Temptation Ridge (A Virgin River Novel)

I thought the Abby Character was a whiner. Never happy until someone pointed it out to her. Cameron was a great guy, but she fought him, cause of her past experience/husband. It did work out, but I didn't think there was any depth to her character. I loved the Virgin River Series!!! It told about good people, struggles, pulling together and of course, happy endings!!!! These are Go to books for an easy read and happy ending.

I quit this series as of Temptation Ridge!!! I enjoyed the shelter Bay series so much that I gave the Virgin River series a second chance. Had read the first two a while back but wasn't impressed. But the next few books were ok, so I prodded along, but after reading the reviews of the rest of the books in the series, decided it was time to cut my losses. Not really a prude, but have a hard time understanding how someone could go to bed with someone she met briefly in a bar, then ending up with twins! Flipped the "pages" through the sex scenes. I love y "escape from reality" books, but this was too far removed from reality. Still, wouldn't mind finding myself at Jack's bar and visiting with all the friends I would find there.

Virgin River is a small town in the California mountains. There are many books in the series. The first book is about Jack the bartender meeting and falling in love with Mel. Each book focuses on a different couple. This book is Luke and Shelby. Characters in early books continue to have parts in future books. Many of the guys are former military guys. Everyone in town is friendly to everyone else. The locals frequently eat dinner together at Jack’s place. They help each other. Lots of love, marriage and babies.

I’ve read two books in the series and the start of another. They seem to be similar in that someone new moves to Virgin River and they fall in love and marry by the end of the book. That’s an ok formula if that’s what you’re in the mood for. Most of the characters are ordinary everyday people. I prefer stories and characters that are more unique and different.

DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 406 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: about 6. Setting: current day Virgin River a small town in the California mountains. Copyright: 2009. Genre: relationships fiction and contemporary romance.

When it comes to the Virgin River series, I have to take a big deep breath and remember that this is just fiction, that a town like this does not exist anywhere other than the deep imaginings of Robyn Carr, yet there is a part of me that wishes that it did. No town or its people are this perfect. No town comes together in the ways that the Virgin River folks do and more importantly, no men are this perfect. Actually, no women are either, nevertheless, I still come back to this series book after book.

What I enjoy the most about this series are the minor characters in the previous books, tend to make a giant splash somewhere down the line. This time, Shelby McIntyre, the general’s niece, comes to Virgin River while deciding on which college to apply to for nursing school. She is a young twenty-five since she has spent the last five years caring for her invalid mother and has literally been locked away from the world. In addition to her big education plans, she wants to find the perfect man, she even has a list, so when Luke Riordan shows up, and does not check off even one item on this menu, she decides to jump into some very rugged waters.

Luke is a bit jaded and with his experiences as both a Blackhawk pilot and one-night stand expert, an innocent girl is not on his to do list. He knows that they are wrong for each other, but then again, the heart knows what the heart wants and when Shelby opens a locked door to him, there is no stopping this duo.

There is sadness in this book when a much-loved character dies, the town is left reeling, but at the same time, it does open the possibility of a new romance and new babies for this town. The usual characters make their appearances and the reader will be glad to know that even with change, Virgin River will remain the same.

Rating: 2.5 stars __Contains explicit graphic sexual content
Note: 6th in the Virgin River series of more than 20 books.
WARNING: this soap opera style format, with so many supporting characters and subplots, is confusing if you are not reading the series in order.

EASY READ. Story introduces a new, brooding hero, comfortable familiar cast for those reading the series, spectacular setting, dual romances, a sweet, but predictable ending, and the sensitive portrayal of a Down Syndrome character was refreshing. HOWEVER, this is a typical jaded-solder-falls-for-sweet-innocent plot, the secondary heroine is a bit unstable and deceitful and jumping in bed with a stranger is just plain stupid, the language deteriorates, and the story does drags in places, all of which detract slightly.

THE STORY introduces a two new character, retired marine, Luke Riodan, and caregiver and future nurse, Shelby McIntyre. One year after the death of her mother she has lovingly cared for, for five years, Shelby moves to Virgin River until she can make some decisions. Luke goes to Virgin River to renovate an old home and six cabins he owns. Luke is instantly attracted to sweet, innocent Shelby, not for anything permanent, but they sizzle together. Meanwhile, depressed, sorta-married to a rock star, Abby (AKA Brandy), has a one night tryst with Cameron Michaels, with the obvious complications. General Walt Booth and ex-movie star, Muriel St. Claire, are getting more than neighborly. As usual Jack and Mel's relationship still holds the storyline together.

OVERALL, an easy continuation of familiar characters and storyline. The VIRGIN RIVER series includes more than 20 books starting with Virgin River (2007).

You may also enjoy the complex characters and storytelling of N. Bruhns, A. Stuart, or E. Palfrey. For sweet, funny, heart touching romances, try Susan Fox, Cara Colter, or Nikki Logan.\

I am a blurb reader. I admit it freely. I am picky about the books that I read and especially for well established series, I will read blurbs from several of the books to see where it headed. If I am going to invest some significant time into a series, I want to be really sure that it will be worth the energy for the long haul. All this is to lead up to the fact that I am dreading the next book, Paradise Valley. So I was a major procrastinator for this book. Why? Because the next book deals with a young man in the series that I have come to adore and I am just not ready for the emotions that I am anticipating.

Of course, if I had known what was going to smack me in the heart at the beginning of this book, I would have probably still been waiting to read this one too. Looking back, the signs were there, but in the moment... I was saddened to the point of tears. Do you know how hard it is to work out at a gym when all you really want to do is cry? Yeah, this was definitely NOT something to be read in public, at least the first half of the book.

