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Circles #1
Run for the Roses
A killer romance!
Relationships aren’t in the cards for everyone and Vladimir ‘Val’ Mihalic figures in his case it’s for the best. When his best friend, Janelle, is seriously injured in a carjacking, putting her career as a jockey on hold, Val steps up to help her through the crisis. It's not long before Janelle’s estranged father shows up at Val’s front door and Val’s life takes a hard sideways turn.
Wyatt Harig loves his daughter, but an estrangement was forced upon them. After her injury, he knows things have to be different and he’s the only one who can make that change. Arriving in Kentucky he finds Janelle and Val, a kindhearted, alluring man twenty years his junior, neck deep in an elaborate gambling scheme that’s led to murder.
Val is a little happier than he should be when Wyatt stays and starts digging deeper for the truth about Janelle’s ‘accident’. As they uncover the events leading up to that fateful day, a solid friendship, and then more, blossoms between the men. Discovering the truth, which exposes conmen and murderers, puts their love and their lives, in jeopardy.
Relationships aren’t in the cards for everyone and Vladimir ‘Val’ Mihalic figures in his case it’s for the best. When his best friend, Janelle, is seriously injured in a carjacking, putting her career as a jockey on hold, Val steps up to help her through the crisis. It's not long before Janelle’s estranged father shows up at Val’s front door and Val’s life takes a hard sideways turn.
Wyatt Harig loves his daughter, but an estrangement was forced upon them. After her injury, he knows things have to be different and he’s the only one who can make that change. Arriving in Kentucky he finds Janelle and Val, a kindhearted, alluring man twenty years his junior, neck deep in an elaborate gambling scheme that’s led to murder.
Val is a little happier than he should be when Wyatt stays and starts digging deeper for the truth about Janelle’s ‘accident’. As they uncover the events leading up to that fateful day, a solid friendship, and then more, blossoms between the men. Discovering the truth, which exposes conmen and murderers, puts their love and their lives, in jeopardy.
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
32 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 16, 2015
F.I.N.E. There are times when fine is okay. Every story is not going to twist you in knots or have you raging. Just the same, every book is not going to be the greatest thing you’ve ever read. Sometimes a book is just…fine. And that’s exactly how I felt here.
Horses and racing will eventually take you to Kentucky, which is where we head for this mystery. Follow the big hats, big horses and bigger trail of cash to the track.
Val is content with his easy-going life. He works for a stable but he doesn’t handle the horses like his best friend, he handles the paperwork. Janelle is a jockey and she’s preparing for a hot season. Seems like her new horse is going to snag the blue ribbon, if she can work out a couple of kinks. Luckily she has all season to do so. Or so she thought. Her abusive ex-boyfriend attacks her and in the process she gets pretty banged up. If she doesn’t race, she doesn’t get paid and she doesn’t have any family to help her. Again, or so she thought.
She moves in with Val while she is recovering and her estranged father tracks her down. As it turns out, she didn’t know the truth behind his separation from the family and it’s rather devastating. As they work on rekindling their relationship while she is recuperating from her injuries a spark ignites between Val and her father. Wyatt is immediately drawn to the younger man and wants to take care of him. Val didn’t envision himself craving intimacy again after his rocky relationship past, but Wyatt is different. Wyatt protects him but doesn’t smother him. Wyatt catches him, but this time he wants to be caught.
Their romantic dance is quick, smooth and straightforward. Janelle is not bothered at all with the fact that her best friend and dad are dating. Everything is honky-dory…until. Until what? Well, that’s part of the mystery.
I’m not necessary horse savvy. My daughter rides but I barely know the basics. I don’t believe this hindered my enjoyment. The dialogue did bother me a bit. It felt stilted and occasionally out-of-place.
‘Cool’ and ‘That’s great’ are not exactly fitting during times of passion in my opinion. But hey, that’s just me.
Another moment that stuck out like a sore thumb was a scene involving a box. I thought it was unnatural and was left perplexed. There was no follow through, so why include it?
I didn’t feel their spark, but that’s fine.
I wasn’t caught up in the mystery, but that’s okay too.
And the writing was all right.
So yeah, it was fine.
3 fine-fine-fine stars*
Horses and racing will eventually take you to Kentucky, which is where we head for this mystery. Follow the big hats, big horses and bigger trail of cash to the track.
Val is content with his easy-going life. He works for a stable but he doesn’t handle the horses like his best friend, he handles the paperwork. Janelle is a jockey and she’s preparing for a hot season. Seems like her new horse is going to snag the blue ribbon, if she can work out a couple of kinks. Luckily she has all season to do so. Or so she thought. Her abusive ex-boyfriend attacks her and in the process she gets pretty banged up. If she doesn’t race, she doesn’t get paid and she doesn’t have any family to help her. Again, or so she thought.
She moves in with Val while she is recovering and her estranged father tracks her down. As it turns out, she didn’t know the truth behind his separation from the family and it’s rather devastating. As they work on rekindling their relationship while she is recuperating from her injuries a spark ignites between Val and her father. Wyatt is immediately drawn to the younger man and wants to take care of him. Val didn’t envision himself craving intimacy again after his rocky relationship past, but Wyatt is different. Wyatt protects him but doesn’t smother him. Wyatt catches him, but this time he wants to be caught.
