Review: All Hallows' Eve Collection: A Timeless Romance Anthology by Sarah M. Eden, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Lisa Magnum, Jordan McCollum, Elana Johnson

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Six Award-Winning Authors have contributed new stories to A Timeless Romance Anthology: All Hallows’ Eve Collection. Three historical novellas and three contemporary novellas, all with romance, thrills, and chills.

In Sarah M. Eden’s mysterious novella OF GHOSTS AND GARDENS, if Enid Pryce has one downfall, it’s that she talks to the ghost in her garden, which doesn’t make her too popular among society’s elite. In fact, she returns to her home in Wales after a Season in Bath with not one offer of marriage. Deeming herself a failure at the nearly-spinster age of nineteen, she is pleasantly surprised when an English gentleman shows up in her garden, apparently intent on finding out more about the ghost. Burke Kennard, grandson of an English marquess, quickly becomes utterly charmed by the young Welsh woman, but the ghost in the garden is more likely to push them apart than pull them together.

In Annette Lyon’s enthralling story IT’S YOU, when Charlie and Anna both see the ghost of Nanny Mae, they think they’re losing their minds. Anna tries to find out more about the ghost and uncovers a decades’ old family secret. One that separated two people in love. Now, the ghost of Nanny Mae must set her wrongs to right. As Charlie and Anna explore the past, and the truth of what happened, they discover that the mistakes of the past might lead to love of the future.

In SOPHIA’S CURSE, a suspenseful novella by Heather B. Moore, Joan grows up in an abbey in France, believing that she is an orphan. A chance encounter with the foreboding owner of a neighboring estate, alters everything she’s understood about her parents. She discovers she’s an integral part of changing a decades-old curse, and that her life, as well as the handsome and intriguing Simon Rousseau’s life, are both in danger unless she makes an enormous sacrifice that will change the course of her dreams.

In Lisa Mangum’s haunting story THE SIRENS’ SONG, we meet recently widowed Oliver, the lead physician on a luxury cruise liner traveling to Greece. He hopes that the change of scenery will help ease his grief over his deceased wife, Cate. After falling overboard, though, he is captured by a siren and taken to a mystical island. Through the sirens' song, Oliver is able to relive his memories of Cate—both the good and the bad—as long as he gives away his memories of her. But can he sacrifice his best memory in exchange for one last chance to say good-bye?

In Jordan McCollum’s thrilling novella THE MAN OF HER DREAMS, homicide detective Alexandra Steen dreams about real murders before they happen, seeing the crime through the eyes of the killers. But the dreams never contain enough clues to save the victim before it's too late. Then one dream ends before a murder occurs—in a place she knows. She finds herself racing against time to prevent the deadly act, only to discover that the intended victim is a man she thought she’d never see again. Seven years might have passed since her breakup with Nick, but the years haven’t changed her feelings for him. Now, she must convince Nick that her dreams are real and find a way to prevent his death.

In Elana Johnson’s chilling story THE GHOST OF MILLHOUSE MANSION, Naomi knows her crush on Colt Jennings is unreasonable. When he invites her to his reclusive mansion to restore an old wooden rocking horse, Naomi can’t resist accepting the job. The more time Naomi spends touring his home, the more interested she becomes in Colt. Until she sees a man in the library who vanishes into thin air. She thinks she’s losing her mind until Colt tells her about the ghosts he’s been seeing for years.

My Review

I am a huge fan of the Timeless Romance Anthologies! They always have some from my favorite authors and some new-to-me authors that I can experience a bit of their writing style. In this spooky collection, I loved the first three historical stories the most- I felt like the ghost factor is more believable for the older time periods and the interactions of the characters are sweet with the mannerisms of the era they are set in. "Of Ghosts and Gardens" was utterly charming, from the way the Enid and Burke meet and immediately respond to each other in friendship to the family and community's obsession with the local ghosts and folklore. The mystery they worked on together was interesting and the ending was perfection. "It's You" has a melancholy feeling with the regrets of the ghost coming to light through the efforts of Anna and Charlie, but they have some pleasant sigh-worthy moments that lighten the mood. "Sophia's Curse" felt like I was reading a full-length novel, the plot was meaty and the characters complex.

