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Whiskey Falls #1

Whiskey Home

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Tony
I promised to protect my best friend’s little sister—I didn’t plan on falling in love.
But when a murderer strikes in my county and she may be the next target, I can’t hold back anymore.
She doesn’t know it yet, but when this is over she’s here to stay.
If I can keep her alive.

Bree
A tragedy called me back to Whiskey Falls, but as soon as I take care of business, I’m out of here.
It doesn’t matter that I’ve been in love with Tony Kane since I was a child.
Or that I go weak at the knees every time I see him.
My family broke my heart, but he has the power to shatter it.
No way am I sticking around for that.

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2021

237 people are currently reading
595 people want to read

About the author

Taryn Rivers

5 books179 followers
Taryn Rivers lives in central Arkansas with her extremely patient husband and her golden retriever, Patton. When she’s not writing, she’s kicking back with her husband at the lake, eating her weight in fried cheese curds and fish fry while visiting family in Wisconsin, or she’s guilting her children into coming to see her. She loves reading, coffee, wine, and her family, not necessarily in that order.

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5 stars
238 (44%)
4 stars
156 (29%)
3 stars
94 (17%)
2 stars
33 (6%)
1 star
8 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,387 reviews900 followers
November 5, 2021
Holy heck! This has all the alpha goodness!!!

Bree had some serious abandonment issues. Her character was developed in such a way that I felt her pain deep in my own heart. Watching her slowly evolve from that place of hurt and lost into confidence was awesome. I’m pretty sure I’ve never read of another heroine that has affected me the way Bree’s story did.


May be a black-and-white image of one or more people, people playing musical instruments and guitar


I suspected this author was going to give me a fiercely protective hero and I was not wrong. Tony was exactly what I love and adore. He was the perfect partner to help bring Bree out of her isolation and into the warmth of love of not only a loyal man, but that of friends and family as well. Add in the fact that he was going to keep her safe at any cost, had a little streak of jealousy, and had claimed her in his heart long before she saw him coming, and I was a goner.





This story had so many layers to it that I couldn’t stop reading. I never knew what the next revelation was going to be or where this author was going to take me with each turn of the page. I was completely engaged and totally consumed from beginning to end. It was filled with danger, drama and action as well as some deeply emotional moments that had my eyes swelling with tears. Laced throughout all of that goodness was the steamy intensity of Bree and Tony’s relationship. This couple were HOT!





This is a standalone book but it does set things up for the next couple. And I cannot wait!!!

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
555 reviews672 followers
March 24, 2022
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note 2: This is a series, so please read in order as future/past characters do make cameos.

Trigger Warnings: murder, death, mention of rape, brutal violence, assault, abduction, abuse, drug abuse, shootouts, ostracism, thievery, betrayal.

Damn, this novel fell awfully short of what I was supposedly expecting from it.

I mean the summary hadn't really convinced me it was going to be a whole lot exciting, more like contemporary romance than a perhaps romantic suspense that it was going for.

Plus the romance felt more forced than anything, seems like the characters would have had a better platonic relationship than anything.

The mystery was in literal pieces, connected to who knows what and where. I mean I had my own kind of headaches just piecing together what the book was trying to say.

The only three things going for it were: decent flow, the pacing was okay-could've accelerated a bit more, and the writing had me.

Otherwise, this was more bland and all over the place than anything I've ever known.

But still I look forward to Erick's book as it seemed to have a bit more intriguing tone to it than this one.

Whiskey Dream will be releasing March 31st, so buckle up for Erick and his mystery girl's story!

Until the next read,

-TMR
Profile Image for Patricia.
111 reviews
October 24, 2025
Awesome read! Mystery, intrigue, romance, twists and turns. If you like all that I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Penny.
610 reviews15 followers
October 27, 2021
I can’t freaking believe this is Ms. Rivers’s debut novel! And trust me, once you read it, you won’t either. There’s romance and heat, action, suspense, and family drama galore.