Their romantic dance is quick, smooth and straightforward. Janelle is not bothered at all with the fact that her best friend and dad are dating. Everything is honky-dory…until. Until what? Well, that’s part of the mystery.
I’m not necessary horse savvy. My daughter rides but I barely know the basics. I don’t believe this hindered my enjoyment. The dialogue did bother me a bit. It felt stilted and occasionally out-of-place.
‘Cool’ and ‘That’s great’ are not exactly fitting during times of passion in my opinion. But hey, that’s just me.
Another moment that stuck out like a sore thumb was a scene involving a box. I thought it was unnatural and was left perplexed. There was no follow through, so why include it?
I didn’t feel their spark, but that’s fine.
I wasn’t caught up in the mystery, but that’s okay too.
And the writing was all right.
So yeah, it was fine.
3 fine-fine-fine stars*
April 28, 2014
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews - 4 1/2 hearts
This book had some sugar and spice, a hint of naughty, but lots of nice – it was like a comfort read with a kick!
In the space of a novella, this book overflowed with things that I love. Let me count the ways:
• A hurt/comfort theme – not once, but twice
• Best friends who are fiercely loyal and protective of one another
• A gal pal who’s warm and intelligent vs. dim-witted and clingy
• A mystery to be solved with plenty of intrigue, bad guys and surprise elements
• Furry critters! Horses, dogs and cats – oh my, but with the added excitement of the competitive horse racing industry and triple crown activity
• An age gap that doesn’t feel like one between the main characters
• A slow burn and sizzle in the heat department
• A hint of dominance/submission – just barely there, but something that could be nurtured
And just when I didn’t think things could get any more exciting, the author left me literally hanging on the edge of my seat practically drooling for more. Damn, how long am I going to have to wait? And please tell me that the next story picks up where this one left off! Absolutely loved it!!
This book had some sugar and spice, a hint of naughty, but lots of nice – it was like a comfort read with a kick!
In the space of a novella, this book overflowed with things that I love. Let me count the ways:
• A hurt/comfort theme – not once, but twice
• Best friends who are fiercely loyal and protective of one another
• A gal pal who’s warm and intelligent vs. dim-witted and clingy
• A mystery to be solved with plenty of intrigue, bad guys and surprise elements
• Furry critters! Horses, dogs and cats – oh my, but with the added excitement of the competitive horse racing industry and triple crown activity
• An age gap that doesn’t feel like one between the main characters
• A slow burn and sizzle in the heat department
• A hint of dominance/submission – just barely there, but something that could be nurtured
And just when I didn’t think things could get any more exciting, the author left me literally hanging on the edge of my seat practically drooling for more. Damn, how long am I going to have to wait? And please tell me that the next story picks up where this one left off! Absolutely loved it!!
June 14, 2017
To recap, you have Val who is best friends with up-and-coming horse jockey, Janelle. She gets hurt after a scuffle with an abusive ex-boyfriend, which is the impetus for her estranged father Wyatt to make a reappearance. As she heals and mends her relationship with Wyatt, the meaning behind her "accident" unfolds something more sinister than any of them expected.
This was a pretty tame romantic suspense but I found myself liking it. Val has instituted a self imposed term of celibacy due to his own history with past abusive relationships. That comes to an end as silver fox Wyatt catches his interest and wins over his trust. As these two work together to uncover a scandalous horse racing conspiracy, they grow closer.
There was a maturity to this and basically no angst which I found refreshing. Sprinkle some light smex on a straightforward mystery and you've got a nice afternoon read. This entertained me enough that I will pick up the sequel at some point.
This was a pretty tame romantic suspense but I found myself liking it. Val has instituted a self imposed term of celibacy due to his own history with past abusive relationships. That comes to an end as silver fox Wyatt catches his interest and wins over his trust. As these two work together to uncover a scandalous horse racing conspiracy, they grow closer.
There was a maturity to this and basically no angst which I found refreshing. Sprinkle some light smex on a straightforward mystery and you've got a nice afternoon read. This entertained me enough that I will pick up the sequel at some point.
June 20, 2022
The writing itself was fine. The story was kind of like Swiss cheese, and made jumps to get where it needed to go.
There was very little horse in this, until there wasn’t, and then your drowned in horsing racing stuff. Just a big old info dump of it late in the book.
The romance was odd. You have an estranged father that appears out of nowhere, and that relationship was quickly patched up so he and Val could start their romance. The fact that the daughter has no issue with this relationship, maybe was a little too okay with it (why are you asking your bff and dad what they got up to last night when you know they spent the night together?)
The mystery was not good. Or, mysteries I suppose. I am still not 100% sure what the deal with the dead horse was.
And having not ever broken my leg and required surgery and pins, nor having ever jockeyed…. I’m not sure Janelle would be riding that soon… but, the timeline is also very vague… so maybe far more time passed than it seems?
There was very little horse in this, until there wasn’t, and then your drowned in horsing racing stuff. Just a big old info dump of it late in the book.
The romance was odd. You have an estranged father that appears out of nowhere, and that relationship was quickly patched up so he and Val could start their romance. The fact that the daughter has no issue with this relationship, maybe was a little too okay with it (why are you asking your bff and dad what they got up to last night when you know they spent the night together?)
