Whispering Rock (Virgin River)

I love all the characters in Virgin River. They seem like old friends whenever I open a book and start a new story. Strong but gentle men who love their women and gentle but strong women who love their man.

Love this series. The people in virgin river are so friendly and feel like they would welcome you .
Robin Carr draws you into the stories. Can't wait to see who else shows up in this quant little town.

Be sure to read the plot summery for this book or you may end up buying a book you already own. I pre-ordered this book thinking it was something new. I mean if you need to pre -order it, it shouldn't be a re-issue of a old book, one that is currently available. But that's just what this is: a re-issue of an old book. I love The Virgin River books so I was very excited to see a new one coming out. Then I was really mad at myself to find I had paid for a second copy of a book I already own. grrrr!

I loved the first two Virgin River books, and the first book is still my favorite so far. Some of the best scenes in this one were between Jack and Mel, the hero/heroine of the first book.

We met both Brie and Mike in the previous book. Brie is Jack's younger sister, a tenacious state prosecutor who has made a career out of sending rapists and other criminals up the river. But she lost her last case, and a serial rapist walked. And then he attacked Brie and raped her. And now her entire life has fallen apart.

Mike is part of Jack's band of brothers and one of his best friends. An LAPD cop working the gangs division, he was shot down in the previous book and badly wounded. He came to Virgin River to recuperate. He's known Jack's little sister for ages, but he never made a move on her – she was happily married back then, plus there's the whole best friend's sister thing.

While Mike and Brie didn't resonate with me quite the way Jack and Mel did, or Preacher and Paige from the second book, I was still quite mesmerized with the story. As with the other books, lots of other Virgin River residents are woven in and out of the story, including characters we've already met and new characters. I got very excited halfway through the book when one of my favorites, the illegal marijuana grower, made an appearance, but to my disappointment he was only observed for a few minutes at a distance by Mike, and did not turn up again.
There's a wonderful birthing scene where we see Mel, a midwife, in action. And when Mel realizes she is pregnant again, her reaction to that, and Jack's reaction to her reaction, were a lot of fun to read. And in the last quarter or so, I cried several times.

Rating: 2.5 stars __Contains explicit graphic sexual content
Note: WARNING: Continued story. 3rd in the Virgin River series.

EASY READ. Engaging storyline with a nice small town feel, spectacular setting, empathetic characters, a strong family theme, and a difficult relationship between the hero and heroine. HOWEVER, the writing is fragmented, multiple storylines continues from previous books with an increasingly bland supporting casts, the vocabulary is limited, some awkward phrasing, a lot of sexual content, the low-key romance lacks chemistry, the story just drags in places, and the plot includes a somewhat depressing teen sexual exploitation drama.

THE STORY revolves around divorced, powerhouse LA prosecutor, Brie Sheridan, and ex-marine, and former LAPD gang unit officer, Mike Valenzuela. As the story opens, Mike is almost fully recovered from multiple gunshot wounds when he receives news that Brie has been viciously beaten and raped. After she is released from the hospital, she is withdrawn and afraid to leave the house. Having been the victim of a violent crime himself, Mike recognizes her need to feel safe and protected and is determined to help her feel that way again. He slowly coaxes her into going on outings and eventually convinces her to trust herself, overcome her fear, and with his help, plan for a future together.

OVERALL, engaging, but depressing storyline, so-so characters. The VIRGIN RIVER series includes 20 novels and short stories organized into at least five subseries. This first subseries includes, Virgin River, Shelter Mountain, Whispering Rock, and A Virgin River Christmas.

You may also enjoy the complex characters and storytelling of N. Bruhns, A. Stuart, or E. Palfrey. For sweet, funny, heart touching romances with great descriptive, try Susan Fox, Cara Colter, or Dixie Browning.

With Whispering Rock Carr shows how life in a perfect, peaceful small town isn’t always quite so perfect. She develops a deeply heartfelt and emotionally gripping novel that also deals with the darker side of life. Death makes way for new life and love is the road to recovery from so many difficulties and disasters. The plot of this novel kept me on pins and needles. Carr also developed beautiful scenery for her loveable characters to live amidst. She makes everything easy to picture, drawing you into not only the town but also the lives of the characters.

I loved getting to know Mike and Brie on this whole new level. The way that Carr draws readers into the lives of her entire cast while also highlighting the main characters is phenomenal. I really get the feel for the entire town this way. There are also so many heroes to fall in love with (and believe me, they are all heroes in their own way) and women to hang out with that I feel as if I’ve truly been there.

Whispering Rock may just be my favourite Virgin River novel so far (and since I’ve read the series out of order, I’ve read many more than just 3 of them). It is a fantastic read for those looking for a romance with substance and real people to get to know.

So I took a break after listening to Shelter Mountain. But with all the new year challenges going on, decided to do use this series as my Series That Never Ends Challenge. There are so many books in the series, and I have quite far to go. So with the New Year upon us, I dived back into Virgin River.

This ended up being another "theme" book. This time the theme was something much, much more emotional and much darker than maternity. It dealt with sexual assault in several forms. Normally I don't like to give a major spoiler like this away, but I think that there should be a warning on this one as it is a hot button topic for many people. I will say that the author did a fabulous job of being sensitive and realistic with showing how something like rape doesn't just affect the victim, but everyone in their sphere of influence. A good narrator would be critical in keeping a storyline like this one compassionate and sympathetic. Thérèse Plummer continues to do a fabulous job with the inhabitants of Virgin River.

I liked that we continue to keep the strong sense of community in the book. Some characters weren't mentioned as much as from the second, but since Melinda & Jack were deeply connected to Mike and Bree, their story continues to play out as well. Even though this book dealt with a very volatile and sensitive subject it was handled well and I finished the book well satisfied with the journey. I am giving this 4 stars.

I am not a big fan of books that fall into the Romance category, but when it comes to the people and place of Virgin River, I just love them.

It is a place that is too good to be true, the people are too good to be true and yet it is a place that you wish was true.

Mike Valenzuela was introduced in the previous book so it was no surprise that book three would be centered around him and his new found importance to Virgin River and more specifically to Brie Sheridan.

Mike was a wounded Los Angles police office that had come to Virgin River to heal both mentally and physically. He found a home there and when he received a call from his good friend that Brie, a Sacramento prosecutor, was attacked and gravely injured by a sadist that she was unsuccessful in prosecuting, Mike was the first to the hospital.

