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Wild Hearts of Alaska #2
Wild about Violet
Falling for my fake fiancée? Nope. Not gonna happen. I’m not about to ruin a great friendship with her over a pretend relationship.
Honestly, I had no idea the whole fake relationship front was a thing. When my biggest sponsor for my snowboarding career wanted to partner me up with my stalker teammate for a race around the world, I panicked and claimed my fiancée wouldn’t approve of me teaming up with the lunatic. Normally, I’m not big on lying, but, seriously…the psycho snuck into my hotel room during last winter’s Xtreme Games! Totally creeped me out.
My friend Violet didn’t bat an eye when I begged her to go along with the farce. She’s cool like that, willing to help out, even if it’s something ridiculous like pretending to be engaged. Probably because it gives her a break from the dating game.
You see, Violet hasn’t had the best luck with men lately. I’m betting it’s because of her silly notion that with one kiss, she’ll know if the guy is her one true love. I have no idea how she came up with that idea, but she’s determined it's foolproof.
So, now we’re racing the globe together, doing insane stunts and puzzles, trying to win a million dollars for my sponsor’s charity. We’re having a blast, but I’ve got a major problem. I don’t think I want my fake fiancée to be fake anymore. In fact, I’m pretty sure I’m wild about Violet. But how do I convince her that her one kiss rule needs to be broken?
Wild About Violet is a laugh-out-loud, heart-melting romcom with an artsy neurodivergent heroine, an extreme sports cinnamon roll hero, and swoonworthy chemistry that keeps you turning the page.
Honestly, I had no idea the whole fake relationship front was a thing. When my biggest sponsor for my snowboarding career wanted to partner me up with my stalker teammate for a race around the world, I panicked and claimed my fiancée wouldn’t approve of me teaming up with the lunatic. Normally, I’m not big on lying, but, seriously…the psycho snuck into my hotel room during last winter’s Xtreme Games! Totally creeped me out.
My friend Violet didn’t bat an eye when I begged her to go along with the farce. She’s cool like that, willing to help out, even if it’s something ridiculous like pretending to be engaged. Probably because it gives her a break from the dating game.
You see, Violet hasn’t had the best luck with men lately. I’m betting it’s because of her silly notion that with one kiss, she’ll know if the guy is her one true love. I have no idea how she came up with that idea, but she’s determined it's foolproof.
So, now we’re racing the globe together, doing insane stunts and puzzles, trying to win a million dollars for my sponsor’s charity. We’re having a blast, but I’ve got a major problem. I don’t think I want my fake fiancée to be fake anymore. In fact, I’m pretty sure I’m wild about Violet. But how do I convince her that her one kiss rule needs to be broken?
Wild About Violet is a laugh-out-loud, heart-melting romcom with an artsy neurodivergent heroine, an extreme sports cinnamon roll hero, and swoonworthy chemistry that keeps you turning the page.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
125 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
Sara Blackard
40 books402 followersSara Blackard writes stories that thrill the imagination and strum heartstrings. When she’s not crafting wild adventures and sweet romances that curl your toes, she’s homeschooling her five children, keeping their off-grid house running, or enjoying the Alaskan lifestyle she and her husband love. Visit her website at www.sarablackard.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
November 10, 2022
TITLE: WILD ABOUT VIOLET
SERIES: Wild Hearts of Alaska - Book 2
AUTHOR: Sara Blackard
PUB DATE: 05.31.2022 Now Available
I love reading a fun best friends to lovers romcom, and Violet and Kemp’s story just makes my heart swoon. Kemp is a snowboarder and is doing a race around the world with a million dollar at stake - in an effort to not be partnered up with a weirdo roommate, he lies that his fiancée Violet would not allow it. Violet is a neuro divergent character that just had my heart from the very start. I just loved rooting for this couple as they race around the world in hopes to win each others’ heart, literally.
Super cute, fun, and heart warming. I enjoyed this quick read.
SERIES: Wild Hearts of Alaska - Book 2
AUTHOR: Sara Blackard
PUB DATE: 05.31.2022 Now Available
I love reading a fun best friends to lovers romcom, and Violet and Kemp’s story just makes my heart swoon. Kemp is a snowboarder and is doing a race around the world with a million dollar at stake - in an effort to not be partnered up with a weirdo roommate, he lies that his fiancée Violet would not allow it. Violet is a neuro divergent character that just had my heart from the very start. I just loved rooting for this couple as they race around the world in hopes to win each others’ heart, literally.
Super cute, fun, and heart warming. I enjoyed this quick read.
November 5, 2022
In Wild About Violet we meet Violet and Kemp, platonic best friends who live in Alaska. Violet is like any twenty something romantic, serial dating while she tries to find “the one”. But while her search for love is typical, a lot about a Violet is anything but.
See Violet has hyperthymesia or HSAM for short. A highly unusual condition, this allows Violet to be able to recall, in vivid detail, every memory from her life. This serves as both a blessing and a curse. Until now, only her family has known about her hyperthymesia, but its impact can be felt in every area of her life, including her love life. As an added bonus, Violet has a super serious approach to trying to find the one, believing the first kiss is going to reveal the man she’s meant to be with.
Equally frustrated with dead end dating experiences, snowboarder Kemp proposes a “no dating for six months” pact with Violet. But before you think this is a book about how hard it is to win the challenge, the script is flipped when an actual challenge falls in Kemp’s lap. But in order to enter, he needs a partner to get him there. In haste, he dubs Violet to be his fiancée. If Violet agrees and these two can pull it off, they’d win a million dollars, EACH. Can they fake romantic feelings for one another, or will the lines just get too blurry to tell the truth?