The mystery was not good. Or, mysteries I suppose. I am still not 100% sure what the deal with the dead horse was.
And having not ever broken my leg and required surgery and pins, nor having ever jockeyed…. I’m not sure Janelle would be riding that soon… but, the timeline is also very vague… so maybe far more time passed than it seems?
June 7, 2015
3.75 Stars rounded up
I’ll be honest, I like horse racing – I’ve bred and raced a number of horses over the years so it’s an interest of mine and I know a thing or two about racing and breeding. I also live in Australia, the nation that stops for a horse race, so there is that. I may be a bit more biased towards Run for the Roses because of that, so bear that in mind with my review. Is it heavy on horse detail? Not really – it does give you a bit about the Triple Crown and when a horse is a barrier rogue. It is centred around a gambling scam. It is called Run for the Roses, so you have to expect horse details. Having nothing about horses or racing would have been annoying. But there is also a mystery, there is a good friendship, and there is the romance as well, and I think it’s a pretty decent balance.
Review at
I’ll be honest, I like horse racing – I’ve bred and raced a number of horses over the years so it’s an interest of mine and I know a thing or two about racing and breeding. I also live in Australia, the nation that stops for a horse race, so there is that. I may be a bit more biased towards Run for the Roses because of that, so bear that in mind with my review. Is it heavy on horse detail? Not really – it does give you a bit about the Triple Crown and when a horse is a barrier rogue. It is centred around a gambling scam. It is called Run for the Roses, so you have to expect horse details. Having nothing about horses or racing would have been annoying. But there is also a mystery, there is a good friendship, and there is the romance as well, and I think it’s a pretty decent balance.
Review at
January 7, 2020
RUN FOR THE ROSES is the first book in the Circles series, and it is a much lighter storyline than some of her other books. There is also a hefty dollop of mystery in here for good measure.
Val and Janelle are best buddies, bonding over their past abusive relationships. When Janelle is kidnapped by her ex, Val sees it all and follows in his car to help her. Things go a bit crazy after that but Janelle is safe and trying to rebuild a relationship with Wyatt, her father. The attraction sings between Wyatt and Val and they get Janelle's blessing to be together.
There is a LOT of information in here about horse-racing and the build-up to events, plus what goes on behind the scenes. This is absolutely essential for the story and I'm glad I've learnt something too! However, some readers may find it goes into too much detail, but I'll leave that to you to figure out.
The relationship itself is very smooth. I can't say anything bad about it but it didn't zing off the charts either. If I had to choose a single word to describe the relationship between Val and Wyatt, I would say comfortable.
This is the first book in the series and it is one I would like to continue with. There are some interesting characters in here I would like to know further, and I would definitely like to see how Wyatt and Val's relationship progresses.
If you are after a light romantic mystery read, heavy on the horses, then I would recommend this one.
Val and Janelle are best buddies, bonding over their past abusive relationships. When Janelle is kidnapped by her ex, Val sees it all and follows in his car to help her. Things go a bit crazy after that but Janelle is safe and trying to rebuild a relationship with Wyatt, her father. The attraction sings between Wyatt and Val and they get Janelle's blessing to be together.
There is a LOT of information in here about horse-racing and the build-up to events, plus what goes on behind the scenes. This is absolutely essential for the story and I'm glad I've learnt something too! However, some readers may find it goes into too much detail, but I'll leave that to you to figure out.
The relationship itself is very smooth. I can't say anything bad about it but it didn't zing off the charts either. If I had to choose a single word to describe the relationship between Val and Wyatt, I would say comfortable.
This is the first book in the series and it is one I would like to continue with. There are some interesting characters in here I would like to know further, and I would definitely like to see how Wyatt and Val's relationship progresses.
If you are after a light romantic mystery read, heavy on the horses, then I would recommend this one.
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April 13, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Run for the Roses by Elizabeth Noble is a tangled web of a mystery involving prize-winning horses and those who care for and train them. While Val’s past is a bit unexplored in this novel, his present circumstances make for the intriguing plot that unfolds rather swiftly. This is no simple “who dunnit,” but rather an elaborate long-term con that will spell life threatening danger for Val and his friend, Janelle. The romance aspect of the story is almost secondary to the main purpose of the book—figure out who is running a deadly gambling scheme that involves track betting and race fixing.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Run for the Roses by Elizabeth Noble is a tangled web of a mystery involving prize-winning horses and those who care for and train them. While Val’s past is a bit unexplored in this novel, his present circumstances make for the intriguing plot that unfolds rather swiftly. This is no simple “who dunnit,” but rather an elaborate long-term con that will spell life threatening danger for Val and his friend, Janelle. The romance aspect of the story is almost secondary to the main purpose of the book—figure out who is running a deadly gambling scheme that involves track betting and race fixing.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
Want to read
August 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/22/2020)! 🎁
January 26, 2025
I have read another series by this author which I loved, so it was with great excitement that I heard about her new series, 'Circles'. 'Run for the Roses' is book one in the series and, after reading the description, I was very eager to get started on it. Just like most other girls, I always wanted a horse. Unfortunately, we moved too often, so it wasn't feasible. Doesn't mean I didn't do what I could to be near them. This book combines all the things I love about horses with phenomenal writing, and an excellent cast of characters.