The contemporary stories were well-written but not quite my cup of tea. "The Man of Her Dreams" reminded me of a crime-drama TV show like The Ghost Whisperer and was full of suspense. "The Siren's Song" blended a mythology vibe with a modern-day grieving widower. "The Ghost of Millhouse Mansion" featured a sassy heroine and a twist similar to the film The Sixth Sense. So if those are themes you enjoy the contemporary stories are for you!

(Thank you to Ebooks For Review for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: Love in the Details by Becky Wade

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She left him to save his future, but they’ve never gotten over each other.

When Josh returns to his hometown of Martinsburg, Texas, to help his best friend get married, he didn’t intend to run into church wedding coordinator—and ex-girlfriend—Holly. He can’t help but pine after the girl he never got over.

Holly broke up with Josh years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. But she loved him then and still loves him now. As she helps him plan his best friend’s wedding, she can’t help but feel horrible for the pain she caused him. And even though she longs to be with Josh, she doesn’t feel worthy of his big-time lifestyle when she is more comfortable in her small town world. Will Josh and Holly be able to keep things as they are when their true feelings threaten to surface at every turn?

My Review

There's something about a hero longing for the woman he's always loved but could never have that gets me every time! Josh wasn't planning to pursue Holly but after their first encounter since years of separation he just can't help himself. The clincher is that Holly never wanted to lose him but outside forces compelled her to set him free- against both their wills, and she didn't tell him why- which seriously ups the angst factor. I love how Josh conspires to spend more time with Holly and they fall back into their friendship and banter despite the palpable undercurrents of attraction and yearning. The novella is definitely character focused and was such a pleasure to read!

(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: The Mistress of Tall Acre by Laura Frantz

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

The American Revolution is finally over, and Sophie Menzies is starved for good news. When her nearest neighbor, General Seamus Ogilvy, finally comes home to Tall Acre, she hopes it is a sign of better days to come. But the general is now a widower with a small daughter in desperate need of a mother. Nearly destitute, Sophie agrees to marry Seamus and become the mistress of Tall Acre in what seems a safe, sensible arrangement. But when a woman from the general's past returns without warning, the ties that bind this fledgling family together will be strained to the utmost. When all is said and done, who will be the rightful mistress of Tall Acre?

Triumph and tragedy, loyalty and betrayal--readers find it all in the rich pages of this newest historical novel from the talented pen of Laura Frantz. Her careful historical details immerse the reader in the story world, and her emotional writing and finely tuned characters never cease to enchant fans both old and new.

My Review

There's something about Laura Frantz's writing that transports me to the setting of the book and I am completely immersed! There are so many rich historical details from a time period I don't often read about- post American Revolution. I was surprised to learn about much of the turmoil that was still going on after the war was over. The characters were easy to envision and had many layers to them. Sophie is so strong and dignified but her desperate circumstances are humbling. She immediately develops a loving relationship with the general's young daughter which provided brightness and showed Sophie's maternal instincts. Seamus and Sophie have an interesting dynamic which is constantly in flux as they deal with the pressures and dilemmas of the time. Even though it seems like their relationship is one step forward, two steps back, once an eye-opening scare compels them to communicate the feelings that each had developed for the other, they have some very sweet romantic moments in the midst of overwhelming trials. The ending was not wrapped up quickly which I appreciated, I felt like there was a fullness to the story as I finished it. Highly recommend!

(Thank you to Revell Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: North for Christmas by Christina Dymock

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Have you ever known exactly what you wanted for Christmas? As a child, you may have written a letter to Santa, made a wish upon a star, or locked your dream away in your heart afraid that it might not come true if you so much as whispered it out loud. Even as adults, Christmas wishes carry a magic that can't be explained. In North for Christmas, Ruby Jeavon certainly has her heart set on an engagement. It's the first step in creating the family she's always wanted. But things go slightly off course and instead of flying to Italy with her boyfriend, Ruby heads out of town to work as an elf in Nashville. Even though she's far away from her dream, she's about to discover the magic of a Nashville Christmas through the eyes of North Foxwell, her fellow elf and a Christmas expert. Even though North struggles with his own Christmas ghosts, Ruby manages to bring new light to his life. Can Ruby let go of her dream to find what her heart truly desires? Only time--at the North Pole--will tell.

