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The Stones of Heart Falls #2
A Rancher's Song
Can love help a champion bull rider face his fears and find his future? Welcome to Heart Falls, a new series from New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
Ivy Field's heart nearly broke when she left Heart Falls, but her high school sweetheart insisted she follow-through on her dream of becoming a teacher. She thought that meant putting their relationship on hold briefly, but it's taken eleven years to return. Now she's back, no longer a painfully shy young girl but a confident woman who knows exactly what and who she wants--a home and a family--with too-sexy-for-his-boots Walker Stone. He was her first; she wants him to be her last.
Walker "Dynamite" Stone was still reeling from his parents' unexpected deaths when Ivy left. He let her go, throwing himself into work on the Silver Stone ranch and dangerous living on the rodeo circuit. But lately Walker's adrenaline junkie ways have crashed--he's having panic attacks. Potentially devastating to his budding music career, they're a deadly handicap when shooting for eight seconds aboard an angry bull. He needs to learn to face his fears to save the family fortunes. If he succeeds, this time Walker will be the one to leave Heart Falls, and Ivy, behind.
Will Ivy and Walker have to give up on forever, or can they turn this rancher's song into a winning duet?
Ivy Field's heart nearly broke when she left Heart Falls, but her high school sweetheart insisted she follow-through on her dream of becoming a teacher. She thought that meant putting their relationship on hold briefly, but it's taken eleven years to return. Now she's back, no longer a painfully shy young girl but a confident woman who knows exactly what and who she wants--a home and a family--with too-sexy-for-his-boots Walker Stone. He was her first; she wants him to be her last.
Walker "Dynamite" Stone was still reeling from his parents' unexpected deaths when Ivy left. He let her go, throwing himself into work on the Silver Stone ranch and dangerous living on the rodeo circuit. But lately Walker's adrenaline junkie ways have crashed--he's having panic attacks. Potentially devastating to his budding music career, they're a deadly handicap when shooting for eight seconds aboard an angry bull. He needs to learn to face his fears to save the family fortunes. If he succeeds, this time Walker will be the one to leave Heart Falls, and Ivy, behind.
Will Ivy and Walker have to give up on forever, or can they turn this rancher's song into a winning duet?
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2018
About the author
Vivian Arend
188 books2,635 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Vivian Arend loves to share the products of her over-active imagination with her readers. She writes contemporary, western, and light-hearted paranormal romances. The stories are humorous yet emotional, usually with a large cast of family or friends, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Vivian lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband of many years—her inspiration for every hero and a willing companion for all sorts of adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 9, 2018
***4 ‘Tumbleweeds’ Stars***
Vivian Arend is one of those authors whose books I always look forward to reading because I know that I’m going to get a story that will have me pretty smiling the whole time as the MC’s figure out what they want while their family and friends, who are always, always vibrant and intriguing in their own rights, add in their two cents without adding on more drama than necessary and I got that and more. A Rancher’s Song is sweet, smexy and filled with lots of heart and laughter.
Walker is a sweetheart, and that may sound bad, but it’s not. He’s a good man who loves his family and friends and will do what needs to be done to help out when and where he can. Ivy is an enigma. There is a sassy, take no prisoners side to her that is mingled with a need to not be the center of attention. She’s had struggles to overcome, but she has and is looking towards her future.
Walker and Ivy’s second chance romance was fun and sweet. There are a few bumps, but no major drama. It’s simply two people who had different paths to travel crossing paths again and deciding what they want their future to look like. The connection and chemistry between them jumped off the page and I loved how things worked out for them in the end.
I’m a fangirl of the author, as is obvious from the opening of this review, and one part is due to her no muss, no fuss way of telling the story. She doesn’t add in drama, for drama’s sake and she has her characters take the high road aka the mature adult way (most of the time) of dealing with the issues they are dealing with. The other part is that I love how the family dynamic just jumps off the page and makes you believe that these characters are as close as you want them to be. I will admit that I’m happy this particular family/series doesn’t appear to have as extensive of a family tree as her Rocky Mountain House series, but I love visiting with them just as much. Catching up with Caleb, Tamar, Emma and Sasha was fun as was hanging out with Luke and Dustin. And getting to know Ivy’s sisters and their friends better was awesome! And after the little tease at the end of the book, I cannot wait to get my hands on the next two in the series!
So, if you are looking for a romance that’s on the sweet but still smexy, low on angst read, then this is definitely a must read for you!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Vivian Arend is one of those authors whose books I always look forward to reading because I know that I’m going to get a story that will have me pretty smiling the whole time as the MC’s figure out what they want while their family and friends, who are always, always vibrant and intriguing in their own rights, add in their two cents without adding on more drama than necessary and I got that and more. A Rancher’s Song is sweet, smexy and filled with lots of heart and laughter.
Walker is a sweetheart, and that may sound bad, but it’s not. He’s a good man who loves his family and friends and will do what needs to be done to help out when and where he can. Ivy is an enigma. There is a sassy, take no prisoners side to her that is mingled with a need to not be the center of attention. She’s had struggles to overcome, but she has and is looking towards her future.
Walker and Ivy’s second chance romance was fun and sweet. There are a few bumps, but no major drama. It’s simply two people who had different paths to travel crossing paths again and deciding what they want their future to look like. The connection and chemistry between them jumped off the page and I loved how things worked out for them in the end.
I’m a fangirl of the author, as is obvious from the opening of this review, and one part is due to her no muss, no fuss way of telling the story. She doesn’t add in drama, for drama’s sake and she has her characters take the high road aka the mature adult way (most of the time) of dealing with the issues they are dealing with. The other part is that I love how the family dynamic just jumps off the page and makes you believe that these characters are as close as you want them to be. I will admit that I’m happy this particular family/series doesn’t appear to have as extensive of a family tree as her Rocky Mountain House series, but I love visiting with them just as much. Catching up with Caleb, Tamar, Emma and Sasha was fun as was hanging out with Luke and Dustin. And getting to know Ivy’s sisters and their friends better was awesome! And after the little tease at the end of the book, I cannot wait to get my hands on the next two in the series!
So, if you are looking for a romance that’s on the sweet but still smexy, low on angst read, then this is definitely a must read for you!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
July 6, 2018
A very sweet, sexy, low-angst romance. 3.5 stars
May 15, 2018
Author Vivian Arend offers up a sweet and easy second chance romance in A Rancher’s Song, the second book in her Heart Falls series. Eleven years after Walker Stone convinced Ivy Field to leave and pursue her dream of becoming a teacher she is back in Heart Falls and ready to reconnect with the only man who has ever had her heart, but Walker is at a crossroads in his life and won’t commit to pursing her until he figures it out. Sweet with a bit of sexy this uncomplicated romance is everything I’m come to expect from this author.
It is never easy when one person is settling into a more permanent life and one is trying to figure out what comes next especially when there are extenuating circumstances. Ivy is happy to have a teaching position as well as the added title of assistant principal back in her hometown and happy to have her own place to remodel and decorate. For the past few months Walker has a condition that has him questioning his ability to still compete competitively as a bull rider and pursue another venture he has kept hidden from him family and finding out the family ranch may be in financial trouble makes his decision that much harder.