I can't imagine the fear that ran through Val's mind as he watched his best friend, Janelle, and her abusive ex-boyfriend go end over end in a bad car accident. Janelle is a jockey, but with a broken leg, dislocated shoulder, a concussion, and possible internal injuries, I can understand why her boss, Rod, wants to locate her father and notify him. Val offers to have Janelle stay with him as he has two bedrooms he doesn't use, he works five days a week, he has three dogs who can use the company, and he rents a home on Rod's horse farm. It's a win-win since Janelle won't be earning any money for a while. Val is shocked when Janelle's dad, Wyatt, shows up. Janelle has had no contact with her dad for years, and her information about him came from her mom, who was a little bitter. You can imagine the misinformation there.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
I can't imagine the fear that ran through Val's mind as he watched his best friend, Janelle, and her abusive ex-boyfriend go end over end in a bad car accident. Janelle is a jockey, but with a broken leg, dislocated shoulder, a concussion, and possible internal injuries, I can understand why her boss, Rod, wants to locate her father and notify him. Val offers to have Janelle stay with him as he has two bedrooms he doesn't use, he works five days a week, he has three dogs who can use the company, and he rents a home on Rod's horse farm. It's a win-win since Janelle won't be earning any money for a while. Val is shocked when Janelle's dad, Wyatt, shows up. Janelle has had no contact with her dad for years, and her information about him came from her mom, who was a little bitter. You can imagine the misinformation there.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
April 24, 2022
Good mystery with touch of romance
This book touches on a plentitude of topics from friendship, domestic violence, horses, age-gap romance with a bit of suspense and mystery to boot! I very much enjoyed the relationship and strong bonds of the friendship between Val and Janelle. Each had similarities in their history and were each other’s support system. This mutual support leads to a cavalcade of events that unravel in Run for the Roses taking the reader on a tour of the horse world and the development of an unlikely friendship ensuing romance and a well-developed mystery. The character development is very good and the story line and plot flow together effortlessly.
Best friends Val and Janelle lead an idyllic life. A domestic violence situation occurs which leads to Janelle suffering serious injuries. Enter Janelle’s estranged father. Slowly the reasons for the estrangement are revealed to be so different than the certainty Janelle had grown up with. There is a sub plot developing in the background that slowly comes to light putting the characters in potential peril. During the course of the book the mystery is slowly unraveled as the relationship between Janelle, Val and Janelle’s father grows stronger. Well-paced delivery of the storyline with likeable characters. As an added bonus learned a bit about the horse industry that was previously unknown! I look forward to book two in the Circles series which hints at continuing relationships of many of the characters.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book touches on a plentitude of topics from friendship, domestic violence, horses, age-gap romance with a bit of suspense and mystery to boot! I very much enjoyed the relationship and strong bonds of the friendship between Val and Janelle. Each had similarities in their history and were each other’s support system. This mutual support leads to a cavalcade of events that unravel in Run for the Roses taking the reader on a tour of the horse world and the development of an unlikely friendship ensuing romance and a well-developed mystery. The character development is very good and the story line and plot flow together effortlessly.
Best friends Val and Janelle lead an idyllic life. A domestic violence situation occurs which leads to Janelle suffering serious injuries. Enter Janelle’s estranged father. Slowly the reasons for the estrangement are revealed to be so different than the certainty Janelle had grown up with. There is a sub plot developing in the background that slowly comes to light putting the characters in potential peril. During the course of the book the mystery is slowly unraveled as the relationship between Janelle, Val and Janelle’s father grows stronger. Well-paced delivery of the storyline with likeable characters. As an added bonus learned a bit about the horse industry that was previously unknown! I look forward to book two in the Circles series which hints at continuing relationships of many of the characters.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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August 19, 2020Run for the Roses, book 1 in the Circles series is now in Kindle Unlimited so the entire series can be read there!
Life takes a spectacular turn for Val when his best friend is seriously injured and her father unexpectedly shows up to investigate, stealing Val's heart. In Kindle Unlimited and paperback.
Add Run for the Roses to your TBR list today!
Life takes a spectacular turn for Val when his best friend is seriously injured and her father unexpectedly shows up to investigate, stealing Val's heart. In Kindle Unlimited and paperback.
Add Run for the Roses to your TBR list today!
July 23, 2021
I was given a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
A sweet age-gap/love comfort story. Val and his best friend Janelle get unwittingly tangled up with a major gambling organization. When Janelle is carjacked by an a abusive ex-boyfriend, and has her car overturned, she is unable to work as a jockey until she heals. When their mutual boss gets the great idea to contact Janelle’s estranged father, things get more complicated.
Based solely on Janelle’s side of the story, Val is less than hospitable when Wyatt appears on his doorstep. Sensing there is more to the story than what Janelle remembers, and experiencing the beginning of a five alarm crush, he endeavors to reunite the father and daughter.
Wyatt and Val manage to fall in love while solving a mystery. Lots of twists and turns and sweet love.
