Review: Return to Virgin River

Return to Virgin River

About the Book:

Kaylee Sloan’s home in Southern California is full of wonderful memories of the woman who raised her. But the memories are prolonging her grief over her mother’s recent death. A successful author, Kaylee hoped she could pour herself into her work. Instead she has terrible writer’s block and a looming deadline.

Determined to escape distractions and avoid the holiday season, Kaylee borrows a cabin in Virgin River. She knows the isolation will help her writing, and as she drives north through the mountains and the majestic redwoods, she immediately feels inspired. Until she arrives at a building that has just gone up in flames. Devastated, she heads to Jack’s Bar to plan her next steps. The local watering hole is the heart of the town, and once she crosses the threshold, she’s surprised to be embraced by people who are more than willing to help a friend—or a stranger—in need.

Kaylee’s world is expanding in ways she never dreamed possible. And when she rescues a kitten followed by a dog with a litter of puppies, she finds her heart opening up to the animals who need her. And then there’s the dog trainer who knows exactly how to help her. As the holidays approach, Kaylee’s dread turns to wonder. Because there’s no better place to spend Christmas than Virgin River.

My Comments:

The fun of reading books that are part of a series is being able to keep up with characters as life moves on.  The downside is that if you get a long-running series, the author may feel it is necessary to to update you on "everyone's" life to the point that there are too many bit players running on and off the stage.  It is a hard needle to thread--to bring in enough old characters to make readers feel "at home" in the new book without overwhelming the book with useless details about bit characters.  Generally speaking Carr does fine with this, though if she errs it is on the side of too much information about too many useless characters, especially for someone who has not read the other books.

There is no plot carryover from the other Virgin River books.  The main plot is the relationship between Kaylee and a local artist.  His relationship with his ex is the main subplot.   Kaylee is trying to heal from the death of her mother and write a novel that has been the subject of writer's block. She is hoping that a new location will help. 

If you are not familiar with the Virgin River books you may get a little confused about who is who,or why they get named, but long-time fans of the series will enjoy visiting with old friends.   

Sunrise on Half Moon Bay

About the Book:

Adele and Justine have never been close. Born twenty years apart, Justine was already an adult when Addie was born. The sisters love each other but they don’t really know each other.

When Addie dropped out of university to care for their ailing parents, Justine, a successful lawyer, covered the expenses. It was the best arrangement at the time but now that their parents are gone, the future has changed dramatically for both women.

Addie had great plans for her life but has been worn down by the pressures of being a caregiver and doesn’t know how to live for herself. And Justine’s success has come at a price. Her marriage is falling apart despite her best efforts.

Neither woman knows how to start life over but both realize they can and must support each other the way only sisters can. Together they find the strength to accept their failures and overcome their challenges. Happiness is within reach, if only they have the courage to fight for it.

Set in the stunning coastal town of Half Moon Bay, California, Robyn Carr’s new novel examines the joys of sisterhood and the importance of embracing change.

My Comments:

All of us have times in our lives where things seem to pretty much go on as "normal" and, unfortunately, times when change is forced upon us.  Even when the change ends up being for the better, most of us would rather call the shots than to have situations or other people make us change.

Adele has been living her life for others for her whole adult life. She dropped out of college and moved home to care for sick parents.  Her life hasn't been bad, and she could have chosen to leave, but she didn't.  However, she's never been in a position where she felt she was making career, school or relationship decisions.  Now her parents are gone, and she plans to make plans when she decides what she thinks she wants--yea, she isn't doing a whole lot.  

Her sister, on the other hand, has a full life--a high-flying career, two kids, a husband, etc. Until that implodes.  Now both sisters are trying to put their lives back together which, in part, means deciding what they want--and yes, WHO they want is part of it too.  

As with many of Robyn Carr's books, the characters are the strength of this book and through their eyes we see that even people whose lives appear perfect often have problems the world doesn't see.  I cheered for these sisters as they charted their new lives an believe you will too.

Thanks to the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B.

Review: The Country Guesthouse

The Country Guesthouse

About the Book:

Hannah Russell’s carefully crafted plans for her life have been upended without warning. When her best friend died suddenly, Hannah became guardian to a five-year-old named Noah. With no experience at motherhood, she’s terrified she’s not up to the challenge. She and Noah need time to get to know each other, so she decides to rent a country house with stunning views on a lake in rural Colorado.

When they arrive at the house, they are greeted by the owner, a handsome man who promises to stay out of their way. But his clumsy Great Dane, Romeo, has other ideas and Noah immediately bonds with the lovable dog. As Hannah learns to become a mother, Owen Abrams, who is recovering from his own grief, can’t help but be drawn out of his solitude by his guests.