Packing a lot into its 230 pages, Wild About Violet is an easy to read love story that can be consumed in one sitting. While it’s technically the second installment in the Wild About Violet series, it is written as a standalone with occasional references to previous characters (and happenings) from the first book. Thank you to @KateRockBookTours and @Sara.Blackard for inviting me into the world of the Wild Hearts of Alaska series!
See Violet has hyperthymesia or HSAM for short. A highly unusual condition, this allows Violet to be able to recall, in vivid detail, every memory from her life. This serves as both a blessing and a curse. Until now, only her family has known about her hyperthymesia, but its impact can be felt in every area of her life, including her love life. As an added bonus, Violet has a super serious approach to trying to find the one, believing the first kiss is going to reveal the man she’s meant to be with.
Equally frustrated with dead end dating experiences, snowboarder Kemp proposes a “no dating for six months” pact with Violet. But before you think this is a book about how hard it is to win the challenge, the script is flipped when an actual challenge falls in Kemp’s lap. But in order to enter, he needs a partner to get him there. In haste, he dubs Violet to be his fiancée. If Violet agrees and these two can pull it off, they’d win a million dollars, EACH. Can they fake romantic feelings for one another, or will the lines just get too blurry to tell the truth?
Packing a lot into its 230 pages, Wild About Violet is an easy to read love story that can be consumed in one sitting. While it’s technically the second installment in the Wild About Violet series, it is written as a standalone with occasional references to previous characters (and happenings) from the first book. Thank you to @KateRockBookTours and @Sara.Blackard for inviting me into the world of the Wild Hearts of Alaska series!
June 5, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ rounded
Thank you, BookSprout, for the ARC!
It took me a while to think about how to describe this book, but I found it to be a good transition or in-between for YA to NA. The characters are adults and there is romantic tension, but there’s nothing beyond kissing.
This book was cute and adventurous friends to lovers with fake dating/engagement. I enjoyed the Amazing Race vibes with the television show.
It had a little slow start, in my opinion, but it picked up for me around Vegas because, well, iykyk. I found that Violet and Kemp’s chemistry really amped up from that moment onwards and made the book more enjoyable for me. The ending was rushed and I felt like a lot of things throughout the book about what happens to Violet and Kemp were unanswered. I wish we looked more into Violet’s H-SAM since I’ve never heard or seen that condition a lot in books. It felt info-dumped for a few chapters just to benefit the moment. It would’ve been fascinating to see it more woven throughout and how it’d affect her life and her relationships.
Thank you, BookSprout, for the ARC!
It took me a while to think about how to describe this book, but I found it to be a good transition or in-between for YA to NA. The characters are adults and there is romantic tension, but there’s nothing beyond kissing.
This book was cute and adventurous friends to lovers with fake dating/engagement. I enjoyed the Amazing Race vibes with the television show.
It had a little slow start, in my opinion, but it picked up for me around Vegas because, well, iykyk. I found that Violet and Kemp’s chemistry really amped up from that moment onwards and made the book more enjoyable for me. The ending was rushed and I felt like a lot of things throughout the book about what happens to Violet and Kemp were unanswered. I wish we looked more into Violet’s H-SAM since I’ve never heard or seen that condition a lot in books. It felt info-dumped for a few chapters just to benefit the moment. It would’ve been fascinating to see it more woven throughout and how it’d affect her life and her relationships.
January 6, 2023
i love when i stumble into a book, nothing about it and I fall in love with it.
if you want a fake dating, friends-to-lovers romance with an amazing race setting, read this!
the romance was super cute and i loved the characters now i want to read Rory's book.
if you want a fake dating, friends-to-lovers romance with an amazing race setting, read this!
the romance was super cute and i loved the characters now i want to read Rory's book.
May 1, 2022
Wild About Violet was such a cute book! This was the first novel that I’ve read by Sara Blackard and I will definitely read more!
The friends to lovers trope is admittedly one of my favorites. Mix in fake dating (or in this case, fake engagement) and you have me fully intrigued.
Kemp got an offer to be on a televised race around the world against other athletes for a lot of money and he jumped at it. Except, there was only one teeny tiny problem. His partner for the race was supposed to be a woman who had harassed and stalked him. In a panic, he mentions to his sponsors that his fiancée wouldn’t be happy with that and that’s when everything snowballed and Violet ended up pretending to be his fiancée.
I adored Violet and Kemp and I found their journey—falling in love, and traveling the world—so entertaining.
As I’m writing this review (a few days after I finished the book) it’s just making me want to read it again. That’s how good this book was.
It is a clean romance, which I personally did not mind whatsoever. I like steamy romances but I didn’t feel like this book needed smut, it was amazing on it’s own.
Anyway, if you want to read about endearing characters falling in love with each other, then I’d highly recommend this book.
Huge thank you to Booksprout and the author/publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
The friends to lovers trope is admittedly one of my favorites. Mix in fake dating (or in this case, fake engagement) and you have me fully intrigued.
Kemp got an offer to be on a televised race around the world against other athletes for a lot of money and he jumped at it. Except, there was only one teeny tiny problem. His partner for the race was supposed to be a woman who had harassed and stalked him. In a panic, he mentions to his sponsors that his fiancée wouldn’t be happy with that and that’s when everything snowballed and Violet ended up pretending to be his fiancée.
I adored Violet and Kemp and I found their journey—falling in love, and traveling the world—so entertaining.
As I’m writing this review (a few days after I finished the book) it’s just making me want to read it again. That’s how good this book was.
It is a clean romance, which I personally did not mind whatsoever. I like steamy romances but I didn’t feel like this book needed smut, it was amazing on it’s own.