I don't know why I was so surprised though. The author hasn't pulled any punches before this; whether dealing with an assault, a miscarriage, a stillbirth, date rape... the list goes on. This is a series about real life and the experiences and choices that shape our own lives and those around us. Its part of the reason I really like this series. We don't just get the romance and a fade to black Happily Ever After. This series shows us the struggles and challenges of keeping that romance going in the day to day of real life.

Thérèse Plummer did another great job of really nailing all the different character voices. She makes them each distinct, changing not only the pitch of her voice, but the rhythm, cadence, tone and accent to make each one unique. Additionally, her emoting for the characters is right on target, neither under or over done.

I really enjoyed this book, except for the parts that made me cry, and even those were well done. I just didn't want what happened to happen. Understand? Clear as mud, right? HA, no spoilers from me! I will say that I wish the blurbs would give a little more about story besides the main romance portion. This book was about Shelby and Luke, yes, but there were also sub-plots dealing with two other couples, as well as some overall town issues. None of which is mentioned in that blurb (or the one for the actual paper book). I am going with 4 stars and some space to gird my heart for book 7.

Temptation Ridge is a far better offering than its predecessor 'Second Chance Pass' but since it's a Robyn Carr novel, it's not without its problems.

The basic romance between Shelby and Luke is pretty well done. Both characters are likeable and the internal monologue goes a long way to really drive home the reasons they aren't staying together. I was happy for the HEA at the end (not really spoiling anything, romance novels are required to have a HEA or they aren't considered part of the genre) but I wasn't exactly tearing up a box of tissues when that happened.

Being a Robyn Carr book it was also peppered with subplots about recurring or new characters, which went a lot better this time than it did in the last book. The last book got so bogged down in extraneous plotlines it really needed to be edited or cut into two books, it was that annoying. Temptation Ridge however, does a pretty good job of reigning in this madness.

It also has its own special issues. Like once again we are told that a woman isn't complete without a man. And yes, the book actually does come out and say that. Twice. Some women aren't complete without a man. I recognize this, even if I don't care for the mindset. But since Carr never once shows us a strong women who IS complete without a man, it's pretty obvious she feels this philosophy applies to ALL women.

Also women are once again relegated to the role of breeders or breeder enablers. Women in these novels serve no other function than bearing children. As many children as possible. At one point a character is left alone to 'contemplate her uterus.' Direct quote. There are so many babies in this town that I won't be too awfully surprised when Aiden, Luke's younger brother, moves to Virgin River eventually to be an Ob-Gyn. You know it's going to happen. Why fight it?

Nursing, thankfully, is mentioned only sparingly in this book. In a Robyn Carr book you're lucky if you can sneak out a chapter without hearing about it or having it actually described to you. It's noticeably, and blissfully, absent in 'Ridge' probably because Mel doesn't appear all that often. Thank God!

I'm so ready for this character to be killed off. She's not even a person anymore. Mel's just a preachy messenger sent to tell women that you're a freak if you're a virgin at 25, you're a horrible person if you wouldn't breast feed another woman's child even though you don't have permission, and if you don't get a pelvic exam once a year (Carr describes at least one in detail in every single book) you're going to hell.

There is a bit of a funny Mel moment where she verbally smacks down Preacher for cooking fatty foods and basically squawks at him like a deranged shrew because she's gained 20 pounds since moving to Virgin River. Preacher has one of the best lines in the book where he says he's not the one shoving the pies down her neck. It's just unfortunate that he doesn't say it to her face, only to Jack. Really, though, her unwillingness to take any responsibility for her eating habits and lack of exercise is grating. Try being responsible, Mel! Oops, my bad, I forgot you're the one who accidentally got pregnant TWICE then blamed your husband and threatened (albeit jokingly) to kill him, which Jack was kind of bothered by. Guess responsibility isn't really one of Mel's endearing qualities.

Somewhere along the way we lose a beloved character and that was really hard. It was nice to see the effect it had on the townspeople. I won't say more than that except that character will be sorely missed.

In one of the subplots, Carr took one of the only truly decent characters in the series and turned him into a smarmy, manipulative, emotional blackmailer of vulnerable women. I'm so irritated about that. I felt so sorry for Cameron after he was treated so terribly by Paul and Vanni in 'Second Chance Pass'. To have him come back and weasel his way into bed with a crying woman who kept saying no, then trying to track her down after she cut him off because his ego can't take being rejected REALLY had me grinding my teeth.

I'm a few chapters into the next book, 'Paradise Valley', and their saga doesn't get any better so far. Really those first few chapters belong in 'Temptation Ridge' not in a new book that's supposedly about another couple. Especially since I'm up to page 60 of 'Paradise Valley' and Rick and Liz haven't made an appearance yet even though it's supposedly their book. If Cameron and his distraught ex-lover are so damn important, why don't they have their own book?

Overall, 'Temptation Ridge' was a solid offering. The love story between Luke and Shelby being its only real saving grace. The series hit a high note for me with 'A Virgin River Christmas' and has been steadily going downhill from there. I want to get to 'Angel's Peak' because that story appears interesting from the blurb. I hope Carr doesn't manage to put me off so horrendously before I can get to that one.

I'm glad I read it, but I'm also doubly glad that I got it from the library instead of spending money on it. In fact, I'm really glad I've gotten all the books from the library instead of investing in the series because after book 4 it's really taken a nosedive. I'm invested timewise, though, so I'll probably finish off the series. Unless Mel becomes an alien pod person and secretly turns the Virgin River women into an assembly line of lactating spawn-shooters. Then I'm out.

