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Heart #1
Ruthless Heart
He led her astray, and she never wanted to go back ...
Sheltered all her life, Eliza Hunter never imagined herself alone in the vast Utah plains, much less trailing a mysterious, rugged man hired to hunt down her beautiful younger sister. Unable to reveal the truth about her pursuit of him, Eliza plays student to his teacher, transforming herself in the process. And when she finds herself sharing the warmth of Grady's campfire, wrapped in his arms, hypnotized by his power, soon she is a naive spinster no more ...
Grady Wolfe is more than a loner, he's a man forever on the run. With a body and soul finely honed from living off the land, Grady knows he should leave the irresistible woman alone, but she stirs something in him he hasn't felt before. Now he's lost in the woods for the first time in his life---with a dangerous job to do. And no one---
Sheltered all her life, Eliza Hunter never imagined herself alone in the vast Utah plains, much less trailing a mysterious, rugged man hired to hunt down her beautiful younger sister. Unable to reveal the truth about her pursuit of him, Eliza plays student to his teacher, transforming herself in the process. And when she finds herself sharing the warmth of Grady's campfire, wrapped in his arms, hypnotized by his power, soon she is a naive spinster no more ...
Grady Wolfe is more than a loner, he's a man forever on the run. With a body and soul finely honed from living off the land, Grady knows he should leave the irresistible woman alone, but she stirs something in him he hasn't felt before. Now he's lost in the woods for the first time in his life---with a dangerous job to do. And no one---
265 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2010
9 people are currently reading
781 people want to read
About the author
Emma Lang
23 books133 followersEmma Lang is the pseudonym of author Beth Williamson. She is an award-winning, bestselling author of both historical and erotic romances.
Born and raised in New York, she holds a B.F.A. in writing from New York University. She lives just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.
Born and raised in New York, she holds a B.F.A. in writing from New York University. She lives just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 4, 2011
I wasn't really sure what to expect with this book. I had never heard of Emma Lang (or Beth Williamson, her real name), but Ruth's review intrigued me and I'm a sucker for non-beautiful, odd, and intellectual heroines - which we definitely gate in spades here with Eliza, or "Liz," as Grady calls her. I couldn't find Ruthless Heart at either my library or on PBSwap and I am so glad that I didn't let that deter me and decided to go ahead and buy it; it was a wonderful read and one I know I will pick up again in the future.
When looking at the individual parts of this book, there's nothing really astounding about it. The greatest strength is definitely the main characters and they are, essentially, the focus of the story - which personally is something I like in romances. I get tired after awhile of all the mass murdering stalker psychos or hidden spymaster family secrets, etc. The story is a relatively simple one; because Liz and Grady travel throughout most of the book, there aren't really any secondary characters; and the love scenes are a little more detailed and crudely explained than I'm used to. For some reason though, taken all together, it worked extremely well for me. It was purely enjoyable and left me with a great smile on my face, so for those reasons alone - and because I don't have any real criticism - I knew I had to give it 5 stars.
{ Summary }
Note: The summary on the back of the book is misleading / not very accurate, due to omissions - surprise, surprise! Why do romances always have this problem?!
Eliza Hunter (almost 21) grew up her whole life in an LDS community in Utah. She has always been seen as odd and looked down upon by those in her community because of her interest in books and desire to learn - two things that do not befit a woman. She has a brilliant mind and loves to invent different contraptions and designs, though she has been punished and beaten several times by her father for her intellectual passion.
Her younger sister, Angeline, is beautiful and though only 17, an offer of marriage is made for her to their father. Neither Angeline nor Eliza want this marriage to occur, as the man is significantly older than her, already has two wives, and is known to be quite cruel. They are unable to stop it from happening however, and when a month into the marriage Angeline and one of the other wives runs away, Angeline's husband and her father decide to send a hired killer after to teacher a lesson.
Eliza overhears this plan, though she doesn't realize that the man has been hired to kill her sister, only that he's a bounty hunter and has been sent to track her down and bring her back. She decides to follow the bounty hunter and either help her sister escape him or convince him that he would do better to let her escape the horrible fate that awaits her should she be returned.
Grady Wolfe (30) is a loner, a gunslinger, and hired killer. He has never before been paid to track down a woman, but not having a conscience allows him to accept the job without any qualms. Grady is a survivor, having grown up seeing his mother con and kill men, and then having to make his own way by his wits and hunting skills alone. He has no family, no friends, no attachments or place to call home - and none of this bothers him. He is good at what he does, and that has always been - always had to be - enough.
Since Grady is a practiced hunter, he knows right away that someone was watching him outside the saloon and followed him out of town after his meeting with his new employer. What he doesn't expect is that the person is a young woman, plain and unassuming, but brilliant and forthright. He has no intention of having a hanger-on and while the woman has made up some story about being a widow and traveling to stay with family, he doesn't believe the half of it. Unfortunately, he can't seem to get rid of the woman ... and then finds he's not sure he wants to.
As Grady and Eliza travel across Utah, the attraction between them quickly catches fire and they begin to see the other as more than a prissy schoolmarm or a rough loner. As she leaves the confines of a community that has always restricted her, Eliza begins to gain confidence and a sense of freedom that she had before only ever dreamed of. She also quick comes to realize that there is much more to Grady than the hunter (or killer) role he thinks defines him, and while he insists to Liz that he's not a good man, her constant unwillingness to see him as anything but both frightens and warms him.
The more they get to know and depend on one another, the more they want the time together to never end. Yet eventually they will have to make choices and face the reality of who they are - and who they might become. (cue dramatic music)
{ Eliza and Grady }
As I said, the hero and heroine are the greatest strengths of the novel. Eliza is strong and intelligent (and actually written as if she is, we're not just told she is but shown no proof). She's loyal, brave, generous, and (oh lord!) persistent. I loved how she was always saying and doing things that would catch Grady off guard and throw him for a loop. She's a spitfire heroine, yes, but she's also naive, sensitive, and vulnerable; she puts her heart on the line and is very open and forthright about her feelings, which I appreciated.
Grady is very well-written as the lone hunter and again, Lang writes him such that he actually fits his assigned description, she doesn't just give lip service and then make him come off as warm and fuzzy or outgoing. He's very prickly and while Grady increasingly finds himself helping Liz and beginning to care about her, his own confusion and resistance to this change is so clear and makes the transformation that much more believable. He goes back and forth, between trying to draw Liz closer and never let her go, and frightening her away so that he doesn't become attached to or responsible for someone else. There are some comments or things he does that are not nice because of this, but it was never taken to the extreme that some authors take it where the hero becomes such an a**hole that you want to slap him upside the head and tell the heroine to not ever forgive him.
Together, they are such a fantastic pair!! Just remembering puts a ridiculously goofy grin on my face. The dialogue and exchanges are funny, the chemistry sizzles off the page and requires a fan on hand, and their growing feelings for one another are sweet and tender. They are both, in their ways, loners who feel that they don't have anyone and no one understands them; each fills that need in the other to perfection. I adore that Grady gives her a nickname (Liz) and he's so cute when he remembers her birthday.