I liked that these two didn’t fall right back into the relationship they had as teens and began to know one another as adults. There wasn’t a magic fix to the problems that arose and together they worked to build their relationship even though at times it was tough because Walker refused to burden Ivy with everything going on in his world.
I enjoyed the interactions with both of their families and loved that family was so important to both of them giving them a firm foundation in which to build upon.
A straightforward, no nonsense romance with lots of good guy charm and a strong heroine made A Rancher’s Song a welcome addition to Ms. Arend’s Heart Falls series.
June 4, 2018
The beginning was confusing as it did not align with the events and facts presented in the previous book. Apparently the author decided to take the story in a different direction. I even double-checked the previous book to see if I was remembering correctly. I was.
Once I worked out that Arend had changed directions and this wasn't the book we were expecting, I was able to settle in and enjoy the story and Walker and Ivy's romance.
Ivy's returned home after 10 years away. She buys a house, gets a job, and settles back in. She also has a maddeningly vague chronic illness which was apparently life-threatening at times, though she was not terminal. It was not a major part of the story line, just a part of who she was, which I greatly appreciated. I do wish Arend had a picked an illness and run with it. Yes, using a real illness would have meant more research to get the facts right but I found myself trying to put the hints together and come up with a diagnosis. There's mention of an inhaler but she clearly doesn't have asthma, COPD, or emphysema. There are hints that suggest it could be an auto-immune disease. The vagueness, for me, distracted me from the story. It may not bother some readers.
Walker has been having panic attacks and when you're a bull rider, that's a major problem. He comes home to his family's ranch to figure out what's happening with them, how to stop them, and what he wants to do with his life. Although he's been a professional bull rider for years, he also has an interest in making music and a chance to pursue a musical career. Once back home he discovers that the ranch is having some financial difficulties. He feels pressure to do more around the ranch and add more to the family finances. This pressure is self-imposed. He never talks about his feelings or his contributions with his family until late in the story nor does he mention his panic attacks. It takes him a long time to learn to open up and communicate with his brothers. He does better with Ivy.
Ivy is able to help him open up and to cope with his attacks. In fact, he gets over his attacks quite easily once Ivy gets involved. I found it highly unlikely that they would be dealt with so easily or quickly.
So, I've been pretty negative but I did like the story, apart from all of the medical stuff. Given the importance of Walker's panic attacks to the story, that point is a big negative. But the romance itself was sweet, and really showed both Ivy and Walker at their best - thinking of the other first, taking care of the other, respecting each other and their respective families. As usual, Arend does a wonderful job with family dynamics. While I was frustrated with Walker's reticence about talking to his brothers, it also felt real. The teasing, the traditions, the unspoken assumptions, all were done beautifully.
I didn't love "A Rancher's Song" but I liked it and I'm enjoying the series.
I received a copy from the author for review.
Once I worked out that Arend had changed directions and this wasn't the book we were expecting, I was able to settle in and enjoy the story and Walker and Ivy's romance.
Ivy's returned home after 10 years away. She buys a house, gets a job, and settles back in. She also has a maddeningly vague chronic illness which was apparently life-threatening at times, though she was not terminal. It was not a major part of the story line, just a part of who she was, which I greatly appreciated. I do wish Arend had a picked an illness and run with it. Yes, using a real illness would have meant more research to get the facts right but I found myself trying to put the hints together and come up with a diagnosis. There's mention of an inhaler but she clearly doesn't have asthma, COPD, or emphysema. There are hints that suggest it could be an auto-immune disease. The vagueness, for me, distracted me from the story. It may not bother some readers.
Walker has been having panic attacks and when you're a bull rider, that's a major problem. He comes home to his family's ranch to figure out what's happening with them, how to stop them, and what he wants to do with his life. Although he's been a professional bull rider for years, he also has an interest in making music and a chance to pursue a musical career. Once back home he discovers that the ranch is having some financial difficulties. He feels pressure to do more around the ranch and add more to the family finances. This pressure is self-imposed. He never talks about his feelings or his contributions with his family until late in the story nor does he mention his panic attacks. It takes him a long time to learn to open up and communicate with his brothers. He does better with Ivy.
Ivy is able to help him open up and to cope with his attacks. In fact, he gets over his attacks quite easily once Ivy gets involved. I found it highly unlikely that they would be dealt with so easily or quickly.
So, I've been pretty negative but I did like the story, apart from all of the medical stuff. Given the importance of Walker's panic attacks to the story, that point is a big negative. But the romance itself was sweet, and really showed both Ivy and Walker at their best - thinking of the other first, taking care of the other, respecting each other and their respective families. As usual, Arend does a wonderful job with family dynamics. While I was frustrated with Walker's reticence about talking to his brothers, it also felt real. The teasing, the traditions, the unspoken assumptions, all were done beautifully.
I didn't love "A Rancher's Song" but I liked it and I'm enjoying the series.
I received a copy from the author for review.
June 3, 2018
This is the second book in the spin off series from the Six Pack Ranch. Walker is the second youngest brother in the family and has lived a life on the rodeo circuit since his parents died. Ivy was the love of his life until he let her go on to college to become something more.
Great story of second chance love. It defines the true meaning of if you love something let it go, if it comes back to you, it was meant to be. A few bumps along the way, just a bit of angst but over all a good story.
Great story of second chance love. It defines the true meaning of if you love something let it go, if it comes back to you, it was meant to be. A few bumps along the way, just a bit of angst but over all a good story.
May 4, 2018
This book is a little different, it has a quiet sweetness about it and in that quiet sweetness it shines! From the start you can't help but to love these characters, to want them to re-kindle their romance from high school before life stepped in and they went different ways. I liked that the break up wasn't bad, liked that given the chance both were willing for another chance. I especially loved how both of them confessed that in the near decade they've been apart neither had been with another person, that it felt wrong.
The role that both of their extended family played was great. Both came from big families that were close, but in different ways and both of the families supported them.
The ending had me smiling. I loved that Walker and Ivy's relationship was strong enough to withstand physical distance and how they found a way to still stay close.
The role that both of their extended family played was great. Both came from big families that were close, but in different ways and both of the families supported them.
The ending had me smiling. I loved that Walker and Ivy's relationship was strong enough to withstand physical distance and how they found a way to still stay close.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2018
We're back with the Stones and their brood of friends and family. This time, it's Walker's turn to face his issues and nab the lady he's never forgotten. Or maybe it's Ivy's turn to sweetly get Walker to realize what he'd miss out on if he walks away from Heart Falls and her.
First off, I kinda dig the Stone family. They're dedicated, hard working, and they go all-in once they set their sights on what they want. For some of them, it's the figuring out what they want that's tricky. Walker, for example, is torn between helping on the family ranch, continuing his rodeo career (a dangerous option what with his panic attacks and all), and finding his way in the music industry. And then there's Ivy. The girl who left to pursue her own dream and is now back in touching distance.