My Review

This is the perfect book to get you in the Christmas spirit! Ruby and North both approach the work of bringing holiday cheer from different backgrounds, but both have a great character arc as they come to realizations about their current lives and make changes that show that compassion and forgiveness are more important than what they were holding on to. They have great chemistry and even though their friendship has some rocky moments, they are a pleasure to read. North is so charismatic and I loved all his mannerisms that made him stand out. His dark struggle of letting go of past hurts contrasts with his love for Christmas and  serving others. Ruby is a bit lost and lonely but trying her best in a high maintenance relationship with her boyfriend and feeling emotionally estranged from her mother. The time away from her busy life gives her perspective and I loved seeing her humble awakening to the true joy of connecting with those around her as they serve the children and needy.

(Thank you to Cedar Fort Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: An Unexpected Gift by Tara Randel from A Heartwarming Christmas: A Boxed Set of Twelve Sweet Holiday Romances

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

This holiday season, warm your heart with 12 connected sweet holiday romances set in Christmas Town from 12 Harlequin Heartwarming authors who are USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors.

There are four connected books in A Heartwarming Christmas. That means each set of three novellas shares characters and storylines! This collection of PG-rated holiday romances are all set in Christmas Town, a location introduced in the 2014 Harlequin Heartwarming release Christmas, Actually. A Heartwarming Christmas will bring you laughter, tears, and happily-ever-afters (no cliffhangers), for more than 1200 pages. Foreword by small town lover and New York Times bestseller Kristan Higgins.

My Review


I received a copy of the novella An Unexpected Gift by Tara Randel to read and review (I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the collection as well!) In this story, Faith is stuck working in her parent's Christmas shop since her father is not doing well, and she doesn't feel she will ever be able to spread her wings and explore the world. Drew recently discovered that he was adopted and is searching to find his birth mother who used to work at the Christmas shop. There is an instant connection between the two, and as they learn each other's stories, they feel sympathy and do their best to help. Faith provides encouragement and leads for Drew to follow, and they draw close as they search for answers to his mystery. The emotions of the characters are more told than shown so I didn't feel a real connection to them, but it is a pleasant story. I was a little turned off by how Faith was just feeling sorry for herself without really trying to do anything to change her situation, but at least Drew inspired her to take her life in her own hands.

(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review & Giveaway: While You're Awake by Amber Stokes

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

There’s no rest for the fearful.

Ava always knew the bees would come. Just when she’s settled into a place of her own, freelance editing and savoring her independence, her rental house is invaded by a swarm of honey bees. And with their arrival, her lifelong fear morphs into a full-fledged panic that steals her sleep—and her peace of mind.

Keegan knows all about fear. When he meets Ava at the coffee shop where he works, he can’t help but come to her rescue. Together with his German shepherds, Sun and Moon, he sets out to break the “curse” that hovers over Tired Girl. But is it possible to conquer nightmares and live a dream while you're awake?

This sweet novelette is a contemporary re-imagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale that sheds light on the worries that bind us and the love that leads to peace.

My Review

I just love the lyrical dream-like quality of the writing in this story. The focus is definitely on the emotions of Ava as she experiences fear, exhaustion, stress, friendship, and relief. I appreciated the sweetness between Keegan and Ava, how they want to be there for each other and just fall naturally into a relationship. It was easy to picture the story in my mind with the lovely descriptions of the setting woven in with the sometimes intense feelings of the characters. It was a delight to read and for only 99 cents is a must-buy ;)

(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Check out Amber's release day blog post for lots of fun extras!

About the Author

Amber Stokes works as a marketing content writer for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home. You can learn more about Amber’s books, sign up for her author newsletter, join the Amber’s Gems street team, and more at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.
Blog - Goodreads - Pinterest - Twitter

Giveaway

Enter to win a little something sweet from Ava, Keegan, and the author! One winner will receive a lovely yellow and gold flower necklace & earrings set from Baubles, Beads and Stuff; a $10 Starbucks gift card (delivered electronically); and a Kindle copy of While You’re Awake (can be gifted to a friend, if desired!). Open to US residents only due to shipping costs.

