#Review - The HolidayGift by RaeAnne Thayne

A Christmas book by RaeAnne Thayne! Give me just a second here to jump for joy over this one. I have been waiting for Faith's story and it's here! It is everything I had hoped for and more. Ms. Thayne never lets me down. This is part of The Cowboys of Cold Creek series and another story from The Christmas Ranch featuring the Nichols sisters. This will stand alone just fine but you are going to enjoy it even more if you have read the previous stories about the Nichols sisters. 

Faith Dustin has suffered a great heartache. She lost her husband a few years ago and is now a single Mom raising two absolutely adorable children and running her family's ranch with the help of her aunt, sisters, and the handsome neighbor Chase. Faith is a sweet, caring, incredibly strong, courageous, independent lady. I have been waiting to read Faith's story. I hoped she would get a second chance at happily ever after. 

Chase Brannon has always been a good friend and tremendous help to Faith. When she lost her husband he stepped up to help out at the ranch and with the kids. He's a wonderful friend to faith and her family. He's been there through the tough times and has waited patiently for Faith to be ready for more. 

I loved watching these two go from great friends to a romantic relationship. Neither wants to ruin their friendship and both are nervous to take that step to more. I really enjoy friends to romance stories because they have a nice basis to add to. There is plenty of friction and attraction between these two that makes this story a page turner. 

It was great to catch up with the other Nichols sisters and see how their lives were going. The Christmas Ranch always sounds so beautiful and so much fun. I really enjoyed my Christmas trip to Cold Creek and The Christmas Ranch. 

RaeAnne Thayne does a wonderful job with Christmas stories. She has just the right touch with emotional stories that bring a few tear to my eyes and then leaves me with that wonderful awe feeling. 

I am always extremely anxious to read RaeAnne Thayne's next release. She is one of those authors that I can not wait to get my hands on her books. 

I was given the opportunity to read this fabulous Christmas story and it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you.

You may read more of my reviews on RaeAnne Thayne's work here.


The Holiday Gift Amazon Buy Link


A Cold Creek Christmas Story Amazon Buy Link 
My Review


The Christmas Ranch Amazon Buy Link
My Review

#SpotLight - SNOWFALL ON HAVEN POINT By RAEANNE THAYNE

SNOWFALL ON HAVEN POINT 

By RAEANNE THAYNE 

Come celebrate the festive season with the authority on contemporary holiday romance, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne, who returns with another chapter in the trials and tribulations of small town life in SNOWFALL ON HAVEN POINT (HQN Books, October 2016, $7.99 U.S./$9.99 CAN.). Set beneath the rugged Idaho mountainside in a magical lakeside town where even the most damaged of souls may find comfort, SNOWFALL ON HAVEN POINT is the latest installment in Thayne’s popular Haven Point series.

Andrea Montgomery—graphic artist and widowed mother to two beautiful young children—is still acclimating to peaceful Haven Point after surviving the most tumultuous time of her life, a period that included not only the death of her beloved husband—a Portland police officer—but also an awful physical assault inflicted on her by an obsessive stalker whose pursuit of Andie eventually culminated in a terrifying shootout with the Haven Point police. 

Now, for the first time in a year, Andie is finally starting to feel safe. She and her fragile kids are even looking forward to their first Haven Point Christmas—one that thankfully doesn’t include any more big, scary men around to frighten them. But then Andie is asked to look after a neighbor—a friend’s brother— who recently broke his leg.  Unfortunately, that neighbor just happens to be County Sheriff Marshall Bailey—the most intimidating and foul tempered man in town. 

Sheriff Marshall Bailey is used to being in control of every facet of his life. Single and devoted only to his career, Marshall is investigating a significant amount of missing funds from the Haven Point police department when he is suddenly mowed down by an anonymous hit-and-run driver in an isolated snowy parking lot one night, leaving him with a shattered leg but lucky to be alive. Aware that his attacker is likely someone close to him, Marshall just wants to be left alone to heal and to get to the bottom of this case without any distractions…. 

However, when Andie appears on his doorstep the next day offering her aid, with two precocious kids in tow, Marshall is unappreciatively taken aback. Rudely independent, the last thing Marshall wants is anyone making him feel like a pity project, especially someone who dislikes him as much as Andie obviously does. 

Although initially turned off by Marshall’s unapologetic masculinity, Andie soon finds herself warming to the decent, caring man beneath the gruff exterior, an individual to whom her tentative children quickly become attached. But no matter how attracted she begins to find him, Andie knows that Marshall is offlimits as far as she’s concerned. This widow has vowed never to get involved with a policeman again. 