Anyway, if you want to read about endearing characters falling in love with each other, then I’d highly recommend this book.
Huge thank you to Booksprout and the author/publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
October 11, 2023
Okay, Sara Blackard, go off!
I loved this book. The perfect friends to lovers/marriage of convenience.
The COMMUNICATION between Violet and Kemp should be used as a model for relationships 😂
I loved this book. The perfect friends to lovers/marriage of convenience.
The COMMUNICATION between Violet and Kemp should be used as a model for relationships 😂
November 5, 2022
A clean romance that delightfully mixes fun, adventure, and romance with deep, soul-touching issues. I’m a big fan of this mix of lightness and weightiness in fiction, and it is a large part of my love for Sara Blackard’s writing.
‘Wild About Violet’ does not disappoint. Both characters are vibrant and exciting as well as deep and life-like. Violet’s rare condition is so fascinating to me, and the joys and struggles that come with it are deeply relatable. I can’t actually express how much her story affects me without getting incredibly personal, but suffice it to say I will be revisiting certain scenes over and over again because of how powerfully emotional and real they are.
This was an easy book to rate. Five stars.
(I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
‘Wild About Violet’ does not disappoint. Both characters are vibrant and exciting as well as deep and life-like. Violet’s rare condition is so fascinating to me, and the joys and struggles that come with it are deeply relatable. I can’t actually express how much her story affects me without getting incredibly personal, but suffice it to say I will be revisiting certain scenes over and over again because of how powerfully emotional and real they are.
This was an easy book to rate. Five stars.
(I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
June 17, 2024
Anyone who follows me knows it takes a lot for me to read a friends to lovers romance book. But Sara absolutely nailed it! I love Violet and Kemp together! Their friendship is amazing, their chemistry sizzling, and this one had so much heart!
I love that they had such a great base of friendship before they got tossed into a situation of being fake engaged. I love that they both are so similar in their love for adventure and the outdoors. They just had great camaraderie and it was so fun being with them on a race around the world.
I love that Violet is neurodivergent and that we got to see what life is like for her. I love that Kemp not only cared about her but was her safe space in so many ways. I love the memories they had in the past and the memories that they continued to make.
I love that this one made me cry when Violet did and my heart was knitted back together right along with her.
This is definitely one of my favorite Sara Blackard Books by far!
Physical Intimacy Level 2.5 slightly descriptive kissing
Zero Swearing
I love that they had such a great base of friendship before they got tossed into a situation of being fake engaged. I love that they both are so similar in their love for adventure and the outdoors. They just had great camaraderie and it was so fun being with them on a race around the world.
I love that Violet is neurodivergent and that we got to see what life is like for her. I love that Kemp not only cared about her but was her safe space in so many ways. I love the memories they had in the past and the memories that they continued to make.
I love that this one made me cry when Violet did and my heart was knitted back together right along with her.
This is definitely one of my favorite Sara Blackard Books by far!
Physical Intimacy Level 2.5 slightly descriptive kissing
Zero Swearing
May 8, 2022
This was a great story in championing the highs and lows of neurodiversity, along with extreme sports, adventure, culture and romance!
This is Violet and Kemp’s story - so good! Sigh!
Really enjoyed travelling along with them as they competed in the unusual charity race across countries throughout the Americas…learnt some beautiful things about geography, culture and sport as the book progressed but most of all, the reader has a ringside seat as Violet and Kemp work out where they are with each other. The joy, the angst and the discoveries are all there!
Highly recommend this clean, thoughtful yet highly intense, romance!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my own opinion.
This is Violet and Kemp’s story - so good! Sigh!
Really enjoyed travelling along with them as they competed in the unusual charity race across countries throughout the Americas…learnt some beautiful things about geography, culture and sport as the book progressed but most of all, the reader has a ringside seat as Violet and Kemp work out where they are with each other. The joy, the angst and the discoveries are all there!
Highly recommend this clean, thoughtful yet highly intense, romance!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my own opinion.
May 7, 2022
Wild about Violet is a hilarious, well-written romantic comedy. Violet Wilde and Kemp Rees are delightful characters whose inner monologues as well as their dialogue are sure to bring a smile. I love that Violet's eleven-year-old nephew, Sawyer, is so smart and very aware of Violet's romantic life. (Nothing but kisses, it's a very clean story.) Kemp and Violet have to fake a relationship to keep Kemp's snowboarding sponsor happy. Their extreme race through the America's makes the book a real winner. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Wild about Violet and will definitely look for more books by Sara Blackard.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this truly funny romcom.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this truly funny romcom.
May 7, 2022
Kemp and Violet are two peas in a pod - great friendship, shared interests, love for adventure. Then Kemp slips up and calls her his fiance and things are about to get VERY interesting! This story is an adventure in itself as they trek around the world completing CRAZY stunts but learning to enjoy each place and revel in its culture.
Not to spoil anything but the Vegas ladies are one of the best parts of the story!
This amazing story features off-the-charts chemistry, witty banter and a plot line that has you cheering for Kemp and Violet in more ways than one!
Not to spoil anything but the Vegas ladies are one of the best parts of the story!
This amazing story features off-the-charts chemistry, witty banter and a plot line that has you cheering for Kemp and Violet in more ways than one!
May 8, 2022
Great characters and clean storyline.
Violet is an art teacher but is also part of the search and rescue team.
Kemp is a pro snowboarder and owns and runs a charter fishing boat.
They make a pact to not date anyone for six months.
When caught in an unusual situation with his sponsors he tells them he and Violet are engaged.
Can they get through this time pretending to be engaged without it changing their friendship?