I don't know if I enjoyed this installment of the Virgin River series so much because I've been on a waiting list for so long to get the book or because I adored the character of Luke. Being not much older than him, I can't help but be sympathetic to his fear of getting involved with a woman in her 20s. And his tenderness and understanding with Art really won me over.

As usual, Robyn Carr tells many stories in one book. As much as I loved the Luke/Shelby story, I also enjoyed the progression of the romance brewing between Murial and Walt. And Dr. Cameron being brought back into the loop was also a welcome surprise and I'm looking forward to where his storyline is going...should be interesting.

I cried and laughed and that's what makes a good book in my eyes.

(One thing that bugged me; in the last book it was mentioned that Shelby had gotten bigger and hadn't been taking good care of herself at the end of her mom's life. I thought it was odd that the book mentioned numerous times how "hot" she is but never mentioned her turning her life/weight back around after her mom passed away.)

How nice it would be if there was such a beautiful, peaceful place for people to live. Not caring about money and live by barter, everyone helping their neighbors at all times, where people are righteous, men are handsome, women are beautiful and the children thriving. When evil or misfortune touches one of them, there is enough support and love to get our characters through the trying times. And this is why I read fiction, for the wonder of it all. :)

It has been a while since I read the prior 5 books. I don't recall any of them juggling as many main character relationships as this release. There are 3 new couple relationships explored, a loving Down's Syndrome character moves to town, and sadly we lose one of our favorite characters.

The thing I find refreshing about this series is that the prior characters' stories are kept current. They may not be the "leads" in the current story, but they continue to play a supporting role rather than bit parts that are cast aside as over. It surprises me that so many authors when writing a series spend a full book nurturing our interest in exploring and growing a character or relationship that we enjoy, and then abandon them in the next books. As if the only thing that ties the series together is the location and not the people. When reading romance with a bit of mystery community style books, I like everyone's storyline to continue and the Virgin River Series does this for me.

I was a bit surprised that the book only resolved one of the three relationships and am very happy to be backlogged in the series and able to read the next book to find out what happens without having to wait months (or years) when I am current on an author.

Format: Borrowed ebook

Title: Temptation Ridge (A Virgin River Novel)
Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira Books
Series: Virgin River #6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Reviewed:

"Temptation Ridge" by Robyn Carr was a beautiful contemporary novel of the Virgin River #6 that featured three romances. The main storyline was of Shelby McIntyre and Luke Riordan...then it moves on to Walt Booth and Muriel and lastly Abby MacCall and Cameron Michaels. Be prepared for a read of not only romances that are going on in this small California town but where you will find the people will come together in sadness, in rescue times, along with plenty of babies being born, pregnancies, town near disaster, abuse, a homeless man with 'Down's Syndrome,' and a town drunk.

The characters were all well developed, believable and colorful bring out a well written read of suspense, humorous, tearful and even some sexy scenes that will keep you interested turning the pages to see what will happen nest.

I found "Temptation Ridge"a well written romance novel that I would definitely recommend to you as very good read.

Reviewed at Another Look Book Reviews

We said goodbye to an old friend and met a few new friends. Temptation Ridge was a strong and enjoyable book. I sure hope my blog readers are not getting tired of my blog posts of Robyn Carr 's Virgin River series yet. Once I latch onto a good series, I need to read each book in order one right after another.

I've noticed that Robyn Carr doesn't really make a Virgin River book about one specific couple. There are of course the main protagonists but the novels are chalk full of events, secondary couple stories and the constant updates to the previous book characters. In Temptation Ridge our main couple is all about the General's niece and Vannie's cousin, Shelby. Luke is a new character, former army (Black Hawk pilot), finding his way to Virgin River. I tell you, these military men are such fun to read about. Each so different yet so much the same.

The adorable Shelby has a plan. After caring for her very sick mother until she passed, she is just rediscovering herself. She's been a caregiver for years. So much so that she has never spent time on herself. She is like a butterfly becoming free of her cocoon. The sheltered life is exactly one of the reasons Luke is so hesitate in pursuing her. He is thirty eight to her twenty five and as much as he tries not to, he sure does fall for her. Only he won't let himself. These men and their inner battles I tell you! Luke makes all these decisions about what he thinks would be best for Shelby without consulting Shelby! You know who knows what's best for Shelby? Shelby!!

The readers are treated to a new character and I certainly was not expecting Art. He is a man with down syndrome who stumbles into Luke's life and it sure seems like he is here to stay. What a gentle man. I loved that Robyn Carr introduced a character like Art. There is so much story you can add about him. Art seems to enhance Luke's life and how could he not? He is simply adorable.

OH THE TEARS! We say goodbye to a beloved character and I had a bad case of the sads.

One of the new secondary characters was that sweet hunky doctor that Vannie briefly dated before Paul. Dr Cameron slides into the story by accidentally getting one of Vannie's friends pregnant. I found their side story a bit boring and I did cruise pass their plot quickly. I was in too much of a hurry to get back to the main story of Shelby and Luke.

There are lots of room for the story to continue in the next book, Paradise Valley, as the readers can look for more of an update from the General and his Hollywood flame, Muriel. There is no doubt more new characters are to be introduced as I don't even think I am half way through the series yet.

Teasers: bear encounter, school bus accident, cabin renovations, a virgin in Virgin River

This book focuses on Shelby and Luke, but all the usual crew are still prominently featured. I love the continuity of this series. Luke sure took a while to come to his senses! He was so sweet with Art, it was frustrating seeing him hold back with Shelby. I’m so happy Shelby held her ground, she really is a strong woman! I can’t wait to have stories focused on the other Riordan brothers, they are an interesting family. Walt and Muriel, one of my favorite couples, come to a new place in their relationship. I’m looking forward to seeing how they do in future books. The addition of Cameron and Abby also looks quite promising.