Eleven years is a long time and yet Ivy's still got that thing for Walker. Helping him get a handle of his issues while showing him she's grown into a woman able to stand by his side is her challenge. Frankly, getting Walker to open up AT ALL about what's bothering him is a pretty monumental feat. But with a little time and a little perseverance, she manages.
Caleb and his family were fun, Luke's setup has me grinning. The rest of the family will fall before they know it and I, for one, an DELIGHTED by that. Because I love these sticky family dynamics and the support they all show for one another.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
First off, I kinda dig the Stone family. They're dedicated, hard working, and they go all-in once they set their sights on what they want. For some of them, it's the figuring out what they want that's tricky. Walker, for example, is torn between helping on the family ranch, continuing his rodeo career (a dangerous option what with his panic attacks and all), and finding his way in the music industry. And then there's Ivy. The girl who left to pursue her own dream and is now back in touching distance.
Eleven years is a long time and yet Ivy's still got that thing for Walker. Helping him get a handle of his issues while showing him she's grown into a woman able to stand by his side is her challenge. Frankly, getting Walker to open up AT ALL about what's bothering him is a pretty monumental feat. But with a little time and a little perseverance, she manages.
Caleb and his family were fun, Luke's setup has me grinning. The rest of the family will fall before they know it and I, for one, an DELIGHTED by that. Because I love these sticky family dynamics and the support they all show for one another.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
May 19, 2018
This is the second in Vivian Arend's spin off series from the Coleman's six pack ranch series. Ivy left town 11 years ago to chase her dream. Walker had to let her go. This is one of those second chance love stories. Ivy and Walker have some secrets in the years since they were last together and while Ivy knows what she wants for her future Walker is unsure. The one thing he does know is he wants Ivy. I really loved this story. Ivy has some issues with her health and Walker totally gets her even after being apart for 11 years he remembers what she needs. Walker is having some problems with anxiety and panic attacks and Ivy helps him figure out what's going on. It's so sweet how they are there for each other. Ivy is there to stay but Walker is still trying to figure out where he belongs still. His heart says with Ivy but he feels he needs to help provide cash for the family ranch. The question is how he can do that and be with Ivy. By the end of this story you get all the squishy good feelings. If you have not read a Vivian Arend book this is a good series to start with. I can't wait for the next story.
January 25, 2019
Oh, it is so sweet when the tumbleweeds find their way back home!
Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts, and she is back home to stay after being away for 11 years. Walker has been out on the rodeo circuit, but is back for the summer to make some choices. Neither of them ever got over the other, and they parted so Ivy could pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. As they get to know each other again, they realize they are more mature, but they still feel the same. Circumstances are reversed this time around, and Ivy has to figure if she can do what is best for Walker, while Walker needs to figure out what is best for him
A truly sweet and sexy journey as two people fall in love all over again!
Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts, and she is back home to stay after being away for 11 years. Walker has been out on the rodeo circuit, but is back for the summer to make some choices. Neither of them ever got over the other, and they parted so Ivy could pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. As they get to know each other again, they realize they are more mature, but they still feel the same. Circumstances are reversed this time around, and Ivy has to figure if she can do what is best for Walker, while Walker needs to figure out what is best for him
A truly sweet and sexy journey as two people fall in love all over again!
May 10, 2018
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2018
Can love help a champion bull rider face his fears and find his future? Welcome to Heart Falls, a new series from New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
Ivy Field's heart nearly broke when she left Heart Falls, but her high school sweetheart insisted she follow-through on her dream of becoming a teacher. She thought that meant putting their relationship on hold briefly, but it's taken eleven years to return. Now she's back, no longer a painfully shy young girl but a confident woman who knows exactly what and who she wants--a home and a family--with too-sexy-for-his-boots Walker Stone. He was her first; she wants him to be her last.
Walker "Dynamite" Stone was still reeling from his parents' unexpected deaths when Ivy left. He let her go, throwing himself into work on the Silver Stone ranch and dangerous living on the rodeo circuit. But lately Walker's adrenaline junkie ways have crashed--he's having panic attacks. Potentially devastating to his budding music career, they're a deadly handicap when shooting for eight seconds aboard an angry bull. He needs to learn to face his fears to save the family fortunes. If he succeeds, this time Walker will be the one to leave Heart Falls, and Ivy, behind.
Will Ivy and Walker have to give up on forever, or can they turn this rancher's song into a winning duet?
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: A RANCHER’S SONG is the second instalment in Vivian Arend’s contemporary, adult THE STONES OF HEART FALLS / HEARTS FALLS erotic cowboy, romance series focusing on the Stone siblings of Heart Falls, Alberta. This is rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, and grade school teacher Ivy Field’s story line. The HEART FALLS series is a spin off from the authors SIX PACK RANCH series but you do not have to have read the original series to follow or understand the current story lines.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Ivy and Walker) A RANCHER’S SONG is a second chance story line between rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, and grade school teacher Ivy Fields. Years earlier Ivy Field left her home town of Heart Falls, Alberta to pursue a post secondary education but in doing so left behind her high school sweetheart, who continues to suffer with the loss of his parents years before. Enter rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, the man with whom Ivy is still in love, but a man who struggles with his path in life including claiming the woman who stole his heart. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Ivy and Walker, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes with an end date as Walker is pushed to make a life altering decision that will affect the family ranch, and the rest of his life.
Walker Stone suffers with mind-numbing panic attacks that leave our hero with no memory of the how or why. The return of Ivy Fields finds Walker reconsidering the future, a future that may or may not involve staying in Heart Falls with the woman he loves. Ivy is often overwhelmed at family gatherings and public affairs, in this Walker and Ivy are more or less kindred spirits in heart and love.
The relationship between Ivy and Walker is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between high school sweethearts who have never stopped loving one another so much so that neither one moved forward in their personal lives. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There are a large number of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Walker’s brothers Dustin, Luke and Caleb (Tamara) Stone; ranch hand Kelli James, local firefighter Bradley, single mom / office cleaner Hanna and her eight year old daughter Crissy, as well as Ivy’s sisters Tansy, Fern and Rose; their parents Sophie and Malachi Fields; and an assortment of Stone extended family, cousins, siblings and friends from the Six Pack Ranch Series. Brad and Hanna’s story is next in A FIREFIGHTER’S CHRISTMAS GIFT September 2018.
A RANCHER’S SONG is a story of family and friendship; romance and love; second chances and a happily ever after. The premise is seductive and engaging; the characters are charismatic and dynamic; the romance is hot and provocative. A RANCHER’S SONG is an energetic, inspiring and encouraging story of romance and love.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Can love help a champion bull rider face his fears and find his future? Welcome to Heart Falls, a new series from New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
Ivy Field's heart nearly broke when she left Heart Falls, but her high school sweetheart insisted she follow-through on her dream of becoming a teacher. She thought that meant putting their relationship on hold briefly, but it's taken eleven years to return. Now she's back, no longer a painfully shy young girl but a confident woman who knows exactly what and who she wants--a home and a family--with too-sexy-for-his-boots Walker Stone. He was her first; she wants him to be her last.