Vivid descriptions, I felt like I was along for the journey!
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
Violet is an art teacher but is also part of the search and rescue team.
Kemp is a pro snowboarder and owns and runs a charter fishing boat.
They make a pact to not date anyone for six months.
When caught in an unusual situation with his sponsors he tells them he and Violet are engaged.
Can they get through this time pretending to be engaged without it changing their friendship?
Vivid descriptions, I felt like I was along for the journey!
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
May 7, 2022
Another book full of adventure and danger! On Violet and Kemp’s race around the Americas, they meet a variety of people and experience many cultures. Sara has a talent of really making the reader feel like they are there with her characters. She also gives her hero and heroine very real-life problems that help the reader relate and connect with the characters. I really am wild about this series and this author!
May 7, 2022
I think this book is going to be one of my favorites forever. It is light, fun, humorous, and delightful to read. It is inspirational, sweet, and clean. It is so wonderful to have a favorite author who can write a great book without inappropriate language or content! I am truly wild about Violet!
I requested this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I requested this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 7, 2022
This book is vibrant, fun & funny but still hits on some touching, heart touching issues. I always love Sara Blackard’s books but this one takes a special seat as one of my favorites!
April 17, 2022
I must admit I love this author and her sweet romances. This one is no different - loved it too! The heroine has an unusual gift/curse and the hero has demons in his past he is trying to escape. Mix it all up with a race across the America's and you're in for an adventure. You won't be able to predict what happens next.
April 12, 2022
I just loved reading Wild about Violet!! So many wonderful moments in this book. Violet and Kemp are so perfect together. When Kemp is offered a chance at a reality TV show he does not want to partner with who they suggest. Next thing he knows Violet is his fake fiancee and his new partner! Working together on the show helps them to realize just how important they are to one another. Full of adventure and caring and love!! Amazing addition to this Wild Hearts of Alaska series!
April 22, 2022
When best friends decide to do an Amazing Race-type adventure, things drastically change between them. Exciting adventures and dare-devil stunts are a part of this book.
Nicely done.
Nicely done.
August 12, 2022
I thought the first book in the series was good, but this one is even better! Wild About Violet is not what I was expecting based on the blurb – it’s so much more!
Violet and Kemp are best of friends. They support each other, they have a history of enjoying sports adventures together and they think the world of each other. Their relationship is positive, wonderful and enjoyable. Sounds too good to be true, right? That’s the surface view. The story delves into some fascinating issues when it comes to Violet, but I’ll get to that in a bit.
Violet’s family basically welcomed Kemp into their fold because they are that kind of loving, generous and giving people, whereas Kemp’s family was rich, snobby, controlling and judgmental. Not that readers will have to slog through any scenes showing that level of dysfunction – its aftereffects on the hero’s upbringing comes into play during the telling of the story. The author felt no need to add scenes creating unnecessary angst and I have to agree; the story is much better off without it. But knowing about it was helpful. It explains some of Kemp’s choices.
Now, Violet is the most interesting heroine I’ve ever read about. Her career in search and rescue is something to be respected. Her art is as unusual as she is, and just as beautiful. But there is a personal issue she has that is something she keeps close to her vest. Even some of the people you would expect to know, don’t know about it. I’m going to switch gears, and I hope this won’t be considered a spoiler. There’s this paranormal romance series I’ve been following for many years. There’s a character named Ethan who has this paranormal ability to memorize things at a glance down to the nth degree. You want to know how many shower tiles are in your bathroom? He can tell you, all he needs to do is glance at it once and he ‘knows’. He can remember everything in all its details down to the time, the colors, smells, what was said and what multiple people wore in that memory. I am sharing all of this because I thought such a thing didn’t exist, that it was truly a ‘paranormal thing’. Guess what? There’s FACT to back up the fiction! How it truly manifests in regular people and how it can affect their lives is at once fascinating and scary/sad at the same time. Ms. Blackard took this unknown-to-me ability and humanized it and made a reader feel the rollercoaster of emotions that such an ability creates in the person who has it. I won’t give the condition a name because Violet has her own reference to it that is unique. But I felt I had to share this in the review because it’s what makes the heroine’s character stand out from most heroines I’ve read about in the past couple of years. It’s also a contributing factor in the momentum of the story. So, yeah, it’s quite effective and important.
This is a sensual, closed-door romance. Lots of kissing and yearning, and close calls. The reasons they both resist taking the next step made perfect sense and made me respect them all the more. The whole plot of the story would have been compromised if the author took the easy path and used bed scenes as fillers. Instead, the main characters had to work through their differences, worries and doubts all while trying to win a race that took them through many countries and cultures.
Speaking of the race. That’s another thing I appreciated about Ms. Blackard’s approach to storytelling. She didn’t overdo, or info dump, nor skimp on the important things. She targeted her descriptions to create the atmosphere of the locales without diverting a reader’s attention from the romance, the focus of the story. It’s a fine line to walk and this author does it with ease. There are humorous encounters with the locals. There are many times I smiled, (chickens) and a few made me glassy-eyed, and one scene of extreme suspense and worry. I really felt for both Kemp and Violet and I not only wanted them to win the race, but I wanted them to win with their romance too. It’s true what the description says about Wild About Violet, it is a rom-com, it is fun and funny and it is heartwarming. But it only works because the author is a strong wordsmith who knows what her audience wants, and she delivers.
