was what kept me turning the pages. Finding out all of the reasons why she never came home and kept pushing Casey away (even though she led him on, in my opinion) was also worth reading. The culmination of this story was heart stopping and I wish Casey and Val would have had a more in depth conversation after everything that happened, but I was still satisfied. The epilogue has me wanting the next book to see what happens.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
March 11, 2022
This book had a little bit of everything. It leaves off with just enough of you wanting the next book in the series!
March 18, 2021
This book was really good. It was fully of twists and turns and I think it's a new series for Janet Dailey. I love her books, she writes clean and heartwarming books. I looked up bull riding and it is a very dangerous sport. I am glad that netgalley let me read this in exchange for an honest review. I totally recommend this book. and the first one in the series.
August 17, 2021
Whiplash is the second book in the series of three sisters who run the Alamo Canyon Ranch by Janet Dailey. I found this story interesting enough to go back to book one in the series. Haven’t had the chance to read it yet but still had no problem with enjoying the second book. Everything needed about the sisters is given with the focus of Whiplash being on Val Champion.
Val Champion has a somewhat scary past and a load of regrets when she returns home. This story mainly takes place in Las Vegas at the National PBR (Professional Bull Riding) Finals Rodeo. Having family members who have attended this event in years past the scene is perfect described. Being a second chance romance these two characters have a past to overcome and differences in the present to sort out as they work towards a future.
Since Janet Dailey passed away several years ago, I am not sure if this is a re-issue book.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Val Champion has a somewhat scary past and a load of regrets when she returns home. This story mainly takes place in Las Vegas at the National PBR (Professional Bull Riding) Finals Rodeo. Having family members who have attended this event in years past the scene is perfect described. Being a second chance romance these two characters have a past to overcome and differences in the present to sort out as they work towards a future.
Since Janet Dailey passed away several years ago, I am not sure if this is a re-issue book.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2021
This book is second in the series but can be read as a individual boo but you will be wanting more after reading this one. Whiplash is second book in The Champions series by Janet Dailey. Val Champion has come home after being away for many years. She travels with her sisters to Las Vegas because they have two bulls that will be in the competition. She hesitated in making the trip because she had some bad memories of previous years in Vegas, and she did not want to see Casey Bozeman. Casey, the boy she left behind, is a man now and he is a bullfighter for the PBR event. . Neither one of them has forgotten the other but there has been a lot of water under the bridge. When some of Val's past life catches up with her in Vegas, she and Casey and Val's family are all in danger. The author drops hints throughout the book as to what her secret is, but until it all comes out, the reader is left to wonder what it is that keeps this beautiful woman so conflicted. For those who love a good series get into this one now because it will leave you wanting more. This book contains a love story, some suspense, a lot of action and a peek into the world of bull riding. I recommend this to anyone who just wants to read a good book. This book was well written and an easy read with lots of drama between the outstanding characters. I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #Whiplash #JanetDailey
September 6, 2021
Valerie “Val” Champion has come home with so many secrets that she plans never to reveal to family or the man she’s been in love with all her life. She left home to become an actress leaving the love of her life hurt. A trip to Las Vegas and the Professional Bull Riding Championships will bring her secrets back into her life. Casey Bozeman thought he’d finally began to move on from the woman who left him behind. Working as a bullfighter in Las Vegas at the PBR championship. When he realizes that the woman he’s always loved is in danger, he vows that he’s going to protector whether she wants him to or not. These two people will have to face the past to come to terms in the present that just may give them a future they’ve always thought they wouldn’t have. Lies, secrets and danger will bring Valerie Champion and Casey Bozeman a Whiplash of emotions that just may tear them apart forever.