Brie has closed herself off, there are some things that a strong and vibrant woman can have a hard time with and what was done to her has left scares. Mike is not going to give up, he has been helped and now it is his turn to reach out no matter that she is not reaching back.

This is not all that is going on; Mike has also been asked to be the local police presence in this little hamlet. There is a creeping drug presence and young women are coming forward with stories of bruising and pregnancies that they cannot account for.

This is a time for healing and new beginnings in Virgin River. It is about trust and opening your heart. It is about reaching out and hoping that one day, someone will reach back.

From the description of this book I really expected it to be more about Mike and Brie. As with all of the books in this series so far there are many storylines going on at once. And that's okay. Ms Carr seems to be very adept at keeping them all juggled and the pacing going. I was actually pleasant surprise that we got so much Paul in this book.

First, the Brie/Mike angle. It was great that the women in Jack's life didn't let him forget his past when he wanted them all to remember Mike's. Too often in these types of series, the author will forget that the hero in book one was flawed and he'll end up being written as too upstanding for the rest of the books. Not so here and it was refreshing. Of course, being a book and not an epic 2000 page novel things were put on a little fast forward, but I still think Brie's rape and the aftermath were handled wonderfully.

As for the Paul story...possible spoilers in this paragraph. My husband was in the Navy for 10 years. I used to tell him if the chaplain came to our door I wouldn't answer...as long as I didn't let him in he couldn't give me bad news. With the way Paul & Vanessa were with each other, I knew what was coming. As soon as I read that they "got the phone call" and closed the bar I had to put the book down because I was sobbing. And if I didn't read on I wouldn't read the bad news. That showed me how much the residents of this small town have really wormed their way into my heart.

That being said, I'm really looking first to the Paul/Vanessa story. I think it will be beautiful, sweet and heart wrenching.

This is the third book in the virgin river series. Jack Sheridan baby sister has gotten rape by a rapist she prosecuted and got away. Mike Jack marine buddy continues building a relationship with her being there for her after the rape. This is the major love story in this book.Jack and Mel are pregnant again and the first baby is only five months she's upset but eventually gets over it. Vanessa and Paul are introduce Vanessa being one of Jack marine friends (matt)and Paul being in the best friend of matt finds himself in love with Vanessa(Matt's wife) made it it known to Jack a night he was drunk that he saw Vanessa first but Matt was the one who went and spoke to her first. In this book Rick the young boy who worked in the bar and whose baby dies and then go off to the marine is featured again here during his graduation. I truly love how brie and Mike friendship transition from hanging out to the building of love for each other how I like the many deep talks they had about their past relationships. I like that they both got their second chance to find love in Mike case third time to be a husband. A wonderful read and of course I like the continuing saga of Mel and Jack Paige and preacher ,can never get enough of the main and original characters. Thoroughly enjoyable novel.

Again, this is the second book I have read of Robyn Carr's where it opens with the main character having been beaten and raped. Then it continues with a chapter about an underage teen who has been drugged and rape at a party. I am not reading this any further. I wonder what the reason is that Robyn Carr feels she has to continue portraying violent acts against women likes this in 2 out of her first 3 books. I haven't read her first book and don't intend too; plus I don't plan on reading anymore of her books!!!

I am so in love with this series, with each and every additional book that comes along, it just make me feel like I've come home again.

This, the third book in the series, is the most powerful yet. When characters were lost, I felt as if I'd lost a friend of my own. When babies were born, I was right there feeling the joy in the birthing room. Robyn Carr has the ability to write people, and places with real soul, and most deal with real life issues. Her books are very romantic, but not too steamy where you feel like you're reading a porno.. Everyone in this town has very strong family values, with support and respect for our police and military. But the people are also fun and the characters are very believable. Believe me, the more you read in this series, the more you come to feel like you're part of this warm friendly community.

Jack's youngest sister, Brie suffers a horrible trauma and with Mike's help comes to Virgin River to heal emotionally. With Mike's patience, devotion, understanding, and love, he helps Brie to trust and love again.

I would highly recommend this book, as well as the whole 'Virgin River Series' to everyone!

One of Jack Sherdian's buddies, Mike Valenzuela, an LA cop, moves to Virgin River to recover after being shot in the line of duty. When Jack's sister Brie is brutally assaulted, she goes to Virgin River to recover, as well, and finds comfort with Mike, who helps her regain her sense of self and security. She is wary, however, of becoming romantically involved with him because of his playboy past and string of failed marriages.

I enjoyed visiting Virgin River again, even though some parts of this book dragged a little, particularly when Mike becomes the informal sheriff and gets to know the law enforcement of the surrounding towns. The subplot about a teen date rapist is also a little slow at times (and what's with all the rape, anyway?). But as with the first two books, the characters are wonderful. Also, I felt Brie and Mike generate more chemistry than the couples in the first two books, although one big aspect of their relationship (explained below) seemed unauthentic.

SPOILER
My main complaint about this book is that after Brie and Mike have unprotected sex, they agree it'd be great to have a baby. Their flippancy seems very unrealistic--and unhealthy. A baby is probably the last thing two people recovering from trauma need at the beginning of a relationship.

In this third installment to the tales of the ever-growing town of Virgin River we focus on Mike and Brie. Mike Valenzuela, former Marine was shot in the book two while on duty with the LAPD and retired, nurses Jack Sheridan's sister, Brie, back to health physically and mentally after a harrowing experience shortly after her divorce. The spark that was present in book two is kindled gently in this story.

While Mike and Brie are the main focus of Whispering Rock we still learn plenty more about Jack and Mel's story as well as Preacher and Paige's plus a few others are revisited and introduced. That is one of the things I really like about the Virgin River books so far - while there is a main couple of focus you still get to visit and learn plenty about the other citizens of Virgin River, yet it doesn't feel too tangential. This book was no different. We even got to see some further growth in Jack and Preacher.

If you enjoy small town romances with a bit of drama and maybe even a sprinkle of action this is a worthy series to try on. I will definitely continue to work my way through the series after this one.

Brie Sheraton, Jack's sister, has come to the safety and familiarity of Virgin River to heal from a brutal attack by a crazed,
revenge-seeking criminal.