In this journey back to Virgin River, we find three romances in play. The main storyline involves Shelby McIntyre, who is Walt Booth's niece. Shelby returns following her mother's death and after having sold their home. She plans to stay with Walt and his family for a while and then plans to start college next year. That is until she meets Luke Riordan on the way into town. Luke has recently retired from the Army and plans to decompress in Virgin River for the time being while he renovates the cabins on his riverfront property that he purchased with his brother, Sean, some years ago. Luke is 38 and Shelby is 25. He's skittish about her age and is commitment phobic. She's got him in her crosshairs.

Meanwhile, the romance between Walt and Muriel moves into higher gear. They finally realize that this is a friendship that's got some traction and finally acknowledge they are a couple.

Lastly, Abby MacCall Crawford, one of Vanni's best friends from her flight attendant days, is dealing with the demise of her marriage. She's part of Nikki's wedding party but doesn't want to let her friends know she's in trouble, even though they sense something is off. Abby has a memorable night with Cameron Michaels after the wedding (he just happened to be having dinner at the same hotel as the wedding reception). You may remember Cameron as the doctor Vanni's former mother-in-law was trying to set her up with following Matt's death. Cameron is hooked but Abby is pretty gun shy.

These romances are all going on in the midst of the day to day living of the other residents of Virgin River. As with the others in this series, old friends are also substantively woven into the storyline. It's what makes this series and this book so special.

I hated finishing this story so much I immediately started reading the next book in the series. There's something for everyone and this is one of the best so far.

Shelby McIntyre may only be 25 but she's mature beyond her years. She's spent years caring for her terminally ill mother and with her mother's passing she's ready to step out into the world. On a visit to her uncle in Virgin River, she meets Luke Riordan and from the moment she sees him finds herself more and drawn to him. Former Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan was betrayed by a woman he loved in the past and he's determined to not fall in love again, especially with a woman who is so much younger than he is. And especially not a woman who has been so sheltered and inexperienced in life. However it doesn't take long for what was intended to be a short-term affair to become so much deeper than either of them expected.

Robyn Carr just keeps knocking them out of the ball park!! Just when you think the series can't get any better the addition of Temptation Ridge to her Virgin River series proves the best maybe yet to come! Luke and Shelby were wonderful addition to the Virgin River family and I eagerly flipped the pages wanting more! I don't want to give anything away but I found my heart breaking in one section but with the hints of the next story to come, I know that I'll be reading the Virgin River series for as long as Robyn Carr writes them. I can't recommend that readers put this series on the top of their to be read list TODAY!!

Melissa
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Wow! Another winner by the talented Robyn Carr--this may be my favorite of the series since book #1, "Virgin River". There was just something about these characters that grabbed me emotionally. I loved the strength and courage of the heroine, Shelby McIntyre, who was determined to live her life to the fullest after spending years as her dying mother's devoted caregiver. And I loved the hero, former Army Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan, who may not have been what Shelby thought she was looking for, but boy was he ever perfect for her. Be sure to have a big box of Kleenex close by, especially if you're a big marshmallow like me, because you'll need it with this one.

I loved, loved, loved everything about this one, from the main romance between Luke and Shelby, to the other romances between Shelby's Uncle Walt and former movie star Muriel, and Dr. Cameron Michaels surprising romance with one of Vanni's ("Second Chance Pass") girlfriends. I enjoyed catching up with all the town 'doings' in Virgin River. There's a birth, surprising pregnancies, another near town disaster where a lot of residents become heroes, a re-introduction of a character from the first book in the series, and sadly, a death of a beloved character. There's some new characters introduced, including an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome who Luke befriends, the introduction of one of Vanni's flight attendant friends, and most importantly, the introduction of Luke's mother and two of Luke's four brothers. (Please Robyn Carr, write a story about at least one of them!)

Once again, the author's descriptive narrative immerses you in the the tiny California town and it's colorful characters, and before long you'll be turning the pages so fast, dying to find out what's going to happen. I could not put this one down--I just fell in love with the hero and heroine--and it just about killed me when it looked like they wouldn't make a go of it. This is definitely one couple I hope to read more about. I'm also interested to see how pediatrician Cameron makes out with his budding romance--he has a lot of hurdles to overcome. And the 'senior' romance between Walt and reluctant movie star Muriel may be coming to a crossroads, and I can't wait to find out what direction it will lead to. These are all the reasons why I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in the series, "Paradise Valley".

If you are a fan of contemporary romance, do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in this wonderful series. It's sexy, hot, has colorful characters, interesting happenings, and most importantly, is very romantic. Hopefully there will be many more books to come.

Another great addition to the series. This is the first of several books that introduces the Riordan brothers. Shelby has come to stay with her uncle and family. Luke has completed being an helicopter pilot in the army. He's 38 she's 25 and a virgin. Though he is attracted to her he originally try and fight it because of her age and innocence, but as everyone knows in virgin river love is all around.

Shelby MacIntyre put her life on hold for five years to care for her beloved ailing mother. Now that mom has died Shelby needs to fill the emptiness of the caretaker with no one to care for. She considers her options and decides to kick the can a bit longer by moving in with her uncle in Virgin River.

Former Army Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan makes a living renovating dilapidated houses. When they meet, Shelby knows he is a player, but though he is not right for her at this time as she knows he will break her heart, she wants him. Luke finds himself falling in love with the nice Shelby, but hides his feelings because he wants her to see the world instead of entangling herself in a relationship soon after her mom's death.