Janet Dailey continues her Champions series with Whiplash the story of middle daughter Valerie (Val) Champion. A woman who returns to her home on the family ranch trying to overcome her problems. A trip to Las Vegas with the family will bring up a long held dangerous secret and reconnecting with the love of her life. Casey Bozeman is a hero and saves bull riders for a living. He’s strong and courageous but when it comes to the woman he’s loved all his life he’ll do whatever it takes win her back and find out all her secrets. Lies, danger and secrets will be the catalyst for turning Champion families lives upside down. Val’s past will come into the present and follow her home. Tension runs high when half truths are told. A woman show wants to keep her family safe will face her past from the danger that has followed her. Whiplash takes the reader into the lives of a small stock contractors who are hoping that they’re bulls to make their ranch into a profitable business and get them into the elite world of the PBR. Along the way they’ll have highs and lows with danger, secrets and lies being revealed. Just as they seem to resolve one problem another comes up that they must tackle. Whiplash gives the reader a look into the world of bull riding and that of the bull fighter as a backdrop of a suspenseful story of love lies and secrets. These unique determined characters work through old hurts. Janet Dailey writing shows you a very unique view of ranch life and behind the scenes into the professional bull riding and bullfighting. Dailey fans will love getting a deeper look into this unique family of ranchers and their journey through their fight to make it a profitable business and trying to bring themselves into the select world of PBR stock contractors. If you love Janet Dailey stories then this is a must read and if you’re a new reader to Janet Dailey then Whiplash is a great way to start along with the first book in the Champion series Whirlwind. I’m looking to reading the third and oldest sister’s book.
Janet Dailey continues her Champions series with Whiplash the story of middle daughter Valerie (Val) Champion. A woman who returns to her home on the family ranch trying to overcome her problems. A trip to Las Vegas with the family will bring up a long held dangerous secret and reconnecting with the love of her life. Casey Bozeman is a hero and saves bull riders for a living. He’s strong and courageous but when it comes to the woman he’s loved all his life he’ll do whatever it takes win her back and find out all her secrets. Lies, danger and secrets will be the catalyst for turning Champion families lives upside down. Val’s past will come into the present and follow her home. Tension runs high when half truths are told. A woman show wants to keep her family safe will face her past from the danger that has followed her. Whiplash takes the reader into the lives of a small stock contractors who are hoping that they’re bulls to make their ranch into a profitable business and get them into the elite world of the PBR. Along the way they’ll have highs and lows with danger, secrets and lies being revealed. Just as they seem to resolve one problem another comes up that they must tackle. Whiplash gives the reader a look into the world of bull riding and that of the bull fighter as a backdrop of a suspenseful story of love lies and secrets. These unique determined characters work through old hurts. Janet Dailey writing shows you a very unique view of ranch life and behind the scenes into the professional bull riding and bullfighting. Dailey fans will love getting a deeper look into this unique family of ranchers and their journey through their fight to make it a profitable business and trying to bring themselves into the select world of PBR stock contractors. If you love Janet Dailey stories then this is a must read and if you’re a new reader to Janet Dailey then Whiplash is a great way to start along with the first book in the Champion series Whirlwind. I’m looking to reading the third and oldest sister’s book.
July 26, 2021
Bad girl Val Champion returns home to the ranch. At 17 years old the hellion ran away to Hollywood to find her dreams on the big screen. That didn’t happen and after several life changing events, she is trying to find herself while hiding out from the Las Vegas mafia. Promising her sisters that she will go to the rodeo finals in Las Vegas, it’s has been 2 years so she should be safe. There she meets family friend, her brother’s best friend and her 1st love who is a bullfighter, Casey.
Casey has never forgotten the fiery Val and still wonders why she left him with no reason why. There are so many secrets that Val has hidden from Casey and her family. Can she put they in danger for her past mistakes? The characters are all back from the first book, so best to read it first. More of a insight behind the scenes of bull raising and competing, which I found interesting. A real page turner.
I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.
Casey has never forgotten the fiery Val and still wonders why she left him with no reason why. There are so many secrets that Val has hidden from Casey and her family. Can she put they in danger for her past mistakes? The characters are all back from the first book, so best to read it first. More of a insight behind the scenes of bull raising and competing, which I found interesting. A real page turner.