I *loved* every single one of their interactions and was appreciative of the fact that most of the book they're alone and on the road, because that makes it so that there is nothing else to detract from the amusing duo that is Liz and Grady. It was hysterical how Grady would criticize - and then eventually tease - Liz about how formally she spoke, telling her that he didn't understand every other word that came out of her mouth; she would sometimes then try to restate it in "normal" terms and it made the entire thing that much cuter and funnier. Also loved when Eliza gets lost in the woods for a short time; when Grady realizes, he starts to freak out - and then freaks out about the fact that he is freaking out and is actually worried about someone else. And of course the makeup scene that follows is one of the best! ;-)
{ Criticism }
My only real complaint is the epilogue. I love them and am always happier when an author includes them, but she doesn't give us as much info as I would have liked, could have made it longer, and leaves somewhat of a cliffhanger at the end (in order to make us curious about the next book, which is Angeline's story); it's not an actual cliffhanger, but more like an interruption of what would have been a nice epilogue with just Grady and Liz. I also would have liked to know about what might happen in the future with her inventions and Grady's suggestion, and am curious as to Eliza's father's reaction towards her, whether he sends someone after her or just leaves her alone and considers himself well rid of her.
{ Bottom Line }
In my opinion, this book qualifies as a definite "hidden gem." I had high expectations, but was also prepared for them not to be lived up to. Luckily for me, the book actually exceeded them. It's simple, sweet, and sexy with lovely dialogue, compelling leading characters, and a well-crafted plot. Know that the love scenes are a little more sizzling than most other historicals, but Lang writes them very well and they fit smoothly with the story and the characters. There are so many great lines that I am going to try to be diligent next time in my status updates with quotes; this time, I was enjoying the story too much to want to stop.
{ Recommendations }
Based on plot or character similarities:
* His Wicked Ways by Samantha James (5 stars)
* Seven Secrets of Seduction by Anne Mallory (4.5 stars)
* A Notorious Love by Sabrina Jeffries (4 stars)
* McAlistair's Fortune by Alissa Johnson (4 stars)
* Lawless by Nora Roberts (4 stars)
* Texas Destiny by Lorraine Heath
* If You Deceive by Kresley Cole (4 stars)
* My American Historical Romance shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/...
* My Western Historical Romance shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/...
(July 4, 2011)
When looking at the individual parts of this book, there's nothing really astounding about it. The greatest strength is definitely the main characters and they are, essentially, the focus of the story - which personally is something I like in romances. I get tired after awhile of all the mass murdering stalker psychos or hidden spymaster family secrets, etc. The story is a relatively simple one; because Liz and Grady travel throughout most of the book, there aren't really any secondary characters; and the love scenes are a little more detailed and crudely explained than I'm used to. For some reason though, taken all together, it worked extremely well for me. It was purely enjoyable and left me with a great smile on my face, so for those reasons alone - and because I don't have any real criticism - I knew I had to give it 5 stars.
{ Summary }
Note: The summary on the back of the book is misleading / not very accurate, due to omissions - surprise, surprise! Why do romances always have this problem?!
Eliza Hunter (almost 21) grew up her whole life in an LDS community in Utah. She has always been seen as odd and looked down upon by those in her community because of her interest in books and desire to learn - two things that do not befit a woman. She has a brilliant mind and loves to invent different contraptions and designs, though she has been punished and beaten several times by her father for her intellectual passion.
Her younger sister, Angeline, is beautiful and though only 17, an offer of marriage is made for her to their father. Neither Angeline nor Eliza want this marriage to occur, as the man is significantly older than her, already has two wives, and is known to be quite cruel. They are unable to stop it from happening however, and when a month into the marriage Angeline and one of the other wives runs away, Angeline's husband and her father decide to send a hired killer after to teacher a lesson.
Eliza overhears this plan, though she doesn't realize that the man has been hired to kill her sister, only that he's a bounty hunter and has been sent to track her down and bring her back. She decides to follow the bounty hunter and either help her sister escape him or convince him that he would do better to let her escape the horrible fate that awaits her should she be returned.
Grady Wolfe (30) is a loner, a gunslinger, and hired killer. He has never before been paid to track down a woman, but not having a conscience allows him to accept the job without any qualms. Grady is a survivor, having grown up seeing his mother con and kill men, and then having to make his own way by his wits and hunting skills alone. He has no family, no friends, no attachments or place to call home - and none of this bothers him. He is good at what he does, and that has always been - always had to be - enough.
Since Grady is a practiced hunter, he knows right away that someone was watching him outside the saloon and followed him out of town after his meeting with his new employer. What he doesn't expect is that the person is a young woman, plain and unassuming, but brilliant and forthright. He has no intention of having a hanger-on and while the woman has made up some story about being a widow and traveling to stay with family, he doesn't believe the half of it. Unfortunately, he can't seem to get rid of the woman ... and then finds he's not sure he wants to.
As Grady and Eliza travel across Utah, the attraction between them quickly catches fire and they begin to see the other as more than a prissy schoolmarm or a rough loner. As she leaves the confines of a community that has always restricted her, Eliza begins to gain confidence and a sense of freedom that she had before only ever dreamed of. She also quick comes to realize that there is much more to Grady than the hunter (or killer) role he thinks defines him, and while he insists to Liz that he's not a good man, her constant unwillingness to see him as anything but both frightens and warms him.
The more they get to know and depend on one another, the more they want the time together to never end. Yet eventually they will have to make choices and face the reality of who they are - and who they might become. (cue dramatic music)
{ Eliza and Grady }
As I said, the hero and heroine are the greatest strengths of the novel. Eliza is strong and intelligent (and actually written as if she is, we're not just told she is but shown no proof). She's loyal, brave, generous, and (oh lord!) persistent. I loved how she was always saying and doing things that would catch Grady off guard and throw him for a loop. She's a spitfire heroine, yes, but she's also naive, sensitive, and vulnerable; she puts her heart on the line and is very open and forthright about her feelings, which I appreciated.
Grady is very well-written as the lone hunter and again, Lang writes him such that he actually fits his assigned description, she doesn't just give lip service and then make him come off as warm and fuzzy or outgoing. He's very prickly and while Grady increasingly finds himself helping Liz and beginning to care about her, his own confusion and resistance to this change is so clear and makes the transformation that much more believable. He goes back and forth, between trying to draw Liz closer and never let her go, and frightening her away so that he doesn't become attached to or responsible for someone else. There are some comments or things he does that are not nice because of this, but it was never taken to the extreme that some authors take it where the hero becomes such an a**hole that you want to slap him upside the head and tell the heroine to not ever forgive him.
Together, they are such a fantastic pair!! Just remembering puts a ridiculously goofy grin on my face. The dialogue and exchanges are funny, the chemistry sizzles off the page and requires a fan on hand, and their growing feelings for one another are sweet and tender. They are both, in their ways, loners who feel that they don't have anyone and no one understands them; each fills that need in the other to perfection. I adore that Grady gives her a nickname (Liz) and he's so cute when he remembers her birthday.
I *loved* every single one of their interactions and was appreciative of the fact that most of the book they're alone and on the road, because that makes it so that there is nothing else to detract from the amusing duo that is Liz and Grady. It was hysterical how Grady would criticize - and then eventually tease - Liz about how formally she spoke, telling her that he didn't understand every other word that came out of her mouth; she would sometimes then try to restate it in "normal" terms and it made the entire thing that much cuter and funnier. Also loved when Eliza gets lost in the woods for a short time; when Grady realizes, he starts to freak out - and then freaks out about the fact that he is freaking out and is actually worried about someone else. And of course the makeup scene that follows is one of the best! ;-)
{ Criticism }
My only real complaint is the epilogue. I love them and am always happier when an author includes them, but she doesn't give us as much info as I would have liked, could have made it longer, and leaves somewhat of a cliffhanger at the end (in order to make us curious about the next book, which is Angeline's story); it's not an actual cliffhanger, but more like an interruption of what would have been a nice epilogue with just Grady and Liz. I also would have liked to know about what might happen in the future with her inventions and Grady's suggestion, and am curious as to Eliza's father's reaction towards her, whether he sends someone after her or just leaves her alone and considers himself well rid of her.