Walker "Dynamite" Stone was still reeling from his parents' unexpected deaths when Ivy left. He let her go, throwing himself into work on the Silver Stone ranch and dangerous living on the rodeo circuit. But lately Walker's adrenaline junkie ways have crashed--he's having panic attacks. Potentially devastating to his budding music career, they're a deadly handicap when shooting for eight seconds aboard an angry bull. He needs to learn to face his fears to save the family fortunes. If he succeeds, this time Walker will be the one to leave Heart Falls, and Ivy, behind.
Will Ivy and Walker have to give up on forever, or can they turn this rancher's song into a winning duet?
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: A RANCHER’S SONG is the second instalment in Vivian Arend’s contemporary, adult THE STONES OF HEART FALLS / HEARTS FALLS erotic cowboy, romance series focusing on the Stone siblings of Heart Falls, Alberta. This is rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, and grade school teacher Ivy Field’s story line. The HEART FALLS series is a spin off from the authors SIX PACK RANCH series but you do not have to have read the original series to follow or understand the current story lines.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Ivy and Walker) A RANCHER’S SONG is a second chance story line between rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, and grade school teacher Ivy Fields. Years earlier Ivy Field left her home town of Heart Falls, Alberta to pursue a post secondary education but in doing so left behind her high school sweetheart, who continues to suffer with the loss of his parents years before. Enter rodeo champion Walker ‘Dynamite’ Stone, the man with whom Ivy is still in love, but a man who struggles with his path in life including claiming the woman who stole his heart. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Ivy and Walker, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes with an end date as Walker is pushed to make a life altering decision that will affect the family ranch, and the rest of his life.
Walker Stone suffers with mind-numbing panic attacks that leave our hero with no memory of the how or why. The return of Ivy Fields finds Walker reconsidering the future, a future that may or may not involve staying in Heart Falls with the woman he loves. Ivy is often overwhelmed at family gatherings and public affairs, in this Walker and Ivy are more or less kindred spirits in heart and love.
The relationship between Ivy and Walker is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between high school sweethearts who have never stopped loving one another so much so that neither one moved forward in their personal lives. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There are a large number of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Walker’s brothers Dustin, Luke and Caleb (Tamara) Stone; ranch hand Kelli James, local firefighter Bradley, single mom / office cleaner Hanna and her eight year old daughter Crissy, as well as Ivy’s sisters Tansy, Fern and Rose; their parents Sophie and Malachi Fields; and an assortment of Stone extended family, cousins, siblings and friends from the Six Pack Ranch Series. Brad and Hanna’s story is next in A FIREFIGHTER’S CHRISTMAS GIFT September 2018.
A RANCHER’S SONG is a story of family and friendship; romance and love; second chances and a happily ever after. The premise is seductive and engaging; the characters are charismatic and dynamic; the romance is hot and provocative. A RANCHER’S SONG is an energetic, inspiring and encouraging story of romance and love.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 26, 2018
If you enjoyed Vivian Arend’s A Rancher’s Heart you’ll enjoy A Rancher’s Song if for no other reason than Tamara and Caleb and of course Emma and Sasha have a strong presence in the second book in the Heart Falls series. In fact other than the introduction of our female protagonist Ivy Fields, her youngest sister Fern and their parents and grandmother the cast doesn’t change much from one book to the next. In this book we focus on Walker Stone, one of Caleb’s younger brothers, a rodeo bull rider by trade and Ivy Field his high school sweetheart. Seriously this book loses a few points just for the sad botanical names Vivian saddles the four Field girls with. As we begin the story Ivy who left Heart Falls and Walker eleven years ago to go to university to become a teacher has returned home. Walker has also returned to his family’s Silverstone Ranch to regroup and deal with anxiety attacks that are making it impossible to pursue his rodeo career or perhaps a career in music he’s considering. While Walker comes home to heal and figure out what he’s going to do with the rest of his life, Ivy already has a plan. She’s taken a job as vice principal and second grade teacher fulfilling one lifelong dream and has every intention of fulfilling her second lifelong dream which is to settle down and have a family with Walker. There’s a definite similarity between A Rancher’s Song and A Rancher’s heart in that the female protagonist figures out early on her heart’s desire and then determinedly and patiently guides the object of her heart’s desire to their H.E.A. Beyond that the protagonists in the two books Tamara and Ivy are very different. While Tamara doesn’t have a shy bone in her body Ivy is extremely shy to the point she has difficulty being in settings with large numbers of people even when she’s not the focus of their attention. And where Tamara was sexually experienced and totally comfortable expressing her sexuality Ivy has only been with one person, Walker and even with him has to leave her comfort zone to try and seduce him. Ivy also has had lifelong health issues. She has a compromised immune system which kept her somewhat secluded as a child which is never fully explained. Then the author throws in a life threatening health issue while she’s at university (causing her to take twice the normal time to earn her degree) which from the treatment sounds like it might have been leukemia, but again its never named. As the author intended you come to admire Ivy for her determination that allowed her to earn her education despite the health obstacles and put herself out there in uncomfortable and perhaps dangerous situations to come to Walker’s aid and win his heart. We're introduced to Brad the local fire chief who gets a Christmas novella with Hannah the single mom who became friends with Tamara I the first book. We also observe Luke and Penny's relationship and there's something going on in Kelli's life that is never fully explained. I assume we'll learn more in Luke and Kelli's book A Rancher's Bride when it's released in November. I just knew those two would end up together! I'm thinking at some point Ivy's younger sisters, Tansy, Rose and Fern will also get their own books and who knows if the series does well enough maybe even youngest Stone brother Dustin who is only 19 and freshly graduated from high school in these two books, like Fern. Hmm, good a Dustin/Fern romance be in the future? Then there's Caleb's BFF Josiah the vet and maybe Tamara's sisters Karen and Lisa although I suspect they first appeared in the Six Pack Ranch series and their stories will come from that series.
While I didn’t think A Rancher’s Song was quite as good as A Rancher’s Heart it was still an entertaining read which like its predecessor had a minimum amount of melodrama, a lot of heart, warmth and some sexy times.
While I didn’t think A Rancher’s Song was quite as good as A Rancher’s Heart it was still an entertaining read which like its predecessor had a minimum amount of melodrama, a lot of heart, warmth and some sexy times.
February 27, 2023
All the elements of a great modern Western romance!
"A Rancher's Song" by Vivian Arend was a wonderfully entertaining modern Western romance. It contained all the right elements, cowboys, rodeos, country music and a second chance at love, everything I have come to expect in this genre. Yet, Vivian Arend adds her own creative magic that makes The Stones Of Heart Falls saga stand out in my mind.
