I was leery about getting into RIDE INTO ROMANCE by Karen Black because I'm not a fan of romance novels. But now that I've finished the story, I can gladly say that it was not at all what I expected. Instead, I found it somewhat educational, as the story followed Maggie around racetracks and the rodeo circuit. I learned a little about both events and the sacrifices and dedication necessary to own racehorses. I also learned that horses understand English. At least, it seemed that way when Maggie spoke to them. She'd been around horses all her life and could easily control the most stubborn of them with kind words and encouragement. It was as if she could get into their heads. Her dream, all along, was to be a thoroughbred jockey, and it was time to follow her dream. Only her boyfriend, David, an influential and wealthy horse trader, stood in her way.

Did you ever have a close friend of the opposite sex, one that you grew up with and have shared your most intimate secrets with? Johnny was such a friend to Maggie, and not long ago, he moved to the West Coast and was now raising thoroughbreds. When Maggie calls Johnny and explains her situation, he offers to help her move and settle in on the West Coast. What Maggie didn't know was that Johnny had been in love with her all along.

Maggie leaves David and relocates to the West Coast. Once settled, Johnny uses his influence to get her a job with a well-known trainer. Her dream of becoming a successful thoroughbred jockey was coming true. However, David wants her back, and Johnny wants Maggie for himself. There is an altercation, and later, both men are seriously injured. How does it all turn out for Maggie? Read the book, you'll be glad you did.

The story is easy to read and flows well. Although I encountered some errors, I still give it four stars. It is highly recommended. ( )

A quick & fun read. A little too many plot twists that were unnecessary. I like the race themes but again, a few too many threads. Not bad though. ( )

Ride Into Romance is about a young, confident & talented woman named Maggie. Maggie is a quarter horse jockey who wants to move across the country to become a thoroughbred jockey, despite her controlling boyfriend who does not want her to go. With the help of her childhood best friend, who happens to be in love with her, she makes the move. Maggie is a very likable character. I rooted for her when she was racing and when she was trying to figure out where her heart lies. I enjoyed the look behind the scenes at the racetracks. The excitement, rivalry, and sometimes cutthroat world that it is. This book would appeal to anyone who likes horses, racing, strong women and romance. Thank you to the author, Karen Black and LibraryThing for the ARC. ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was an easy read and only took me 3 days to read it. At times it was suspenseful and engaging; wanting you to read more to figure out what was going to happen next. ( )

This was a short, sweet book that combined horse racing and romance. Maggie was involved with one man who was controlling but had always been in love with a childhood friend. She also has always been interested in becoming a jockey. She gets a chance to live this dream.

Sometimes this book was confusing as to what kind of book it wanted to be. There were also a couple of underlying storylines going on also. All in all it was a good book ( )