{ Bottom Line }
In my opinion, this book qualifies as a definite "hidden gem." I had high expectations, but was also prepared for them not to be lived up to. Luckily for me, the book actually exceeded them. It's simple, sweet, and sexy with lovely dialogue, compelling leading characters, and a well-crafted plot. Know that the love scenes are a little more sizzling than most other historicals, but Lang writes them very well and they fit smoothly with the story and the characters. There are so many great lines that I am going to try to be diligent next time in my status updates with quotes; this time, I was enjoying the story too much to want to stop.
{ Recommendations }
Based on plot or character similarities:
* His Wicked Ways by Samantha James (5 stars)
* Seven Secrets of Seduction by Anne Mallory (4.5 stars)
* A Notorious Love by Sabrina Jeffries (4 stars)
* McAlistair's Fortune by Alissa Johnson (4 stars)
* Lawless by Nora Roberts (4 stars)
* Texas Destiny by Lorraine Heath
* If You Deceive by Kresley Cole (4 stars)
* My American Historical Romance shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/...
* My Western Historical Romance shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/...
(July 4, 2011)
July 17, 2012
Eliza has lived all her live in a Mormon community, but she is a bookish girl, a scientist at core. Then, her father hires Grady Wolfe to hunt down Eliza’s sister, who has escaped to avoid being the third wife of an old abusive husband. Eliza follows Grady to save her sister.
The plot didn’t ring true, but I was willing to believe and I continued reading. But then, one morning, after three or four nights with Grady, she wakes up with her nipple being sucked and she wakes with an “Oh, my” in her mouth and then she smiles and says “That was a lovely way to wake up”. This is 1872 . So no religious beliefs means no morals?
My mother was born in 1934. At the time worker class in Spain was quite anti-clerical (church allied with privileged), they believed that learning and science were the future of our society, our salvation. But the morals were never questioned, and sexuality was taboo (women had to be virgins until they married, nobody talked about periods or monthlies, etc.).
I gave up reading this book because I couldn’t believe Eliza was real. What’s the point of writing an historical if the characters in them don’t act the part? What’s wrong with being historically consistent? I think that it would have added mystery and tension to the book.
The plot didn’t ring true, but I was willing to believe and I continued reading. But then, one morning, after three or four nights with Grady, she wakes up with her nipple being sucked and she wakes with an “Oh, my” in her mouth and then she smiles and says “That was a lovely way to wake up”. This is 1872 . So no religious beliefs means no morals?
My mother was born in 1934. At the time worker class in Spain was quite anti-clerical (church allied with privileged), they believed that learning and science were the future of our society, our salvation. But the morals were never questioned, and sexuality was taboo (women had to be virgins until they married, nobody talked about periods or monthlies, etc.).
I gave up reading this book because I couldn’t believe Eliza was real. What’s the point of writing an historical if the characters in them don’t act the part? What’s wrong with being historically consistent? I think that it would have added mystery and tension to the book.
July 2, 2010
OMG. I really LOVED this book. It's what historical romance should be all about for me. The characters were fresh - a plain, resourceful and determined heroine, and a gruff, moderately-attractive, loner hero - and the plot was fabulous. The story is written using the language the characters use, foul language and all, which makes it more earthy and real. I really struggled to put this down. Also, the steamy bits are extremely well-written, probably among the best I've seen - real, passionate, true to the characters and not icky. The author is a pseudonym for Beth Williamson, whom, in my ignorance, I hadn't read before. I shall now!!
August 22, 2025
Definitely has the steam factor. The story moved nicely and had a decent plot but something didn't ring true for me. Eliza was sheltered all her life and runs away and follows this guy to save her sister. Grady is a tracker and a bounty hunter. He has been hired to go after Eliza's sister. I didn't feel the character's actions always matched who they were. The ending didn't sit well with me either. It felt unfinished to me. Still it wasn't a bad read and anyone looking for some good steamy romance will probably enjoy it.
April 14, 2011
According to the ratings, I apparently didn't get it.
I found this book to be so shallow, that I swear the characters only had the same two or three thoughts rambling around in their heads. And they were repeated over and over again through-out the whole story.
The hero even came across as a bit slimy to me.
And I wouldn't have been able to count how many times "loco, dick, and tits" were used in the story.
I gave it 2 stars because I at least finished it.
I found this book to be so shallow, that I swear the characters only had the same two or three thoughts rambling around in their heads. And they were repeated over and over again through-out the whole story.
The hero even came across as a bit slimy to me.
And I wouldn't have been able to count how many times "loco, dick, and tits" were used in the story.
I gave it 2 stars because I at least finished it.
June 30, 2010
Ruthless Heart by Emma Lang
Western Historical- June 29th, 2010
4 stars
Ruthless Heart is a sweet western romance. Although the plot was serious the enjoyable and engaging characters made the story fun even playful to read. I particularly enjoyed the main characters journey as they discovered themselves and love.
Eliza is a member of the Latter Day Saints (AKA Mormons). Her entire life as a woman has been subjected to her father’s will and authority. As the plainer and less malleable older sister her life has been rough. Her only respites are the love she has for her younger more beautiful and fragile sister Angeline and the books and experiments she keeps hidden from her widowed father. But her life will soon change as her sister is forced into a marriage with a much older man with multiple wives. Eliza realizes poor, sheltered Angeline will not survive well with her proposed new husband but is unable to prevent the marriage. To her heartbreak Eliza overhears that the timid Angeline was abused and has actually run away. While joyful Eliza also discovers that a cold an ruthless hunter has been hired to track her sister down and bring Angeline back. Eliza realizes that she must stop this from happening at whatever cost. She failed to prevent Angeline’s marriage and feels impelled to thwart Angeline from being captured. The impetuous and courageous Eliza tracks down the man who has bee hired to find Angeline and is determined to follow him and keep Angeline free.
Grady is a loner and a drifter. His own past has taught him not to trust. He is willing to do jobs others will not because it gives him the independence he craves. When a strange and absurdly endearing female persuades him to take her on as a companion her can’t believe it! He is troubled by his uncommon weakness for her innocence and amusing persistence. And he finds Eliza begins to grow on him...
The best thing about this book was the interesting relationship between the 2 main characters. I found the heroine appealing and charming. I liked that she was a brainiac and liked to do scientific experiments. It was a nice switch having such an unusual character. The hero had unexpected depth and although he was supposed to be a tough gunslinger/ tracker for hire I never felt he was dangerous. The author definitely gave Grady a sense of humanity. It was a pleasure reading the relationship between the characters. As new pit falls occurred to the couple on their search for the Angeline. I often felt their time together was a fun comedy of errors lighthearted and fun to read. The only things I felt strange were that the characters often acted or spoke as if they were in modern times rather than a historical. I often felt I was reading a contemporary book rather than a western because the characters acted more as if they lived in today's 'liberated' times of the present. The heroine was not as cautious as I would expect a lone female would be going out on her own in ther old west. While this did further the plot it gave me an odd sense that the story was jumping back and forth in time which was somewhat distracting. The way Eliza succumbs so easy to Grady and trusts him so quickly seemed very naive even for one who was as sheltered as she was.