But life throws more challenges at this unlikely trio and they are tested in ways they never thought possible. All three will discover their strengths and, despite their differences, they will fight to become a family. And the people of Sullivan’s Crossing will rally around them to offer all of the support they need.

My Comments:

I love happy endings and this book has one, which given the author, is no surprise.  No, the book wasn't realistic.  Hannah has next to no trouble with Noah, and, of course, she and Owen grow closer throughout the summer.  Still, I liked the way Hannah was able to take a look at what she liked about her life, and what she didn't and how she decided to change the things she did not like.  

There is a "bad guy" subplot that honestly just never made sense and the resolution of it was about as unrealistic as the rest of the subplot.  Carr writes better romance than suspense.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for providing a review copy via NetGalley.  Grade: B. 

The View from Alameda Island

The View of Alameda Island

About the Book:

From the outside looking in, Lauren Delaney has a life to envy—a successful career, a solid marriage to a prominent surgeon and two beautiful daughters who are off to good colleges. But on her twenty-fourth wedding anniversary Lauren makes a decision that will change everything.

Lauren won’t pretend things are perfect anymore. She defies the controlling husband who has privately mistreated her throughout their marriage and files for divorce. And as she starts her new life, she meets a kindred spirit—a man who is also struggling with the decision to end his unhappy marriage.

But Lauren’s husband wants his “perfect” life back and his actions are shocking. Facing an uncertain future, Lauren discovers an inner strength she didn’t know she had as she fights for the love and happiness she deserves.

My Comments:

This book was unbelievable.  I don't mean exceptionally good or exceptionally bad; I mean that so many improbable things happened that by the end of the book there was no doubt that it was fiction.  While there was nothing that happened that in and of itself was impossible, the combination just had me shaking my head.  

One of the impossible stories had to do with a Catholic priest.  After many years in the priesthood, the last few on the "bishop track" Fr. Tim decides that while he still has faith in God and in the Church, he no longer wants to be a priest--he wants to work for an organization that serves the poor, and, of course, he doesn't want to be celibate anymore.  Once he makes the decision to leave, he gets into a relationship with a woman he has known for years and in the space of a few months has been laicized and has married the woman in a Catholic church.  

Ok, I can accept that if Robyn Carr is not Catholic she wouldn't realize how impossible that is, but the book main character's first marriages are each abusive in their own way and the behavior of each ex just gets stranger and stranger as the book progresses.  If either one of them had a spouse like those it would be unusual; that they both did?  Just bizarre.  At the end of the book something  happens to the ex's and it is all just too convenient.  

On the other hand, I really liked Lauren and how she stepped up to take control of her life.  Her new man is everything her husband wasn't--focused on her and what is good for her rather than on himself.  

All in all, I've seen much better from Carr but she did keep me reading and involved in the story until the end.  

Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy via NetGalley.  Grade:  B-

The Best of Us: My Review

The Best of Us

About the Book:

Dr. Leigh Culver loves practicing medicine in Timberlake, Colorado. It is a much-needed change of pace from her stressful life in Chicago. The only drawback is she misses her aunt Helen, the woman who raised her. But it’s time that Leigh has her independence, and she hopes the beauty of the Colorado wilderness will entice her aunt to visit often.

Helen Culver is an independent woman who lovingly raised her sister’s orphaned child. Now, with Leigh grown, it’s time for her to live life for herself. The retired teacher has become a successful mystery writer who loves to travel and intends to never experience winter again.

When Helen visits Leigh, she is surprised to find her niece still needs her, especially when it comes to sorting out her love life. But the biggest surprise comes when Leigh takes Helen out to Sullivan’s Crossing and Helen finds herself falling for the place and one special person. Helen and Leigh will each have to decide if they can open themselves up to love neither expected to find and seize the opportunity to live their best lives.

My Comments:

I've read that one sign of growing up is realizing that your parents have a sex life.  Leigh has her man, and yes, Robyn Carr makes it very clear that the two of them are having sex regularly.  Leigh's mom is long gone, but she was raised by Aunt Helen and now it is Helen's turn to have a romantic (yes, that's code for "sex") life.  

It's funny, I read a lot of romance novels and in my mind, these heroines aren't that much younger than I am--but of course they are.  It's finally starting to sink in that the average character in the average romance novel is now the age of my kids, which pretty much puts me in Aunt Helen's age group, and it is interesting to read about a woman whose life experience is more baby boomer than millennial.  