Although in many ways Shelby is the more fascinating character, Luke steals the show with his unselfish act of pushing his soulmate to leave as the time is not right for her. However, he may be the retired military aviator, but she proves his equal matching him grit for grit as she knows he is bad for her, but is the one. The latest Virgin River contemporary romance is a charming tale of love.

Harriet Klausner

Temptation Ridge introduces Luke Riordan and his family to the Virgin River series. Luke has four other brothers so there are four additional book in the making. Luke is retired Army and arrives to fix up the cabins he and his brother own on the Virgin River. Look for the introduction of several other characters who will have their own books.

Luke just does not think he can commit and when he meets Shelby he sees jail bait. Luke just about ruins everything before he comes to his senses. Again I loved the story and the people. Virgin River is a great place that allows the reader experience a town like we would all like to live in. A place where people care for each other and help when help is needed.

More challenges occur in Virgin River with the story of Luke's reluctance to commit and Shelby's desire for adventure and an introduction to love. Their journey is fraught with bumps in the road as they seek to protect their hearts from hurt and thus choose not to admit their love for each other--at least until brother Aidan steps in.

Just goes to show that brotherly love, often hidden in fistfights and rolling in the dust, has much to recommend it.

Another question I have: will Aidan also fall under the lovespell of Virgin River and will Muriel come back to Uncle Walt?

It was wonderful reading. I read it very fast, and wished for more. The only part I did not much cared about was that film star.
Also I would have used less of faulty language, even though men used it between themselves.
I bought this book as used, but it was clean and shipping was fast.

This is another great novel in the Virgin River Series (#6).
I am absolutely addicted to the town and the people. I live in a small town and I only wish it could be as simple and loving of a place as VR. I love how the caracters just keep evolving throughout her novels. Now we know there's Shelby and Luke. They'll just be added to the town's population.
One thing though... what about the other 600 people in the town. Maybe they're not as interesting, but it seems that the books focus on the newcomer always. So the town is growing, geez, by book 17, that's about 40 new people to the town, not to mention the babies they have.
Anyway, I'd like to have some focus on some more of the townies that were there all along.
Plenty more in the series, maybe I'll get my wish!

This is a good romance. It's very well written. However, I don't like several points:
- Shelby has to come back to beg Luke for a serious long-term commitment with her. This is not satisfying. I see no effort from Luke except for sulking and being miserable without letting her know. Moreover, Luke makes a big deal of age difference and he doesn't trust her enough to tell his past with Felicia and then when he lets her go, the story isn't clear whether he realizes his mistake. He doesn't grovel at all. This is the biggest flaw of the book since this is the main story.
- Cameron is too sweet to be hurt like that. Abby is not my cup of tea for heroine.
- Is it just me or everyone has the same idea of perfect life, i.e getting married fast and having load of kids?
- All the men here seem too mellow and willing to share their life stories/experiences to anyone.
- Everyone is surprisingly soooooo nice in this town. There's not a different people. After awhile, everyone seems to have one set of mind: finding love or peace (I'm all for this), then get married fast, have load of kids, and go telling everyone how happy marriage is.
Overall this is very good romance novels. There're many sub-plot romances in this. But I think I need something more.

In this journey back to Virgin River, we find three romances in play. The main storyline involves Shelby McIntyre, who is Walt Booth's niece. Shelby returns following her mother's death and after having sold their home. She plans to stay with Walt and his family for a while and then plans to start college next year. That is until she meets Luke Riordan on the way into town. Luke has recently retired from the Army and plans to decompress in Virgin River for the time being while he renovates the cabins on his riverfront property that he purchased with his brother, Sean, some years ago. Luke is 38 and Shelby is 25. He's skittish about her age and is commitment phobic. She's got him in her crosshairs.

Meanwhile, the romance between Walt and Muriel moves into higher gear. They finally realize that this is a friendship that's got some traction and finally acknowledge they are a couple.

Lastly, Abby MacCall Crawford, one of Vanni's best friends from her flight attendant days, is dealing with the demise of her marriage. She's part of Nikki's wedding party but doesn't want to let her friends know she's in trouble, even though they sense something is off. Abby has a memorable night with Cameron Michaels after the wedding (he just happened to be having dinner at the same hotel as the wedding reception). You may remember Cameron as the doctor Vanni's former mother-in-law was trying to set her up with following Matt's death. Cameron is hooked but Abby is pretty gun shy.

These romances are all going on in the midst of the day to day living of the other residents of Virgin River. As with the others in this series, old friends are also substantively woven into the storyline. It's what makes this series and this book so special.

I hated finishing this story so much I immediately started reading the next book in the series. There's something for everyone and this is one of the best so far.

Shelby McIntyre may only be 25 but she's mature beyond her years. She's spent years caring for her terminally ill mother and with her mother's passing she's ready to step out into the world. On a visit to her uncle in Virgin River, she meets Luke Riordan and from the moment she sees him finds herself more and drawn to him. Former Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan was betrayed by a woman he loved in the past and he's determined to not fall in love again, especially with a woman who is so much younger than he is. And especially not a woman who has been so sheltered and inexperienced in life. However it doesn't take long for what was intended to be a short-term affair to become so much deeper than either of them expected.

Robyn Carr just keeps knocking them out of the ball park!! Just when you think the series can't get any better the addition of Temptation Ridge to her Virgin River series proves the best maybe yet to come! Luke and Shelby were wonderful addition to the Virgin River family and I eagerly flipped the pages wanting more! I don't want to give anything away but I found my heart breaking in one section but with the hints of the next story to come, I know that I'll be reading the Virgin River series for as long as Robyn Carr writes them. I can't recommend that readers put this series on the top of their to be read list TODAY!!