This was a light western romance. From the romance stand point this book is a charming read. But from the realism standpoint I felt it lacked the authenticity of many western historicals written today. The suddenness that Eliza believes in Grady and was willing to bed him seemed a little forced although I did find their attraction believable. And the times they are together really heat up the pages! The author really gave her characters a sense of humanity that I found attractive. I really rooted for them to be together despite some of the inconsistencies in the story.
Short, sweet and easy to read I found this book a quick and satisfying summer read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Western Historical- June 29th, 2010
4 stars
Ruthless Heart is a sweet western romance. Although the plot was serious the enjoyable and engaging characters made the story fun even playful to read. I particularly enjoyed the main characters journey as they discovered themselves and love.
Eliza is a member of the Latter Day Saints (AKA Mormons). Her entire life as a woman has been subjected to her father’s will and authority. As the plainer and less malleable older sister her life has been rough. Her only respites are the love she has for her younger more beautiful and fragile sister Angeline and the books and experiments she keeps hidden from her widowed father. But her life will soon change as her sister is forced into a marriage with a much older man with multiple wives. Eliza realizes poor, sheltered Angeline will not survive well with her proposed new husband but is unable to prevent the marriage. To her heartbreak Eliza overhears that the timid Angeline was abused and has actually run away. While joyful Eliza also discovers that a cold an ruthless hunter has been hired to track her sister down and bring Angeline back. Eliza realizes that she must stop this from happening at whatever cost. She failed to prevent Angeline’s marriage and feels impelled to thwart Angeline from being captured. The impetuous and courageous Eliza tracks down the man who has bee hired to find Angeline and is determined to follow him and keep Angeline free.
Grady is a loner and a drifter. His own past has taught him not to trust. He is willing to do jobs others will not because it gives him the independence he craves. When a strange and absurdly endearing female persuades him to take her on as a companion her can’t believe it! He is troubled by his uncommon weakness for her innocence and amusing persistence. And he finds Eliza begins to grow on him...
The best thing about this book was the interesting relationship between the 2 main characters. I found the heroine appealing and charming. I liked that she was a brainiac and liked to do scientific experiments. It was a nice switch having such an unusual character. The hero had unexpected depth and although he was supposed to be a tough gunslinger/ tracker for hire I never felt he was dangerous. The author definitely gave Grady a sense of humanity. It was a pleasure reading the relationship between the characters. As new pit falls occurred to the couple on their search for the Angeline. I often felt their time together was a fun comedy of errors lighthearted and fun to read. The only things I felt strange were that the characters often acted or spoke as if they were in modern times rather than a historical. I often felt I was reading a contemporary book rather than a western because the characters acted more as if they lived in today's 'liberated' times of the present. The heroine was not as cautious as I would expect a lone female would be going out on her own in ther old west. While this did further the plot it gave me an odd sense that the story was jumping back and forth in time which was somewhat distracting. The way Eliza succumbs so easy to Grady and trusts him so quickly seemed very naive even for one who was as sheltered as she was.
This was a light western romance. From the romance stand point this book is a charming read. But from the realism standpoint I felt it lacked the authenticity of many western historicals written today. The suddenness that Eliza believes in Grady and was willing to bed him seemed a little forced although I did find their attraction believable. And the times they are together really heat up the pages! The author really gave her characters a sense of humanity that I found attractive. I really rooted for them to be together despite some of the inconsistencies in the story.
Short, sweet and easy to read I found this book a quick and satisfying summer read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
April 17, 2020
There is so much wrong with this book that just the thought of writing about them all is exhausting. Many things don't work--read some of the one and two stars comments and you'll get a sense of it. Historical inaccuracy is one of my biggest complaints. Eliza's character just doesn't jive for the times she lived in (no way to her reaction to Grady's first sexual advance) and some comments about Mormonism were inaccurate. (This from a reader on Amazon: The main character can't get an education because that's not for women, oh, except Mormons were some of the first to send their daughters back East to go to school, including medical school. The character can't dance because it's evil, oh wait, Mormons held dances all the way across the plains and continue to do so now. And on and on. If you're going to write a book about a particular group, at least have the integrity to do at least the tiniest bit of background research.)
The comment that there were only one or two ideas rolling around in the main characters' heads is true. A LOT of repetition of the same over and again. And the crude dialog is fitting but jarring to read.
With all these drawbacks, in my rating system, it is only 1 stars that have no redeeming qualities. The ideas in this book are good. I like the story line. It just needed to be done so much better.
The comment that there were only one or two ideas rolling around in the main characters' heads is true. A LOT of repetition of the same over and again. And the crude dialog is fitting but jarring to read.
With all these drawbacks, in my rating system, it is only 1 stars that have no redeeming qualities. The ideas in this book are good. I like the story line. It just needed to be done so much better.
May 13, 2017
I gave this book two stars because the plot was decent, but I really had a hard time with the characters actions. Eliza had the potential to be a strong heroine (and in some ways she was), but her reactions to the physical aspect of her relationship didn't make sense. I would've killed Grady that first morning. I also found it hard to believe an intelligent woman would give up her virginity without a second thought. I know this is a sexist statement, but in those times a woman's virtue was one of her most valuable assets. Perhaps the author was trying to show that Eliza was strong and independent by taking charge of her sexuality. Considering it was the 1800's, that concept didn't work for me. The steam factor was there, but the crass language made me cringe. There was no emotion either...just two people rutting around like animals. I almost took another star away for the ridiculous ending.
There is great potential here, so I may give the author another try. Perhaps this was an example of early work and writing usually improves over time.
There is great potential here, so I may give the author another try. Perhaps this was an example of early work and writing usually improves over time.
June 14, 2012
Eliza or Liz as Grady likes to call is a Morman who does not follow the faith, but prefers to do experiments and make inventions. Grady is a hired gun. Two less likely people to even meet yet alone fall in love.
Grady is hired to hunt down a run away bride, who just happens to be Eliza's sister. This is a road story. The relationship builds as these two travel many miles to the west looking for their mutual interest person.
The book is in many ways predictable but done in an enticing way that makes you want to see what is around the next corner for these two.
Neither of them are good looking, neither are loved, and neither have confidence in themself. The passion is hot, the writing is good and the story unique. I will read other books in the series.
Grady is hired to hunt down a run away bride, who just happens to be Eliza's sister. This is a road story. The relationship builds as these two travel many miles to the west looking for their mutual interest person.
The book is in many ways predictable but done in an enticing way that makes you want to see what is around the next corner for these two.
Neither of them are good looking, neither are loved, and neither have confidence in themself. The passion is hot, the writing is good and the story unique. I will read other books in the series.
April 3, 2012
Grady is harsh and dark next to an innocent and virginal Eliza. She does what she has to do in order to save her sister Angeline.
EL draws these two people together seeking the same person but for two different reasons. I am glad to see how Liz grows into a stronger woman being on the trail and how she cracks into Grady hard exterior. She doesn't want to change him but wants him to accept her love. That's what I like about her books.
EL draws these two people together seeking the same person but for two different reasons. I am glad to see how Liz grows into a stronger woman being on the trail and how she cracks into Grady hard exterior. She doesn't want to change him but wants him to accept her love. That's what I like about her books.