I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.
April 5, 2021
Whiplash is second book in The Champions series by Janet Dailey. However, one does not have to read Whirlwind, book one, to understand the characters. Dailey does an excellent job of telling the reader about the Champion family and the Alamo Canyon Ranch. Most of this book takes place in and around the World Finals of the Professional Bull Riders in Las Vegas and it gave insight to the nitty-gritty of the bull riding circuit.
Val Champion has come home after being away for many years. She travels with her sisters to Las Vegas because they have two bulls that will be in the competition. She hesitated in making the trip because she had some bad memories of previous years in Vegas, and she did not want to see Casey Bozeman. Casey was an old boyfriend, but he was a bullfighter for the PBR event.
The past did catch up to Val and she did not know which was more of a threat to her and her heart. Casey is still in love with her after all these years and he wants to protect Val and her family from this threat but still have a clear mind to protect the bull riders when he is in the ring.
This book was well written and an easy read with lots of drama between the outstanding characters. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #Whiplash #JanetDailey
Val Champion has come home after being away for many years. She travels with her sisters to Las Vegas because they have two bulls that will be in the competition. She hesitated in making the trip because she had some bad memories of previous years in Vegas, and she did not want to see Casey Bozeman. Casey was an old boyfriend, but he was a bullfighter for the PBR event.
The past did catch up to Val and she did not know which was more of a threat to her and her heart. Casey is still in love with her after all these years and he wants to protect Val and her family from this threat but still have a clear mind to protect the bull riders when he is in the ring.
This book was well written and an easy read with lots of drama between the outstanding characters. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #Whiplash #JanetDailey
May 13, 2021
I received Whiplast as part of a NetGalley giveaway.
On the run from a dark past in California, Val Champion finds herself in Las Vegas for the PBR Championships, assisting her family with the bulls they breed. She also finds herself face-to-face with Casey Bozeman, her first love and the man she left behind. As the pair reconnect, Val's history comes back to haunt her in the form of a very real threat to her life and the lives of those around her, and Casey must help her navigate the dangers. But when Casey learns the extent of Val's life in California, he discovers that he may not know her at all, and must reconcile the girl he knew with the woman she's become.
I didn't love the staunch conservatism of the book; there was a line at one point about how all the bullriding fans loved God, family, and country, which is jingoistic and simplistic at best. The native traditions also would have been best left out, as it's clear the author is just going with a noble savage trope and it came off as insincere. The entire book felt a bit crowded with the crime plot, the navigating and rebuilding of a once-failed romance, and significant side story that will serve as the plot line of the next book in the series. This one wasn't for me.
On the run from a dark past in California, Val Champion finds herself in Las Vegas for the PBR Championships, assisting her family with the bulls they breed. She also finds herself face-to-face with Casey Bozeman, her first love and the man she left behind. As the pair reconnect, Val's history comes back to haunt her in the form of a very real threat to her life and the lives of those around her, and Casey must help her navigate the dangers. But when Casey learns the extent of Val's life in California, he discovers that he may not know her at all, and must reconcile the girl he knew with the woman she's become.
I didn't love the staunch conservatism of the book; there was a line at one point about how all the bullriding fans loved God, family, and country, which is jingoistic and simplistic at best. The native traditions also would have been best left out, as it's clear the author is just going with a noble savage trope and it came off as insincere. The entire book felt a bit crowded with the crime plot, the navigating and rebuilding of a once-failed romance, and significant side story that will serve as the plot line of the next book in the series. This one wasn't for me.