A sweet age-gap/love comfort story. Val and his best friend Janelle get unwittingly tangled up with a major gambling organization. When Janelle is carjacked by an a abusive ex-boyfriend, and has her car overturned, she is unable to work as a jockey until she heals. When their mutual boss gets the great idea to contact Janelle’s estranged father, things get more complicated.
Based solely on Janelle’s side of the story, Val is less than hospitable when Wyatt appears on his doorstep. Sensing there is more to the story than what Janelle remembers, and experiencing the beginning of a five alarm crush, he endeavors to reunite the father and daughter.
Wyatt and Val manage to fall in love while solving a mystery. Lots of twists and turns and sweet love.
July 17, 2021
3 stars
This was a bit different for me, having the setting at the racehorse training facility at Churchill Downs.
The story was primarily a mystery, with the romance secondary. There was absolutely NO chemistry between the two men. Nice age gap, but yeah. Felt nothing for the supposed chemistry between them.
3 stars for the mystery.
This was a bit different for me, having the setting at the racehorse training facility at Churchill Downs.
The story was primarily a mystery, with the romance secondary. There was absolutely NO chemistry between the two men. Nice age gap, but yeah. Felt nothing for the supposed chemistry between them.
3 stars for the mystery.
August 7, 2020
I loved so Many things about this book.... the characters are very well writen and the love story was unique! ¡Great work! 100% recommended.
December 7, 2019
I love so many things in Elizabeth Noble's Run for the Roses! Let me start by saying... Great characters! The main parties to the romance are unique and very different from each other, but somehow drawn perfectly by the author's words so that they seem to fit together almost inevitably in their lives and their love as well as their (hot) Dom/sub relationship. There's a bit of an age gap, and for me the mature "older" man is an attractive character—experienced in life, love, and sex while the not-too-much younger man adds depth with his jaded yet somehow fresh and expectant outlook. The relationship starts out at a slow sizzle, but it's inevitable—as a reader, I knew that, and I was really glad when they figured it out, too. Noble has given us her signature well-crafted mystery, danger, and intrigue, and this time it revolves around horses—something else I truly love. It's been a long time, but in my youth I spent many a long hour hanging around the horse stables—riding, yes, but also mucking stalls, etc. The stables environment was a draw for me. Noble has created an unusual mystery, reminiscent of Dick Francis, but unique and crafted with real flair, and the resolution, as well as the happy ending, are well worth every pleasant minute spent reading to the end. I recommend this book to readers who like intrigue and hot but sweet relationships, stories that unfold so naturally that they seem like living, and endings that surprise (a little) and satisfy (a lot).
January 15, 2015
2 stars.
Meh at best. I understand it was tagged as mystery thriller, but that and the huge portion on everything horses took me for a doozy. I actually found the smaller sections about the romance lacking all the passion that was presented about the horses and the mystery. I felt bored most of the book. At some point it wasn't a mystery of who was involved, it was more of when were they going to get caught so we can get back to Wyatt and Val. I actually wanted more of Val's back story based on his past relationships, I wish that could have been explained more. I also wanted his family to have a bigger scene, don't get me wrong I liked his brother but he was only on the page for 2 seconds. I did feel like things came away to fast for Wyatt & Val. When would they have had the chance for all these feelings to come about while dealing with the problems that they had. I didn't know how much the horse story would take up the book and next thing you know it's a history on the derby, rules and the running. As a reader I was extremely turned off my this. I was bored, grew restless and just wanted it to be over. I did like the relationship Janelle & Val had, but if anything I think all relationships involving people could have been extended more.
Meh at best. I understand it was tagged as mystery thriller, but that and the huge portion on everything horses took me for a doozy. I actually found the smaller sections about the romance lacking all the passion that was presented about the horses and the mystery. I felt bored most of the book. At some point it wasn't a mystery of who was involved, it was more of when were they going to get caught so we can get back to Wyatt and Val. I actually wanted more of Val's back story based on his past relationships, I wish that could have been explained more. I also wanted his family to have a bigger scene, don't get me wrong I liked his brother but he was only on the page for 2 seconds. I did feel like things came away to fast for Wyatt & Val. When would they have had the chance for all these feelings to come about while dealing with the problems that they had. I didn't know how much the horse story would take up the book and next thing you know it's a history on the derby, rules and the running. As a reader I was extremely turned off my this. I was bored, grew restless and just wanted it to be over. I did like the relationship Janelle & Val had, but if anything I think all relationships involving people could have been extended more.
May 27, 2014
Becky Reviews Run for the Roses by Elizabeth Noble
http://www.mrsconditreadsbooks.com/?p...
Review: Elizabeth Noble writes stories I love, with characters I can’t forget, and in a style that hits me on the bookshelf I like. In Run for the Roses, set around the Kentucky Derby, we run into a murder mystery as well as a story about horses and what it takes to get a horse into the most famous race of all.
While female jockeys are still relatively rare, Janelle is a very believable character. Wyatt and Val are a May December couple who are also very believable. The only thing that was slightly on the this-is-a-stretch side of things is the overly complicated backstory for Wyatt and Janelle, but even that didn’t diminish my enjoyment of this wonderful book.
This is the first of a new series so you can bet I’ll be watching for the next thriller from Elizabeth Noble.
http://www.mrsconditreadsbooks.com/?p...