Her setting is Canada not western US as I am used to. The way Ms Arend describes her settings, whether the Stone Family ranch or the small town of Heart Falls, paints a vivid mental image of a place I have never seen or experienced. The country and the characters come alive,and are so real it is as though you live the story instead of simply reading it. As you read, you become so absorbed in the people ,their homes , their lives you disappear into the book, leaving your own life behind. That is why I read romance novels in the first place. A good novel allows me to disappear into a world far from my own, and for awhile ignore my problems and concerns. This is what "A Rancher's Song" provided for me - a perfect get away!
This is the second book in the Stone Family saga. It could be read as a stand alone but to truly savor Vivian Arend's talent and imagination, you should really read the books in order. In "A Rancher's Song" she further develops another Stone brother, Walker. While Ms Arend allowed us a glimpse of Walker in "A Rancher's Heart" , she reveals what motivates him to do the things he does in this story. She introduces "the one who got away", Ivy Fields. And now we see how the town and the Stone ranch interact.
As I have already pointed out, I love the way Vivian Arend's word craft makes a setting come alive. In this novel, Heart Falls, Alberta, Canada is so authentic with an irresistiblet,and compelling small town feel, that once again I wanted to explore the town for myself. Vivian Arend's world building skills are phenomenal!
But what I especially love about "A Rancher's Song" is the portrayal of large family dynamics. Reading how Walker and his siblings, joke and tease one another made me homesick. I found myself reaching out to my own siblings because the Stone's reminded me so much of home. To add to the Stone Family dynamics Ms Arend, introduces the Fields, who are another type of large family. Ivy's family is a family by choice, yet the family closeness is similar to the Stone's. Though the Fields are townies and business owners, compared to the ranchers, the description of the loving interaction between the two families melted my heart.
The sex in this novel is more erotic and explicit in this story than the first. While not a concern for me As I love the tingling, electricity, and burning chemistry that seems to jump from the pages, it may not be others cup of tea. However, Vivian Arend is one of those rare romance authors, who can make an erotic love scene enhance rather than detract from the story. In "A Rancher's Song", the love scenes further the development of the romance in a "show not tell technique. Rather than feeling like a voyeur, the scenes are very tastefully done.
I continue to be entertained with this series enough to forgo my usual wait for can't be missed deal. I have already purchased book 3 in the series and Can't wait to find out what is Luke Stone's story! Stay tuned for further reviews!
"A Rancher's Song" by Vivian Arend was a wonderfully entertaining modern Western romance. It contained all the right elements, cowboys, rodeos, country music and a second chance at love, everything I have come to expect in this genre. Yet, Vivian Arend adds her own creative magic that makes The Stones Of Heart Falls saga stand out in my mind.
Her setting is Canada not western US as I am used to. The way Ms Arend describes her settings, whether the Stone Family ranch or the small town of Heart Falls, paints a vivid mental image of a place I have never seen or experienced. The country and the characters come alive,and are so real it is as though you live the story instead of simply reading it. As you read, you become so absorbed in the people ,their homes , their lives you disappear into the book, leaving your own life behind. That is why I read romance novels in the first place. A good novel allows me to disappear into a world far from my own, and for awhile ignore my problems and concerns. This is what "A Rancher's Song" provided for me - a perfect get away!
This is the second book in the Stone Family saga. It could be read as a stand alone but to truly savor Vivian Arend's talent and imagination, you should really read the books in order. In "A Rancher's Song" she further develops another Stone brother, Walker. While Ms Arend allowed us a glimpse of Walker in "A Rancher's Heart" , she reveals what motivates him to do the things he does in this story. She introduces "the one who got away", Ivy Fields. And now we see how the town and the Stone ranch interact.
As I have already pointed out, I love the way Vivian Arend's word craft makes a setting come alive. In this novel, Heart Falls, Alberta, Canada is so authentic with an irresistiblet,and compelling small town feel, that once again I wanted to explore the town for myself. Vivian Arend's world building skills are phenomenal!
But what I especially love about "A Rancher's Song" is the portrayal of large family dynamics. Reading how Walker and his siblings, joke and tease one another made me homesick. I found myself reaching out to my own siblings because the Stone's reminded me so much of home. To add to the Stone Family dynamics Ms Arend, introduces the Fields, who are another type of large family. Ivy's family is a family by choice, yet the family closeness is similar to the Stone's. Though the Fields are townies and business owners, compared to the ranchers, the description of the loving interaction between the two families melted my heart.
The sex in this novel is more erotic and explicit in this story than the first. While not a concern for me As I love the tingling, electricity, and burning chemistry that seems to jump from the pages, it may not be others cup of tea. However, Vivian Arend is one of those rare romance authors, who can make an erotic love scene enhance rather than detract from the story. In "A Rancher's Song", the love scenes further the development of the romance in a "show not tell technique. Rather than feeling like a voyeur, the scenes are very tastefully done.
I continue to be entertained with this series enough to forgo my usual wait for can't be missed deal. I have already purchased book 3 in the series and Can't wait to find out what is Luke Stone's story! Stay tuned for further reviews!
June 7, 2018
Reviewed by Jen
Book provided by Vivian Arend
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I’ve been a fan of Vivian Arend for a couple years. I’ve read much of the Rocky Mountain series and was curious about her new series. When I was asked to review A Rancher’s Song, I jumped at the chance. This is the second book in this series. The book stands alone, but there were times where I felt if I’d read book one, some things would make more sense.
A Rancher’s Song is a reunion story. Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts who went their separate ways following graduation. Ivy went off to college and Walker ended up in the rodeo. Now years later, they’re both back in their home town and obviously still have feelings for each other. They also both have secrets and issues to overcome.
Ivy was a much easier character to like. She’s overcome various obstacles in life and now is ready to live life to the fullest and go after what she wants most. She’s got her dream job, is back around family and now she wants Walker.
Walker on the other hand was a little harder to get a grasp on. I don’t mean to say he wasn’t likable, he was. But he was a little brooding and like a lot of guys, he didn’t want to talk about what was bothering him. His internal struggles got a little repetitive after a while.
The romance between Ivy and Walker is the whole story. It is sweet and well developed. There wasn’t any crazy drama or external forces trying to tear them apart. In fact, it seems that everyone was cheering them on. In the end, it was just internal issues with Ivy and Walker that had to be handled in order to find their happy ever after.
All in all, I found this to be an enjoyable read. I could have used a little drama, some sort of friction. But it was a sold read and my emotions were engaged. If you’re looking for a good western romance, check this one out.
Book provided by Vivian Arend
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I’ve been a fan of Vivian Arend for a couple years. I’ve read much of the Rocky Mountain series and was curious about her new series. When I was asked to review A Rancher’s Song, I jumped at the chance. This is the second book in this series. The book stands alone, but there were times where I felt if I’d read book one, some things would make more sense.
A Rancher’s Song is a reunion story. Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts who went their separate ways following graduation. Ivy went off to college and Walker ended up in the rodeo. Now years later, they’re both back in their home town and obviously still have feelings for each other. They also both have secrets and issues to overcome.