January 31, 2013
It was just ok.
May 25, 2017
A steamy historical romance (borderline erotica) novel, Ruthless Heart strives to be a number of things that it just isn't. At times there is a love story, at times simply passion-filled romps with foul language and rough treatment, always with the undercurrent of two people who need to heal from past mistakes and traumas, in short the novel is all over the place. I don't know much about the LDS or Mormon religion, but what was written about it here felt extreme. The language and actions were more modern than the times in which the story is set (late 1800's). Sometimes it seems as if the author has forgotten what was written a few pages ago, and so it is repeated for no apparent reason. Certainly the language was awkward, because Lang strove to make the two characters polar opposites. All of these flaws, however, didn't totally put me off. I was invested in the characters very quickly and had to see them through to the end. The characters and their troubled relationship carried the novel, and earned it the 3rd star from me.
November 6, 2021
Tantas coisas sem sentido histórico e comportamental de uma época.Um fetichista erótico com western...
May 23, 2025
Loved the characters, a strong heroine and a hard man, great story, well written, including romance and spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 28, 2011
Ruthless Heart is tender story of the power of love and how it can take someone weak and make them strong or warm even the coldest of hearts. Fans of western historical romances reminiscent of the work by Joan Johnston or Johanna Lindsey will love Lang’s charming tale.
Eliza Hunter lives a sheltered life. As a member of her ward in the Latter Day Saints community, she has never really experienced the outside world. Everything she knows, she learned from books. Her father, caring little about the feelings of his daughters, arranges for Eliza’s sister Angela to become the third wife to another Mormon member of the ward. Within a month of her marriage after being horribly abused, Angela runs away. When Eliza hears they are sending a hired hunter after her, she feels she has no other choice but to follow the man hired to collect her sister...no matter where it may take her.
Grady Wolfe was a loner and a man who believed he no longer had a soul. He had a darkness in him that he never expected to rid himself of. Accepting his next assignment, which is to kill a poor defenseless woman who ran away from her husband is only confirming the fact that he’s past redemption. So when little Miss Eliza somehow tricks him into allowing her to ride with him, he is nothing less than irritated.
Ruthless Heart is a sweet and charming story about how drastically love can change a person. When then story began, Eliza barely knew what love was and Grady was certain he would never find it nor deserve it. Yet these two have some spark and connection between them that made you turn page after page ready to discover the next step in their journey. They were complete opposites, yet perfect for each other.
The difference between these two characters was fascinating and proves what a gift Emma Lang has with dialogue. She has two completely different characters and she manages to stay true to their complex personalities on each page of the story. While one character had dialogue that may sometimes require a dictionary, the other communicated in such a simple way it was funny and charming. Whether they were conversing, negotiating or sparring, it was a delight to read.
“Then your rules are accepted provided you agree to allow me to cook and make camp in payment for your services.” She had to secure her own terms or he may think her too easy.
��My services? You make everything sound so fancy, woman.”
“My name is Eliza. Calling me ‘woman’ makes me think of a Neanderthal who may grab my hair and club me.” Eliza didn’t know what possessed her to say that to him. It apparently surprised him as much as it surprised her. “What I meant to say was, please call me Eliza.”
His gaze narrowed. “I think you’ve got a smart mouth, Eliza. I prefer my women a bit dumber.”
The story has plenty of ups and downs to keep you entertained and the ending is filled with suspense and uncertainty. But what is most enjoyable to read are the changes within the characters. Eliza is a weak defenseless bookworm at first, but her experiences on the trail with Grady make her a strong, passionate, and incredible woman. A woman that Grady finds more difficult to resist with each day they spend together. Her experiences outside of her home have shown her a life filled with purpose. She knows what and whom she wants and nothing and no one will get in her way. Grady is learning to care again and to love, which was something he thought had long since died inside of him. As much as he tries to resist, he finds a woman worth living for and worth being a better man. These characters will draw you in and immerse you into a wonderful story. If you are looking for a sweet light read this summer, Ruthless Heart is the ticket.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
Eliza Hunter lives a sheltered life. As a member of her ward in the Latter Day Saints community, she has never really experienced the outside world. Everything she knows, she learned from books. Her father, caring little about the feelings of his daughters, arranges for Eliza’s sister Angela to become the third wife to another Mormon member of the ward. Within a month of her marriage after being horribly abused, Angela runs away. When Eliza hears they are sending a hired hunter after her, she feels she has no other choice but to follow the man hired to collect her sister...no matter where it may take her.
Grady Wolfe was a loner and a man who believed he no longer had a soul. He had a darkness in him that he never expected to rid himself of. Accepting his next assignment, which is to kill a poor defenseless woman who ran away from her husband is only confirming the fact that he’s past redemption. So when little Miss Eliza somehow tricks him into allowing her to ride with him, he is nothing less than irritated.
Ruthless Heart is a sweet and charming story about how drastically love can change a person. When then story began, Eliza barely knew what love was and Grady was certain he would never find it nor deserve it. Yet these two have some spark and connection between them that made you turn page after page ready to discover the next step in their journey. They were complete opposites, yet perfect for each other.
The difference between these two characters was fascinating and proves what a gift Emma Lang has with dialogue. She has two completely different characters and she manages to stay true to their complex personalities on each page of the story. While one character had dialogue that may sometimes require a dictionary, the other communicated in such a simple way it was funny and charming. Whether they were conversing, negotiating or sparring, it was a delight to read.
“Then your rules are accepted provided you agree to allow me to cook and make camp in payment for your services.” She had to secure her own terms or he may think her too easy.
��My services? You make everything sound so fancy, woman.”
“My name is Eliza. Calling me ‘woman’ makes me think of a Neanderthal who may grab my hair and club me.” Eliza didn’t know what possessed her to say that to him. It apparently surprised him as much as it surprised her. “What I meant to say was, please call me Eliza.”
His gaze narrowed. “I think you’ve got a smart mouth, Eliza. I prefer my women a bit dumber.”
The story has plenty of ups and downs to keep you entertained and the ending is filled with suspense and uncertainty. But what is most enjoyable to read are the changes within the characters. Eliza is a weak defenseless bookworm at first, but her experiences on the trail with Grady make her a strong, passionate, and incredible woman. A woman that Grady finds more difficult to resist with each day they spend together. Her experiences outside of her home have shown her a life filled with purpose. She knows what and whom she wants and nothing and no one will get in her way. Grady is learning to care again and to love, which was something he thought had long since died inside of him. As much as he tries to resist, he finds a woman worth living for and worth being a better man. These characters will draw you in and immerse you into a wonderful story. If you are looking for a sweet light read this summer, Ruthless Heart is the ticket.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
September 8, 2010
Grady Wolfe is a dangerous, cynical and world weary bounty hunter/assassin for hire. He’s lost all hope in humanity and himself and feels that he is doomed to the life of a ruthless killer so he embraces it with a callous and cold heart. At least that is until he meets the tempting, and sometimes frustrating, yet intriguing Eliza Hunter.
Eliza is a subjugated soul yearning to break free from the restriction life that is dictated to her by her father and a religion that she no longer believes in. Tutored as a young woman by an elderly scholar, Eliza’s inventive and curious mind is stifled in her environment, but that doesn’t suppress her yearning inquisitiveness. However, until she joins Grady on his search for her runaway sister she’s only learned though books, not life. Grady enlightens her in more ways than one, and makes her feel alive…like a woman with value and beauty.