Whiskey Home follows the very swoony Tony and his quest of getting Bree, the reluctant love of his life, to move back home. Now, I won’t be going into details as I don’t want to spoil the fun for anyone, but Bree didn’t have the greatest of childhoods which left her with an issue or two to deal with. Which she mostly didn’t until life forces her hand.

Tony was the gentle strength and solid support that Bree needed to start fighting her demons. He was protective and really bossy in the best of ways. Totally alphalicious. Did I mention he is in law enforcement? He just ticked all my boxes.

I loved witnessing Bree coming into herself. She was no dainty flower though, she had strength, resilience, and grit in spades. She was one smart cookie and a bit of a badass too.

Whiskey Home had me on a roller-coaster of emotions and gave me all the feels. The sweet romance had me awwww’ing, the action and suspense kept me on the metaphorical edge of my seat, while the sexy shenanigans left me fanning myself. My heart hurt for Bree and Tony kept putting smiles on my face. I was so invested in the story that even though there’s one long-ass (as it should be) epilogue it wasn’t enough, I just wanted to keep on reading! But now there’s this whole new universe of characters I’m dying to know more about! Ms. Rivers’ better get cracking on the next one.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*
Profile Image for Miranda.
437 reviews6 followers
November 4, 2021
4.75 Stars
You know how some books take a bit to get into? This is NOT one of them. This was beyond entertaining immediately from the get-go. This ‘brother’s best friend’ had the tension set to scorching.

Blood doesn’t make a family, people who choose to be there day in and day out makes a family. The people that had come together to make Bree’s family are filled with tons of amazing and unique characters.
Bree had a very messed up childhood with parents that didn’t want to care for her. It causes doubt and demons that prevent her happiness. Her best friend Sadie is one of the people who has been there for her. She is a girl that everyone needs at their side and I couldn’t get enough of her. Griffin and Josie also topped the list of favorite characters from this story. When you read it, you will know why. You won’t be disappointed.

Tony is Bree’s brother’s best friend as well as the Whiskey Falls Police Detective and has been pinning for Bree. He has me sighing every time he is around her. A man every woman deserves to have and one every man should strive to become. This man is hot, sweet, intelligent, and knows how to do everything right.

This had mystery and suspense with MC involved which kept the pages turning and the mind going. Trying to figure out who-done-it all along the way had me stumped and questioning everything.

This is a definite must read and I can’t wait to read what the author has in store for their next book in the series.
Profile Image for Raine.
2,463 reviews52 followers
February 13, 2022
Debut novel

This is Taryn Rivers's debut novel. It didn't hit it out of the park for me, but it was a pretty decent story. The mystery was a bit all over the place and certain aspects didn't seem resolved, but I guess those will be in the future books.

Bree was Tony's best friend's (Erick) sister and Tony and Erick had vowed to take care of Bree when she was six years old and her birth parents basically abandoned her. Bree has always loved Tony and Tony has always loved Bree since they were kids, but Bree has put a wall around her heart because he family has a tendency to abandon her.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series when it comes out in a few months (March 20). It's about Bree's brother, Erick.
Profile Image for Ria Lize.
469 reviews59 followers
November 13, 2021
4.5/5

Whiskey Home was such a pleasant surprise.
Considering Bree's childhood, she could've easily pushed Tony away, but I like that she didn't fight him every step of the way. Tony was the perfect alpha and really took care of her. <3

Some parts dragged a little bit, but I enjoyed trying to guess who the villain was and was very satisfied I got it right. :D I'm really happy about the external conflict being the main drama and having very little relationship angst. Looking forward to the next book.