Mike Valenzuela is a decorated marine reservist and is now an LAPD officer who was badly injured in the line of duty. He heads to Virgin River to recuperate. He is twice divorced and a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy...with sex on the brain. But now...he wants the love of a good woman, commitment, and the proverbial happily ever after that his Marine buddies have.

While in Virgin River he runs into Brie, who he has met before. Mike is ready to do whatever it takes to help Brie heal and move forward.

I highly recommend this book. It has a terrific story line and well developed character.

At the end of Shelter Mountain (Virgin River, Book 2), former LAPD officer Mike Valenzuela had retired from active duty after being injured in a shooting. Mike retreated to Virgin River, the home of two of his former Marine buddies, Jack and Preacher, to get well. Things were slow goings for Mike in the beginning, he was in agonizing pain and it took him months of physical therapy to regain his former strength. At the same time Mike is getting better, Jack's sister Brie, an assistant district attorney in Sacramento, also comes to Virgin River for some healing. Brie's just found that her husband has been cheating on her with her best friend, and that he wants a divorce. All of this comes on the heels of losing her biggest case, and knowing that her failure means a serial rapist is walking the streets again. At the end of Shelter Mountain, these two lost souls begin to form a connection in this small California town, and Whispering Rock continues their story.

When this book begins, Mike is on his way to visit his family in Los Angeles when Jack calls to ask a favor. Brie has been raped by the criminal she failed to convict, and she's in a trauma unit in Sacramento. Without forethought, Mike goes to her. It's an instinct, and one whose origins he doesn't explore--he just acts. When Mike sees Brie broken and bloodied in the hospital he's drawn to her, and over the following months he works hard to help her recover from the trauma. Through visits in Sacramento and Virgin River, these two form a connection--one that even Jack can't break with his protective brotherly instincts.

Whispering Rock is the third book in the Virgin River (Virgin River, Book 1) series, and wraps the story up nicely. Robyn Carr did a great job in this series of making you get wrapped up in the characters and their lives. I cared about the people in this little town and I rooted for them. The same is true of Whispering Rock. Mike and Brie are in the earlier stories, but this is the first time their characters are fully fleshed out. I love the Virgin River heroes, all former Marines, they're all alpha male protective and strong husband material. They take care of their women, which is outlined clearly in every story, and they protect their own. All of them are shattered by what happens to Brie, and everyone pitches in a little to help her heal. I also love the Virgin River heroines, though, because while they'll never need to fight for themselves (their men are more than happy to do it for them), they all could if it came down to it. They are strong, independent women who deserve every ounce of love that's showered upon them by these heroes. This series was fulfilling from start to finish, and there weren't really any B-team players among them, which is a rarity. Now I can't wait for A Virgin River Christmas (Virgin River, Book 4) to be released this fall.

Miguel "Mike" Valenzuela has almost made a complete one hundred percent recovery from his violent run in with some of LA's worst gangbangers when Jack's sister, Brie is brutally attacked. Brie recovers from her brutal rape but finds herself lost and adrift in a frightening world where she no longer feels safe. Being the victim of a violent crime himself, Mike is able to reach Brie and guide her out of her despair in a way none of her well meaning but suffocating family members was able. Together these two lost souls learn to live and love, having found each other in the wonderful place that is Virgin River.

Get out your appointment book and set up your yearly mammogram. Trust me.

Another beautiful, warm and bittersweet addition to the Virgin River series. Our spotlight couple, Mike and Brie go through a realistic courtship and her recovery was slow and painstaking. Whispering Rock should be dedicated to victims of sexual assault for it chronicles their emotions in amazing and dignified detail. Brie is not the only victim in this story and Robyn Carr created a scarily all too real fictional account of the horrors and betrayal of high school rape. Because the subject matter in this story is so sad, the humor in Whispering Rock while prevalent, is bittersweet. Take your joy while you can because life can turn on you in an instant. Love and babies, and death and tragedy go hand in hand in this story and though sometimes it hurt to continue, this was such a worthwhile story and should not be missed.

3.5 stars for this book--it's a solid addition to the series. This particular book is about Bree and Mike but I caution readers that like all of Robyn Carr's books, it's not so much a romance focused and centered around one couple as it is an ungoing tale of the town of Virgin River as a whole. This means a lot of the extended stories of old characters, and the introduction of brand new ones. Personally I like this, but it's something to be aware of.

Bree, a prosecuting attorney, is just getting over her divorce and the loss of a major case when tragedy strikes her yet again. She's brutally attacked by a criminal she tried to put in prison. Mike, a close family friend, is himself barely recovered from a shooting that nearly killed him. Mike is already half in love with Bree when he sets himself to the task of helping her heal and move on. Their romance is sweet and touching.

I really love all of the characters in this little world that Carr has created. Each is unique in personality, amusing in their own way, and easy to relate to. The characters are what draw readers in and keep them reading. The plot of this book is not tremendously exciting and there are no surprises. Yet it's an uplifting, fulfilling read.

The Virgin River Series has captivated me from the first sentence of book 1 Virgin River through the last sentence of Book 3 Whispering Rock. I feel like I KNOW these people. Each of them has become "important" to me in some small way, and I can't wait to hear all their stories.

This book is dedicated to Mike Valenzuela and Brie Sheridan.....sort of. One of this series greatest strengths and/or weaknesses is Carr's ability to keep ALL the characters from past, present, and future involved in the story line. There were times that I was so excited to "catch up" with Jack/Mel, Preacher/Paige, Rick, and all the other townspeople, but I was somewhat disappointed that Brie and Mike didn't get more time front and center. This was supposed to be THEIR book!

Despite this minor complaint, I continue to recommend this series wholeheartedly. This book tackles tough issues just as the previous books have. There is an abundance of emotions in this book, and I was moved to tears several times. Carr continues to introduce new characters who will perhaps get books of their own. I for one will be the first in line when they come out!

FYI.....PLEASE READ THEM IN ORDER! They are really not "stand alones".

Rating: 2.5 stars __Contains explicit graphic sexual content
Note: WARNING: Continued story. 3rd in the Virgin River series.

EASY READ. Engaging storyline with a nice small town feel, spectacular setting, empathetic characters, a strong family theme, and a difficult relationship between the hero and heroine. HOWEVER, the writing is fragmented, multiple storylines continues from previous books with an increasingly bland supporting casts, the vocabulary is limited, some awkward phrasing, a lot of sexual content, the low-key romance lacks chemistry, the story just drags in places, and the plot includes a somewhat depressing teen sexual exploitation drama.