April 27, 2022
Whiplash, the second book in Janet Dailey’s The Champions series, is a second chance romance and with a suspense threaded throughout…Val, the second Champion sister, returns to Alamo Canyon Ranch after a ten year absence, her journey of substance abuse recovery is heart wrenching and sobering (no pun intended). Casey was left broken-hearted when Val left him behind to pursue a career in Hollywood, but now ten years later he is a top ranked Bullfighter (also known as Rodeo Clowns…the brave men who keep the Bull Riders safe from the bulls after the ride is over). Val left a dangerous life behind in California when she returned home to the family ranch…unfortunately that life followed her.
With both the drama of Val’s past catching up to her and the edge of your seat action of the gripping sport of Professional Bull Riding (PBR), as well as the intense profession of Bullfighters, this story has twists and turns aplenty. Though Val and Casey’s journey is fraught with tension and turmoil, they have a past of secrets that keeps the pages turning.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
With both the drama of Val’s past catching up to her and the edge of your seat action of the gripping sport of Professional Bull Riding (PBR), as well as the intense profession of Bullfighters, this story has twists and turns aplenty. Though Val and Casey’s journey is fraught with tension and turmoil, they have a past of secrets that keeps the pages turning.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
November 21, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Janet Dailey and Kensington Books for the book Whiplash. This is my personal review.
Whiplash was a wonderful book. Val had a life that was one she wanted but it led her down a path that she had to change. She came back to her family to get back to the way she wanted her life to be. Along the way back she had a dangerous situation and knew she needed to be with family.
By coming back to her family and the ranch she runs into Casey. Casey and Val have such a strong chemistry I could feel it as I was reading. They know they love each other but with the situation Val is in she wants to keep Casey safe and not involve him in any of it.
This is a romantic suspense book that is part of the Champion series. Whirlwind was the first in this series.
Whiplash was a wonderful book. Val had a life that was one she wanted but it led her down a path that she had to change. She came back to her family to get back to the way she wanted her life to be. Along the way back she had a dangerous situation and knew she needed to be with family.
By coming back to her family and the ranch she runs into Casey. Casey and Val have such a strong chemistry I could feel it as I was reading. They know they love each other but with the situation Val is in she wants to keep Casey safe and not involve him in any of it.
This is a romantic suspense book that is part of the Champion series. Whirlwind was the first in this series.
August 24, 2021
What an exciting story! Just enough romance, mystery and intrigue! It has cowboys, horses, bulls and a rodeo, throw in the mob and how can it not be a good story! Janet Dailey is one of my favorite writers and she did not disappoint! I am looking forward to her next book! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2021
I found the story line to be a bit disjointed. It seemed to start ane stop too much..
January 27, 2022
Disclosure: This is a book that I received through a Goodreads giveaway.
It's just me. I don't really care for romance novels and this is definitely a romance novel. If you like them, or if you are a Janet Dailey fan, I'm sure you will like this book.
The book follows the Champion family as they attend the Pro Bull Riding finals in Las Vegas. Oldest sister, Tess, is in charge of her bulls and ecstatic to be among the elite of the stock providers. Youngest sister, Lexie, is pregnant. That seems to be her purpose in the book. Middle sister, Val, is the drama queen, always down on herself, always pushing people, including a past love, away from her and with a past as a mob girlfriend and a murder witness. She's constantly on guard, and constantly making really stupid choices. It's a standard, will they get together, will they split up, will past choices haunt Val?
My issues start with the cover art - it shows a ranch house in snow. The nearest town is Ajo, Arizona, which has a temperature range of 41 to 101 with an average snowfall of 0 inches.
Second, the sisters are the usual romance novel sisters: one brunette, one redhead and one blonde. I don't know how these families always manage to have three girls with the distinct hair color like that. Genetics just doesn't work that way.
There are a lot of hot, muscular bull riders in the book. I have know bull riders and the ones that I've known are rather rangy, lanky guys. They also suffer from concussions rather frequently and many of them, when I was younger, refused to wear helmets or helmets weren't even an option then. Thus, a number of riders suffer from C.T.E. just like NFL players. The writer doesn't address this. In her view, they are all upstanding. God-fearing, wonderful men. There is no mention of domestic abuse. There is no mention of drug addiction from the numerous pain killers they take to continue to ride through rather substantial injuries.