The story is told in first person point of view, but it takes turns telling it from Kemp’s side, and then from Violet’s. For me, it worked and I had a great time reading this novel. In fact, I can’t believe how fast I read it. Thank goodness there was an epilogue. Then again, the epilogue once again set me up for impatience. I met the hero for the next book and I can’t wait. One thing’s for sure, this guy is starting from zero in the opinion department because he wasn’t a nice guy back when they were all in school together. It’ll be very interesting to see how he not only wins the heroine over, but her whole family. This is going to be good.
Wild About Violet is a romance worth reading and I highly recommend it. It’s great entertainment, an awesome way to spend an afternoon and it made me feel really happy at the end.
Violet and Kemp are best of friends. They support each other, they have a history of enjoying sports adventures together and they think the world of each other. Their relationship is positive, wonderful and enjoyable. Sounds too good to be true, right? That’s the surface view. The story delves into some fascinating issues when it comes to Violet, but I’ll get to that in a bit.
Violet’s family basically welcomed Kemp into their fold because they are that kind of loving, generous and giving people, whereas Kemp’s family was rich, snobby, controlling and judgmental. Not that readers will have to slog through any scenes showing that level of dysfunction – its aftereffects on the hero’s upbringing comes into play during the telling of the story. The author felt no need to add scenes creating unnecessary angst and I have to agree; the story is much better off without it. But knowing about it was helpful. It explains some of Kemp’s choices.
Now, Violet is the most interesting heroine I’ve ever read about. Her career in search and rescue is something to be respected. Her art is as unusual as she is, and just as beautiful. But there is a personal issue she has that is something she keeps close to her vest. Even some of the people you would expect to know, don’t know about it. I’m going to switch gears, and I hope this won’t be considered a spoiler. There’s this paranormal romance series I’ve been following for many years. There’s a character named Ethan who has this paranormal ability to memorize things at a glance down to the nth degree. You want to know how many shower tiles are in your bathroom? He can tell you, all he needs to do is glance at it once and he ‘knows’. He can remember everything in all its details down to the time, the colors, smells, what was said and what multiple people wore in that memory. I am sharing all of this because I thought such a thing didn’t exist, that it was truly a ‘paranormal thing’. Guess what? There’s FACT to back up the fiction! How it truly manifests in regular people and how it can affect their lives is at once fascinating and scary/sad at the same time. Ms. Blackard took this unknown-to-me ability and humanized it and made a reader feel the rollercoaster of emotions that such an ability creates in the person who has it. I won’t give the condition a name because Violet has her own reference to it that is unique. But I felt I had to share this in the review because it’s what makes the heroine’s character stand out from most heroines I’ve read about in the past couple of years. It’s also a contributing factor in the momentum of the story. So, yeah, it’s quite effective and important.
This is a sensual, closed-door romance. Lots of kissing and yearning, and close calls. The reasons they both resist taking the next step made perfect sense and made me respect them all the more. The whole plot of the story would have been compromised if the author took the easy path and used bed scenes as fillers. Instead, the main characters had to work through their differences, worries and doubts all while trying to win a race that took them through many countries and cultures.
Speaking of the race. That’s another thing I appreciated about Ms. Blackard’s approach to storytelling. She didn’t overdo, or info dump, nor skimp on the important things. She targeted her descriptions to create the atmosphere of the locales without diverting a reader’s attention from the romance, the focus of the story. It’s a fine line to walk and this author does it with ease. There are humorous encounters with the locals. There are many times I smiled, (chickens) and a few made me glassy-eyed, and one scene of extreme suspense and worry. I really felt for both Kemp and Violet and I not only wanted them to win the race, but I wanted them to win with their romance too. It’s true what the description says about Wild About Violet, it is a rom-com, it is fun and funny and it is heartwarming. But it only works because the author is a strong wordsmith who knows what her audience wants, and she delivers.
The story is told in first person point of view, but it takes turns telling it from Kemp’s side, and then from Violet’s. For me, it worked and I had a great time reading this novel. In fact, I can’t believe how fast I read it. Thank goodness there was an epilogue. Then again, the epilogue once again set me up for impatience. I met the hero for the next book and I can’t wait. One thing’s for sure, this guy is starting from zero in the opinion department because he wasn’t a nice guy back when they were all in school together. It’ll be very interesting to see how he not only wins the heroine over, but her whole family. This is going to be good.
Wild About Violet is a romance worth reading and I highly recommend it. It’s great entertainment, an awesome way to spend an afternoon and it made me feel really happy at the end.
November 6, 2022
"No matter what this life brings, whether on the race or after, I will never let Violet Wilde down. She's the only one who has ever made me feel at peace with being myself. The only true friend I've ever had. Disappointing her isn't an option... ever."
Kemp didn't even know fake relationships were a thing, until his biggest sponsor for his snowboarding career wanted to partner him up with his stalker teammate for a race around the world. In a moment of panic he claimed his fiancee wouldn't approve of the team up. Lucky for him his friend, Violet, didn't bat an eye when he begged her to go along. Kemp knows it's because she's willing to help out and it will give her a break from the date scene. And let's face it Violet has not had the best of luck with men lately. A situation which is likely tied to her idea that all it takes is one kiss to know if the guy is her true love. Now Violet and Kemp are racing the globe together, doing insane stunts and puzzles, to try and win money for charity. Kemp has a major problem: he doesn't think he wants his fake fiancee to be fake anymore. But how does he convince her that her one kiss rule needs to be broken?
Blackard's Wild About Violet is second in a series but can be read as a standalone. I think that I would have enjoyed it a little more if I had read the earlier novel as it seems a lot of the characters overlap. Despite all that I think this book was a fun and quick read. I was able to follow the plot with no issue and I enjoyed the characters! I loved the friendship between Violet and Kemp and knowing that it existed really made the romance between them feel more believable. Having the two participate in a reality game show was a fun take on the romance novel also. I only wish that some of the major plot points had not been so predictable. However, if you enjoy a lighthearted clean romance this is the book for you!