THE STORY revolves around divorced, powerhouse LA prosecutor, Brie Sheridan, and ex-marine, and former LAPD gang unit officer, Mike Valenzuela. As the story opens, Mike is almost fully recovered from multiple gunshot wounds when he receives news that Brie has been viciously beaten and raped. After she is released from the hospital, she is withdrawn and afraid to leave the house. Having been the victim of a violent crime himself, Mike recognizes her need to feel safe and protected and is determined to help her feel that way again. He slowly coaxes her into going on outings and eventually convinces her to trust herself, overcome her fear, and with his help, plan for a future together.

OVERALL, engaging, but depressing storyline, so-so characters. The VIRGIN RIVER series includes 20 novels and short stories organized into at least five subseries. This first subseries includes, Virgin River, Shelter Mountain, Whispering Rock, and A Virgin River Christmas.

You may also enjoy the complex characters and storytelling of N. Bruhns, A. Stuart, or E. Palfrey. For sweet, funny, heart touching romances with great descriptive, try Susan Fox, Cara Colter, or Dixie Browning.

With Whispering Rock Carr shows how life in a perfect, peaceful small town isn’t always quite so perfect. She develops a deeply heartfelt and emotionally gripping novel that also deals with the darker side of life. Death makes way for new life and love is the road to recovery from so many difficulties and disasters. The plot of this novel kept me on pins and needles. Carr also developed beautiful scenery for her loveable characters to live amidst. She makes everything easy to picture, drawing you into not only the town but also the lives of the characters.

I loved getting to know Mike and Brie on this whole new level. The way that Carr draws readers into the lives of her entire cast while also highlighting the main characters is phenomenal. I really get the feel for the entire town this way. There are also so many heroes to fall in love with (and believe me, they are all heroes in their own way) and women to hang out with that I feel as if I’ve truly been there.

Whispering Rock may just be my favourite Virgin River novel so far (and since I’ve read the series out of order, I’ve read many more than just 3 of them). It is a fantastic read for those looking for a romance with substance and real people to get to know.

So I took a break after listening to Shelter Mountain. But with all the new year challenges going on, decided to do use this series as my Series That Never Ends Challenge. There are so many books in the series, and I have quite far to go. So with the New Year upon us, I dived back into Virgin River.

This ended up being another "theme" book. This time the theme was something much, much more emotional and much darker than maternity. It dealt with sexual assault in several forms. Normally I don't like to give a major spoiler like this away, but I think that there should be a warning on this one as it is a hot button topic for many people. I will say that the author did a fabulous job of being sensitive and realistic with showing how something like rape doesn't just affect the victim, but everyone in their sphere of influence. A good narrator would be critical in keeping a storyline like this one compassionate and sympathetic. Thérèse Plummer continues to do a fabulous job with the inhabitants of Virgin River.

I liked that we continue to keep the strong sense of community in the book. Some characters weren't mentioned as much as from the second, but since Melinda & Jack were deeply connected to Mike and Bree, their story continues to play out as well. Even though this book dealt with a very volatile and sensitive subject it was handled well and I finished the book well satisfied with the journey. I am giving this 4 stars.

I am not a big fan of books that fall into the Romance category, but when it comes to the people and place of Virgin River, I just love them.

It is a place that is too good to be true, the people are too good to be true and yet it is a place that you wish was true.

Mike Valenzuela was introduced in the previous book so it was no surprise that book three would be centered around him and his new found importance to Virgin River and more specifically to Brie Sheridan.

Mike was a wounded Los Angles police office that had come to Virgin River to heal both mentally and physically. He found a home there and when he received a call from his good friend that Brie, a Sacramento prosecutor, was attacked and gravely injured by a sadist that she was unsuccessful in prosecuting, Mike was the first to the hospital.

Brie has closed herself off, there are some things that a strong and vibrant woman can have a hard time with and what was done to her has left scares. Mike is not going to give up, he has been helped and now it is his turn to reach out no matter that she is not reaching back.

This is not all that is going on; Mike has also been asked to be the local police presence in this little hamlet. There is a creeping drug presence and young women are coming forward with stories of bruising and pregnancies that they cannot account for.

This is a time for healing and new beginnings in Virgin River. It is about trust and opening your heart. It is about reaching out and hoping that one day, someone will reach back.

From the description of this book I really expected it to be more about Mike and Brie. As with all of the books in this series so far there are many storylines going on at once. And that's okay. Ms Carr seems to be very adept at keeping them all juggled and the pacing going. I was actually pleasant surprise that we got so much Paul in this book.

First, the Brie/Mike angle. It was great that the women in Jack's life didn't let him forget his past when he wanted them all to remember Mike's. Too often in these types of series, the author will forget that the hero in book one was flawed and he'll end up being written as too upstanding for the rest of the books. Not so here and it was refreshing. Of course, being a book and not an epic 2000 page novel things were put on a little fast forward, but I still think Brie's rape and the aftermath were handled wonderfully.

As for the Paul story...possible spoilers in this paragraph. My husband was in the Navy for 10 years. I used to tell him if the chaplain came to our door I wouldn't answer...as long as I didn't let him in he couldn't give me bad news. With the way Paul & Vanessa were with each other, I knew what was coming. As soon as I read that they "got the phone call" and closed the bar I had to put the book down because I was sobbing. And if I didn't read on I wouldn't read the bad news. That showed me how much the residents of this small town have really wormed their way into my heart.

That being said, I'm really looking first to the Paul/Vanessa story. I think it will be beautiful, sweet and heart wrenching.

This is the third book in the virgin river series. Jack Sheridan baby sister has gotten rape by a rapist she prosecuted and got away. Mike Jack marine buddy continues building a relationship with her being there for her after the rape. This is the major love story in this book.Jack and Mel are pregnant again and the first baby is only five months she's upset but eventually gets over it. Vanessa and Paul are introduce Vanessa being one of Jack marine friends (matt)and Paul being in the best friend of matt finds himself in love with Vanessa(Matt's wife) made it it known to Jack a night he was drunk that he saw Vanessa first but Matt was the one who went and spoke to her first. In this book Rick the young boy who worked in the bar and whose baby dies and then go off to the marine is featured again here during his graduation. I truly love how brie and Mike friendship transition from hanging out to the building of love for each other how I like the many deep talks they had about their past relationships. I like that they both got their second chance to find love in Mike case third time to be a husband. A wonderful read and of course I like the continuing saga of Mel and Jack Paige and preacher ,can never get enough of the main and original characters. Thoroughly enjoyable novel.