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Cover Reveal & Giveaway: North for Christmas by Christina Dymock

North for Christmas by Christina Dymock

Ruby Jeavon takes a position as a Christmas elf in order to evaluate the Nashville North Pole Program from the inside. For years, the program has been losing money and investors want a reason to pull out. Ratting out a Santa isn't Ruby's style, but someone has to do it. She’s mortified by the striped tights and elf shoes, but she has a goal and nothing, not even the handsome Nashville native, North Foxwell, will stand in her way. North’s dad was diagnosed with cancer. The news brings North home to Nashville for the holidays where he’ll have to face his past, his grudge, and his bossy sister. North gets more than he bargained for when Ruby steps into Santa’s workshop. He’ll do everything he can to save the North Pole Program, but in the end, it’s North that needs saving – and Ruby’s just the girl to take on the task.

Buy on Amazon

Excerpt 

“Are you Mr. Foxwell?” ”Yes, sir.” “I’m Mitch.” He tucked the clipboard back under his arm. “We’re waitin’ for one more passenger.” “Will it be long?” North’s stomach rumbled. “Her flight just landed, so it should only be a few minutes.” They made small talk as they watched the people gather around the baggage claim. “I’ll bet that’s her,” said Mitch. North followed his gaze. Walking toward them was none other than Ruby Jeavon in a pair of designer black boots, tight jeans, and an oversized, but somehow still flattering, sweater. She expertly maneuvered two large bags, a carry on, and her purse in their direction. Maybe it was Karma that brought her here. Or maybe it was an angel with an overactive funny bone. Either way, North was not at all surprised to see the one woman who could make his trip home more awkward. He’d gathered from Ruby’s inclusion in the charity review meeting that she was on some sort of training schedule with Kathleen, and being here was probably a step up the ladder for the spoiled daughter of a powerful executive. He still hadn’t figured out a way to explain his behavior yesterday. He hadn’t meant to embarrass Ruby more than she embarrassed herself, but his laughter in the elevator had done just that. She needn’t worry about him or Fredrick saying anything that would tarnish her reputation or the reputation of the company, but Ruby didn’t know him from Adam and had little reason to trust him at this time. Not only did North need Ruby as a future client, he couldn’t shake that moment when their eyes met over the conference table. He’d found himself thinking about it at random times throughout the day. He decided she may have a hard candy shell, but what he’d seen in those eyes was sweet and kind, even if he only caught a glimpse before she turned into Bumble the Abominable Snowwoman. He’d put it off sending an email or flowers or a bouquet of candy canes to smooth things over so that the next time they met they could both just ignore it and move on. Deciding that was the best course of action, he put a welcoming smile on his face and stepped forward. “Can I help you with your bags, Miss Jeavon?” Ruby blanched and an awkward silence formed between them faster than ice on a Memphis highway. “Miss Ruby Jeavon?” asked Mitch. Ruby ignored North. “Yes, that’s me.” “I’m with the North Pole Express Shuttle Service. Can I help you with those bags?” Ruby gave Mitch a genuine smile and allowed him to take the larger of the two bags and her carry-on. “Thank you.” She took quick, long strides to keep up with Mitch as he led them toward the waiting van. North, who was used to being the tallest in the group, had to stretch his legs to keep up. He found Ruby’s hurried pace comical. It reminded him of the way he could get under his sister’s skin without trying. Ruby glared over her shoulder. “Are you following me?” North laughed. “Technically, yes and no. I think we’re riding together, so I’m not following you just to follow you. But you’re walking in front of me, so I’m following you.” “Accountants,” Ruby muttered. She pulled up short and fixed him in place with a look that could make Jell-O hold still. “Wait, we’re riding together? As in, we’re going to the same place?” “I guess so,” he replied with a cautious note. She took off again, her shoes ticking against the concrete like a timer on a bomb. Tick. Tick. Tick. “What exactly are you doing here?” she threw the question over her shoulder. The airport doors slid open and an icy blast of air bit North’s cheeks. He braced himself for more than the cold weather as he contemplated his answer. His reasons were personal, and he had no intention of sharing them with a near stranger no matter how pretty she was with her cheeks pinked by the cold December air. Ruby shimmied into her coat and efficiently buttoned it up as she walked, never letting go of her roller. It was a feat worth admiring, and North found that he enjoyed admiring Ruby despite her obvious dislike for accountants. His constant awareness of her beauty surprised North. Ruby, and her international Christmas travels, were the exact opposite of what North valued in a woman. He wanted to share his life with someone who was as dedicated to sharing as he was. A woman who wanted a family, a home, perhaps a dog… Before he could come up with something to say, she demanded, “Did my mother send you?” “Did your mother send you?” North fired back. He groaned in frustration as Ruby whipped around and climbed into the waiting van without another word. He wasn’t doing a very good job of making amends. Feeling a little like a lump of coal, North settled into his seat in the van.    