Like most of Carr's other books, this one features a beautiful rural setting, a community of characters who make appearances in other books in the series and, of course, love.  While clearly part of a series the book can be read as a stand-alone.

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B. 

Review of Robyn Carr's The Family Gathering

The Family Gathering

About the Book:

Having left the military, Dakota Jones is at a crossroads in his life. With his elder brother and youngest sister happily settled in Sullivan’s Crossing, he shows up hoping to clear his head before moving on to his next adventure. But, like every visitor to the Crossing, he’s immediately drawn to the down-to-earth people and the seemingly simple way of life.

Dakota is unprepared for how quickly things get complicated. As a newcomer, he is on everyone’s radar—especially the single women in town. While he enjoys the attention at first, he’s really only attracted to the one woman who isn’t interested. And spending quality time with his siblings is eye-opening. As he gets to know them, he also gets to know himself and what he truly wants.

When all the Jones siblings gather for a family wedding, the four adults are drawn together for the first time in a way they never were as children. As they struggle to accept each other, warts and all, the true nature and strength of their bond is tested. But all of them come to realize that your family are the people who see you for who you really are and love you anyway. And for Dakota, that truth allows him to find the home and family he’s always wanted.

My Comments:

A literary classic this is not, but it is a heartwarming enjoyable read with a villainess who is easy to hate and a hero who is easy to love.  As we watch Dakota come to town and discover the stability and love his siblings have found there we realize that much of the happiness we find in life is found because we choose to find it and live it, warts and all.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B.  

The Summer That Made Us: My Review

The Summer that Made Us

About the Book:

Mothers and daughters, sisters and cousins, they lived for summers at the lake house until a tragic accident changed everything. The Summer That Made Us is an unforgettable story about a family learning to accept the past, to forgive and to love each other again. 

That was then… 

For the Hempsteads, two sisters who married two brothers and had three daughters each, summers were idyllic. The women would escape the city the moment school was out to gather at the family house on Lake Waseka. The lake was a magical place, a haven where they were happy and carefree. All of their problems drifted away as the days passed in sun-dappled contentment. Until the summer that changed everything. 

This is now… 

After an accidental drowning turned the lake house into a site of tragedy and grief, it was closed up. For good. Torn apart, none of the Hempstead women speak of what happened that summer, and relationships between them are uneasy at best to hurtful at worst. But in the face of new challenges, one woman is determined to draw her family together again, and the only way that can happen is to return to the lake and face the truth. 

Robyn Carr has crafted a beautifully woven story about the complexities of family dynamics and the value of strong female relationships.

My Comments:

In a lot of ways, this is the proto-typical "beach read".  There is a beach house which has been in the family for generations; the family that used to gather there yearly; the summer romances;  the guy across the lake; and the tragedy that tore everyone apart.  Nevertheless, Robyn Carr does a good job with this trope.  Her characters include the likable, the pitiable and the one you just want to shake. The story has just enough twists to keep it interesting.  

As the summer draws to a close, all have had their lives changed, and improved by facing the demons of their past and realizing that things really weren't just thier fault.  

I'd like to thank Little Bird Publicity for inviting me to participate in this blog tour and providing a complimentary review copy.  Grade:  B.

Review: Any Day Now

Any Day Now

About the Book:

For Sierra Jones, Sullivan's Crossing is meant to be a brief stopover. She's put her troubled past behind her but the path forward isn't yet clear. A visit with her big brother Cal and his new bride, Maggie, seems to be the best option to help her get back on her feet. 

Not wanting to burden or depend on anyone, Sierra is surprised to find the Crossing offers so much more than a place to rest her head. Cal and Maggie welcome her into their busy lives and she quickly finds herself bonding with Sully, the quirky campground owner who is the father figure she's always wanted. But when her past catches up with her, it's a special man and an adorable puppy who give her the strength to face the truth and fight for a brighter future. In Sullivan's Crossing Sierra learns to cherish the family you are given and the family you choose.

My Comments:

Robyn Carr has another winner here.  I loved Sierra and cheered for her as she got her life together.  Connie, her male love interest was a real sweetheart with just the right amount of masculinity--and who wouldn't love a cute puppy?  

I liked watching Sierra reclaim her life after an abusive relationship but found the resolution of that plot line to be somewhat unrealistic.  

Most of the time romance novels are about young adults just getting started in life, which I guess is because hopefully by the time people are middle-aged, they've met someone and settled into life together.  Still, as someone who is on the far side of 40, I like seeing "older" couples and this book features one. 