***

Push-pull?
Cheating?
OW/OM
Separation?
Profile Image for Robin.
1,001 reviews30 followers
January 16, 2025
4.5 stars. Great start to this series. Loved the storyline, loved the cast of supporting characters (there are a lot of them). First book I've read by this author and am so excited to read more. The great thing about the large cast of supporting characters is (fingers crossed) the possibility of future books in the series. On to book two...
Profile Image for MeMe.
284 reviews33 followers
February 22, 2022
It's amazing what Taryn Rivers has accomplished with her debut. The town of Whiskey Falls is full of heart, laughter and tears. It is impressive that Ms. Rivers is a new author, since the story is well-paced and emotional while also being suspenseful. It's easy to imagine yourself hanging out with her characters on a Saturday night. She captures the essence of what it is like to live in a small town in her portrayal. A friend's family is more meaningful than the one you were born into. This shows you that the family you choose is more significant than the ones you are born into. Because Bree's father has never been present in his life, and his mother has never been a model mother, his life has always been turbulent. After discovering the full details of her past, the reader can't help but be touched by the narrative. This is what she's gone through at the hands of those she should have loved most. Fortunately for her, her older brother, Tony, was always there to welcome her back and, of course, Griff, who loved her like a father loved her back as well. Due to his relationship with her brother, Erik, Tony has never acted on his feelings for Bree. However, Tony hasn't been able to wait long for his girl to return. We are treated to a well-written mystery full of motorcycle gangs, cartels, law enforcement, betrayals, protective alpha males, and more all wrapped up in a well-written outcome that makes for a happy ending. This author has such a unique style, I'm eagerly anticipating what he will write next. Ms. Rivers will undoubtedly reveal more secrets and tell another captivating tale from small-town Wisconsin, no doubt.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
1,459 reviews24 followers
March 30, 2023
**Currently Free**

https://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Home-F...

March 2023

A new world has opened up through Taryn River’s debut novel, Whiskey Home. It’s a standalone book with a mixture of romance, suspense and cheeky humour encased within a strong group of secondary characters who are begging to have their stories told.

Bree’s complicated upbringing and her relationship with her parents is heartbreaking. I struggled at times to understand why it panned out as it had until the revelations appeared throughout the story. By the epilogue, I was reading through misty eyes hearing how the happy couple had settled into a life Bree could only dream of earlier.

While I enjoyed the romance and mystery, there was another sweet thread running through the novel and that was surrounding Griff Daniels. A family friend who had a sweet fatherly love for Bree at the same time as being a strong male figure that Tony looked up to. The respect Tony and Bree had for Griff was at the backbone of this story. An unassuming hero that did what he had to do and did it well.

Whiskey Home had a bit of everything – a slightly OTT alpha, a strong heroine despite her personal challenges, friendship, quirky/nutty neighbours, a murder mystery and romance with a strong music vibe throughout. The plot was driven equally by relationship and suspense that kept me guessing until the end. For the first book in a series, it has managed to create a cast of characters and the beginnings of an overarching plot that will feed into future books. I am excited to read on with this series to see what Ms Rivers has in store for Bree’s brother Erick next!
Profile Image for Linda Fausnet.
Author 23 books33 followers
November 5, 2021
This was a terrific read from beginning to end! It's filled with suspense, steamy romance, protective heroes, and imparts an emotionally satisfying message about the true meaning of family. There were several times I teared up - in a good way! Whiskey Home is a wonderful beginning to a new series. No cliffhangers, but plenty of hints as to what's to come in future books. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Heather.
344 reviews24 followers
March 31, 2022
Wow. What an amazing debut. I loved Bree and Tony so much. My only complaint is that there were so many characters introduced in this book. I had a hard time keeping everyone straight. I guess an over abundance of characters could be a good thing also. Future books!!!

If you like…

Big brothers best friend romance
Friends to lovers
Small town romance
Damaged heroine
Romantic suspense
Alpha/protective heroes
Sassy heroine with an even sassier best friend

…..then this book is for you!

Profile Image for Katy.
143 reviews
August 24, 2023
Delightful!