Praise for North for Christmas 

"There was so much heart and depth packed into this romantic and fun Christmas story, I loved every page of it. Ruby and North each have issues and pasts, making it that much sweeter when they can help each other through the hurt to find the joy." ~Cami Checketts, author of Christmas Makeover, An Echo Ridge Romance


Author Christina Dymock 

Christina Dymock graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications. She currently resides in Central Utah with her husband and four children. Along with writing romances, Christina loves to spend time in the kitchen and has written several cookbooks. Among other things, she enjoys cycling, skiing, wakeboarding, sewing, reading, and baking.

Website * Facebook

 






Book Giveaway 
To celebrate the release of North for Christmas Christina is giving away a copy of her cookbook The Healthy Family Slow Cooker Cookbook. Open to US Only Ends 11/4/15  

The Healthy Family Slow Cooker Cookbook Feed your family the foods they love—with a healthy twist. Everyone knows slow cookers are a busy mom’s best friend, but it can be a struggle to find healthy Crock Pot recipes your kids will actually eat. Not anymore. These delicious family-sized meals are perfect for parents and kids alike. Chicken and Artichoke Fettucini Teriyaki Pulled Pork Cajun Rice with Shrimp Butternut Squash Soup Chicken Quesadillas You’ll even find some tasty ideas for sugar-free desserts, like the Blueberry Pudding Cake. And every single recipe can be made in the morning and ready to eat by dinnertime. With a little prep and planning, you’ll soon be enjoying nutritious, healthy, home-cooked meals every night of the week!  

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Review: The Perfect Arrangement by Katie Ganshert

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Meeting Nick was truly an accident—but Amelia finds that he’s one of the few people she can count on.

Amelia Woods is a small-town wallflower who inherited her grandmother’s flower shop. Despite her success in business, her love life has ground to a halt. And then her temptation to spy on her ex-boyfriend’s wedding leads her to a horrifying fender-bender—with Nick, the groomsman who happens to be her ex’s new brother-in-law.

Meanwhile, William, Amelia’s younger brother, has proposed to his girlfriend. Amelia would be excited except she has evidence that the fiancée is not who she says she is. How can she be supportive and yet be the protective big sister too? It seems Nick is the only one available for any advice-giving, and he’s pretty good at it—and pretty fun to talk to. Amelia and Nick continue online conversations about everything, but always lingering in Amelia’s mind is the fear that he’ll realize who she is and what she was doing at the church that day of the accident.

As Amelia works to craft the perfect flower arrangements for other people—including a ninety-year-old “fairy godmother” named George—she begins to wonder if real love is better than the dream. And if it is, will Nick still be interested when he learns who she is?

My Review

My favorite thing about this novella is the letters Amelia and Nick exchange online- they are full of honesty, quirkiness and a love for classic films. The cuteness totally reminded me of the movie You've Got Mail (except they are not enemies in real life) and they even reference The Shop Around the Corner which it's based on. Amelia is the perfect balance of hot mess and capable businesswoman- completely lovable. The fact that she runs a flower shop is absolutely perfect- it's one of my future dreams :) Nick seems too good to be true, although he does tell Amelia some of his shortcomings in his emails. He quickly grows to adore Amelia, but is also charmingly hesitant about pressuring her to meet. Their real-life interactions are full of tension and chemistry, and their mannerisms make the story come to life. Definitely one of my favorites from the Year of Weddings novella series!

(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: Love on a Deadline by Kathryn Springer

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

MacKenzie “Mac” Davis left her hometown of Red Leaf, Wisconsin, to pursue a degree in journalism. But when her dad, the town’s beloved Coach Davis, suffers a mild heart attack, Mac returns home to help out. She takes a job at the weekly newspaper but instead of covering serious topics, her editor wants her to write about social events—like the garden club’s flower show and the historical society’s afternoon tea. Mac knows it’s no way to earn her father’s respect—or the attention of one of the newspapers she hopes will hire her when she leaves Red Leaf.