Marshall also knows Andie needs someone far more family-oriented and less set in his stubborn ways than him. But for the first time in his life, he can actually envision a life beyond the job…. 

But when Marshall’s life is threatened by a dangerous assailant, Andie finds herself at a crux—caught between choosing the safe, comfortable world she’s been building around herself since the assault or fighting for Marshall and a possibility of a life together. 

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Read My Review Here

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne loves words. Her love affair started as soon as she learned to read, when she used to devour anything she could get her hands on: cereal boxes, encyclopedias, the phone book, you name it! She loves the way words sound, the way they look on the page and the amazing way they can be jumbled together in so many combinations to tell a story. 

Her love of reading and writing those words led her to a fifteen-year career in journalism as a newspaper reporter and editor.  

Through it all, she dreamed of writing the kind of stories she loved best. She sold her first book in 1995 and since then she’s published more than 40 titles. Her books have won many honors, including three RITA® Award nominations from the Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. 

RaeAnne finds inspiration in the rugged northern Utah mountains where she lives with her hero of a husband and their children. She loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at www.raeannethayne.com.

#Review- Snowfall on Haven Point by RaeAnne Thayne

Snowfall on Haven Point may just be my favorite Christmas story of the year. I LOVE Christmas themed stories and I absolutely adore RaeAnne Thayne's books. I was in my glory reading Snowfall on Haven point, my first Christmas story this year.

I have read all the books in the Haven Point series. So I had the chance to meet Andrea Montgomery and her adorable children in a previous book. This lady has been through so much. I admire her spunk that has gotten her so far, her attitude to push forward with life, and her devotion to her children. This lady is a marvel. I was so glad to see Andrea and her children get to tell more of their story. 

Marshall Bailey has found himself injured and on his own. His family is out of town so the lovely and kind Andrea steps in to help out when Marshall sister's ask her to. Oh my goodness the first encounter with these two was interesting. Marshall is NOT a happy camper to have to depend on anyone. He is a VERY independent man and is use to taking care of himself.

Andrea doesn't let his bark get to her though. She continues to check in and these two form a friendship. I loved watching the interaction between rough and gruff Marshall and Andrea's two sweet children. Chloe is a little shy after all she has been through and seen. Marshall wins her over though. I love books that include the children in the relationship. I think it gives a deeper reaction to the emotions and changes of relationships. I enjoyed watching Andrea and Marshall get to know each other and build on their friendship. 

As I mentioned this is part of the Haven Point series. So if you have had a chance to read other books in the series I think you will enjoy catching up with old friends from Haven point. I always relish my chance to see how my friends from previous books are doing. 

Ms. Thayne's books are always a great read. She has a talentfor writing an enjoyable story that tends to hit my emotions deeply. I don't think she has ever failed to make me shed tears with her incredible story lines. Snowfall on Haven Point certainly had me on the edge for a little while and reaching for my Kleenex box in other scenes. Her characters are so incredibly well written that I truly do feel as though I've taken a vacation to Haven Point to visit for Christmas. Oh the beautiful scenes she creates with her descriptions make me wish I could go visit. I'd love to attend the annual Christmas boat parade. It sounds so beautiful.

If you are looking for a wonderful Christmas book to kick off your holiday reading I suggest giving this one a try. If you are a RaeAnne Thayne fan, like me, you are going to love it. If you haven't had a chance to read RaeAnne Thayne's books yet but love small town romance series then give her books a try. I truly do not think you will be disappointed. I know I never have been.

I was given the opportunity to read this great book so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Snowfall on Haven Point. 

You may find more of my reviews on RaeAnne Thayne's work here. 

Amazon Buy Link 


Riverbend Road Amazon Buy Link


Snow Angel Cove Buy Link 


Redemption Bay Buy Link 


 Evergreen Springs Buy Link 

#Review - Riverbend Road by RaeAnne Thayne

I absolutely adore small town romance series books. RaeAnne Thayne is one of my very favorite authors to get my fix for an awesome small town romance story. This talented lady writes a story that digs right down into my heart every time. I instantly bond with the characters and I'm thrilled to catch up with old friends in town. So needless to say when I hear that RaeAnne Thayne had a new release coming out I could not wait to get my hands on it and dig right into to the story. I received my copy in the mail and less than 5 minutes later I was just going to read the blurb on the back and the first few pages. An hour later I was completely engrossed in Riverbend Road and way more than just a page or two into the story. I honestly could not help myself. This book is so good it was impossible to put down. 