Ivy was a much easier character to like. She’s overcome various obstacles in life and now is ready to live life to the fullest and go after what she wants most. She’s got her dream job, is back around family and now she wants Walker.
Walker on the other hand was a little harder to get a grasp on. I don’t mean to say he wasn’t likable, he was. But he was a little brooding and like a lot of guys, he didn’t want to talk about what was bothering him. His internal struggles got a little repetitive after a while.
The romance between Ivy and Walker is the whole story. It is sweet and well developed. There wasn’t any crazy drama or external forces trying to tear them apart. In fact, it seems that everyone was cheering them on. In the end, it was just internal issues with Ivy and Walker that had to be handled in order to find their happy ever after.
All in all, I found this to be an enjoyable read. I could have used a little drama, some sort of friction. But it was a sold read and my emotions were engaged. If you’re looking for a good western romance, check this one out.
April 1, 2024
Sometimes love takes its time, and in this book Ivy and Walker get a second chance at love.
I haven’t heard or read any of Vivian’s stories in years and jumped at the chance to settle in for this second chance at love.
This was a sweet story that captured my heart. These two were meant to be a couple. They had some growing up to do and living as well.
Being new to this series, I could easily capture the love and caring the families have for each other. Both Ivy and Walker experienced so much while they were off living separate lives. Ivy at achieving her goal of becoming a teacher. And Walker of trying to find his place amongst the rodeo crowd and the music scene as an offshoot of that.
There was heartbreak in the Stone family that likely sent these two on their separate ways 11 years ago but Ivy’s back for good now and she knows what and who that includes for it to happen. And that’s Walker!
These two never forgot their love for each other, and things happen that try to make Walker think he can’t get what they both want. A future together. But I don’t think he remembered how Ivy won’t give up.
This was a sweet and eye opening story about being truthful to one’s self, about what one wants to have as a future and making it real.
I enjoyed Tatiana’s performance here. I’m spoilt by duet and dual narration so it took me a wee bit to get into the groove but then it really flowed and took me away to this small town where everyone knows what and who everyone is up to. A town surrounding these two with family and friends who truly love them, especially together as they were always meant to be.
Makes me want to get the other books and find out more about the rest of the family and how they are doing. Lovely book about second chances in a cowboy setting which was exactly what I needed.
I haven’t heard or read any of Vivian’s stories in years and jumped at the chance to settle in for this second chance at love.
This was a sweet story that captured my heart. These two were meant to be a couple. They had some growing up to do and living as well.
Being new to this series, I could easily capture the love and caring the families have for each other. Both Ivy and Walker experienced so much while they were off living separate lives. Ivy at achieving her goal of becoming a teacher. And Walker of trying to find his place amongst the rodeo crowd and the music scene as an offshoot of that.
There was heartbreak in the Stone family that likely sent these two on their separate ways 11 years ago but Ivy’s back for good now and she knows what and who that includes for it to happen. And that’s Walker!
These two never forgot their love for each other, and things happen that try to make Walker think he can’t get what they both want. A future together. But I don’t think he remembered how Ivy won’t give up.
This was a sweet and eye opening story about being truthful to one’s self, about what one wants to have as a future and making it real.
I enjoyed Tatiana’s performance here. I’m spoilt by duet and dual narration so it took me a wee bit to get into the groove but then it really flowed and took me away to this small town where everyone knows what and who everyone is up to. A town surrounding these two with family and friends who truly love them, especially together as they were always meant to be.
Makes me want to get the other books and find out more about the rest of the family and how they are doing. Lovely book about second chances in a cowboy setting which was exactly what I needed.
May 15, 2018
Walker Stone is having panic attacks. This might not seem like a big deal, but when he's riding an angry bull for at least 8 seconds, having a panic attack could be devastating. It's a good thing Walker recognizes this and returns home to Heart Falls to get his head together, because it isn't just panic attacks that are messing with Walker's mind. He's trying to figure out what he should be doing with his life.
Ivy Field is back in town too. She's settling back home after years away as elementary school teacher and vice principal. Walker is in her plan too. Ivy wants to pick up where they left off when she left him eleven years ago. It's pretty clear from the getgo that Walker still have feelings for Ivy and vice versa -- although Walker's future is up in the air. Does he return to the rodeo? Will he take the amazing singing offer he's been given? He really can't decide... at first. But with the help of people who love him, he'll get the job done.
I really love this series. It's easy to fall for a series like this, where family is tight and kind. Even though Walker is a mess, his brother's feel him out and give him the room he asks for, even though it's tough for them to watch their younger brother struggle. Caleb and Luke are pretty awesome that way. This is a series that not only talks about family values, but shows them in the characters everyday life, and I just adore that about this series.
I can't say much more than I loved this, and you should be reading this series if you are looking for a family oriented romance that really demonstrates the important things in life. Definitely recommended. Can't wait for more.
An ARC was provided for review.
Ivy Field is back in town too. She's settling back home after years away as elementary school teacher and vice principal. Walker is in her plan too. Ivy wants to pick up where they left off when she left him eleven years ago. It's pretty clear from the getgo that Walker still have feelings for Ivy and vice versa -- although Walker's future is up in the air. Does he return to the rodeo? Will he take the amazing singing offer he's been given? He really can't decide... at first. But with the help of people who love him, he'll get the job done.
I really love this series. It's easy to fall for a series like this, where family is tight and kind. Even though Walker is a mess, his brother's feel him out and give him the room he asks for, even though it's tough for them to watch their younger brother struggle. Caleb and Luke are pretty awesome that way. This is a series that not only talks about family values, but shows them in the characters everyday life, and I just adore that about this series.
I can't say much more than I loved this, and you should be reading this series if you are looking for a family oriented romance that really demonstrates the important things in life. Definitely recommended. Can't wait for more.
An ARC was provided for review.
May 15, 2018
I absolutely love the Stone brothers! This book has heartwarming romance and a great story line. What more could you want? Once I start to read any of Vivian Arend's books, I cannot put them down. They have action, suspense and a a poignant love story all rolled up in one book. A Rancher's Song is an irrestible tale of a close knit family and heart touching romance. This book has it all: heart, community, and characters who will remain with you long after the book has ended. Can't wait for the next book in this series. I have a plus-size crush on this story and just so you know - the heat level is off the charts! Soooooo good! This is a series that has readers eagerly awaiting the next book. Ivy and Walker's story is well worth the read and even though many years have passed they still carry the torch for one another - Walker just has to figure out what he wants out of life and also has to get over a few issues! This book has hot passion, tenderness, hunger, sweetness and most of all - love. This family is melt down sexy and a must read for all romantics. Highly recommend it - a great addition to the series and look forward to the rest of the books. I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it. Loved it!