Their journey across the American West is full of adventure, danger, enlightenment (for both of them) and passion. Though Eliza keeps the reason for her trip hidden from Grady, an unlikely bond forms between the two as they get to know and trust one another.
Both Eliza’s and Grady’s characterizations felt so real, and I think a lot of it has to do with the dialogue between the hero and the heroine. One of the things that struck me when reading the book was not only how different these characters were, but how they complimented each other in unexpected ways. Opposites attract stories don't always work for me because sometimes it's not always apparent why the characters end up together...what they see in the other that makes it all work. That’s not the case with Ruthless Heart. It worked for me in a big way and it was such a pleasure to read this story.
I loved that Eliza was the woman to show Grady how to love and be loved, especially considering how unlikely their pairing was at the beginning. He’s redeemed through his love for Eliza, and through Grady’s love Eliza becomes the woman she has hidden from the world all of her life. She’s always had strength and determination, but through his love she finds the courage to become her true self. Eliza becomes the person she’s always wanted to be because of Grady’s love, and Grady becomes a man he never thought he could be because of her love.
Ruthless Heart has both heart and soul. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for Eliza’s sister’s story in Restless Heart due out early 2011. A great debut by author Emma Lang and one of my favorite historical romances this year!
Ratings:
Overall: 4.5 stars
Sensuality level: 3.75 (hotter and more frequent love scenes than your average historical romance, but wouldn't quite classify it as an erotic romance)
Eliza is a subjugated soul yearning to break free from the restriction life that is dictated to her by her father and a religion that she no longer believes in. Tutored as a young woman by an elderly scholar, Eliza’s inventive and curious mind is stifled in her environment, but that doesn’t suppress her yearning inquisitiveness. However, until she joins Grady on his search for her runaway sister she’s only learned though books, not life. Grady enlightens her in more ways than one, and makes her feel alive…like a woman with value and beauty.
Their journey across the American West is full of adventure, danger, enlightenment (for both of them) and passion. Though Eliza keeps the reason for her trip hidden from Grady, an unlikely bond forms between the two as they get to know and trust one another.
Both Eliza’s and Grady’s characterizations felt so real, and I think a lot of it has to do with the dialogue between the hero and the heroine. One of the things that struck me when reading the book was not only how different these characters were, but how they complimented each other in unexpected ways. Opposites attract stories don't always work for me because sometimes it's not always apparent why the characters end up together...what they see in the other that makes it all work. That’s not the case with Ruthless Heart. It worked for me in a big way and it was such a pleasure to read this story.
I loved that Eliza was the woman to show Grady how to love and be loved, especially considering how unlikely their pairing was at the beginning. He’s redeemed through his love for Eliza, and through Grady’s love Eliza becomes the woman she has hidden from the world all of her life. She’s always had strength and determination, but through his love she finds the courage to become her true self. Eliza becomes the person she’s always wanted to be because of Grady’s love, and Grady becomes a man he never thought he could be because of her love.
Ruthless Heart has both heart and soul. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for Eliza’s sister’s story in Restless Heart due out early 2011. A great debut by author Emma Lang and one of my favorite historical romances this year!
Ratings:
Overall: 4.5 stars
Sensuality level: 3.75 (hotter and more frequent love scenes than your average historical romance, but wouldn't quite classify it as an erotic romance)
March 4, 2017
Eliza Hunter's sister has run away from her polygamous marriage and abusive husband. When she hears her father's plans to hire a bounty hunter to go after her sister, Eliza decides to track the bounty hunter, accompany him on his journey and intercept him from capturing her sister. The plan works excessively well. Grady Wolfe, the bounty hunter in question, although initially reluctant, is more or less charmed into allowing Eliza to accompany him (though he doesn't know her purpose), even though he is a tough, gruff and badass guy. Eliza though can see right through him - although he's sometimes cruel and unfeeling, she knows that Grady is a decent guy. Which is why she falls in love with him. But convincing them they have a future, especially when Eliza is lying to him about her sister, could be the biggest challenge.
So I may be in the minority here. I didn't hate this story by any means, but neither did I love it. I rather liked the relationship between these characters. It had some fantastic build up. No insta-love at all. Grady was a fantastic hero IMHO. He was just the right balance of grumpy, unfeeling and vulnerable (to the heroine at least). I didn't even mind his course speech and dirty vocabulary - I think this was borderline erotica anyway. Eliza was a decent heroine, but her reactions were very difficult to believe. I understand that she was adventurous, but I had a lot of trouble believing a woman raised as she was, in that time period could so willingly and enthusiastically hand her virginity (on a silver platter no less) to a virtual stranger with absolutely no regrets. She never even had second thoughts. It just seemed really farfetched. The steamy scenes, as I said, were pretty much erotica. No flowery language here. But very sexy! And plenty of them too!
By far the one thing I did not appreciate about this story was the ending. And that may be a matter of preference for me. This story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger (and having skimmed the other two stories in the series, I can assure you there is no resolution to it...anywhere) which sort of ends up being a choose your own interpretation deal. When I read romance, I LOVE to have a definitive happy ending. In other genres, I don't care, but romance needs a HEA. I don't want there to be any possibility that my characters aren't happy. This, unfortunately, suggests it as a possibility. .
So I may be in the minority here. I didn't hate this story by any means, but neither did I love it. I rather liked the relationship between these characters. It had some fantastic build up. No insta-love at all. Grady was a fantastic hero IMHO. He was just the right balance of grumpy, unfeeling and vulnerable (to the heroine at least). I didn't even mind his course speech and dirty vocabulary - I think this was borderline erotica anyway. Eliza was a decent heroine, but her reactions were very difficult to believe. I understand that she was adventurous, but I had a lot of trouble believing a woman raised as she was, in that time period could so willingly and enthusiastically hand her virginity (on a silver platter no less) to a virtual stranger with absolutely no regrets. She never even had second thoughts. It just seemed really farfetched. The steamy scenes, as I said, were pretty much erotica. No flowery language here. But very sexy! And plenty of them too!
By far the one thing I did not appreciate about this story was the ending. And that may be a matter of preference for me. This story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger (and having skimmed the other two stories in the series, I can assure you there is no resolution to it...anywhere) which sort of ends up being a choose your own interpretation deal. When I read romance, I LOVE to have a definitive happy ending. In other genres, I don't care, but romance needs a HEA. I don't want there to be any possibility that my characters aren't happy. This, unfortunately, suggests it as a possibility. .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2011
I wish I could put my finger on just what I found so compelling in this book. It was borderline erotica, not a genre that I read. The H talked crudely, something else I just do not like at all. But it fit this character so well. He was crude, he was just plain bad almost unredeemingly so. But still, he pulled at my heart, he was well, adorable in a way. Lonely, he was very, very lonely.
Eliza and Grady were two complete opposites, yet they weren't in their needs.
Eliza was brought up in the LDS faith and she never knew any kind of love at all except for the love she had for her sister. She was constantly punished for being smart. She liked to invent things and when caught at it, her father would beat her. Her beautiful sister was given as the 3rd wife to a horrible abusive man. When her sister ran away along with the second wife to her "husband" the father and husband sent a gunslinger out to find and kill the sister. Eliza overheard most of the conversation and set out to follow and stop the gunslinger, Grady Wolfe.
Grady was a bad bad man, he was a killer for hire, a bounty hunter who would kill his bounty if that was what he was hired to do. He had a little uncertainty about the fact that he was supposed to kill this woman he was going after, but his mother was a whacko that killed his father so he had no faith in women.