For those who like small town romances where everyone knows everyone, Any Day Now by Robyn Carr fits the bill if you don't mind a little steam.

 I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley. Grade:  B+

Review: The Life She Wants

The Life She Wants

About the Book:

In the aftermath of her financier husband’s suicide, Emma Shay Compton’s dream life is shattered. Richard Compton stole his clients’ life savings to fund a lavish life in New York City and, although she was never involved in the business, Emma bears the burden of her husband’s crimes. She is left with nothing. 

Only one friend stands by her, a friend she’s known since high school, who encourages her to come home to Sonoma County. But starting over isn’t easy, and Sonoma is full of unhappy memories, too. And people she’d rather not face, especially Riley Kerrigan. 

Riley and Emma were like sisters—until Riley betrayed Emma, ending their friendship. Emma left town, planning to never look back. Now, trying to stand on her own two feet, Emma can’t escape her husband’s reputation and is forced to turn to the last person she thought she’d ever ask for help—her former best friend. It’s an uneasy reunion as both women face the mistakes they’ve made over the years. Only if they find a way to forgive each other—and themselves—can each of them find the life she wants.

My Comments:

This is definitely not one of Robyn Carr's better books.  It is the story of Emma, who is starting over with almost nothing after the suicide of her husband, who had been convicted of bilking people out of millions of dollars.  She returns to her hometown but because of her husband's notoriety, the only work she can find is low-wage jobs like working at a fast food place or in housekeeping.  

When Emma was off at college, Emma's best friend and boyfriend got too close and ended up pregnant.  Of course Emma felt betrayed, even though her life was quickly moving beyond that small town.  Emma and Riley haven't spoken since, but when she couldn't find any other job, Emma swallows her pride and asks for a job with Riley's cleaning company.  

The main problem with the book is that it just wasn't realistic.  Riley has been keeping people at arm's length ever since her fallout with Emma.  Now all of the sudden she starts dating--and then quits because she realizes the guy who has been under her nose all these years...

Emma's love story is actually pretty believeable, but her work life after she gets home--absolutely not.  Her relationship with her stepmom was equally unrealistic.  She ends up rescuing a troubled teen, and a few months later everything is fine with that teen.  Basically the whole problem with the book is that all the endings were happy and many of them seemed hurried and forced.  

I bought this book with my own money and can say whatever I want about it.  Grade:  B-

Review: What We Find

What We Find

About the Book:

Between the urban bustle of Denver and the high-stress environment of a career in neurosurgery, Maggie Sullivan has hit a wall. When an emergency high-risk procedure results in the death of a teenager, Maggie finds herself in the middle of a lawsuit—and experiencing levels of anxiety she's never faced before. She knows she needs to slow down before she burns out completely, and the best place she can think to do that is Sullivan's Crossing. 

Named for Maggie's great-grandfather, the land and charming general store at the crossroads of the Colorado and the Continental Divide Trails have been passed down through the generations and now belong to Maggie's eccentric father, Sully. When she shows up unannounced, he welcomes her with open arms, and she relishes the opportunity to indulge in his simple way of life. 

But shortly after arriving, Maggie's world is rocked once again and she must take on more responsibility than she'd planned. Though she's relieved a quiet and serious-looking hiker, Cal Jones, is willing to lend a hand, Maggie is suspicious of this mysterious man's eagerness to help—until she finds out the true reason for his deliberate isolation. 

Though Cal and Maggie each struggle with loss and loneliness, the time they spend together gives Maggie hope for something brighter just on the horizon…if only they can learn to find peace and healing—and perhaps love—with each other.

My Comments:

What We Find is a Robyn Carr romance.  Those familiar with her work will know that means a rural setting, a central gathering place and people finding love plus a steamy scene or two.  The rural setting is a campground in Colorado and the both he and she are high-powered professionals who have had something happen that made them reconsider lives built around work.  I enjoyed the book, but, as the saying goes, it is what it is--a light predictable read.  Grade:  B. 

Book Review: Wildest Dreams

 

Wildest Dreams (Thunder Point series)

About the Book:

Blake Smiley searched the country for just the right place to call home. The professional triathlete has traveled the world, but Thunder Point has what he needs to put down the roots he's never had. In the quiet coastal town, he can focus on his training without distractions. Until he meets his new neighbors and everything changes. 

Lin Su Simmons and her teenage son, Charlie, are fixtures at Winnie Banks's house as Lin Su nurses Winnie through the realities of ALS. A single mother, Lin Su is proud of taking charge and never showing weakness. But she has her hands full coping with a job, debt and Charlie's health issues. And Charlie is asking questions about his family history—questions she doesn't want to answer. 