Again, this is the second book I have read of Robyn Carr's where it opens with the main character having been beaten and raped. Then it continues with a chapter about an underage teen who has been drugged and rape at a party. I am not reading this any further. I wonder what the reason is that Robyn Carr feels she has to continue portraying violent acts against women likes this in 2 out of her first 3 books. I haven't read her first book and don't intend too; plus I don't plan on reading anymore of her books!!!

I am so in love with this series, with each and every additional book that comes along, it just make me feel like I've come home again.

This, the third book in the series, is the most powerful yet. When characters were lost, I felt as if I'd lost a friend of my own. When babies were born, I was right there feeling the joy in the birthing room. Robyn Carr has the ability to write people, and places with real soul, and most deal with real life issues. Her books are very romantic, but not too steamy where you feel like you're reading a porno.. Everyone in this town has very strong family values, with support and respect for our police and military. But the people are also fun and the characters are very believable. Believe me, the more you read in this series, the more you come to feel like you're part of this warm friendly community.

Jack's youngest sister, Brie suffers a horrible trauma and with Mike's help comes to Virgin River to heal emotionally. With Mike's patience, devotion, understanding, and love, he helps Brie to trust and love again.

I would highly recommend this book, as well as the whole 'Virgin River Series' to everyone!

One of Jack Sherdian's buddies, Mike Valenzuela, an LA cop, moves to Virgin River to recover after being shot in the line of duty. When Jack's sister Brie is brutally assaulted, she goes to Virgin River to recover, as well, and finds comfort with Mike, who helps her regain her sense of self and security. She is wary, however, of becoming romantically involved with him because of his playboy past and string of failed marriages.

I enjoyed visiting Virgin River again, even though some parts of this book dragged a little, particularly when Mike becomes the informal sheriff and gets to know the law enforcement of the surrounding towns. The subplot about a teen date rapist is also a little slow at times (and what's with all the rape, anyway?). But as with the first two books, the characters are wonderful. Also, I felt Brie and Mike generate more chemistry than the couples in the first two books, although one big aspect of their relationship (explained below) seemed unauthentic.

SPOILER
My main complaint about this book is that after Brie and Mike have unprotected sex, they agree it'd be great to have a baby. Their flippancy seems very unrealistic--and unhealthy. A baby is probably the last thing two people recovering from trauma need at the beginning of a relationship.

In this third installment to the tales of the ever-growing town of Virgin River we focus on Mike and Brie. Mike Valenzuela, former Marine was shot in the book two while on duty with the LAPD and retired, nurses Jack Sheridan's sister, Brie, back to health physically and mentally after a harrowing experience shortly after her divorce. The spark that was present in book two is kindled gently in this story.

While Mike and Brie are the main focus of Whispering Rock we still learn plenty more about Jack and Mel's story as well as Preacher and Paige's plus a few others are revisited and introduced. That is one of the things I really like about the Virgin River books so far - while there is a main couple of focus you still get to visit and learn plenty about the other citizens of Virgin River, yet it doesn't feel too tangential. This book was no different. We even got to see some further growth in Jack and Preacher.

If you enjoy small town romances with a bit of drama and maybe even a sprinkle of action this is a worthy series to try on. I will definitely continue to work my way through the series after this one.

Brie Sheraton, Jack's sister, has come to the safety and familiarity of Virgin River to heal from a brutal attack by a crazed,
revenge-seeking criminal.

Mike Valenzuela is a decorated marine reservist and is now an LAPD officer who was badly injured in the line of duty. He heads to Virgin River to recuperate. He is twice divorced and a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy...with sex on the brain. But now...he wants the love of a good woman, commitment, and the proverbial happily ever after that his Marine buddies have.

While in Virgin River he runs into Brie, who he has met before. Mike is ready to do whatever it takes to help Brie heal and move forward.

I highly recommend this book. It has a terrific story line and well developed character.

At the end of Shelter Mountain (Virgin River, Book 2), former LAPD officer Mike Valenzuela had retired from active duty after being injured in a shooting. Mike retreated to Virgin River, the home of two of his former Marine buddies, Jack and Preacher, to get well. Things were slow goings for Mike in the beginning, he was in agonizing pain and it took him months of physical therapy to regain his former strength. At the same time Mike is getting better, Jack's sister Brie, an assistant district attorney in Sacramento, also comes to Virgin River for some healing. Brie's just found that her husband has been cheating on her with her best friend, and that he wants a divorce. All of this comes on the heels of losing her biggest case, and knowing that her failure means a serial rapist is walking the streets again. At the end of Shelter Mountain, these two lost souls begin to form a connection in this small California town, and Whispering Rock continues their story.

When this book begins, Mike is on his way to visit his family in Los Angeles when Jack calls to ask a favor. Brie has been raped by the criminal she failed to convict, and she's in a trauma unit in Sacramento. Without forethought, Mike goes to her. It's an instinct, and one whose origins he doesn't explore--he just acts. When Mike sees Brie broken and bloodied in the hospital he's drawn to her, and over the following months he works hard to help her recover from the trauma. Through visits in Sacramento and Virgin River, these two form a connection--one that even Jack can't break with his protective brotherly instincts.

Whispering Rock is the third book in the Virgin River (Virgin River, Book 1) series, and wraps the story up nicely. Robyn Carr did a great job in this series of making you get wrapped up in the characters and their lives. I cared about the people in this little town and I rooted for them. The same is true of Whispering Rock. Mike and Brie are in the earlier stories, but this is the first time their characters are fully fleshed out. I love the Virgin River heroes, all former Marines, they're all alpha male protective and strong husband material. They take care of their women, which is outlined clearly in every story, and they protect their own. All of them are shattered by what happens to Brie, and everyone pitches in a little to help her heal. I also love the Virgin River heroines, though, because while they'll never need to fight for themselves (their men are more than happy to do it for them), they all could if it came down to it. They are strong, independent women who deserve every ounce of love that's showered upon them by these heroes. This series was fulfilling from start to finish, and there weren't really any B-team players among them, which is a rarity. Now I can't wait for A Virgin River Christmas (Virgin River, Book 4) to be released this fall.