When Eliza caught up with him, she led him to believe that she was headed to a family members home and would like to tag along with him. Most of this story took place on the trail, sleeping out at campfires. They got to know each other quite well and were falling for each other. Yet Grady didn't want to be saddled with her, knew the life he led had no place for a woman in it. But he was SO drawn to her that it seemed it just confused him.
Some of the parts I loved about this story, was how he kept trying to convince himself that he did not want her, but when he took her to town, he told everyone she was his wife. He bought her a dress and underthings and even bought her a wedding ring. He would growl and snap at any man who so much as looked at her. It seemed that he convinced himself that she was actually his wife. Meanwhile he kept trying to loose her, and when he did, he was consumed by how much he missed her.
This was a library book that I had to wait a month for, so now it seems I am going to have to buy this one as I am sure I will want to re-read it.
Eliza and Grady were two complete opposites, yet they weren't in their needs.
Eliza was brought up in the LDS faith and she never knew any kind of love at all except for the love she had for her sister. She was constantly punished for being smart. She liked to invent things and when caught at it, her father would beat her. Her beautiful sister was given as the 3rd wife to a horrible abusive man. When her sister ran away along with the second wife to her "husband" the father and husband sent a gunslinger out to find and kill the sister. Eliza overheard most of the conversation and set out to follow and stop the gunslinger, Grady Wolfe.
Grady was a bad bad man, he was a killer for hire, a bounty hunter who would kill his bounty if that was what he was hired to do. He had a little uncertainty about the fact that he was supposed to kill this woman he was going after, but his mother was a whacko that killed his father so he had no faith in women.
When Eliza caught up with him, she led him to believe that she was headed to a family members home and would like to tag along with him. Most of this story took place on the trail, sleeping out at campfires. They got to know each other quite well and were falling for each other. Yet Grady didn't want to be saddled with her, knew the life he led had no place for a woman in it. But he was SO drawn to her that it seemed it just confused him.
Some of the parts I loved about this story, was how he kept trying to convince himself that he did not want her, but when he took her to town, he told everyone she was his wife. He bought her a dress and underthings and even bought her a wedding ring. He would growl and snap at any man who so much as looked at her. It seemed that he convinced himself that she was actually his wife. Meanwhile he kept trying to loose her, and when he did, he was consumed by how much he missed her.
This was a library book that I had to wait a month for, so now it seems I am going to have to buy this one as I am sure I will want to re-read it.
March 30, 2013
Eliza has never been out of the "ward" at the home where she lives. she is different and likes to read and experiment, which gets her into trouble with her father. Her sister was forced to marry a man she did not love and had a very hard time in the marriage and escaped with another wife and the husband has sent a bounty hunter to find them. Eliza overhears this and also wants to find her sister, so she follows the bounty hunter.
Of course she gets caught by him and fabricates a story as to why she needs to follow him.
Grady is a killer, he hires out to find people. He doesn't need Eliza following him and trys to loose her on several occassions, but she's made of stronger stuff and she tracks him down. Little by little an attraction booms into lust and Grady teaches Eliza about being a woman.
There is some really hot sex in this western romance by Emma Lang. Grady has had things happen in his past that was caused by a woman and he doesn't think he can trust her, but Liz shows him that there are women out there who are different.
I really liked this book. Yes it does have an HEA, but you'll have to read it to find out what happens.
Looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Of course she gets caught by him and fabricates a story as to why she needs to follow him.
Grady is a killer, he hires out to find people. He doesn't need Eliza following him and trys to loose her on several occassions, but she's made of stronger stuff and she tracks him down. Little by little an attraction booms into lust and Grady teaches Eliza about being a woman.
There is some really hot sex in this western romance by Emma Lang. Grady has had things happen in his past that was caused by a woman and he doesn't think he can trust her, but Liz shows him that there are women out there who are different.
I really liked this book. Yes it does have an HEA, but you'll have to read it to find out what happens.
Looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
February 9, 2012
Eliza Hunter is a well-drawn, intriguing heroine. She wants to be an obedient daughter and a good Mormon, but a peck of curiosity and a scientific mind keep waylaying her best intentions. The same traits that cause her endless trouble with her church-elder father and her community serve her well during her cross-country adventure with hired killer Grady Wolfe.
Grady is less fascinating and less believable -- shallower somehow. Though he teeters on the verge of heroism in spots, in others readers may wish he'd get over himself and his backstory and move on.
The author does an excellent job of setting up an ending that will have readers holding their breath to see how the couple overcomes a no-win situation...and that's where the story falls apart, in my opinion. I applaud the author for taking a huge risk at the story's climax, but the too-pat solution -- emotionally implausible for the heroine -- disappointed. Such a wrenching betrayal cannot merely be swept under the rug, even by love.
Nevertheless, the author's deft portrayal of an uncommon heroine is delightful in RUTHLESS HEART.
Grady is less fascinating and less believable -- shallower somehow. Though he teeters on the verge of heroism in spots, in others readers may wish he'd get over himself and his backstory and move on.
The author does an excellent job of setting up an ending that will have readers holding their breath to see how the couple overcomes a no-win situation...and that's where the story falls apart, in my opinion. I applaud the author for taking a huge risk at the story's climax, but the too-pat solution -- emotionally implausible for the heroine -- disappointed. Such a wrenching betrayal cannot merely be swept under the rug, even by love.
Nevertheless, the author's deft portrayal of an uncommon heroine is delightful in RUTHLESS HEART.
May 9, 2015
*coughs* Too much smexy times. Haha, yes that got your attention didn't it. So yes if you want your historical with lots of passion then this is the book for you. For me, eh, if I have read one scene I have read them all, I do not need several pages, and then again, and then again. I want to see them fall in love instead. But they wanted to do it like rabbits.
Great and now I forgot his name..Grady? *checks* Ok yes Grady is a bounty hunter, bad and bad. Eliza is a mormon who runs away after her sister runs away. Since Grady is the one after her sister. She just tags along and he lets her..right. But then she does have lovely breasts as he likes to tell her a lot. And the money he spends on her, yikes, are you made of money!?
Eliza was a bit naive, but duh! She was raised that away.
Grady was tough and yes I did like that he showed it. He is not nice. Even if I would have kicked him in the nuts but still....
It was a good book, I could have done with less passion and more on the trail though. They were somewhere? What? She did skinnydip. That is all I learned about nature. I am in such a mood today. Yes smexy scenes bore me. There I said it.
Great and now I forgot his name..Grady? *checks* Ok yes Grady is a bounty hunter, bad and bad. Eliza is a mormon who runs away after her sister runs away. Since Grady is the one after her sister. She just tags along and he lets her..right. But then she does have lovely breasts as he likes to tell her a lot. And the money he spends on her, yikes, are you made of money!?
Eliza was a bit naive, but duh! She was raised that away.
Grady was tough and yes I did like that he showed it. He is not nice. Even if I would have kicked him in the nuts but still....
It was a good book, I could have done with less passion and more on the trail though. They were somewhere? What? She did skinnydip. That is all I learned about nature. I am in such a mood today. Yes smexy scenes bore me. There I said it.