I have also known a rodeo clown. He was definitely not built, but more in the line of soft and squishy and the least likely person to work a rodeo that I have ever know. When I asked him why? how?, he responded it was because he was in love with a bull rider. Gay riders are not addressed here and I got the feeling that heterosexuality was perceived to be the only sexual choice of these riders.
If you like these types of books, more power to you. I'm not a fan.
It's just me. I don't really care for romance novels and this is definitely a romance novel. If you like them, or if you are a Janet Dailey fan, I'm sure you will like this book.
The book follows the Champion family as they attend the Pro Bull Riding finals in Las Vegas. Oldest sister, Tess, is in charge of her bulls and ecstatic to be among the elite of the stock providers. Youngest sister, Lexie, is pregnant. That seems to be her purpose in the book. Middle sister, Val, is the drama queen, always down on herself, always pushing people, including a past love, away from her and with a past as a mob girlfriend and a murder witness. She's constantly on guard, and constantly making really stupid choices. It's a standard, will they get together, will they split up, will past choices haunt Val?
My issues start with the cover art - it shows a ranch house in snow. The nearest town is Ajo, Arizona, which has a temperature range of 41 to 101 with an average snowfall of 0 inches.
Second, the sisters are the usual romance novel sisters: one brunette, one redhead and one blonde. I don't know how these families always manage to have three girls with the distinct hair color like that. Genetics just doesn't work that way.
There are a lot of hot, muscular bull riders in the book. I have know bull riders and the ones that I've known are rather rangy, lanky guys. They also suffer from concussions rather frequently and many of them, when I was younger, refused to wear helmets or helmets weren't even an option then. Thus, a number of riders suffer from C.T.E. just like NFL players. The writer doesn't address this. In her view, they are all upstanding. God-fearing, wonderful men. There is no mention of domestic abuse. There is no mention of drug addiction from the numerous pain killers they take to continue to ride through rather substantial injuries.
I have also known a rodeo clown. He was definitely not built, but more in the line of soft and squishy and the least likely person to work a rodeo that I have ever know. When I asked him why? how?, he responded it was because he was in love with a bull rider. Gay riders are not addressed here and I got the feeling that heterosexuality was perceived to be the only sexual choice of these riders.
If you like these types of books, more power to you. I'm not a fan.
August 16, 2021
Las, Vegas, NV. T-Mobile Arena. Professional Bull Riding (PBR). Valerie “Val” Champion’s family has brought some prize bulls Whirlwind & Whiplash from the Alamo Canyon Ranch to be ridden.
Who other than Val’s former lover Casey Bozeman was there working as a bull fighter.
Val has a past she regrets now.
Will Val & Casey rekindle their old flame, or is it going to go south?
Casey’s bullfighter teammates are: Joel Hatcher & Marcus Jefferson.
Cody Woodbine (21, PBR bull rider) on Cactus Jack (PBR bull) was 1st out of the chute.
Cody’s ride was 87.5-seconds but he had failed to disengage his left hand & Cody ran to save him.
Joel Hatcher & Marcus took care of Cactus Jack.
The other family members are: Tess Champion (oldest sister), Lexie (wife, little pregnant sister, & Shane Tulley (husband, wheelchair bound, former PBR bull rider).
Rueben (foreman), Maria (wife, daughter, cook), & Pedro (son-in-law, ranch hand) are the other Alamo Canyon Ranch employees/friends.
RJ McClintock PBR bull rider was set to ride Whirlwind, 92.5 seconds, 1st place.
Carlo Lanzoni was charged with racketeering, extortion, & murder.
José Gilberto (Brazilian), RJ McClintock, & Cody Woodbine were all in 1st place.
Asst. DA Paul Brandt (Clark County) had approached Val.