Miguel "Mike" Valenzuela has almost made a complete one hundred percent recovery from his violent run in with some of LA's worst gangbangers when Jack's sister, Brie is brutally attacked. Brie recovers from her brutal rape but finds herself lost and adrift in a frightening world where she no longer feels safe. Being the victim of a violent crime himself, Mike is able to reach Brie and guide her out of her despair in a way none of her well meaning but suffocating family members was able. Together these two lost souls learn to live and love, having found each other in the wonderful place that is Virgin River.

Get out your appointment book and set up your yearly mammogram. Trust me.

Another beautiful, warm and bittersweet addition to the Virgin River series. Our spotlight couple, Mike and Brie go through a realistic courtship and her recovery was slow and painstaking. Whispering Rock should be dedicated to victims of sexual assault for it chronicles their emotions in amazing and dignified detail. Brie is not the only victim in this story and Robyn Carr created a scarily all too real fictional account of the horrors and betrayal of high school rape. Because the subject matter in this story is so sad, the humor in Whispering Rock while prevalent, is bittersweet. Take your joy while you can because life can turn on you in an instant. Love and babies, and death and tragedy go hand in hand in this story and though sometimes it hurt to continue, this was such a worthwhile story and should not be missed.

3.5 stars for this book--it's a solid addition to the series. This particular book is about Bree and Mike but I caution readers that like all of Robyn Carr's books, it's not so much a romance focused and centered around one couple as it is an ungoing tale of the town of Virgin River as a whole. This means a lot of the extended stories of old characters, and the introduction of brand new ones. Personally I like this, but it's something to be aware of.

Bree, a prosecuting attorney, is just getting over her divorce and the loss of a major case when tragedy strikes her yet again. She's brutally attacked by a criminal she tried to put in prison. Mike, a close family friend, is himself barely recovered from a shooting that nearly killed him. Mike is already half in love with Bree when he sets himself to the task of helping her heal and move on. Their romance is sweet and touching.

I really love all of the characters in this little world that Carr has created. Each is unique in personality, amusing in their own way, and easy to relate to. The characters are what draw readers in and keep them reading. The plot of this book is not tremendously exciting and there are no surprises. Yet it's an uplifting, fulfilling read.

The Virgin River Series has captivated me from the first sentence of book 1 Virgin River through the last sentence of Book 3 Whispering Rock. I feel like I KNOW these people. Each of them has become "important" to me in some small way, and I can't wait to hear all their stories.

This book is dedicated to Mike Valenzuela and Brie Sheridan.....sort of. One of this series greatest strengths and/or weaknesses is Carr's ability to keep ALL the characters from past, present, and future involved in the story line. There were times that I was so excited to "catch up" with Jack/Mel, Preacher/Paige, Rick, and all the other townspeople, but I was somewhat disappointed that Brie and Mike didn't get more time front and center. This was supposed to be THEIR book!

Despite this minor complaint, I continue to recommend this series wholeheartedly. This book tackles tough issues just as the previous books have. There is an abundance of emotions in this book, and I was moved to tears several times. Carr continues to introduce new characters who will perhaps get books of their own. I for one will be the first in line when they come out!

FYI.....PLEASE READ THEM IN ORDER! They are really not "stand alones".

After being injured on the job, womanizer and twice divorced LAPD officer Mike Valenzuela recuperates in the Redwoods town Virgin River, where his Marine buddies Jack Sheridan (see VIRGIN RIVER) and Marine John "Preacher" Middleton (see SHELTER MOUNTAIN) own a bar and grill. His plan is simple, heal and return to work. However, everything changes with one phone call from Jack; his district attorney sister Brie was brutally raped by Jerome Powell, who she tried to recently prosecute for violent crimes, but lost.

Though frightened Brie physically heals but emotionally is off her game. However, she knows that and vows to see that Powell goes to prison as she refuses to take crap from this a-hole. Meanwhile Mike seems to always be there for her. As Mike becomes the Virgin River police, he and Brie fall in love in spite of their marital failures.

The third and final Virgin River tale is a wonderful compassionate romantic suspense with the focus being on Brie, recovering from the rape. As with the previous thrillers, the story line intelligently handles a traumatic social issue that becomes very personal when it happens to you. Robyn Carr provides a great final to one of the best insightful character driven sagas of the year as these real people struggle with harrowing personal problems caused by brutes intruding, in this case physically leading to mentally, into their lives.

Harriet Klausner

A wonderful mix of interesting characters, stories continued from Shelter Mountain, a sweet and patient romance, recovery from life threatening situations for both Mike & Brie, a sweet teenage romance between Tom & Brenda, an excruciating loss for Vanessa, Preacher celebrating Ovulation Day, all the marines in town for hunting and building Mel & Rick’s house, and a few other surprises. Many funny scenes in this one and a few heartbreakers. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Love, love, love this series.
There is an incredible connection to each and every character, so much so, that they feel like family. The characters from the first and each continuing book still hold prominence and are not forgotten. So, each book becomes better and better.
I adore the peaceful setting and everything else about this series.
This story had me searching for the Kleenex.

After a shooting left him disabled and unable to do the job he so loved, Detective Mike Valenzuela came to Virgin River to regroup. Finding sanctuary in small town, Mike was able to start healing. Though married and divorced twice, Mike begins to realize what is missing from his life when he seems his friends with their wives. Seeing their contentment, Mike can only hope that he will one day feel the same. He hopes that he can convince Brie Sheridan, Jack's sister to take a chance on him. His hopes are dashed when Brie is brutally attacked in her home.

Brie Sheridan thought her life was near perfect. With a husband she adored and a job she loved, Brie felt like she could do anything. Then her husband left her for her best friend and she lost the first case of her career. When she is brutally attacked by the man whom she couldn't put away, Brie comes out a different woman. Having panic attacks and nightmares, Brie has no idea how she'll ever get any normalcy back in her life.

WHISPERING HEIGHTS is the third in the Virgin River series. After seeing Brie in the previous two books, it is shocking to see her as a victim. Carr did a spectacular job of depicting Brie as a believable victim. She really showed how a tragedy like that affects not just the victim, but the whole family. Jack struggled with his inability to help Brie cope, which in turn affected his relationship with Mel. There were several more storylines introduced with new characters as well as characters that we've briefly met. I am really looking forward to the next installment in this series. Carr is now on my auto-buy list!