June 14, 2020
I think this is the first Vivian Arend book I have not liked. The characters in this book were not well developed and there were so many unanswered questions about them. Ivy Field and Walker Stone were childhood sweethearts who broke up when Ivy went off to college. Walker has been trying to find his way on the rodeo circuit and helping out on the Stone family farm. Walker comes home when he starts experiencing panic attacks and finds Ivy back in town after a long absence. The two are still attracted to each other, but Walker doesn't think he'll be sticking around and doesn't have anything to offer Ivy. She talks him into a summer together with no strings. Apparently Ivy has some kind of medical condition that was never explained. She's delicate, fragile, doesn't like to be around too many people, had some kind of a transplant, etc. I'm not sure why whatever she had wrong wasn't given. And Walker's issues were never really addressed, although there was a theory thrown out towards the end. I couldn't connect with either of the characters and I was so disappointed with this book.
May 15, 2018
A Rancher's Song was a wonderful addition to the Heart Falls series. I've loved getting to know each of the Stone siblings so far, and was glad to get Walker's book with A Rancher's Song.
I absolutely love a reunion romance, and Ms. Arend did an amazing job with Walker and Ivy's story. I love that Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts who never forget the other. Total sigh worthy moment to see even after 8 years apart they still wanted to be together with only each other. I just really loved that they were every bit as attracted to one another now as they were when they were teens. They had great chemistry and could totally read each other like no one else.
Poor Walker has so much guilt over his last conversation with his father and feeling like he hasn't done enough to help out his brothers on the ranch. I really just wanted to hug his neck and Gibbs smack him at the same time. He has worked just as hard as his brothers on the ranch when home and on the rodeo circuit when not home. As for the argument with his dad, of course a teenager is going to say something stupid at one time or another, he just sadly lost his parents that same night and didn't get the chance to say he was sorry. Coming from a family were something very similar with a parent occurred, I can say it will weigh on your mind for way longer than needed.
Vivian Arend writes amazing stories that center on family, yet spotlight the individual family member so well. I love getting to spend time with favorite characters in each new book even as I'm falling in love with the new characters. Ms. Arend fills her stories with romance, laughter and lots of love and I look forward to each new adventure with each series. So much so, that I'm already counting the days until we get Luke Stone's story in the Heart Falls series.
Rating: 4 Stars (B)
Review copy provided by publisher
I absolutely love a reunion romance, and Ms. Arend did an amazing job with Walker and Ivy's story. I love that Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts who never forget the other. Total sigh worthy moment to see even after 8 years apart they still wanted to be together with only each other. I just really loved that they were every bit as attracted to one another now as they were when they were teens. They had great chemistry and could totally read each other like no one else.
Poor Walker has so much guilt over his last conversation with his father and feeling like he hasn't done enough to help out his brothers on the ranch. I really just wanted to hug his neck and Gibbs smack him at the same time. He has worked just as hard as his brothers on the ranch when home and on the rodeo circuit when not home. As for the argument with his dad, of course a teenager is going to say something stupid at one time or another, he just sadly lost his parents that same night and didn't get the chance to say he was sorry. Coming from a family were something very similar with a parent occurred, I can say it will weigh on your mind for way longer than needed.
Vivian Arend writes amazing stories that center on family, yet spotlight the individual family member so well. I love getting to spend time with favorite characters in each new book even as I'm falling in love with the new characters. Ms. Arend fills her stories with romance, laughter and lots of love and I look forward to each new adventure with each series. So much so, that I'm already counting the days until we get Luke Stone's story in the Heart Falls series.
Rating: 4 Stars (B)
Review copy provided by publisher
October 18, 2020
Ivy Field was heartbroken when she left Heart Falls and her high school sweetheart to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. Eleven years later she has accomplished her dream and has now returned to Hearts Falls. She is no longer that painfully shy young girl but a confident woman who knows what she wants -- sexy cowboy Walker Stone. She wants to finish what they started.
Walker “Dynamite” Stone convinced Ivy to leave and pursue her dreams even though he was trying to deal with the sudden death of his parents. helping his brothers work their Silver Stone ranch and living dangerously on the rodeo circuit. Lately Walker has been experiencing panic attacks and he is trying to find a way to deal with them if he has any hopes of continuing is rodeo career or his budding music career.
Walker will learn that during those years when ivy was away pursuing her dreams were not the only things she was dealing with. Ivy helps Walker to realize where his panic attacks stem from.
Walker “Dynamite” Stone convinced Ivy to leave and pursue her dreams even though he was trying to deal with the sudden death of his parents. helping his brothers work their Silver Stone ranch and living dangerously on the rodeo circuit. Lately Walker has been experiencing panic attacks and he is trying to find a way to deal with them if he has any hopes of continuing is rodeo career or his budding music career.
Walker will learn that during those years when ivy was away pursuing her dreams were not the only things she was dealing with. Ivy helps Walker to realize where his panic attacks stem from.
May 14, 2018
This is Book 2 in the Heart Falls series. It is a stand-alone book. Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts who had different dreams in life. She wanted to be a teacher and he let her go. It was a difficult time for Walker whose parents had died unexpectedly. Now she’s back and he will be the one leaving. They are struggling but it’s to be expected after 11 years. Can this sweet romance ever come together between the 2 of them? I loved the way the author brought this couple to us. It’s like they are part of our lives and we want to step into the book to help them out. I really enjoyed reading this book and watching as they struggled but overcame so much in their lives. They did this together and separate. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 16, 2018
Second try is a charm? For Walker and Ivy the answer is yes. Even though there are secrets and reluctance and desire and hopefulness, will it really work out for these two? The end of the story is a HEA, but it will be interesting to see what happens in future books for this series.
I love that Ivy did not ask Walker to give up anything and she supported his continuing on the rodeo circuit. The best part about this book was that Ivy and his family (Caleb and Luke) wanted to know what did Walker dream to do and want to do beyond all else. Although only Ivy and Walker understood the comment, I love that she told him to go to his happy place. Everyone should have a happy place. It was interesting to watch him as he realized what his happy place was.
Overall a good book. Not as much angst as book 1, but an enjoyable story. I can't wait for Luke's book.
I love that Ivy did not ask Walker to give up anything and she supported his continuing on the rodeo circuit. The best part about this book was that Ivy and his family (Caleb and Luke) wanted to know what did Walker dream to do and want to do beyond all else. Although only Ivy and Walker understood the comment, I love that she told him to go to his happy place. Everyone should have a happy place. It was interesting to watch him as he realized what his happy place was.
Overall a good book. Not as much angst as book 1, but an enjoyable story. I can't wait for Luke's book.
July 11, 2018
A Rancher's Song
Oh WOW! Another FANTASTIC by Vivian. This story is about Walker and Ivy. The story starts out with Ivy's return to Heart Falls after being gone for 11 years. She is found and determined to get the love of her life back in to her arms. Walker returns to Heart Falls after being in the rodeo circuit for a year. He had to figure out what was causing his panic attacks and causing him to lose periods of time. Well, these two finally get back together and their love grows from there. At the end, these two finally figure out why Walker was blacking out - his fear of losing the people he loves. Once, he gets to his "happy place" he finds peace and Ivy is his anchor. I am happy these two found their happily ever after. FANTASTIC job Vivian! I would recommend this book.