Melissa
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Wow! Another winner by the talented Robyn Carr--this may be my favorite of the series since book #1, "Virgin River". There was just something about these characters that grabbed me emotionally. I loved the strength and courage of the heroine, Shelby McIntyre, who was determined to live her life to the fullest after spending years as her dying mother's devoted caregiver. And I loved the hero, former Army Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan, who may not have been what Shelby thought she was looking for, but boy was he ever perfect for her. Be sure to have a big box of Kleenex close by, especially if you're a big marshmallow like me, because you'll need it with this one.

I loved, loved, loved everything about this one, from the main romance between Luke and Shelby, to the other romances between Shelby's Uncle Walt and former movie star Muriel, and Dr. Cameron Michaels surprising romance with one of Vanni's ("Second Chance Pass") girlfriends. I enjoyed catching up with all the town 'doings' in Virgin River. There's a birth, surprising pregnancies, another near town disaster where a lot of residents become heroes, a re-introduction of a character from the first book in the series, and sadly, a death of a beloved character. There's some new characters introduced, including an abused, homeless man with Down's Syndrome who Luke befriends, the introduction of one of Vanni's flight attendant friends, and most importantly, the introduction of Luke's mother and two of Luke's four brothers. (Please Robyn Carr, write a story about at least one of them!)

Once again, the author's descriptive narrative immerses you in the the tiny California town and it's colorful characters, and before long you'll be turning the pages so fast, dying to find out what's going to happen. I could not put this one down--I just fell in love with the hero and heroine--and it just about killed me when it looked like they wouldn't make a go of it. This is definitely one couple I hope to read more about. I'm also interested to see how pediatrician Cameron makes out with his budding romance--he has a lot of hurdles to overcome. And the 'senior' romance between Walt and reluctant movie star Muriel may be coming to a crossroads, and I can't wait to find out what direction it will lead to. These are all the reasons why I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in the series, "Paradise Valley".

If you are a fan of contemporary romance, do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in this wonderful series. It's sexy, hot, has colorful characters, interesting happenings, and most importantly, is very romantic. Hopefully there will be many more books to come.

Another great addition to the series. This is the first of several books that introduces the Riordan brothers. Shelby has come to stay with her uncle and family. Luke has completed being an helicopter pilot in the army. He's 38 she's 25 and a virgin. Though he is attracted to her he originally try and fight it because of her age and innocence, but as everyone knows in virgin river love is all around.

Shelby MacIntyre put her life on hold for five years to care for her beloved ailing mother. Now that mom has died Shelby needs to fill the emptiness of the caretaker with no one to care for. She considers her options and decides to kick the can a bit longer by moving in with her uncle in Virgin River.

Former Army Blackhawk pilot Luke Riordan makes a living renovating dilapidated houses. When they meet, Shelby knows he is a player, but though he is not right for her at this time as she knows he will break her heart, she wants him. Luke finds himself falling in love with the nice Shelby, but hides his feelings because he wants her to see the world instead of entangling herself in a relationship soon after her mom's death.

Although in many ways Shelby is the more fascinating character, Luke steals the show with his unselfish act of pushing his soulmate to leave as the time is not right for her. However, he may be the retired military aviator, but she proves his equal matching him grit for grit as she knows he is bad for her, but is the one. The latest Virgin River contemporary romance is a charming tale of love.

Harriet Klausner

Temptation Ridge introduces Luke Riordan and his family to the Virgin River series. Luke has four other brothers so there are four additional book in the making. Luke is retired Army and arrives to fix up the cabins he and his brother own on the Virgin River. Look for the introduction of several other characters who will have their own books.

Luke just does not think he can commit and when he meets Shelby he sees jail bait. Luke just about ruins everything before he comes to his senses. Again I loved the story and the people. Virgin River is a great place that allows the reader experience a town like we would all like to live in. A place where people care for each other and help when help is needed.

More challenges occur in Virgin River with the story of Luke's reluctance to commit and Shelby's desire for adventure and an introduction to love. Their journey is fraught with bumps in the road as they seek to protect their hearts from hurt and thus choose not to admit their love for each other--at least until brother Aidan steps in.

Just goes to show that brotherly love, often hidden in fistfights and rolling in the dust, has much to recommend it.

Another question I have: will Aidan also fall under the lovespell of Virgin River and will Muriel come back to Uncle Walt?

It was wonderful reading. I read it very fast, and wished for more. The only part I did not much cared about was that film star.
Also I would have used less of faulty language, even though men used it between themselves.
I bought this book as used, but it was clean and shipping was fast.

This is another great novel in the Virgin River Series (#6).
I am absolutely addicted to the town and the people. I live in a small town and I only wish it could be as simple and loving of a place as VR. I love how the caracters just keep evolving throughout her novels. Now we know there's Shelby and Luke. They'll just be added to the town's population.
One thing though... what about the other 600 people in the town. Maybe they're not as interesting, but it seems that the books focus on the newcomer always. So the town is growing, geez, by book 17, that's about 40 new people to the town, not to mention the babies they have.
Anyway, I'd like to have some focus on some more of the townies that were there all along.
Plenty more in the series, maybe I'll get my wish!

This is a good romance. It's very well written. However, I don't like several points:
- Shelby has to come back to beg Luke for a serious long-term commitment with her. This is not satisfying. I see no effort from Luke except for sulking and being miserable without letting her know. Moreover, Luke makes a big deal of age difference and he doesn't trust her enough to tell his past with Felicia and then when he lets her go, the story isn't clear whether he realizes his mistake. He doesn't grovel at all. This is the biggest flaw of the book since this is the main story.
- Cameron is too sweet to be hurt like that. Abby is not my cup of tea for heroine.
- Is it just me or everyone has the same idea of perfect life, i.e getting married fast and having load of kids?
- All the men here seem too mellow and willing to share their life stories/experiences to anyone.
- Everyone is surprisingly soooooo nice in this town. There's not a different people. After awhile, everyone seems to have one set of mind: finding love or peace (I'm all for this), then get married fast, have load of kids, and go telling everyone how happy marriage is.
Overall this is very good romance novels. There're many sub-plot romances in this. But I think I need something more.