She is always having to look over her shoulder because of her Hollywood, CA past.
Val went & spoke with Asst. DA Marc Halorsen.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written Western Romantic Suspense book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great Western Romantic Suspense movie, or better yet a mini-TV. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Kensington; Publishing Corporation; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; ARUE book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Who other than Val’s former lover Casey Bozeman was there working as a bull fighter.
Val has a past she regrets now.
Will Val & Casey rekindle their old flame, or is it going to go south?
Casey’s bullfighter teammates are: Joel Hatcher & Marcus Jefferson.
Cody Woodbine (21, PBR bull rider) on Cactus Jack (PBR bull) was 1st out of the chute.
Cody’s ride was 87.5-seconds but he had failed to disengage his left hand & Cody ran to save him.
Joel Hatcher & Marcus took care of Cactus Jack.
The other family members are: Tess Champion (oldest sister), Lexie (wife, little pregnant sister, & Shane Tulley (husband, wheelchair bound, former PBR bull rider).
Rueben (foreman), Maria (wife, daughter, cook), & Pedro (son-in-law, ranch hand) are the other Alamo Canyon Ranch employees/friends.
RJ McClintock PBR bull rider was set to ride Whirlwind, 92.5 seconds, 1st place.
Carlo Lanzoni was charged with racketeering, extortion, & murder.
José Gilberto (Brazilian), RJ McClintock, & Cody Woodbine were all in 1st place.
Asst. DA Paul Brandt (Clark County) had approached Val.
She is always having to look over her shoulder because of her Hollywood, CA past.
Val went & spoke with Asst. DA Marc Halorsen.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written Western Romantic Suspense book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great Western Romantic Suspense movie, or better yet a mini-TV. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Kensington; Publishing Corporation; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; ARUE book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
March 29, 2021
Whiplash is the second in a series about the Champion family, ranchers who primarily raise bulls for rodeos. I did not read the first book. The author is presumably Janet Dailey, author of the Calder family novels, a western saga that was all the romance rage in the 80s. Seeing as Ms. Dailey passed away in 2013, she is either a literal ghost writer, or more likely, a ghostwriter is responsible for the more recent books published under her name. It's an interesting choice to publish under Dailey's name as the whole plagiarism scandal is still likely fresh in the minds of we older romance fans. i.e., Her name isn't really a selling point. I don't understand why this ghostwriter doesn't just publish under his or her own name or pen name.
But anyway.
Whomever actually penned this novel did not, in my opinion, do much to reestablish Dailey's status as a romance writing queen. I found it to be an awkward read with too many competing subplots. Further, I didn't really like any of the characters, maybe with the exception of the bulls. The bulls, I liked. After Whiplash and Whirlwind, the hero Casey is probably the best of the lot. The main thing bringing him down for me was that he actually too easily forgives Val, the heroine for the pretty godawful secret that she kept from him. For her part, Val--in addition to being a lying liarpants and former drug addict, is selfish and immature; her only decent quality seems to be that she can cook.
The funny part is that under all the crap, the basic plot is not all that bad. You've got the mob, a hitman, a ranch on the brink of foreclosure... The ingredients are there, but the execution isn't.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
But anyway.
Whomever actually penned this novel did not, in my opinion, do much to reestablish Dailey's status as a romance writing queen. I found it to be an awkward read with too many competing subplots. Further, I didn't really like any of the characters, maybe with the exception of the bulls. The bulls, I liked. After Whiplash and Whirlwind, the hero Casey is probably the best of the lot. The main thing bringing him down for me was that he actually too easily forgives Val, the heroine for the pretty godawful secret that she kept from him. For her part, Val--in addition to being a lying liarpants and former drug addict, is selfish and immature; her only decent quality seems to be that she can cook.
The funny part is that under all the crap, the basic plot is not all that bad. You've got the mob, a hitman, a ranch on the brink of foreclosure... The ingredients are there, but the execution isn't.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
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