jilrene reads

I’ve wanted to read this one for a while, but have been worried I wouldn’t like it. This book is set in the horse jumping world where I might know if the author makes a mistake. The prologue, Athens at the 2004 Olympics, sets the stage. Derek and Charles are both riders. Derek rides Charles’ horse in the Olympics because Charles was injured and couldn’t ride her. That’s actually possible. The description of Derek’s ride is excellent. Derek’s moment of inattention affecting the way the horse responds – VERY accurate. I was surprised and pleased as the book continued. The story is told in alternating first person POV, so we get to know both MCs. The riding and farm details are well researched and made the story a fun read for me. The relationship between the main characters is mostly believable, if a little frustrating. Derek is insecure and wrapped up in his past relationship failures. Charles, on the other hand, is supposed to be the typical stiff upper lip Brit. He starts out that way, but he becomes super sharing about ¾ of the way through the story. I guess it’s possible, but seems too convenient. Oh, and these two guys were total horn dogs. While the sex scenes were well written (very smexy), there were a lot of them for this length story. Seriously, these two couldn’t look at each other without thinking about sex. Although, in this relationship, it was mutual, so no one was complaining. Maybe the fact that this story is about two men who were a couple before the story starts is why the relationship feels less complete. I’m giving 4 stars – the relationship wasn’t as well done as the riding parts. If I judged on just the riding, I would definitely say 5 stars. If there was something done with the men, making them a little more this could be an overall 5 star read.