When Charlie enlists Blake's help to escape his overprotective mother, Lin Su resents the interference in her life. But Blake is certain he can break through her barriers and be the man she and Charlie need. When faced with a terrible situation, Blake comes to the rescue, and Lin Su realizes he just might be the man of her dreams. Together, they recognize that family is who you choose it to be.

My Comments:

It is amazing the people who happen onto the small town of Thunder Point and choose to make it home.  While much of the book requires a certain willingness to believe the sometimes unbelievable, once you get past that, the characters who carry the story are endearing.  We met Lin Su and Charlie in the last book and realized they were going to be more than just the hired help.  In this book we learn their history and about the problems in their current life.  While I have a hard time seeing a registered nurse (which is what Lin Su is supposed to be) living in the poverty she does; I do know that home health care is not an easy field for most of the caregivers.  This book also takes a look at the challenges of parenting a medically fragile teen as well as the reality of the decline that comes with ALS.  

The book is clearly part of a series and those from past books make appearances here, or get mentioned though not to excess.  

If you've enjoyed the other books in this series, or are looking for contemporary character-driven romance, I think you'll like this one.  Grade:  B.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  

A New Hope: My Review

A New Hope (Thunder Point)

About the Book:

After losing her child, Ginger Dysart was lost in grief. But since moving to Thunder Point, a small town on the Oregon coast, Ginger is finally moving forward. Her job at the flower shop is peaceful and fulfilling, and she's excited to be assisting with the Lacoumette wedding. 

In spite of her lasting heartache, Ginger is swept up in the pleasure of the occasion. But the beauty of the Lacoumette farm and the joy of the gregarious family are ruined by an unfortunate encounter with the bride's brother, Matt. Struggling with painful memories of his own, Matt makes a drunken spectacle of himself when he tries to make a pass at Ginger, forcing her to flee the scene in embarrassment. 

But when Matt shows up at the flower shop determined to make amends, what started out as a humiliating first meeting blossoms into something much deeper than either of them expected. Everyone around them worries that Ginger will end up with a broken heart yet again. But if Ginger has the courage to embrace the future, and if Matt can finally learn to let go of the past, there may still be hope for a happy ending.

My Comments:

This book is definitely my favorite in the series and one I'd definitely recommend.  Robyn Carr is turning this series into a multi-threaded soap opera and I for one can hardly wait to read the next installment.  We met Ginger in the last book, One Wish (click for my review) in which she was a depressed young woman who didn't know what she wanted out of life.  Now, she is working in Grace's flower shop and seeing a nice guy (though he did not seem so at first).  Both Ginger and Matt need to own up to their parts in the problems in their old relationships before they are ready to move on to a new love.

The serious thread in this book dealt with Grace's mother, who is disabled (and dying, I suspect, eventually, but not in this book) with ALS.  As a New Orleans resident, I've admired our former Saint, Steve Gleason, who has been determined to make something of his life, even if it will be short.  Grace and her mother have a lot of baggage to work through but they are making progress.  I suspect the nurse, a single mom in difficult economic straights, will be a character in a later book.  

I'd like to thank Katie at Little Bird Publicity for providing a complimentary review copy.  Grade:  B+

One Wish: My Review

One Wish (Thunder Point)

About the Book:

Grace Dillon was a champion figure skater until she moved to Thunder Point to escape the ruthless world of fame and competition. And though she's proud of the quiet, self-sufficient life she's created running a successful flower shop, she knows something is missing. Her life could use a little excitement. 

In a community where there are few eligible singles, high school teacher Troy Headly appoints himself Grace's fun coach. When he suggests a little companionship with no strings attached, Grace is eager to take him up on his offer, and the two enjoy…getting to know each other. 

But things get complicated when Grace's past catches up with her, and she knows that's not what Troy signed up for. Faced with losing her, Troy realizes Grace is more than just a friend with benefits. He's determined to help her fight for the life she always wished for but never believed she could have—and maybe they can find real love along the way.

My Comments:

While this book can be read by itself and still make sense, it is obviously part of a series and is getting more soap-operaish with multiple characters and threads that carry from book to book.  The main plot of this book was the romance between Grace and Troy.  I liked them and liked watching them become parts of each others lives.   As a general market romance, there was intimate activity and it happened before marriage but it was obvious these two cared for each other and were not just fooling around.