When Hollis Channing, Mac’s high school nemesis, returns to Red Leaf to marry her celebrity fiancé, the editor asks Mac to cover the big event—and all the festivities leading up to—for the newspaper.

The last thing Mac wants to do is reconnect with the person who made her life miserable when she was a teenager . . . unless it’s spending time with Ethan Channing, the bride’s older brother—and Mac’s first crush.

Mac is no longer the awkward girl who wore the school mascot costume to the Homecoming dance but she realizes something hasn’t changed. Her feelings for Ethan.

My Review

I always enjoy Kathryn Springer's stories since she has a way of making her characters realistic and easy to connect with. Mac has conflicting emotions as she reunites with her unrequited love and it was fun to see Ethan's instant attraction to her. She doesn't make it easy for him, but a new level of friendship naturally occurs as they work together to give Hollis the quiet wedding she wants while still providing a story for Mac to report. Mac's new dilemma is whether or not to hang around the small town to be with Ethan or move on to a bigger city and focus on her career. A great addition to the Year of Weddings novella line!

(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review & Giveaway: Always Will by Melanie Jacobson

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Handsome twenty-eight-year-old Will Hallerman has finally had enough of the dating world—he's ready to find a wife and settle down. This announcement is catastrophic in Hannah Becker's world. After knowing Will her entire life and adoring him from afar since junior high school, she realizes her chance at love with him is in grave danger. Hannah's problem? To Will, she will never be more than his best friend's little sister. Determined to open his eyes to her charms, Hannah sets out to sabotage Will's wife hunt by placing nightmare dates in his path and taking his search on a wild goose chase. Her plan is risky, but she's willing to take a chance to catch the eye of her soul mate.

Despite her crazy schemes, nothing seems to be working. Hannah can't help but wonder if it's time to set aside this childhood crush—to move on and settle down herself. She's ready for a fresh start with a great guy. If only Will weren't suddenly changing the rules of the game... And how can Hannah move on when Will just won't let her forget?

My Review

I could not put this book down. I started it first thing in the morning thinking I'd read a chapter or two, but six hours later my toddler was still in pajamas (at least she was fed). Hannah is such a conflicted character, full of contrasts. She is an extremely smart, professional, together young woman, but when it comes to her relationship with Will, her emotions are all over the place. It's a fascinating study of unrequited love and the obsession that accompanies it. Balancing out the crazy is Hannah's friend Sophie, who tells it like it is and encourages Hannah in healthy ways. I loved all the mannerisms and quirks of Hannah and Will's friendship, and trying to interpret what Will is thinking since the story is not told from his POV. There are several ups and downs, twists and turns in the plot that kept me glued to the book to see how it would all play out.

(Thank you to Covenant Communications for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

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Review: The Rancher's Christmas Proposal by Sherri Shackelford

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Single father Shane McCoy has his hands full trying to run a ranch while raising two-year-old twins. His children clearly need a mother's guiding hand. An encounter with a lovely stranger on a train platform offers an unconventional answer to his predicament when she suggests a marriage of convenience.

Tessa Spencer needs a fresh start far from her con man father's schemes. His latest scrape has made her the target of a vengeful outlaw. Shane's isolated ranch provides refuge, and his children easily win Tessa's affections. But as her checkered past resurfaces, only honesty and trust will make this family Christmas the first of many

My Review

This is a heart-warming story of two people sacrificing for those they love. Shane and Tessa work together to provide a loving home for his children, but struggle when it comes to their relationship with each other. Lack of communication, misunderstanding, and hidden secrets come between them. I especially enjoyed Tessa's quick love for the twins and her devotion to their well-being. I can totally relate to her frustrations with getting one dressed, then while dressing the second child, the first one removes their clothes! She is determined to conquer household chores and child care with the help of a book from the mercantile, which also provided some humor :) The danger from the Fulton gang overshadows Tessa's happiness until things finally come to a head and Shane proves himself to be quite the protector and hero.

(Thank you to Harlequin and Love Inspired Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)