Kemp didn't even know fake relationships were a thing, until his biggest sponsor for his snowboarding career wanted to partner him up with his stalker teammate for a race around the world. In a moment of panic he claimed his fiancee wouldn't approve of the team up. Lucky for him his friend, Violet, didn't bat an eye when he begged her to go along. Kemp knows it's because she's willing to help out and it will give her a break from the date scene. And let's face it Violet has not had the best of luck with men lately. A situation which is likely tied to her idea that all it takes is one kiss to know if the guy is her true love. Now Violet and Kemp are racing the globe together, doing insane stunts and puzzles, to try and win money for charity. Kemp has a major problem: he doesn't think he wants his fake fiancee to be fake anymore. But how does he convince her that her one kiss rule needs to be broken?
Blackard's Wild About Violet is second in a series but can be read as a standalone. I think that I would have enjoyed it a little more if I had read the earlier novel as it seems a lot of the characters overlap. Despite all that I think this book was a fun and quick read. I was able to follow the plot with no issue and I enjoyed the characters! I loved the friendship between Violet and Kemp and knowing that it existed really made the romance between them feel more believable. Having the two participate in a reality game show was a fun take on the romance novel also. I only wish that some of the major plot points had not been so predictable. However, if you enjoy a lighthearted clean romance this is the book for you!
May 30, 2022
This is book two in The Wild Heart's of Alaska Series and it is Violet and Kemp's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Violet and Kemp are best friend's and are always there for each other and to help each other out so when Kemp has a problem it is Violet that he goes to for help and of course she says yes. Kemp has been asked to snowboard around the world and he was really looking forward to the experience until he was told that his partner would be the person that has been stalking him and there is no way that can ever happen so he comes up with a solution and plan to stop that from happening. Violet was always having trouble with men and decided that she needed a break from dating all together at the moment so when Kemp needed her help she jumped at the chance to be his fame fiance . Violet and Kemp are now racing around the globe trying to win but the more time that they spend together the more fake starts to feel very real but there friendship is so important to both of them but where does that leave how they are starting to feel about each other and will they take the chance that is needed to confess or keep it too themselves keeping there friendship intact missing out on something special only time will tell what the outcome would be for them. I absolutely loved Violet and Kemp and there backwards and forwards banter between them that had you laughing and you felt like you were there with them living through everything. I couldn't put this book down and had to keep turning the pages to watch there friendship turn into something more and I loved the outcome of there story. Sara Blackard is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by her and you will not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
June 7, 2022
There was so much going on in this book but it never felt overwhelming. It's basically like watching the Amazing Race as couples go all across the America's doing crazy stunts or cultural activities. While doing so Violet and Kemp take their relationship to the test.
This is a great friends to lovers trope, mixed with forced proximity, and single bed (all closed door scenes). All the tropes that I love so of course I was going to love this book. The side characters are fantastic and don't feel like they are just there to move a story along. You get a sense that they are part of the bigger story as this is part of a series.
Violet has a rare memory condition that causes her to have perfect memory and recall. I had to research more on this once it came up in the book and it's less than 100 people who have ever been diagnosed with it. It's great that the author brought it to the attention of the readers and for those of us who are more curious about topics unfamiliar to us while reading will go to research further. I also like that we were shown both sides of having the condition. The positive for never forgetting anything and being able to recall all the happy occasions in life, but also the negative memories that surface and how overwhelming it is to deal with that. Kemp is a perfect balance to Violet and is a wonderful help for getting her out of a negative downhill spiral.
This is the first book I've read by the author and I will be going back to read Denali's story next and am looking forward to the next one in the series about Rory.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a great friends to lovers trope, mixed with forced proximity, and single bed (all closed door scenes). All the tropes that I love so of course I was going to love this book. The side characters are fantastic and don't feel like they are just there to move a story along. You get a sense that they are part of the bigger story as this is part of a series.
Violet has a rare memory condition that causes her to have perfect memory and recall. I had to research more on this once it came up in the book and it's less than 100 people who have ever been diagnosed with it. It's great that the author brought it to the attention of the readers and for those of us who are more curious about topics unfamiliar to us while reading will go to research further. I also like that we were shown both sides of having the condition. The positive for never forgetting anything and being able to recall all the happy occasions in life, but also the negative memories that surface and how overwhelming it is to deal with that. Kemp is a perfect balance to Violet and is a wonderful help for getting her out of a negative downhill spiral.
This is the first book I've read by the author and I will be going back to read Denali's story next and am looking forward to the next one in the series about Rory.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2022
Guys! I just finished Wild About Violet by Sara Blackard and it’s gotta be top 5 for me in the romcom genre! It’s so cute that as soon as I finished it, I immediately bought the first book in the series🤣
I absolutely loved all the characters and it’s a sweet and innocent romance, suitable for girls of all ages!
Violet Wild and her cousins run a Kennel in Seward, Alaska that is also the subject of a documentary style tv show. She is a little unique and has amazing talent as an artist. She is also unlucky in love. She has a one kiss rule with the men she dates. Basically if there is no spark in that one kiss then it’s over.
Kemp is a professional snowboarder and best friend to Violet. When he gets the opportunity to compete in an adventure race (think Amazing Race on steroids) he inadvertently volunteers Violet as his partner…and fibs and says that Violet is his fiancé in order to get out of an unknown jam.
As they start the competition feelings shift and morph into something neither one could have ever imagined!