The character in this series who is really growing on me is Ray Anne.  She is the local real estate agent and she is a flashy dresser who has less than a stellar reputation.  However, in the last book she got into a relationship with a man who accepted three teens as foster children, and she has become a part of those kids' lives.  In this book she takes in a cousin's daughter who is severely depressed following the death of her infant and the collapse of her marriage.  We learn that there is a lot more to Ray Anne than meets the eye and I for one am really rooting for her, and admiring her.  I've found that many of Robyn Carr's characters are pretty stock (Troy is a nice guy but there is little unique about him) but sometimes she manages to write one who has some depth and Ray Ann is, in my opinion, the deep character in this series and I can hardly wait for the next book to see what life brings her next.  

I'd like to thank the publishers for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B+

Review: The Homecoming

The Homecoming: Book 6 of Thunder Point series

About the Book:

At the age of nineteen, Seth Sileski had everything. A superb athlete and scholar, handsome and popular, he was the pride of Thunder Point. Destined for greatness, he lost it all in a terrible accident that put an end to his professional football career when it had barely begun. The people in his hometown have never forgotten what might have been. 

Seth has come to terms with the turns his life has taken. But now he's been presented with an opportunity to return home and show his father—and the people of Thunder Point—he's become a better, humbler version of his former self. 

My Comments:

I really enjoyed this latest episode in Robyn Car's Thunder Point series.  In high school Seth was the star athlete.  Iris was his best friend, but he dated the cheerleaders (and asked her for advice).  Then one night, when he was drunk, the two of them became more than friends--except that when Seth sobered up he didn't remember it.  Iris of course was heartbroken.  Still, she has never forgotten him.  Now she is the high school guidance counselor who tries to convince girls that they are worth more than that.  Seth was the pro athlete who had more money than sense.  An accident put an end to his career and forced him to grow up in a hurry.  Now, years later, he is back in town as the deputy sheriff, and he decides that it is time to be more than friends with his old friend--but for some reason she is reluctant.  

Letting go of the past allows these two to chart a future of love, and gives us a story that was fun to read. I liked both Seth and Iris and cheered them on happily ever after.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B+

Giveaway and Review: The Promise

The Promise: Book 5 of Thunder Point series

About the Book:

Scott Grant has a bustling family practice in the small Oregon community of Thunder Point. The town and its people have embraced the widowed doctor and father of two, his children are thriving, and Scott knows it's time to move on from his loss. But as the town's only doctor, the dating pool is limited. That is, until a stunning physician's assistant applies for a job at his clinic. 

Peyton Lacoumette considers herself entirely out of the dating scene. She's already been burned by a man with kids, and she's come to Thunder Point determined not to repeat past mistakes. When Scott offers her a job, at a much lower salary than she's used to, Peyton is surprisingly eager to accept…at least for now. She's willing to stay for a three-month trial period while she explores other options. 

Scott and Peyton know the arrangement is temporary—it isn't enough time to build a real relationship, never mind anything with lasting commitment. But love can blossom faster than you think when the timing is right, and this short visit just might hold the promise of forever.

My Comments:

Robyn Carr is one of those authors whose books I grab when they are offered for review.  I've enjoyed the other books in the Thunder Point series and I enjoyed this one too.  Many of the regulars make at least brief appearances but the story stands on its own; you do not have to have read the others for the story to make sense.  While Scott and Peyton are intimate before marriage the scene, unlike those in many Carr books, is not very graphic. 

The book, if anything, gives good reasons not to jump into non-marital intimate relationships.  In short, Peyton ended up being used by a man who would never have kept her around if she had refused to move in with him.  I enjoyed watching her grow from a hurt young woman into someone who realized who she was and what she wanted out of life--and how to get it.  Scott was a man I could love if I was single and ___ years younger.  He is steady, reliable and loves his kids and makes them first in his life.  He knows it isn't all about him and I like that in a hero.  

 I'd like to thank Katie at Little Bird Publicity for sending me a review copy of the book.  Grade:  B+

Giveaway:

Katie has agreed to give one of my lucky readers a copy of The Promise.  As I said above, while the characters in this book end up in bed, we don't get any graphic descriptions of who does what to whom.  To enter this giveaway,leave a comment about what you like to see in romance novels as far as bedroom scenes.  Do you want a closed door between them and you?  A vividly painted picture?  Lots of flowery language?  Practically an instruction manual? 

 Make sure there is contact information in your post or profile.  