Wyn Bailey is a very self sufficient girl that can kick rear end, protect the town of Haven Point while on duty, and knock the socks off a certain chief when she is off duty. This girl has been through so much that my heart just broke for her. Not only did I feel her pain but I admired her strength, courage, and ability to pick up and keep plugging through life. She has no problem kicking a rear end or two when needed but she also has a heart of gold and is willing to help anyone in need, even if she has just met them. 

Cade Emmett does a fabulous job of keeping the peace in Haven Point. Cade has had a very interesting life that could have sent him down a path very easily on the other side of the law. How could I not instantly adore this guy and admire him for his heart and responsibility that he takes very seriously. OK I may have wanted to yell at him a time or two that he should go for it and follow his heart. 

Wyn and Cade have a deep friendship and have know each other since they were children so their relationship goes way back. The problem is that Cade has an incredible attraction to Wyn and Wyn has loved Cade since she was a teen. This wouldn't be such a huge problem is Cade was not her boss. There seems to be just way too many obstacles in their way for them to have a happily ever after. 

I'm not going to spoil the story for you. I want you to grab a copy and enjoy this book just as much as I did.  There is a huge dramatic situation that kind of puts every and anything into prospective for everyone involved. I have to say I think I may have held my breath for a few pages while reading this part of the book. Ms. Thayne sure does know how to add in a nice amount of suspense that kept me turning pages with a tear in my eye. 

Over all this is one really awesome small town romance story. I loved catching up with all my old friends from Haven Point. Wyn and Cade's story is emotional, full of heart and soul, with a few encumbrances from their past that they will need to work through in order to make it to that happily ever after. 

If you are already a huge RaeAnne Thayne fan like me, then HURRY grab this story because you are going to love it just as much as I did. If you have not had a chance to read Ms. Thayne's work yet but love small town romance series then grab this one. I think you will enjoy the characters and quickly fall in love with with RaeAnne Thayne's talent and writing style. Riverbend Road is part of the Haven Point series but never fear, it will stand alone just fine. However if you haven't read the previous books in the series may I suggest grabbing them now too. They are just as wonderful. 

I was given the opportunity to read this great story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my grand pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Riverbend Road. 

You may find more of my reviews on RaeAnne Thayne's work here. 

Riverbend Road Amazon Buy Link

 Snow Angel Cove Buy Link 

 Redemption Bay Buy Link 

  Evergreen Springs Buy Link 

#Excerpt - Riverbend Road by RaeAnne Thayne

Riverbend Road

A Haven Point Novel

 by RaeAnne Thayne

Blurb:

Return to Haven Point, where New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne proves there's no sweeter place to fall in love… 

Protecting the streets of Haven Point isn't just a job for police officer Wyn Bailey, it's a family tradition. But lately she's found herself wanting more, especially from her boss—and overprotective brother's best friend—sexy chief of police, Cade Emmett. The only problem is getting Cade to view her as more than just a little sister. 

Cade's hands-off approach with Wyn isn't from lack of attraction. But his complicated past has forced him to conceal his desire. When Wyn is harmed in the line of duty, Cade realizes the depth of his feelings, but can he let his guard down long enough to embrace the love he secretly craves?

Riverbend Road Amazon Buy Link

Excerpt: 