July 17, 2015
I really liked this. Bounty hunter Grady Wolfe is a loner with a terrible past. Orphaned at 15, he was on his own and survived the only way he could. When he takes on the bounty of finding Angeline Hunter, he meets her sister, Eliza. Well to say he meets her is kind of a misnomer. She finds him but doesn't tell him who she is or why she's following him. He does his best to lose her since he doesn't want to be bothered, he's a loner after all. But Eliza is tenacious and sticks to him like glue. Eliza may be repressed and naive but that surely didn't hold her back. I enjoyed the sarcastic banter between Grady and Eliza and the erotic moments were spectacularly written. You could just feel the reluctance on Grady's part to get too involved but he just couldn't help himself.
The ending left something to be desired but as a set up for the next book, it was pretty good. I will definitely be continuing this series as I'm interested in seeing how Angeline fairs.
The ending left something to be desired but as a set up for the next book, it was pretty good. I will definitely be continuing this series as I'm interested in seeing how Angeline fairs.
May 28, 2012
Gosh, I love those vulnerable alpha heroes! Grady Wolfe was a loner with a harsh past and as rugged as they come. But he recognized his attraction to Eliza fairly early on. Also, I sure appreciate when a hero can admit to himself when he's falling--and falling hard--for his lady. I understand, too, that a person can learn new things from reading, but the things Eliza was doing after first learning from a book--tracking a rider, starting a campfire not to mention being on the trail alone for days when she'd never before left her home town, was pushing the limits of believability. But Eliza had pluck, and she was a very likeable character. She also wasn't afraid of her attraction to Grady--no shy miss here but neither was she a hussy. She was just curious and open to explore her sexuality. I enjoyed their sexual chemistry and emotional connection. This entertaining story moved along at a quick clip. Ruthless Heart is a good example of some fine storytelling. 4 stars.
February 9, 2011
Sensuality: 3 out of 5
Kink: vanilla
I loved this book! It had been on my list to buy for awhile but I have seen mixed reviews so I didn't want to get it at full price. Well I found it at Half Price Books and couldn't resist getting it! Sometimes westerns are hit and miss with me so I was really glad I loved this one. And it followed me watching True Grit and was a perfect follow up! The characters were believable and the romance between them went from convenience to love and it was so sweet that two people so lonely and broken could find each other and love. I am not sure how I will like then next one with Angelina since she was portrayed as pretty shallow/air headed in this book. But I am interested in what went on in her marriage with 3 wives and how she decided to runaway. Great beginning to a series
Kink: vanilla
I loved this book! It had been on my list to buy for awhile but I have seen mixed reviews so I didn't want to get it at full price. Well I found it at Half Price Books and couldn't resist getting it! Sometimes westerns are hit and miss with me so I was really glad I loved this one. And it followed me watching True Grit and was a perfect follow up! The characters were believable and the romance between them went from convenience to love and it was so sweet that two people so lonely and broken could find each other and love. I am not sure how I will like then next one with Angelina since she was portrayed as pretty shallow/air headed in this book. But I am interested in what went on in her marriage with 3 wives and how she decided to runaway. Great beginning to a series
June 14, 2019
This was an interesting and somewhat unique read. We’ve seen the prim bluestocking hero before but while she was likable, the hero really stood out to me. How often do you read a book where it’s made clear that the hero is not handsome? I love different and unusual MCs and get so very tired of the generic chiseled and Adonis like hero. A person does not have to be classically good looking to be attractive and sexy. So this aspect of the story was very refreshing and much appreciated.
I understood why he wanted to push the heroine away but his abandoning her not once, but twice, was pretty messed up. I liked the heroine’s pluck and courage, but I want my hero to purse my heroine, not leave her twice with no plan or intention of ever going back for her.
The two unusual and pretty original MCs are what elevated this book from a 3 to 4 star read for me.
I understood why he wanted to push the heroine away but his abandoning her not once, but twice, was pretty messed up. I liked the heroine’s pluck and courage, but I want my hero to purse my heroine, not leave her twice with no plan or intention of ever going back for her.
The two unusual and pretty original MCs are what elevated this book from a 3 to 4 star read for me.
July 20, 2019
Plain, spinster, inventor and bespectacled bookworm Eliza 'Liz' Hunter is punished at home and ridiculed throughout their Mormon community for following her passions instead of the rules. Eliza's at her wits end when her tearful, beautiful sister, Angeline's doomed to become the third wife of a powerful community leader, older than their father.
Armed with her books, a stolen plow horse and a plan to follow rough around the edges bounty hunter, Grady Wolfe until he asked to travel with her or found her sister. Catching up to Grady, Eliza and he have an altercation before sharing a campsite. The mismatched pair eventually strike a deal of sorts to take this 'road trip' together.
For my taste the premise and plot work well, the character were fine and the read is steamy enough to be erotica but somehow the outing didn't rise above average for me.
Rating 3stars
Armed with her books, a stolen plow horse and a plan to follow rough around the edges bounty hunter, Grady Wolfe until he asked to travel with her or found her sister. Catching up to Grady, Eliza and he have an altercation before sharing a campsite. The mismatched pair eventually strike a deal of sorts to take this 'road trip' together.
For my taste the premise and plot work well, the character were fine and the read is steamy enough to be erotica but somehow the outing didn't rise above average for me.
Rating 3stars
July 5, 2010
My only qualm woth this book was that Eliza fell so quickly into bed with Grady without so much of a hint of insecurity or 2nd thought. Given her upbringing (which Lang points out that Eliza doesn't believe in) I still thought that she should have been a little hesitant. Otherwise I really enjoyed this book. I liked that there was a morally ambiguous hero, and the heroine accepted him for himself. And a very interesting premise. I'd like to see the LDS portrayed as something other than complete evil, and maybe in the next book it will be, sine the next heroine is more religious. Looking forward to it.
June 18, 2012
The third book in this series was released by Samhain a couple of weeks ago. I was unable to find the first two books so I turned to twitter. Twitter responded and the author sent me the first two books. Thank you!
When I finished reading this one I immediately picked up the second one. Very interesting set-up. I loved how plucky the heroine was and how she decided to seize the opportunity to experience life. Some of the themes might make people uncomfortable and there are some stereotypes but they fit with other books I have read set in that era.
When I finished reading this one I immediately picked up the second one. Very interesting set-up. I loved how plucky the heroine was and how she decided to seize the opportunity to experience life. Some of the themes might make people uncomfortable and there are some stereotypes but they fit with other books I have read set in that era.
February 7, 2012
I read this book sitting up the whole night.. It was that good..
There were couple of scenes that gave me butterflies in my stomach. The emotion between Eliza and Grady is just wrenching and the love play between them is just.....sigh.. I hunted for this book after reading the reviews and I'm very glad I did..
This is for people who like " on-the-move, travelling and closed setting type romances". Grady is a bad guy with an equally bad mouth but he's one who makes your heart flutter.
There were couple of scenes that gave me butterflies in my stomach. The emotion between Eliza and Grady is just wrenching and the love play between them is just.....sigh.. I hunted for this book after reading the reviews and I'm very glad I did..
This is for people who like " on-the-move, travelling and closed setting type romances". Grady is a bad guy with an equally bad mouth but he's one who makes your heart flutter.
September 30, 2015
Don't read the previous reviews, I did and I through I was going to dislike this book but I was wrong! Granted I did agree that the steamy sections happened rather fast and rather unrealistic but it was a good read. Emma Lang is a good author anyway. I was missing some of the being pulled into the story feeling that I usually get, but towards the end it started picking up. Good read and I'm on to the next in the series.
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