My Review: The Chance by Robin Carr

The Chance (Thunder Point)

About the Book:

With its breathtaking vistas and down-to-earth people, Thunder Point is the perfect place for FBI agent Laine Carrington to recuperate from a gunshot wound and contemplate her future. The locals embraced Laine as one of their own after she risked her life to save a young girl from a dangerous cult. Knowing her wounds go beyond the physical, Laine hopes she'll fit in for a while and find her true self in a town that feels safe. She may even learn to open her heart to others, something an undercover agent has little time to indulge.

Eric Gentry is also new to Thunder Point. Although he's a man with a dark past, he's determined to put down roots and get to know the daughter he only recently discovered. When Laine and Eric meet, their attraction is obvious to everyone. But while the law enforcement agent and the reformed criminal want to make things work, their differences may run too deep…unless they take a chance on each other and find that deep and mysterious bond that belongs to those who choose love over fear.

My Comments:

I liked Eric; he seems like a guy with his head on straight; a guy who has had some rough times but who has decided that that life is going to get better.  He made a nice contrast with two of his employees--one a man his age who has been running from life for many years; the other a teen who seems to be heading down the wrong path--or is he?

Somehow Laine just didn't ring true with me; it's not that I didn't like her, it's that the various parts of her personality didn't add up.  When she and Eric get together things get very steamy very fast, and we have front row seats.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  This was a light easy read with the requisite happy ending, and it was just what I needed when I read it.  Grade:  B.   

The Hero: My Review

The Hero (Thunder Point)

About the Book:

In a moment of desperation, Devon McAllister takes her daughter and flees a place where they should have been safe and secure. She has no idea what is around the next bend, but she is pretty certain it can't be worse than what they've left behind. Her plan is to escape to somewhere she can be invisible. Instead, an unexpected offer of assistance leads her to Thunder Point, a tiny Oregon town with a willingness to help someone in need. 

As the widowed father of a vulnerable young boy, Spencer Lawson knows something about needing friendship. But he's not looking for anything else. Instead, he's thrown his energy into his new role as Thunder Point's high school football coach. Tough and demanding to his team, off the field he's gentle and kind…just the kind of man who could heal Devon's wounded heart. 

Devon thought she wanted to hide from the world. But in Thunder Point, you find bravery where you least expect it…and sometimes, you find a hero.

My Comments:

Robyn Carr is one of those authors whose books I grab when I see them on NetGalley.  I downloaded this one Wednesday and had it read by Thursday, so it definitely caught my interest and was an engaging read.  Like the earlier books in the series, this one is set in a small town on the Oregon coast.  Everyone knows everyone and most folks are good.  Most folks have something in their past that is less than ideal.  None of the featured relationships involve unattached young folks who get together, marry and then have a child.  Devon joined a commune and is now the single mother of a child sired by the leader of said commune.  Spencer is a widower, and what's more, when his wife was ill they learned that their son was not his son, but rather, Cooper's.  Cooper is  with Sarah.  She's divorced, and has been raising her younger brother all these years.      The Sheriff's wife left him and their kids.  Now, he is married to Gina, who was impregnated by a high school boyfriend who disappeared, but who is now back, and Gina and Mack are ok with that.  Mack's Aunt Lou marries a younger man of a different race.  Yes, it is kind of soap-opera-ish but like a soap opera watcher, the reader becomes attached to these folks.  While clearly part of a series, the back story isn't necessary to enjoy this story.  

I liked both Spencer and Devon.  I could see Devon changing in both appearance and attitude as the book progressed.  Spencer didn't undergo those big changes but I always liked him--your basic loving Dad and all-around good guy.  Things get a little steamy with them a couple of times.

While the whole book was an enjoyable read, this is one where I found the climax scene to be very unrealistic.  Without any spoilers, not only could I not see it resolving as it did, I couldn't believe the characters were involved in it.  Not surprisingly, it ends happily ever after.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B- (the minus is for that climax scene).  

Review: The Newcomer

About the Book:

Single dad and Thunder Point's deputy sheriff "Mac" McCain has worked hard to keep his town safe and his daughter happy. Now he's found his own happiness with Gina James. The longtime friends have always shared the challenges and rewards of raising their adolescent daughters. With an unexpected romance growing between them, they're feeling like teenagers themselves-suddenly they can't get enough of one another.

And just when things are really taking off, their lives are suddenly thrown into chaos. When Mac's long-lost ex-wife shows up in town, drama takes on a whole new meaning. Mac and Gina know they're meant to be together, but can their newfound love withstand the pressure?