CHAPTER TWO

She made it only a few steps out of the burning structure into the blessedly sweet air and blinding sunlight before strong hands reached to take both boys.
“Careful of Caleb’s leg. I think it’s broken,” she mumbled, not even sure who was helping her and very much afraid she was going to be sick now from a combination of the smoke choking her lungs, the exertion and delayed reaction.
“We’ve got to move, before the whole thing tumbles down around us.” As her vision adjusted to the shift in light, she saw Cade, his face set and hard, carrying both boys as if they weighed no more than a couple bags of sugar.
“You coming?” he growled.
“Right behind you, Chief,” she mumbled, then called on the last of her strength to follow Cade as he rushed away from the structure toward a cluster of emergency vehicles just arriving on scene.
He headed straight for the ambulance pulling in just behind the first water truck. Before they reached it, a couple of paramedics jumped out and grabbed a gur- ney out of the back. They were two of the best in the volunteer department, she saw with relief. In seconds, Ed Cutler had Caleb on the stretcher.
“I didn’t have much time to assess the situation but it looked like he broke his ankle. He jumped out of the hayloft once the fire started,” Wyn explained, keep- ing a careful eye on Ed’s partner Terri Michaels as she hooked Luke up with an oxygen mask.
“Thanks. Sit down before you fall over,” the bald EMT ordered her. “Terri, get a mask on Wyn here too.” “I’m okay,” she said. “Don’t worry about me. You’ve got enough on your hands with the boys. They come
first.”
“You’re going to let them treat you,” Cade growled. “And then you’re going to explain to me why the hell you thought you could defy a direct order.”
The paramedics exchanged glances and then pointedly busied themselves with Lucas and Caleb.
“I had no choice. You can see how quickly that thing flared out of control. When I rolled up, only the loft was engulfed but I knew it was only a matter of time. If I hadn’t gone in, Chief Gallegos would be sending his guys in for body retrieval and we both know it!”
“Another ten seconds and they would have been looking for three bodies!”
Though the June afternoon sunshine was warm and the fire put out plenty of heat, Wyn shivered. As her adrenaline spike ebbed, the reality of the situation began to soak in like that water spraying out of the firefighters’ hose.
In five years of law enforcement, she’d never had such a close call. She and the boys all could have died inside that fiery barn. If she had been thirty seconds later…if she hadn’t been able to move as quickly…if one of those blazing timbers had crashed to the ground.
No question about it, they had been lucky.
She swallowed, suddenly light-headed. She didn’t realize she swayed until Cade grabbed her.
“Sit down,” he ordered harshly, though his hands were gentle as he helped her to the ground. Terri came over with an oxygen mask and a water bottle.
“Did you call another ambulance for her yet?” Cade asked.
Terri looked wary at his clipped tone. “No. We’ll check her blood gases first. Could be, we can treat and release at the scene with a few more puffs of oxygen.” “I’m perfectly fine,” Wyn answered through the mask, then spoiled the words with a paroxysm of cough-
ing.
When Wyn finished, Cade’s silver-blue eyes looked as fierce and hard as the Redemption Mountains.
“If the paramedics don’t ship you to the hospital, take your vehicle and clear out. You’re officially sus- pended without pay for the next seven days.”
For a moment, she thought the fire had messed with her hearing. “What? I just saved two lives!”
“And almost lost your own in the process.”
She glared at him. “You can’t suspend me! I didn’t do anything wrong!”
“You disobeyed a direct order and your actions could have endangered others.”
“How?” she demanded.
“You turned off your radio, didn’t you? You had no idea what the status of the other responding personnel might have been. Nor did we have anybody on scene to provide status reports on the fire until the first engine rolled up.”
She had no answer to that, especially not when he reached down and unclipped her radio from her shoulder. When he turned the dial up the air was immediately filled with voices and static as Chief Gallegos and his team communicated through the airwaves with dispatch about their needs.
“I made a judgment call,” she said. It sounded weak, even to her. Okay, maybe she had ignored department policy, but those two boys chattering to the EMTs were proof that her judgment call had paid off.
“The wrong one. I’ll see you in seven days,” he answered tersely, then turned and stalked over to the fire command center.

Cade had never been more angry.
The fury prowled through him, harsh and wild like the fire burning through Darwin Twitchell’s dilapidated barn.
He had to be able to trust her to do exactly what he asked. Out of all six officers in this small ragtag Haven Point police department, he trusted Wynona most. She was smart, hardworking, compassionate and insightful.
She had natural instincts and seemed to always find the perfect way to allay any tense situation, from drunk altercations down at the Mad Dog tavern to hot tem- pers between neighbors.
He figured she came by those instincts naturally, since she was fourth-generation law enforcement in these parts.
He didn’t want to suspend her, especially not when they were in the middle of their busiest time of the year with the summer tourist season heading into full swing. But what alternative did he have? This wasn’t the first time she had ignored his orders but he vowed it would be the last. He wasn’t a control freak but he had to know that his officers would follow the chain of command.
He glanced back at the ambulance. She looked so fragile and vulnerable sitting there in the grass, her cheek sooty and strands of wheat-colored hair slip- ping free of the thick braid she always wore on duty.
Beneath his anger lurked something else, something he didn’t want to look at too closely. He only knew that he couldn’t remember ever feeling that bone-deep fear that had sent him racing out of the station to his vehicle and then bulleting through town to the fire scene.
She was a police officer. One of his police officers. He would have worried about any of his guys who stopped responding while out on a call.
He put it away when he saw Erik Gallegos heading in his direction.

Author Bio:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne has written nearly fifty books for HQN, Special Edition, Intimate Moments/Romantic Suspense and Bantam Loveswept. A six-time RITA nominee, RaeAnne has received a career achievement award from Romantic Times for series romantic adventure, as well as a Pioneer of Romance award and two RT Reviewers’ Choice awards for best Special Edition. She finds inspiration from the beautiful mountains of northern Utah, where she lives with her family. Her books have been described as “poignant and sweet,” with “beautiful, honest storytelling (that) goes straight to the heart.” -

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