Oh WOW! Another FANTASTIC by Vivian. This story is about Walker and Ivy. The story starts out with Ivy's return to Heart Falls after being gone for 11 years. She is found and determined to get the love of her life back in to her arms. Walker returns to Heart Falls after being in the rodeo circuit for a year. He had to figure out what was causing his panic attacks and causing him to lose periods of time. Well, these two finally get back together and their love grows from there. At the end, these two finally figure out why Walker was blacking out - his fear of losing the people he loves. Once, he gets to his "happy place" he finds peace and Ivy is his anchor. I am happy these two found their happily ever after. FANTASTIC job Vivian! I would recommend this book.
April 10, 2024
Great read
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and I loved seeing Ivy and Walker coming back together and getting their chance to make it work. I loved their communication. Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts that only broke up so that Ivy could go away to college and follow her dreams of becoming a teacher. Both have always still held on to the other one though and they are just adorable. I loved watching them take the time to be together and be honest as they tried to figure things out. Ivy was back for good but Walker wasn’t sure due to trying to figure out how to best help his family’s ranch, while also trying to figure out his panic attacks. The story was well written and engaging and I just loved these two together. I can’t wait for more in the series!
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and I loved seeing Ivy and Walker coming back together and getting their chance to make it work. I loved their communication. Ivy and Walker were high school sweethearts that only broke up so that Ivy could go away to college and follow her dreams of becoming a teacher. Both have always still held on to the other one though and they are just adorable. I loved watching them take the time to be together and be honest as they tried to figure things out. Ivy was back for good but Walker wasn’t sure due to trying to figure out how to best help his family’s ranch, while also trying to figure out his panic attacks. The story was well written and engaging and I just loved these two together. I can’t wait for more in the series!
May 17, 2018
All I can say is WOW!!
Vivian has done it again!! Just like with her Rocky Mountain Home series each book keeps getting better!
A Rancher's Song is the second book in the Heart Falls series. It is the story of Walker and Ivy. They were childhood sweethearts but life stepped in and separated them. They come together again at a time when secrets come to life for both of them.
Vivian did a spectacular job with these characters. She had me hooked on page one. These two people complement each other. They are both strong and willing to fight for what they want even while fighting their issues.
I would recommend any of Vivian's books. She will have you melting one minute and then crying the next. Her characters will come to life and she always leaves you want more
Vivian has done it again!! Just like with her Rocky Mountain Home series each book keeps getting better!
A Rancher's Song is the second book in the Heart Falls series. It is the story of Walker and Ivy. They were childhood sweethearts but life stepped in and separated them. They come together again at a time when secrets come to life for both of them.
Vivian did a spectacular job with these characters. She had me hooked on page one. These two people complement each other. They are both strong and willing to fight for what they want even while fighting their issues.
I would recommend any of Vivian's books. She will have you melting one minute and then crying the next. Her characters will come to life and she always leaves you want more
December 10, 2023
Ivy Fields left for college eleven years ago. Now that she finally has her life together, she is coming home for good and has her sights set on the love of her life, Walker Stone. Bull rider Walker has been secretly having panic attacks for a while, several with blackouts. He finally decided to leave the circuit behind temporarily to concentrate working the ranch with his family while coming to terms with his issues. When he finds out Ivy has come back home, he is all in on them getting back together, only he has to get his life back first. I received an audiobook from the author in lieu of a review. This is a great book to listen to and I am looking forward to the next one in the series. Highly recommended.
May 11, 2018
*A copy of this book was gifted to me from the author and freely give my honest review*
I liked it very much; a little slow in the beginning but boy did it escalate....
* Very good storyline that was going at a steady pace. Once the first chapter was done I couldn’t put it down.
* The author has built a world I want to live in.
* Characters that feels familiar and I think one of the reasons is that she introduced them slowly in the previous books.
* Walker and Ivy has a sweet connection that is described in a very tasteful way.
* No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings and dialogues that keeps the story running.
I recommend you dive in to this world 📚
I liked it very much; a little slow in the beginning but boy did it escalate....
* Very good storyline that was going at a steady pace. Once the first chapter was done I couldn’t put it down.
* The author has built a world I want to live in.
* Characters that feels familiar and I think one of the reasons is that she introduced them slowly in the previous books.
* Walker and Ivy has a sweet connection that is described in a very tasteful way.
* No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings and dialogues that keeps the story running.
I recommend you dive in to this world 📚
May 15, 2018
I loved the introduction of The Stone Family in the last Rocky Mountain book, and I loved book 1, but this book is even better!
I loved Ivy and Walker. The book hooked me from the first chapter and I could not put it down. This story continually surprised me, and the motivation behind the characters actions in present time and in the past were heartbreaking and heart melting all at the same time.
AND THE END!!! I cannot wait for the upcoming books!
I love Vivian Arend because not only does she write amazingly, but she also writes a long book, those are rare now. I have read everything she has written, and am in awe of the new stories she keeps coming up with.
I loved Ivy and Walker. The book hooked me from the first chapter and I could not put it down. This story continually surprised me, and the motivation behind the characters actions in present time and in the past were heartbreaking and heart melting all at the same time.
AND THE END!!! I cannot wait for the upcoming books!
I love Vivian Arend because not only does she write amazingly, but she also writes a long book, those are rare now. I have read everything she has written, and am in awe of the new stories she keeps coming up with.
May 15, 2018
I haven’t been able to figure out how Vivian Arend can write her main characters as both sweet and sexy, without being too saccharin. But she manages to do that with Walker and Ivy. They both come from families who have had to deal with a lot but in different ways. I like books that are connected to other stories, it’s always nice to revisit past characters. I like the fact that both Walker and Ivy were intelligent, considerate, and loved their families. Even though they both were holding back on certain aspects of their lives, they didn’t take forever to finally come clean to each other. Vivian Arend does a wonderful job writing stories about families and ranching.
August 22, 2018
Loved this second chance at love story. The characters in this story were strong for each other, both having severe setbacks, Ivy health wise & Walker emotionally. The fact that they were strong together helps with their healing. I truly loved the character of Walker, who loved Ivy so much he let her go yrs ago to make sure she had the chance to be what she dreamed. His support of Ivy & his continued love & fidelity were a wonderful surprise. Ivy for her part was still in love with Walker after all the yrs apart & truly believed that they could have a strong future. Ivy & Walker are a wonderful pair & I can’t wait to see what happens for them in upcoming stories. Definitely recommend.
May 18, 2018
Very sweet follow up 2nd book to the Heart Fall series!! Walker and Ivy once high school sweethearts find their way back to one another, but will they be able to work thru their issues and find a way to stay together.... This is such a heartfelt romantic read, especially when they are each supported and loved by their families. Walker the loving heart that comes across for his Ivy is so touching. And Ivy so deserving of a man like Walker. I have become hooked on this series, I can not wait for rest of stories to unfold!!!
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