For a debut novel, this one is exceptional. Each character has depth and is realistic, the dialog is perfect, and the descriptions of the locations are vivid, easily immersing the reader in the story. The sibling relationship is awesome, funny, and the sniping is on point. The tension and mystery aspects are gripping to the end, again with a realistic and believable storyline. Taryn Rivers has a winner on her hands with this series, and I can’t wait to revisit Whiskey Falls!
Profile Image for Tracy ann  Robinson.
1,159 reviews26 followers
January 1, 2023
i was recommended this author and I very much enjoyed was gripping and a very good story looking forward to starting book 2
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
6,568 reviews134 followers
March 2, 2022
This is the first hook I have read by this author but it certainly won’t be the last because after reading Whiskey Home I’m not only excited for the next book in the series, im also excited to check out other works as soon as time permits. If you love romantic suspense, small town romances or friends to lovers look no further than Tony and Bree’s story. I really connected with Bree a woman surrounded by family, not blood related but friends who as good as any relative, the friendship she shares with her best friend touched me on so many levels and reminded me of a very special best friend I have.
Bree lives in Whiskey Falls and when it seems her life is in danger it’s police detective Tony who is there to keep her safe. Up until now Tony has just been her best friends brother and what Bree never realised was the feelings he has hidden for her go back many years, it’s only when they spend time together as try’s to keep her safe from a killer that feelings come to the surface. So will the killer be found and more importantly what does the future hold for these friends as they become lovers.
Whiskey Home has a lot going for it, it has the perfect mix of love and suspense, it has wonderful characters and it’s well written so what else can you ask for. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series as well as other works by Taryn Rivers.
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,356 reviews119 followers
March 3, 2022
Whiskey Home by Taryn Rivers
Whiskey Falls #1

Great debut novel – Couldn’t put it down – Can’t wait for book two!

What I liked:
* Bree: strong, resilient, difficult childhood, good friend, fears people will leave her, perfect for Tony
* Tony: good friend to Bree and her brother, ex-military, policeman, knows what he wants and he wants Bree.
* Erick: Bree’s half-brother, good friend, someone I want to get to know better
* Griff: the man who was more of a father to Bree than her own father ever was
* Sadie: Bree’s best friend, wonder if she will end up with Tony or perhaps with Finn
* Josie: stepmother to Bree for a while, bar owner, musician, hope to see more of her
* The setting, writing, plot and pace of the story
* Believing that Bree and Tony were good together
* That the bad guy(s) were eventually unearthed
* That there are plenty of intriguing characters that I want to know more about – hop that they each get books of their own
* Meeting a new author that I enjoyed
* Knowing that there are more books to look forward to

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like…the bad guys and what they did
* Knowing that the childhood Bree experienced is probably one that more than one child has had to endure.

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to the author and IndiePenPR for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

Profile Image for Carole.
380 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2022
Phenomenal Debut Book!

Wow! I’m speechless, this book was that good. There was mystery, danger, and a “who done it” that I did NOT figure out. But aside from that, the friendship and then romance between Tony and Bree was just beautiful.

To say that Bree did not have an ideal childhood is putting it mildly. It sucked! So much so, that she’s sworn she’s staying away from Whiskey Falls. But never say never, because when tragedy strikes, Bree is right back in the same small town that left a whole in her heart and her soul.

Tony has known Bree since she was six years old, and along with her brother, they’ve protected her. But his alpha, protective instincts go wild when he decides to finally go after what he wants, or should I say who he wants.

