A WILD RIDE is Book 4 in Vivian Arend's Thompson & Sons series. The Thompson & Sons series is a spin-off of Vivian Arend's Six Pack Ranch series. A WILD RIDE is a story about two lovers taking their relationship to the next level. Nicole Adams and Troy Adams are multifaceted characters, and I loved reading about the twists and turns their relationship takes. There are no villains in A WILD RIDE, but there are a few well-meaning but meddling members of Nicole's family who severely test the limits of the couple's patience. This is a character-driven, sensual romance that will give romance fans a feeling of rapture as they're reading along.

One thing I dislike in a story is when the main characters allow themselves to be manipulated by other characters, and end up doubting themselves and alter their course of action because of it. I adore A WILD RIDE because, while family is deeply important to Nicole Adams, she sees the well-meant machinations of her family as they encourage her to ditch Troy, and she shuts that down every time. Nicole is the kind of strong heroine I enjoy reading about. At the opening of A WILD RIDE, Nicole tries to part ways with Troy because she wants a serious relationship with permanence and she doesn't think he is the kind of man that can give her what she wants. Rather than whine or try to emotionally or sexually coerce Troy, she is straightforward about her needs and gives him reasons why having a relationship with him would not be compatible with those needs. I appreciate characters who say what they mean and don't play games.

Troy Thompson is a dream. While everything points to Troy being the kind of sexy, carefree player who does not have much depth or do commitment, Troy ends up proving everybody wrong and being the kind of guy every woman fantasizes about. With a little nudge in the right direction by his sister, Nicole is smart enough to recognize and slowly uncover all of Troy's layers. I love how in sync Troy and Nicole become, and the fun flirty quality that epitomizes their relationship. The joy they take in being together jumps off the page, and I like how they are able to talk about serious things as well as kid around. The faith they gain in each other and their connection gives this romance added spark.

A WILD RIDE is a luscious erotic journey taken by two amazing characters. Vivian Arend delights readers with a mix of red-hot passion and emotional punch. The friendship that develops between Nicole and Laurel helps balance out the more obnoxious elements of Nicole's family. I look forward to the next book in this sizzling "Thompson and Sons" series, and hope to read more about Nicole's friend Laurel and town newcomer Chase.

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