3.5 stars. An enjoyable installment in the Virgin River series. Temptation Ridge brings some significant changes to Virgin River that set up the little town for more happenings in later books.

I really enjoy all the characters in this series. Temptation Ridge brings some good scenes with Mel and Jack. Mel is back to work and struggling with issues as a new mom of two very young children. Brie has her first child. The main storyline was sweet, passionate and sometimes heartbreaking. There are three side stories that were interesting.

Fans of the Virgin River series will enjoy this book. Temptation Ridge should be read after the first five in this series and it definitely fits into the larger story arc of the series.

Love the Virgin River Series. Robyn Carr is one of my favorite writers. If you like to immerse yourself into a wonderful community visit Virgin River. Temptation Ridge continues the saga and brings you home to some very wonderful characters. I am on my third time reading of the series. There are several books to the series so every time you start an edition you go home to Virgin River. You will love it.

I have been reading the Virgin River series by Robyn Carr and now I am addicted to her books. I am a slow reader, but I have read 8 books since Mid June. Once you start reading they are hard to put down. You need to read them in the series order because they keep adding characters and you don't want to miss out on any new neighbors. I tell people that I want to move to Virgin River.
It is a small town and everyone knows everyone and they all look out for each other. If someone needs help, they are all there to do what they can. You won't go wrong reading Robyn Carr's books.

This book is probably most sad so far..having to deal with grieve and temptation to let go and feel is tough but through every one in virgin rivers nothing is impossible and some things actually turn out better than expected

I just finished reading temptation Ridge. I have happy tears on my lashes, and my heart is aching with love...the love between two flawed, human, courageous people. The Virgin River cast is so real, it feels like I'm getting news about beloved out of town relatives with each new book. Luke, heart broken by an unfaithful first love, refuses to allow himself to feel. Shelby, after tending her ill mother for years, is ready to experience all life has to offer. Come read their story.

I have to agree with the previous post, next to the first Virgin River novel, which introduced me to the town, this is my favorite. You pick up with the character's lives and make a few new friends along the way. You lose a dear character, so get the tissues ready!

Shelby and Luke have an instant attraction that is irresistable to them both and naturally, the whole town wants to have an opinion in their relationship. Luke's interaction with his family is hilarious at times and deeply touching with their love and concern for his happiness. His care and treatment of Art, the Down Syndrome man he befriends is heart warming.

Cameron, the pediatrician we met in Second Chance Pass, returns in this book and both he and the readers are introduced to Vanni's friend, Abby. Cheryl, who has had a drinking problem all her adult life finally gets the help she needs, thanks to Mel, to straighten her life up. You can't help but root for her!

I loved every word of this book and could hardly put it down until I was done with it. Of course, now I'm counting the days until the next book, Paradise Valley, is released!

I suppose I'll have to go back and read the earlier ones, although I wish now I'd started with the first, as I know who ends up with who. Maybe I'll just read the next one.

This is set in the kind of community we all long to be part of, where everyone is your friend, people help each other, and hardly anyone is a bad person. The plot involves an ex-serviceman who plans to spend a few months in a mountain community, fixing up some cabins he and his brother had bought as an investment. At the beginning of the book, he meets a young woman he's attracted to, but decides she's way too young for him. She's older than she looks, but he is still very wary of getting involved, because he's been hurt in the past. What can I say? Not a very original plot idea, but somehow, the community and characters make this an enjoyable read.

I just can't get enough of the Virgin River series. I keep thinking the next book won't be as good as the one I just read but then I am just proven wrong. Robyn writes such good stories. You feel like you are living in Virgin River yourself. The characters are amazing and the love stories are to die for. On to of that, there are several stories going on at once so you are definitely kept totally engrossed. Do not hesitate to read this delightful, sensitive, suspenseful book.

The books in this series are all the same story told with different lead romance couple. In this one, I didn't much care for Luke. Except for his kindness to Art, I could find little to respect. Shelby could do so much better.

So after book #5 in this series, I think the series is starting to shape back up. I loved Shelby's character, however I found Luke constantly babble about her age a little annoying. After a while I was like we get it, you're older, she's younger. I love revisiting the other characters from the previous books, but I do wish that we could get more into some of their lives instead of only Mel and Jack. There was some sentimental moments in this book and of course the anticipation of the next book to make me want to continue on with the series

Every book written by Robyn Carr has been an enjoyable escape. The Virgin River Series just draws you in. You feel you get to know each character personally. Her book Temptation Ridge did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more books written by Robyn Carr on my Kindle Fire.
Reading on the Kindle gives you the option of reading with the correct amount of light you need. It is easy to bookmark where you stopped, and quickly find your place when you go to the book. the store.com provides thousands of books to choose from to purchase or borrow.

PB/Romance: Well, Shelby puts the V in Virgin River. I had the same reaction as Luke, "Really, you're how old?" Personally, I wouldn't give their romance two years. Why? Well, for one thing, they only talk about how much they want each other, but in the next breath, say how much they don't have in common. Yes, I see Shelby getting really bored being with Luke. She hasn't lived yet and he is ready to settle down.
The better story is Cam and Abby. I bored with Muriel and the Colonel.
It was okay.