What a wonderful place Virgin River is. Where ex-Marines flock to find themselves a little woman and settle down. Where tough, but chivalrous men like hunting, smoking cigars, and waxing poetic about a good pregnant belly on the women in their lives. Where everyone knows each other, and they all congregate at the local bar for dinner. Where women shop at the corner store, watch soaps together, cook potluck meals, and rally aound each other in hard times. I so want to go live there.

This is the third installment in the Virgin River Series. The story mostly centers around Brie, who is Jack's Sister, and Mike, who is Jack's former Marine buddy. Brie is a lawyer who was working a rape case and the guy was not convicted. Once free, he ended up assaulting Brie. Mike is a former Marine and retired Cop after being shot on the job a year prior. Brie's spirits are wounded and shaky not just from her assault & rape, but her husband left her and divorced her just before the trial she was working. Mike was already married twice and has a reputation for being a player. The two find solace in each other's company and start spending time together, much to Jack's displeasure.

There are other story lines in this book involving some of the older characters and a few of the new. The recurring characters in these books are not just a cameo appearance, their stories are continuing along with what is presently happeneing in their lives, babies, illness, etc. The other stories are just as captivating, and it appears some of the new characters are set up to be the subjects one of the books to follow.

There are some other series-style books when you can drop into a series out of order and read the books as a stand-alone. This is not really the case with Virgin River. There are so many characters and so much backstory by the time you get to this third book I really think to totally get it, you should read them in order. But don't worry this series is so good reading them all will not feel like doing homework. This series is great and will get you from the first book and you will WANT to read them all.

Overall great story, believeable romance. I read once in another review somewhere that the women of Virgin River don't HAVE to defend themselves because their chivalrous Alpha Man are there to protect them, but you get the feeling if they had to these women could hold their own, and I totally agree. The women in these books are stong females, I like these characters a lot. Still dreaming of moving there and bringing something to the potluck...

Robyn Carr is a new author for me and I have just finished her Virgin River Trilogy. The three books chronicle the lives and loves of various residents and incomers to the village of Virgin River, their highs, lows, frustrations, achievements and relationships. I live in a small village myself so I appreciate how she draws together these various strands and shows just how interdependent people in small, isolated villages can be. Living this way often means that you are very close to your neighbours but, particularly as in this third instalment, you can't escape the influences that come from outside: the drugs, crimes, national affairs (in this case Iraq) that sometimes cause tragedy in paradise.

The plots in these three books are tightly woven and there are funny, happy, sad and frighening episodes in them all. I don't want to go over the plot for this book because, although it could stand alone, it seemed to me to be a transitional book because it brought to conclusion the issues facing some of the previous characters and introduced new ones to us. It also kept a few off stage, waiting, no doubt, for a reappearance.

It's not often I wish a trilogy was more than that - rather I'd like it to be a series that would carry on a little further and I think that perhaps Robyn Carr has set up the makings of further stories involving some of the characters in this book.

I recommend these books very highly. I found them satisfyingly good reads and read them quickly, one after the other. Excellent portrayals of small town life with likeable, well developed characters.

Ok before I get "Are you crazy?" comments, let me explain my rating.

I'm not, nor really ever have been the type to enjoy books that go back and forth, and from story to story...but I DID like this book. I know I started with the 3rd in the series (the store didn't have the previous 2), and I know that when I read the others I'll enjoy knowing that Carr likes to keep all her storylines going by keeping you up to date with how everyone is doing...

I do have to say that I never did feel lost, even though I know I misssed a couple books which says to me that Carr must be a heck of a writer. The one thing I didn't like was the fact that the "main" story didn't get enough air time, which I know isn't possible in a series like this because there's so much going on with the family and their stories.

So yes I'll keep reading and I'm excited about catching up to this point and finishing the series!

This book continues the stories of many of the favorite characters introduced in the previous books "Virgin River" and "Shelter Mountain" and adds a few memorable new ones.

Former Marine and restaurant/bar owner Jack Sheridan and his midwife/
nurse practitioner wife Mel are now building a huge new house for their growing family. Best buddy, former Marine and now chef John "Preacher" Middleton and his new bride Paige are running Jack's restaurant and are desperate to have a baby of their own.
But the main focus of the book is the tender love story between Jack's former Marine buddy Mike Valenzuela and Jack's little sister and Sacramento attorney Brie.

Brie suffers a horrible trauma and with Mike's help comes to Virgin River to heal emotionally. With Mike's patience, devotion, understanding, and love, he helps Brie to trust and love again.

There are some subplots in the book; the most significant ones being a teenage serial rapist that former cop Mike has a hand in investigating, and also a sad turn when another Marine buddy is killed in Iraq, leaving behind a distraught pregnant wife and a best friend from Oregon who both grieve him. (Possibly a set-up for a future book?)

A lot of detailed everyday life is told in this book (births, deaths, celebrations, etc.)--it makes you feel as if you know these characters and the town of Virgin River personally.
I loved all three books equally-it would be hard to pick a favorite. They all brought tears of sadness and joy to my eyes. These were probably the best books I've read so far this year! I do suggest reading them in order for the most enjoyment. (Virgin River, Shelter Mountain, Whispering Rock) Highly recommended--5 stars!

Brie and Mikes story was expected but what happened to Brie was shocking after going to trial against this crazy man and then almost killed was tough but the emotional recovery was worse. but Mike was determined to help her through it one day at a time

I have read three of the books in this series and for the most part, enjoyed them. My pet peeve is the unrealistic portrayal of all the main male characters being wonderful lovers, thoughtful, caring, hoping-to-be-fathers, and able to read their gal's mind. C'mon, that's not real life!! Don't get me wrong, I like the story line where there isn't much mystery, just a nice quiet routine life, but all the lovey-dovey, over-the-top sex gets kinda old. I will probably read more of the books in this series after I take a break. I may find that there aren't better books available to me right now.

Oh how I love this Virgin River series from Robyn Carr. This is the 3rd book and it's a winner as usual. Do try to read them in order if at all possible.
This series makes me feel as if these characters in the books are old friends. It's a joy and privilege for me to read them. Thank you Ms. Carr for the entertainment.