Review: Elizabeth Noble writes stories I love, with characters I can’t forget, and in a style that hits me on the bookshelf I like. In Run for the Roses, set around the Kentucky Derby, we run into a murder mystery as well as a story about horses and what it takes to get a horse into the most famous race of all.
While female jockeys are still relatively rare, Janelle is a very believable character. Wyatt and Val are a May December couple who are also very believable. The only thing that was slightly on the this-is-a-stretch side of things is the overly complicated backstory for Wyatt and Janelle, but even that didn’t diminish my enjoyment of this wonderful book.
This is the first of a new series so you can bet I’ll be watching for the next thriller from Elizabeth Noble.
January 15, 2015
Very enjoyable read! Informative and fascinating! I learned a lot about horses and horse racing! :)
Val and Wyatt were good together, especially the cute ending! The mystery was interesting, too! Intriguing!
Val and Wyatt were good together, especially the cute ending! The mystery was interesting, too! Intriguing!
October 20, 2015
Writing was okay, this was enjoyable light fluff with an okay mystery. The MCs were likable. But one thing killed all of that for me. Towards the end one of the MCs in the middle of "heroically" saving the other MC calls a mentally disabled character a "moron". NOPE NOPE NOPITTY NOPE.
November 9, 2019
An enjoyable suspenseful read
Val and Wyatt were great characters. I enjoyed going along with them as they fell in love amidst the lucrative world of horse racing. All in all a very enjoyable read.
Val and Wyatt were great characters. I enjoyed going along with them as they fell in love amidst the lucrative world of horse racing. All in all a very enjoyable read.
June 8, 2014
Enjoyed this one with all the horse racing facts, the mystery and the May-December romance. Nothing overly exciting but a good solid read.
September 15, 2023
And their off!!!
This was a great start to what will definitely be a great series. I knew I’d love this story but WOW, it was really great. Noble is a wonder when it comes to telling a story of suspense, action and love. I love how the characters are pulled together and reading how the mystery is unwound. I really loved Val and Wyatt’s story and how they worked so well together after a slightly rocky start after their initial meeting. I cannot wait to see what’s in store next because I’ve already bought the entire series knowing I won’t be disappointed. Get Run for the Roses next if you want a Great read.
This was a great start to what will definitely be a great series. I knew I’d love this story but WOW, it was really great. Noble is a wonder when it comes to telling a story of suspense, action and love. I love how the characters are pulled together and reading how the mystery is unwound. I really loved Val and Wyatt’s story and how they worked so well together after a slightly rocky start after their initial meeting. I cannot wait to see what’s in store next because I’ve already bought the entire series knowing I won’t be disappointed. Get Run for the Roses next if you want a Great read.
February 19, 2024
This was not good, and I really should have DNF. I skimmed a lot because I didn't care about the characters or the story. This was not researched well at all. I'm fairly certain no one gets pins removed from a broken leg and a week later is riding a horse. I know they aren't jumping off horses. Also, Janelle hated her father for years and had no contact with him. Then he shows up, and three days later, she's pushing her best friend at her father because ... she wants them together? Just a couple examples of how stupid things got here. There was zero connection between the MCs either. At least it is KU.
February 29, 2024
Horses and m/m romance
This is a story of criminal schemes, and murder around horse racing at the Kentucky Derby. It also a strong story of found family relationships. Horse racing was not of interest to me but I very much appreciated the family reunions, the gay romance and the upcoming wedding. It is a well written book and if you like horse racing it is a big plus.
This is a story of criminal schemes, and murder around horse racing at the Kentucky Derby. It also a strong story of found family relationships. Horse racing was not of interest to me but I very much appreciated the family reunions, the gay romance and the upcoming wedding. It is a well written book and if you like horse racing it is a big plus.
April 28, 2020
2.5 stars
A mystery romance. The story felt flat for me. I couldn' t find a good chemistry between Val and Wyatt. Val seemed more invested and Wyatt was only convenient for the mystery.
A mystery romance. The story felt flat for me. I couldn' t find a good chemistry between Val and Wyatt. Val seemed more invested and Wyatt was only convenient for the mystery.
November 21, 2016
Title: Run for the Roses
Author: Elizabeth Noble
Series: Circles Book 1
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: May 1, 2014
Genre(s): Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 122 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This is the first book of the Circle series. My bucket list includes watching the three races of the Triple Crown. This book is about horse racing and ends with the running of the Kentucky Derby. It was an interesting story filled with a kidnapping, hot romance and a murder mystery. Val and Janelle have been best friends since college. They have been looking after each other since their friendship began. When Janelle is kidnapped by her abusive ex, Val is there to help her with her recovery. When Janelle’s estranged father appears on Val’s doorstep he is torn. Janelle doesn’t want anything to do with the father that abandoned the family, but Val sees something in the man that makes him wonder if Janelle has the right informations about her dad. Wyatt is an investigator who is determined to get to the bottom of the circumstances of his daughter’s kidnapping. He is also determined to make Val his. Val and Wyatt have an interesting chemistry that works in this story. The pacing is fast and exciting. There is an exciting ending to this book and it does continue with a new story in A Barlow Lens, book 2 in the Circle series. We really do not learn much about these characters. Just little snippets. I am hoping that we learn more about them as the series continues.