What a fun read! I laughed out loud and smiled throughout the book. I cannot wait for the third book in the Wild series to release now! Thank you so much @katerockbooktours for gifting us this copy! This would be a great present for Christmas for any book lover so be sure to visit our Amazon Storefront and grab the first two books in this series! 🌺🧜🏻♀️
I absolutely loved all the characters and it’s a sweet and innocent romance, suitable for girls of all ages!
Violet Wild and her cousins run a Kennel in Seward, Alaska that is also the subject of a documentary style tv show. She is a little unique and has amazing talent as an artist. She is also unlucky in love. She has a one kiss rule with the men she dates. Basically if there is no spark in that one kiss then it’s over.
Kemp is a professional snowboarder and best friend to Violet. When he gets the opportunity to compete in an adventure race (think Amazing Race on steroids) he inadvertently volunteers Violet as his partner…and fibs and says that Violet is his fiancé in order to get out of an unknown jam.
As they start the competition feelings shift and morph into something neither one could have ever imagined!
What a fun read! I laughed out loud and smiled throughout the book. I cannot wait for the third book in the Wild series to release now! Thank you so much @katerockbooktours for gifting us this copy! This would be a great present for Christmas for any book lover so be sure to visit our Amazon Storefront and grab the first two books in this series! 🌺🧜🏻♀️
June 6, 2022
Best Friends, Fake Fiancés, Great Race Adventure, Clean, Wonderful Rom-Com with Heart
I loved EVERYTHING about this book, and frankly I don't know where to start. First there were the main characters of Violet and Kemp who were both well written and had depth. Violet has H-SAM, but she isn't all about that, and has found a way to deal with it through her art. Kemp has family baggage and is a professional snowboarder but he escapes to Alaska and his fishing boat in the offseason and is "adopted" by his best friend's (Violet's) family so he can have a sense of "normalcy". Their friendship and the activities they enjoy in common provide the basis for great teamwork in the "Adventure Race" - where they are "fake fiancés and provide the basis for their eventual romance. Laughs, and of course amazing global adventures ensue. The supporting characters (her nephew Sawyer is back!), the Vegas ladies, the other race contestants and her family were all well developed and added to the fun. Watching them fall in love, (and realize it) was great fun and I could not put this book down. I can't wait for Rory's adventures next.
I requested an ARC of his book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved EVERYTHING about this book, and frankly I don't know where to start. First there were the main characters of Violet and Kemp who were both well written and had depth. Violet has H-SAM, but she isn't all about that, and has found a way to deal with it through her art. Kemp has family baggage and is a professional snowboarder but he escapes to Alaska and his fishing boat in the offseason and is "adopted" by his best friend's (Violet's) family so he can have a sense of "normalcy". Their friendship and the activities they enjoy in common provide the basis for great teamwork in the "Adventure Race" - where they are "fake fiancés and provide the basis for their eventual romance. Laughs, and of course amazing global adventures ensue. The supporting characters (her nephew Sawyer is back!), the Vegas ladies, the other race contestants and her family were all well developed and added to the fun. Watching them fall in love, (and realize it) was great fun and I could not put this book down. I can't wait for Rory's adventures next.
I requested an ARC of his book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 8, 2022
This is the 2nd book in the Wild Hearts of Alaska series and the first book I’ve read by this author. I was quite surprised with this book. I was drawn in turning the pages so fast trying to figure out what was going to happen next in this rom com. You always know how things will end up with a fake fiancée trope but it’s how they got there that’s the best part. Very fast paced.
Kemp is a professional snowboarder who’s sponsor wants him to do a cross country Adventure Race with a female who’s been literally stalking him the last year. So he tells his sponsors his fiancée won’t like that idea. Fake fiancée that is and best friend of several years Violet. She’s an artist, dealing with her hyperthymesia and volunteers at an animal rescue. She doesn’t want to lie so Kemp comes up with a breakup plan. But she soon catches feelings and wants a real relationship with Violet. Will they rush their friendship or continue with the plan?
Such a sweet story. But it will have you laughing out loud so much with the situations they get out in during this race. Full of lies, chemistry, adventure, travel and their journey is quite amazing. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
I received an arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Kemp is a professional snowboarder who’s sponsor wants him to do a cross country Adventure Race with a female who’s been literally stalking him the last year. So he tells his sponsors his fiancée won’t like that idea. Fake fiancée that is and best friend of several years Violet. She’s an artist, dealing with her hyperthymesia and volunteers at an animal rescue. She doesn’t want to lie so Kemp comes up with a breakup plan. But she soon catches feelings and wants a real relationship with Violet. Will they rush their friendship or continue with the plan?
Such a sweet story. But it will have you laughing out loud so much with the situations they get out in during this race. Full of lies, chemistry, adventure, travel and their journey is quite amazing. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
I received an arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
November 17, 2022
This is a wonderful and sweet closed door friends to lovers and fake fiancée romance. It is written in the points of view of the main characters, Violet and Kemp.
Violet has always lived in Alaska and works in her family run kennel. She also has Hyperthymesia which means she remembers EVERY detail in her life and she uses art to help process all those
events.
Violet’s best friend, Kemp, is a professional snowboarder that lives in Seward, Alaska on the off season and owns a charter fishing boat there.
Kemp is offered an opportunity to be part of a Celebrity Amazing Race where the winner gets 10 million dollars for a chosen charity.
Kemp asks Violet to be his partner and in a sudden move tells everyone that Violet is his fiancée.
The race takes these two far away from Alaska to Washington DC, Utah, Las Vegas, and the jungles of Central America.
During the race, Violet and Kemp find more than friendship but can his travel schedule be conducive to a full time relationship?