It's amazing how fast you can become attached to characters. From the previous book, I really liked and felt for Brie. So when I read what happened on the first few pages of this one...talk about all the feels. Anger and a few tears hit for sure and I was totally sucked in until the end.

Rape is the underlying theme for this book, and you will also see several instances of teenage date rape in this story. Brie was brutally raped by a serial rapist and I think she would not be able to have a physical relationship with a man without some sort of therapy and time. Seems like Brie didn't need either one to hook up with Mike. One thing you'll notice about the Virgin River stories is that the men are all amazing in bed. Seriously? Can't at least one guy have some trouble? And all the women are able to achieve things that seem impossible with these macho men....How about an off night for a change? Be prepared to put aside any realism as you read this book

I love this series and this book. The story of Brie and Mike really hooked me and was sensitively presented. It is also wonderful that the characters from the previous books are woven into the storyline in meaningful, in depth ways....not as asides. I'm hoping this trend continues. Jack and Mel, Preacher and Paige, Rick and Liz all have stories here, picking up from where their lives left off inShelter Mountain. The community spirit of Virgin River is alive and thriving in this story.

On to the next in the series!

I like happy stories! This one had too much grief in it for me. Although the writing is excellent, I prefer suspense over grief. This one introduced many more characters, too. The quote from the book sums it nicely, "This little dinky place full of big trees and pretty rivers ..., and people are performing heroic acts and living out these huge dramas. Every day."

I listened to the audio version of this book. Very nice story and it continues to update you on all the residents of Virgin River that have been introduced in books one and two. Robyn Carr's writing make you feel like you are right there with them in the town and now the residents. I just read A Virgin River Christmas which the time line is about the middle of this book. If you have not read any of the Virgin River books and have the Kindle go for the bundle of books 1-4 for [...]Virgin River books 1-4

I thoroughly enjoy the family gatherings around Virgin River and Grass Valley - All I can say is more - more please.

Mike "Miquel" Valenzuela, 37 has shown up next in the trilogy - he is from LAPD of the gangs division.
Brie Sheridan [must be after the divorce]31, is Jack's baby sister who was married to Brad, a cop. Brie herself being a proscuting attorney.
Brad doesn't know what he lost.

She lost her case in proscuting Powell, a seriel rapist. Then he nailed her leaving Brie traumitized. When he is caught Brad tries to use the information to his advantage. He wants Brie back. Sucker!

We get a very close glimpse of Preacher and Paige - and his outspokenness with his Marine buddies. What a chuckle.

Hope offers Mike a job, that of being an investigative lawman for Virgin River - It also intails his calling the County Sheriff in case of a serious crime.

Mel ends up with a couple of girls who she suspects are victims of a date rape drug and reports this to Mike who starts to narrow the list of suspects. Sue & Doug Carpenter's daughter, Brenda, 16, was pregnant and couldn't remember it happening.

You should hear Mel start to sputter when she finds out she is pregnant again, apparently David wasn't just a miracle baby, but the beginning of fertility. [her "snip, snips" were totally uncalled for, he! he!] Jack was just doing his job. Ah, but now he will offer Mel a surprise - he calls Paul Haggerty, his fellow Marine, down from Oregon to hurry up and finish off the new house.

Paul was the best man at Matt Rutledge's marriage to Vanessa Booth.
Van was very much pregnant - she has moved in with her father and brother, Walt, a retired 3 Star Army General and Tom. Walt had purchased a ranch for his and Tom's horses.
Tom is still in high school and being the new kid on the block, he struck up a friendship with Jordan Whitley, who was a partying guy.

Tom also met Brenda and started dating her. Zack Hadley, a teacher was questioned by Mike and they became friendly with a common cause.

Now here is Walt Booth with a terminally ill younger sister, Midge who is being taken care of by her daughter, Shelby living in Bodega Bay. Now I am thinking - hey, here is a woman for Paul - that was before everything went to pot. I was also expecting Dan to show up - ah well, he was a no-show.

What a great third book to the Virgin River Trilogy -- It will be hard to wait for the November "Virgin River Christmas".
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED -m - Definitely a keeper for my shelves.

The Virgin River Series is fun reading for anyone who likes romance. There are many books within the series allowing you to get to know the characters. Yes, it is predictable as all romance novels are. Robyn Carr does a great job of making each story different and interesting.

I have read all the books in the Virgin River series and I love this one the best. I can't tell you how many times I have re-read it. Mike Valenzuela is strong, patient, kind & the man we all could love. Even though Mel is a victim in this book she is also strong & understanding. If you have not read any of the other books in this series I highly recommend you read this one.

I really enjoy books that when you are reading them they make you feel like your right there in the story! They make you feel that you know each person in the story and I love that. It's a great series and I'm glad there are several books in it, thank you Robyn Carr!!!

You need to read it in order. One of the things I love best about the series is that it keeps involving previous characters as it introduces new ones. These are sweet romance novels with laughter & tears, twists & turns. You can't ask for more in an escape novel!

I love all of the Virgin River series. That said, I have one major problem with this book. You should not write dialogue in another language without getting someone who is actually fluent to proofread what you have written. Word to the wise, the Spanish dialogue is really, really poorly done!! Other than that one issue, I love the characters and the relationships that develop. If I could, I would move to Virgin River.

This is not a review of the books but a comment on two series by Robyn Carr. I've read the first four of the Virgin River series and have two on order. I've read 3 of the Grace Valley series.

I found these books very enjoyable and worth reading. I'll keep these around to read a second, third and fourth time. I do this with books that I rate highly.

I have read this entire series on my Kindle. I ordered this to complete the set I have piece mealed together for my Mom to read. Definitely recommend Robyn Carr books and I LOVE the Virgin River series. I read them in order and enjoyed all of them.

I read all three back to back, that's probably why this one didn't wrench me as much as the second one. Still, it's a very emotional story - incredibly written. Robyn has really outdone herself in taking her characters on a realistic journey to find love.
I really felt like I knew these people and I really hope we get a chance to visit them again. Soon.

Ms Carr presents a wonderful storyline with real characters you want to care about.I hope there are more to come. Want to see what happens with Mike, Brie, Preacher and Paige. A romance for Paul and Vanni?? Please continue.
Deserves 10 stars....Hated to see this trilogy end.