Categories
PLOT 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 4 Stars
Review Copy of Run for the Roses provided by the Dreamspinner Press I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Elizabeth Noble
Series: Circles Book 1
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: May 1, 2014
Genre(s): Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 122 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Circles: Book One
Wanting to end his pattern of choosing controlling and abusive men, Vladimir ‘Val’ Mihalic figures it’s better to live alone than live in fear. Just when things are settling down—his biggest trouble recently is a Kentucky Derby hopeful that won’t load into a starting gate—his best friend Janelle’s violent ex-boyfriend kidnaps her. After she’s seriously injured in a car wreck, Wyatt Harig, Janelle’s estranged father, comes around to tend to his daughter. Despite Val’s determination to avoid relationships, Wyatt interests him in ways that make his resolve waver. As complications and repercussions pile on in the aftermath of Janelle’s kidnapping—including a gambling charge and a murder—Wyatt and Val must work together to seek answers. And the closer they get to each other, the more Val wants them to stay that way.
Review:
This is the first book of the Circle series. My bucket list includes watching the three races of the Triple Crown. This book is about horse racing and ends with the running of the Kentucky Derby. It was an interesting story filled with a kidnapping, hot romance and a murder mystery. Val and Janelle have been best friends since college. They have been looking after each other since their friendship began. When Janelle is kidnapped by her abusive ex, Val is there to help her with her recovery. When Janelle’s estranged father appears on Val’s doorstep he is torn. Janelle doesn’t want anything to do with the father that abandoned the family, but Val sees something in the man that makes him wonder if Janelle has the right informations about her dad. Wyatt is an investigator who is determined to get to the bottom of the circumstances of his daughter’s kidnapping. He is also determined to make Val his. Val and Wyatt have an interesting chemistry that works in this story. The pacing is fast and exciting. There is an exciting ending to this book and it does continue with a new story in A Barlow Lens, book 2 in the Circle series. We really do not learn much about these characters. Just little snippets. I am hoping that we learn more about them as the series continues.
Categories
PLOT 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 4 Stars
Review Copy of Run for the Roses provided by the Dreamspinner Press I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
October 25, 2015
Reviewed at The Blogger Girls.
When I started reading this book, ironically, it was the same day as the Belmont Stakes. I had no idea what the book was about, to be honest, so I got a kick out of the fact that they were training Janelle’s horse, Dreamspinner, for the Triple Crown. For anyone who doesn’t know what that is, it’s when a three-year old horse wins the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. It’s like THE big deal in horse racing for three year olds and has only been accomplished eleven times.
Anyway, if you’re thinking this is going to be a lesson on horse racing, think again. I just had to share my little story because I found it highly amusing that I picked this book up on the very day I watched the Belmont Stakes. Now that THAT’S done, we can get onto the review!
—
Val is just trying to get back to a normal life when his best friend, Janelle, gets kidnapped by her abusive ex-boyfriend, which results in a car accident, leaving her pretty banged up. Helping her heal isn’t so bad but when her estranged dad shows up, Val is wholly unprepared for the sparks they seem to have. Though a tentative relationship starts to form, they’ve got bigger problems when they’re thrust into the investigation of not only a few murders but also a gambling scheme. Unfortunately, danger is much to close to home but with Wyatt’s investigative skills, will they be able to catch the killer before he makes his move on Val or Janelle?
I really liked this book. It was just so easy to read. The progress of the story is soothing, the writing flows nicely and most of all the connection between the characters is all kinds of slow-burn. I loved that Val and Wyatt weren’t quick to get into each others pants but instead sort of circled around each other. It was nice to see them hesitant to really do anything unless they were sure about it. As Val has been in abusive relationships, he’s even more cautious to start anything. Wyatt is older and more experienced but I think he was still grieving a little for his lost partner. The two together are lovely and sweet. I just adored them. I also loved that Janelle was so cool about her dad and her best friend being together.
While I loved the book, I had a few little niggles. Mostly, they were questions left unanswered such as who killed the horse? Beyond that, I felt like there were sections of time that were told instead of shown, parts that I really wished we had gotten to experience (such as Wyatt and Val’s date, etc.) that I think would have furthered their relationship just a bit more.
In the end, though, I absolutely loved this book! The characters are intriguing, the story is fast paced and interesting and I really liked the little mystery that plays out in the story. The relationship between Wyatt and Val is sweet and I loved their connection. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series and seeing where it heads next!
When I started reading this book, ironically, it was the same day as the Belmont Stakes. I had no idea what the book was about, to be honest, so I got a kick out of the fact that they were training Janelle’s horse, Dreamspinner, for the Triple Crown. For anyone who doesn’t know what that is, it’s when a three-year old horse wins the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. It’s like THE big deal in horse racing for three year olds and has only been accomplished eleven times.
Anyway, if you’re thinking this is going to be a lesson on horse racing, think again. I just had to share my little story because I found it highly amusing that I picked this book up on the very day I watched the Belmont Stakes. Now that THAT’S done, we can get onto the review!