This book was fast moving and fun. I loved the family dynamics in Seward and the adventure of the race during the read.
I look forward to reading book one in the series and thanks to the epilogue getting a sneak peak into the third book in this series that just felt fresh to me.
Violet has always lived in Alaska and works in her family run kennel. She also has Hyperthymesia which means she remembers EVERY detail in her life and she uses art to help process all those
events.
Violet’s best friend, Kemp, is a professional snowboarder that lives in Seward, Alaska on the off season and owns a charter fishing boat there.
Kemp is offered an opportunity to be part of a Celebrity Amazing Race where the winner gets 10 million dollars for a chosen charity.
Kemp asks Violet to be his partner and in a sudden move tells everyone that Violet is his fiancée.
The race takes these two far away from Alaska to Washington DC, Utah, Las Vegas, and the jungles of Central America.
During the race, Violet and Kemp find more than friendship but can his travel schedule be conducive to a full time relationship?
This book was fast moving and fun. I loved the family dynamics in Seward and the adventure of the race during the read.
I look forward to reading book one in the series and thanks to the epilogue getting a sneak peak into the third book in this series that just felt fresh to me.
November 11, 2022
Thank you to @KateRockBookTours and @Sara.Blackard for my spot on this tour!!!!
This was the cutest and most sweetest little romance and I loved everything about it from the cover, to the clean romance to the competitive race along the way! The fake fiancé trope was so much fun! Normally I would roll my eyes at this but, Violet and Kemp were best friends prior and I really loved their connection to each other. They had been through a lot making them such a great team.
Although short, this book is mighty! It packs a lot into its small frame however, it never feels rushed. All of the places that Blackard takes us were atmospheric and exciting. I thought the whole competition part of the story line super fun. I love the Amazing Race and secretly always wanted to be on that show so I really got a kick out of it.
Lastly, I have not heard of Hyperthymesia and I was fascinated by it. I thought that this was a wonderful way to bring attention to the syndrome and that it was handled with care. Violet was a great neurodivergent character and I thought she made an awesome role model!
You have a new fan @Sara.Blackard!
This was the cutest and most sweetest little romance and I loved everything about it from the cover, to the clean romance to the competitive race along the way! The fake fiancé trope was so much fun! Normally I would roll my eyes at this but, Violet and Kemp were best friends prior and I really loved their connection to each other. They had been through a lot making them such a great team.
Although short, this book is mighty! It packs a lot into its small frame however, it never feels rushed. All of the places that Blackard takes us were atmospheric and exciting. I thought the whole competition part of the story line super fun. I love the Amazing Race and secretly always wanted to be on that show so I really got a kick out of it.
Lastly, I have not heard of Hyperthymesia and I was fascinated by it. I thought that this was a wonderful way to bring attention to the syndrome and that it was handled with care. Violet was a great neurodivergent character and I thought she made an awesome role model!
You have a new fan @Sara.Blackard!
June 9, 2022
Violet and Kemp . . .
This is cute story where two friends finally get themselves right where they belong, married and in love. Violet and Kemp have been best friends for some time. Kemp is a snowboarder whose sponsor wants him to partner up for a cross country race with a female team member who has been stalking him. He immediately blurts out that his fiancée would not allow that situation. Then he asks Violet to help him with this.
Violet agrees to the fake fiancée part, but she is uncomfortable about having to lie to people. So they get married in Vegas with the intention of breaking up later. The problem is, neither one wants to break up! What they feel for each other is real. Kemp knows he does not want to let her go. Will the two of them confess their real feelings now? Will they keep their marriage intact? Or will they both face a broken heart that would never heal?
This is cute story where two friends finally get themselves right where they belong, married and in love. Violet and Kemp have been best friends for some time. Kemp is a snowboarder whose sponsor wants him to partner up for a cross country race with a female team member who has been stalking him. He immediately blurts out that his fiancée would not allow that situation. Then he asks Violet to help him with this.
Violet agrees to the fake fiancée part, but she is uncomfortable about having to lie to people. So they get married in Vegas with the intention of breaking up later. The problem is, neither one wants to break up! What they feel for each other is real. Kemp knows he does not want to let her go. Will the two of them confess their real feelings now? Will they keep their marriage intact? Or will they both face a broken heart that would never heal?
September 20, 2022
Kemp is a championship snowboarder staying in Alaska in the off season. Violet is his best friend and co-worker on the search and rescue team. When a TV Race Across The Americas comes up for him, he picks Violet as his partner and they are off on a grand adventure. The characters are terrific, with great backstories, intense feelings and banter that makes you laugh. Plenty of vivid locales and entertaining situations, an interesting medical condition that comes in handy, an unplanned wedding in Vegas, and so much more. You will not be able to put this book down and the tempo keeps you right on the edge along with them, especially with the avalanche. Loved how he was able to get her grounded and centered again. Great close family ties and a very strong deep love. I think I just found a new favorite author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2022
Loved it! Violet and Kemp has been best friends since Kemp moved to Alaska. Kemp summers in Alaska to stay off the radar since he’s a Champion Snowboarder. Violet runs a kennel with her sister and cousins training search & rescue dogs. When Kemp is offered to compete in a race around the world by his major sponsor with $$ going to his favorite charity he’s in until he’s told it’s a couple race, but the woman they want to pair him with is someone he can’t race with so he blurts out the first thing he can think of and says his fiancé wouldn’t like that. So Kemp convinces Violet to be his fake fiancé. The antics they find themselves in are hilarious and in the meantime neither wants to ruin their friendship by admitting their feelings for each other. I received a free copy for my honest and voluntary review.
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