I'll tell you how caught up in this Virgin River series I am - I cried in two different parts, won't say which ones though to ruin it for others. Do please try to read this series in order - I feel like they are my family and friends. Robyn Carr hit a real winner with this series.

I like all of the books I've read in this series. Each one can stand alone, but I recommend reading them in order.
This one didn't move quite as fast as the others but it still delivers a good story.

2.5 out of 5 stars. This is the first book that I've read from this series, and even though it's within a series, I feel that each book can be read as a standalone novel. However, with that being said this novel/series, I've come to realize, is written in a way that each novel may have main characters but still has a bunch of sub-plots throughout the whole book. This makes it so some of the sub-plots that come up in one of the novels might not end until the next novel or a few novels after that. It's definitely a unique concept that made me even more interested in this series.

Nevertheless, I find that even though I thoroughly enjoyed reading about each of the main characters, the different plots, and the town. I didn't like this novel that well because of how the main characters (Luke and Shelby) story was dragged out. The first half I can understand, but by the time Thanksgiving came around and Luke is now having issues with his past come back to haunt him, it just got to be a little too much for me. Also, there were times when I got so caught up with what was going on between Luke and Shelby that I did get annoyed with having a new sub-plot come up because than I had to wait a couple of pages or chapters to get back to information about them.

Overall, though, I think this is a great series with lively characters and a wonderful town that I wish was real so I could visit! I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading Susan Mallery's Fools Gold Series!!

Review By: From Me to You ... Book Reviews
(read more of this review and a teaser on my blog)

The book is ok but don't think it needs all the sexual parts. I think she is a good writer but would like some books that don't have all those parts. Started her next book and decided I was done with this writer for awhile.

I have chosen Robyn Carr's books as my summer read. To date, I've read through Temptation Ridge. Honestly, I feel as if I have visited Virgin River every time I read a book. Mel, Jack, Vanni, Preacher - all of the residents of Virgin river seem like friends! Ms. Carr does a wonderful job writing stories involving the VR cahracters. We always visit with the old ones as well as meet new ones.

Temptation Ridge is such a great read! Luke and Shelby's relationship is so relatable for most women - we've all had a relationship where we felt more than the other or where the guy was afraid of committment. Shelby was a great character! She handles Luke well.... Luke is a complicated character. I wasn't sure whether I liked him or not, but because of his relationship to Art - I fell for him as Shelby.

Don't stop writing about VR. I want more!!!!!!

Can't express how much I'm enjoying Robyn Carr's Virgin River series. Her characters are so authentic and down-to-earth that I feel a part of their community. Temptation Ridge was no exception. Loved the story, loved the characters, loved the book. Thanks Robyn for such great reads.

I have been reading the Virgin River series of books and loved them until I got to the story of Vanni and Paul. I thought it was an awful book. BUT, I kept going and thank goodness I did. Temptation Ridge was excellent. I loved Shelby and Luke. Their love story was so good it actually made me cry. I even enjoyed the other stories being told in this book. But what is with all the babies? LOL Every time you turn around, there's another baby.

This has got to be the best series of books I've ever read! If you haven't read any of them, get started! Easy reading and great stories..... even if you read them out of order you can always catch up as the characters follow through in them all

This installment in the series is every bit as good as the first one or two that created a Virgin River fan in me to begin with! I can't wait for the next book, especially since some of the secondary stories from Temptation Ridge have not played out. Ms. Carr has really created a special place with lots of great people. What a joy to read.

I like how she continues with the same characters and how they come into the picture. I didn't realize that and wish I had started with the first book. It would be nice if when checking out a book , there is a note saying it is a book in a series and the order they should be read. The writer does refer to how the character came into the picture which really helps. I really erjoy 's. Carr's books.

I really enjoyed this book. I love these Virgin River series. I just wish I had read them in order but still recommend this series to all adults. I'm sure I haven't read this whole series but I'm about to get started.

Have you ever read a book that was so good and so satisfying that you hugged it to you when you finished it? This author has such a gift that I feel I could go to Jack's bar and have a beer and know everyone there. And I'm so in love with the men of Virgin River (especially Jack and Luke) that I don't know what to do with myself. This was my 2nd favorite in the series after Jack's & Mel's story. Wonderful!

I was so excited to see this book on the bookshelf. It amazes me that Robyn Carr has written books where I feel that these people could be your friends or neighbors. It is wonderful to read stories where people pull together, care about each other and aren't afraid to show their families and friends that they love them. These stories make me laugh, make me cry. I look forward to reading each new book.

This book is beyond fantastic, you felt like you were right there. I was as engrossed as when I first started the series. I can't say enough good about this book, loved seeing all the old characters and the new ones. Keep up the good work, Robyn.

I always enjoy reading the Virgin River stories. The author always touches on a human interest aspect and weaves it into the story. This time is was about mentally disabled people. She wrote about this with much knowledge. Of course she embraces the military men who have served in war. As a mother of a soldier that has been to Iraq and now will be deployed to Afghanistan, I love all these people she depicts. The one part of her story that I don't care for is the descriptive sex. She doesn't need that to tell her wonderful stories....it is a shame.

First off you have to read these books in order. If you don't you will get lost and not understand all the other characters that are brought in. I think this book had too much going on with everyone else and not enough on Luke and Shelby. There was plenty written about there physical relationship, but I didn't see much of Luke growing to truly love her. It was all about how young and inexperienced she was.

I've been reading the series and love the characters. This one had more drama. It was a good change up. It also had some surprises by bringing back a character that I thought was gone. Good story lines.

This is a wonderful continuation of a series of Virgin River books which takes place in a small town where the people are very friendly to each other. There is a close bond between everyone that lives in this town and they all help each other get through the trials and tribulations of daily living.