—
Val is just trying to get back to a normal life when his best friend, Janelle, gets kidnapped by her abusive ex-boyfriend, which results in a car accident, leaving her pretty banged up. Helping her heal isn’t so bad but when her estranged dad shows up, Val is wholly unprepared for the sparks they seem to have. Though a tentative relationship starts to form, they’ve got bigger problems when they’re thrust into the investigation of not only a few murders but also a gambling scheme. Unfortunately, danger is much to close to home but with Wyatt’s investigative skills, will they be able to catch the killer before he makes his move on Val or Janelle?
I really liked this book. It was just so easy to read. The progress of the story is soothing, the writing flows nicely and most of all the connection between the characters is all kinds of slow-burn. I loved that Val and Wyatt weren’t quick to get into each others pants but instead sort of circled around each other. It was nice to see them hesitant to really do anything unless they were sure about it. As Val has been in abusive relationships, he’s even more cautious to start anything. Wyatt is older and more experienced but I think he was still grieving a little for his lost partner. The two together are lovely and sweet. I just adored them. I also loved that Janelle was so cool about her dad and her best friend being together.
While I loved the book, I had a few little niggles. Mostly, they were questions left unanswered such as who killed the horse? Beyond that, I felt like there were sections of time that were told instead of shown, parts that I really wished we had gotten to experience (such as Wyatt and Val’s date, etc.) that I think would have furthered their relationship just a bit more.
In the end, though, I absolutely loved this book! The characters are intriguing, the story is fast paced and interesting and I really liked the little mystery that plays out in the story. The relationship between Wyatt and Val is sweet and I loved their connection. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series and seeing where it heads next!
April 13, 2015
fourstars
In Kentucky’s horse country, murder and intrigue surround the horses, riders and owners preparing for the Derby. IT technician Val and jockey Janelle are best friends working on a horse farm. When Janelle is badly injured, Val and Janelle’s father Wyatt must uncover the truth behind her accident. But Val just can’t help his attraction to the older man…
This is an exciting, whirlwind tour of the horseracing industry. The author has researched the racing world carefully for this suspenseful murder-mystery story. Her Kentucky farmland is an eerily idylic setting for the gruesome goings on. Val’s isolated cottage is way too spooky late at night!
All three characters are well drawn. Val’s relationships with his dogs and his horse were brilliant, Val and Janelle’s relationship was very sweet, and the back stories for all three characters are carefully constructed. This is ultimately Val’s story and he is revealed to us very slowly as the story progresses. I like Wyatt as a character, but I’m not sure I love the inter-generational romance, especially as Janelle is like a sister to Val. I also struggled to believe in Wyatt and Janelle’s relationship.
Ultimately, this is a great suspense story. There are romantic moments, but this is a mystery. The plot is complex and I found myself flipping back through the book to pick up tiny details I missed on the first read. I’d recommend it for horse lovers and suspense readers who enjoy a little bit of m/m romance.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
~Sarah
In Kentucky’s horse country, murder and intrigue surround the horses, riders and owners preparing for the Derby. IT technician Val and jockey Janelle are best friends working on a horse farm. When Janelle is badly injured, Val and Janelle’s father Wyatt must uncover the truth behind her accident. But Val just can’t help his attraction to the older man…
This is an exciting, whirlwind tour of the horseracing industry. The author has researched the racing world carefully for this suspenseful murder-mystery story. Her Kentucky farmland is an eerily idylic setting for the gruesome goings on. Val’s isolated cottage is way too spooky late at night!
All three characters are well drawn. Val’s relationships with his dogs and his horse were brilliant, Val and Janelle’s relationship was very sweet, and the back stories for all three characters are carefully constructed. This is ultimately Val’s story and he is revealed to us very slowly as the story progresses. I like Wyatt as a character, but I’m not sure I love the inter-generational romance, especially as Janelle is like a sister to Val. I also struggled to believe in Wyatt and Janelle’s relationship.
Ultimately, this is a great suspense story. There are romantic moments, but this is a mystery. The plot is complex and I found myself flipping back through the book to pick up tiny details I missed on the first read. I’d recommend it for horse lovers and suspense readers who enjoy a little bit of m/m romance.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
~Sarah
April 12, 2015
I was really worried when I started reading this book because I’m not a horse race person. At all. And when I realized that’s what the book was about, I was so worried that I was going to be lost and left scratching my head while reading it.
I was SO HAPPY when I realized that Ms. Nobel did such a great job explaining the horse racing, the behind the scenes, and everything else, to where I was able to completely understand what was going on and didn’t feel lost at all.
Even adding in the insane amount of drama and suspense that was taking place in this book, I just couldn’t put it down. I had to find out more about what was going to happen, and what was happening between Val and Wyatt. The pages couldn’t turn quick enough!
I do have to say that this is the first book by Ms. Nobel that I have read, and it most certainly won’t be the last! I can’t wait to dive into book 2 right away!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
I was SO HAPPY when I realized that Ms. Nobel did such a great job explaining the horse racing, the behind the scenes, and everything else, to where I was able to completely understand what was going on and didn’t feel lost at all.
Even adding in the insane amount of drama and suspense that was taking place in this book, I just couldn’t put it down. I had to find out more about what was going to happen, and what was happening between Val and Wyatt. The pages couldn’t turn quick enough!
I do have to say that this is the first book by Ms. Nobel that I have read, and it most certainly won’t be the last! I can’t wait to dive into book 2 right away!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
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