My Comments:

This book was busy,  very busy.  You have Mack and Gina as noted above.  Then there is Sarah and Cooper.  Mac's daughter is seeing Sarah's son.  Gina's daughter was seeing last year's local sports star.  Mack's aunt is seeing the guy whose cabin Mack and Gina use.  Then there are the old relationships--Mac's ex-wife shows up and is up to no good.  Cooper's ex calls and she has news for him.  Gina looks up her daughter's father after all these years.  Sarah has to decide between a life she has learned to love (and maybe a man she has learned to love) and her job.  It's hard to keep everybody straight.

I found this book to be a quick engaging read with likable characters. It deals with teenage angst, including excessive phoning and texting and cyberbullying.  It deals with seemly excessive reactions to teen break-ups and with the long-term consequences of non-marital sex.  Still, the solution given isn't less non-marital sex but more birth control.  The story is set in a small town and certainly gives that small town vibe of everyone knowing all of everyone's business.

While lots of folks in this book are intimate with each other there is only one scene that gets very graphic and it includes ice cream.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley.  Grade:  B.

The Wanderer: My Review

The Wanderer (Thunder Point)

About the Book:

Nestled on the Oregon coast is a small town of rocky beaches and rugged charm. Locals love the land's unspoiled beauty. Developers see it as a potential gold mine. When newcomer Hank Cooper learns he's been left an old friend's entire beachfront property, he finds himself with a community's destiny in his hands. 

Cooper has never been a man to settle in one place, and Thunder Point was supposed to be just another quick stop. But Cooper finds himself getting involved with the town. And with Sarah Dupre, a woman as complicated as she is beautiful. 

With the whole town watching for his next move, Cooper has to choose between his old life and a place full of new possibilities. A place that just might be home.

My Comments:

I guess Robyn Carr figured she'd moved about as many ex-military guys to the small town of Virgin River as she could plausibly do, so she moved the show down the road a ways, to coastal Oregon.  Cooper is a friend of one of the guys in Virgin River and he heads to Thunder Point when he inherits some land (from an ex-military buddy) that includes a bar/grill/ bait shop etc.  Though his original thought is to put the property on the market and move on with life, life catches up with him.  He makes connections and not just romantic ones.  

Speaking of romance, the book had plenty--romance between high school students, romance between those approaching middle age and romance between those who are almost ready to say goodbye to middle age.  Yes, the adults ended up in bed, and the adults talked about the kids ending up having sex but the scenes were not the most explicit out there.  

I guess Cooper's place is going to end up like Jack's place in the Virgin River books, and there are a few people left to marry off in Thunder Point so I look forward to reading more books in this series.  Like the Virgin River books, this one is more light read than thought-provoking, but it does deal with the subject of teen bullying.  

The story includes a mystery, and frankly it all wraps up a little too neatly, but I can't say I expected anything else.  

I'd like to thank the publisher for making a review copy available via NetGalley  Grade:  B

Review: My Kind of Christmas

My Kind of Christmas (A Virgin River Novel)

About the Book:

The Riordan brothers may have a reputation for being rough-and-tumble, but Patrick has always been the gentle, sweet-natured one. These days, his easygoing manner is being tested by his high-octane career as a navy pilot. But for the Riordan brothers, when the going gets tough...the tough find the love of a good woman. 

Except the woman who has caught Patrick's attention is Jack Sheridan's very attractive niece. 

Angie LeCroix comes to Virgin River to spend Christmas relaxing, away from her well-intentioned but hovering mother. Yet instead of freedom, she gets Jack Sheridan. If her uncle had his way, she'd never go out again. And certainly not with rugged, handsome Patrick Riordan. But Angie has her own idea of the kind of Christmas she wants-and the kind of man! 

Patrick and Angie thought they wanted to be left alone this Christmas-until they meet each other. Then they want to be left alone together. But the Sheridan and Riordan families have different plans for Patrick and Angie-and for Christmas, Virgin River– style!

My Comments:

This book was very typical of the Virgin River series.  Patrick is military and has been given extended leave after an accident in which his best friend was killed.  He is trying to decide whether to return to the Navy, or to marry his best friend's wife (not that he has consulted her about this).  Angie  is an academic overachiever who, after a serious accident, has decided to pursue the social side of life.  They meet and .....

Like the other Virgin River books it contains pre-marital intimate scenes and when they start, both characters characterize their relationship as a fling.  

Like most books that are part of a series, this one contains a large cast who play little role in the story.  However, the story is simple enough and their appearances brief enough that it really doesn't matter if you've read the other books.  Unlike many Christmas romances, this is a full length book.  

I like the Virgin River books, so I liked this one.  If you have read and not liked others in the series, this one is just more of the same.  Grade:  B.