Taryn Rivers did a phenomenal job on this debut book. Debut book??? WHAT?? I honestly finished and was looking for more of her books when I discovered that this was her first. Ms Rivers is unbelievably talented. Whiskey Home has everything I love in a romance book…small town, friends to lovers, suspense, and great secondary characters that I hope (hint hint) get books of their own. 5+ ⭐️
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,245 reviews219 followers
March 1, 2022
4.5 star review of Whiskey Home (Whiskey Falls #1) by Taryn Rivers
Taryn Rivers is a new author to me and I can’t believe I have not read her books before.I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading this gripping romantic suspense story. I enjoyed Tony and Bree’s small town, friends to lovers, romance set in Whiskey Falls.
Bree hasn’t had an easy life and I felt for her. It was heart warming to watch her growth throughout this story. I loved that Bree was surrounded by family, not blood related but family none the less. The friendship she shares with her best friend Sadie melted my heart as she was always there for her.
What Bree isn’t aware of is that Sadie’s brother, Tony a police detective in Whiskey Falls has had feelings for her for a long time. I fell hard and fast for Tony, he was totally swoon worthy and was just the man for Bree.
When it appears that a someone has targeted Bree, it will be up to Tony to protect her and keep her safe whilst trying to find the killer. There were a number of twists and turns along the way and I have to say I was surprised at times.
This book had equal amounts of suspense and romance and kept me invested from the first chapter to the last. A well written fast paced story that I really enjoyed.
Profile Image for Zoey Day.
266 reviews9 followers
May 11, 2022
Whiskey Home:
The way Bree has all 3 of those men in her life watching her is amazing, but definitely love how Tony has considered her his for a while!
When they are talking about Bree going on a rampage and how she let the air out of Christy's tires was making me laugh!
Even though Joe wasnt always there but pleaded for her case during that time is sweet. The lost in space reference has me dying! I love how Bree stood up for herself at the funeral! Definitely a strong FMC that people can relate to! 
Favorite line from Erick "I need to find some brain bleach" loved that!
"Shit. She's leaking. She never does that. Fix her" I laughed so hard at that!!
Overall this was an amazing story! Loved it from start to finish. I loved how everyone who loved Bree fought for her!
Profile Image for Deanna.
536 reviews35 followers
March 3, 2022
Enjoyed this read a lot. Fast-paced, great storytelling and characterization, and a good romance and suspense plot. Very much a story about love and about family lost and family found. Who will be there when times are the hardest, and who will make someone feel whole when parts of them are cracked or missing. It is about connection, and identity, and home. Where home is and what it means to find it. Who family is and what it means to care for them, be apart of them.

Readers looking for a good romantic suspense tale with great storytelling and characterization, including an alpha hero and a strong independent heroine determined not to fall for him, will enjoy this story. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

4.5 Stars
Full review will be posted on Okie Dreams website.
Profile Image for Skye Coulter.
9 reviews
March 22, 2022
Couldn’t stop reading!

This story hit me in the feels! What a ride! What an author! Loved the story and the characters felt like family.. sucked me in and wouldn’t let go!
101 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2022
An awesome read

I loved reading this book and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series. Actioned packed with characters you wish were your friends. A must read.
511 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2022
Amazing story! Once I started reading, just couldn't stop reading, as I was completely hooked by Bree and Tony’s story. I felt every single emotion so deeply; from flirty, to humorous, to poignant and passionate. An avalanche of feels was delivered in these pages! Cann’t wait unit Erik’s story comes out. Also think Sadie’s story would make awesome story!
Profile Image for Sayward Alaman.
15 reviews
August 23, 2023
I love this book! The writer draws you in and you get completely submerged in this world of Whiskey Falls. It’s love, danger, motorcycles, and suspense all in one! I read this book in 2 days! Taryn Rivers outdid herself in her first book!!! Excellent. Will be reading everything she writes!
12.7k reviews189 followers
March 1, 2022
What an amazing story. Bree has had abandonment issues for a long time. Will her brother’s best friend be able to help keep her safe. Perhaps there’s even a romance in the air. Enjoyable.
504 reviews4 followers
April 5, 2023
Great story

This book has a lot of suspence, danger,and a little romance through in keeping you turning the pages to see what happens next until the very last page, looking forward to reading more books from this author
511 reviews15 followers
March 9, 2022
Holy crap was this a fantastic book! It sucked me in from the beginning! Tony was an Uber alpha who knew what he wanted and it was Bree. Bree definitely gave him a run for his money. Lol. This book was so action packed and kept you guessing. Now when can I get Erick’s book and also Sadie’s book….
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