All Is Bright

September 22, 2022September 8, 2022 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, HQN, RaeAnne Thayne

All Is Bright by RaeAnne Thayne

Published: September 20, 2022 – HQN

Digital review copy courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

Return to Hope’s Crossing this Christmas in New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne’s latest heartwarming story of matchmaking at the holidays!

Sage McKnight is an ambitious young architect working at her father’s firm who takes on her most challenging client in Mason Tucker. The former pro baseball player is still healing from the physical and emotional scars after a plane crash left him a wheelchair-using single dad, and he’s determined not to let anyone breach his emotional defenses. Sage knows her work on Mason’s new home in Hope’s Crossing is her best work yet, and she won’t let her grumpy client prevent her from showcasing her work personally.

With Sage’s gift for taking broken things and making them better, the matchmaking talent of the quirky locals and a generous sprinkling of Christmas cheer, Mason doesn’t stand a chance against the power of this magical holiday season. (publisher)

My take:

I’ll say right up front All Is Bright is going to be one of my favorite Christmas themed books in the CR genre. The trope of grumpy hero meets optimistic and unstoppable heroine doesn’t alway work for me but in Thayne’s hands it was a win. Sage and Mason have separately faced very difficult emotional and physical challenges but are at the point of moving forward in their lives.

There are sub-plots involving interesting secondary characters, complicated families, and regular daily life. I enjoyed it all and especially appreciated the epilogue that put the bow on this gift of a novel.

If you’re a fan of author RaeAnne Thayne, contemporary romance with a Christmas theme, and a mountain town setting you’ll want to read All Is Bright.

About the author:

RaeAnne Thayne is the #1 Publisher’s Weekly, New York Times, and USA TODAY bestselling author of nearly seventy books. Her books have been described as “poirgnant and sweet,” with “beautiful, honest storytelling that goes straight to the heart.” She finds inspiration from the beautiful northern Utah mountains, where she lives with her family. She loves to hear from readers and can be reach through her webiste at raeannethayne.com.

Author Website: https://www.raeannethayne.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRaeAnneThayne/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/raeannethayne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raeannethayne

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/116118.RaeAnne_Thayne

Sleigh Bells Ring

October 7, 2021October 6, 2021 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, HQN, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Sleigh Bells Ring by RaeAnne Thayne

Expected publication date: Oct. 26, 2021 – HQN

Review galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

Angel’s View Ranch has always been special to Annelise McCade. Once upon a time, it was her family’s land, until her grandfather sold it to billionaire Wallace Sheridan. Now employed as the live-in caretaker, Annie is just trying to make it through the holidays with both her sanity and her niece’s and nephew’s faith in the magic of Christmas intact.

The six-year-old twins recently lost their mother, so Annie tells herself it wouldn’t be a problem to bring them to Angel’s View. Why should it be? The Sheridans haven’t visited in years, not since Wallace died. They would never know the twins were there…until Tate Sheridan shows up out of the blue two weeks before Christmas.

Crushed to learn that Tate is there to sell his grandfather’s property—and mortified that her secret guests have been discovered—Annie offers her resignation. But Tate asks them to stay and help him get the house ready for one last family Christmas before it’s put on the market.

Annie and Tate have three days to work their magic before the Sheridan clan arrives—and to work through the growing attraction between them. But Annie simply can’t fall for the man who will put her out of a job and a home. Still, the sparkle of the season is impossible to deny…and this Christmas has surprises in store for everyone. (publisher)

My take:

RaeAnne Thayne delivers everything I want in a Christmas Romance. It’s a heartwarming story about people in various stages of grief just hoping to get through this joyous time of year.

I loved every moment spent reading this book. That’s what makes Thayne one of my go-to authors. She speaks to my heart.

Highly recommended to fans of Contemporary Romance, the author, and touching stories.

Now I’m tempted to dig out the Christmas decorations – I’m inspired to go over and above this year!

The Path to Sunshine Cove

January 28, 2021January 27, 2021 Mary HQN, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne, Women's Fiction

The Path to Sunshine Cove by RaeAnne Thayne

Expected publication: March 30, 2021 – HQN

E-galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

With a past like hers, Jessica Clayton feels safer in a life spent on the road. She’s made a career out of helping others downsize—because she’s learned the hard way that the less “stuff,” the better, a policy she applies equally to her relationships. But a new client is taking Jess back to Cape Sanctuary, a town she once called home…and that her little sister, Rachel, still does. The years apart haven’t made a dent in the guilt Jess still carries after a handgun took the lives of both their parents and changed everything between them.

While Jess couldn’t wait to put the miles between her and Cape Sanctuary, Rachel put down roots, content for the world—and her sister—to think she has a picture-perfect life. But with the demands of her youngest child’s disability, Rachel’s marriage has begun to fray at the seams. She needs her sister now more than ever, yet she’s learned from painful experience that Jessica doesn’t do family, and she shouldn’t count on her now.

Against her judgment, Jess finds herself becoming attached—to her sister and her family, even to her client’s interfering son, Nate—and it’s time to put everything on the line. Does she continue running from her painful past, or stay put and make room for the love and joy that come along with it? (publisher)

My take: RaeAnne Thayne’s latest novel is a stand alone story about two sisters overcoming a horrific event that set their lives on different trajectories. When they end up in the same town Jess and Rachel are dealing with life on their own terms. Rachel is a social media influencer whose life isn’t quite as perfect as her Instagram posts would lead people to believe. Jess arrived in town to help a client declutter her large home. She didn’t expect the client’s son to make her question everything she’d done for years to protect her feelings. The Path to Sunshine Cove is a touching story of learning to rethink what’s important in life. I think fans of RaeAnne Thayne and stories about sisters will enjoy it as much as I did.

Christmas At Holiday House

October 6, 2020October 5, 2020 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, HQN, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Christmas at Holiday House by RaeAnne Thayne

Expected pub. date: October 6, 2020 – HQN

E-galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description: A widowed young mother’s search for the perfect Christmas for her little boy leads her to Silver Bells, Colorado. Abby Powell becomes enamored with the heartwarming small-town community—with snow!—but not so much with her new client’s less-than-jolly son, Ethan Lancaster.

Ethan, a single-minded businessman, has learned the hard way that love and family are not for him. But he never counted on the lovely newcomer to town—or the emotional pull she and her son, Christopher, would have over him. As Ethan and Abby work together to restore Holiday House, the Lancaster’s historic family mansion, in time for Christmas, Ethan’s heart begins to open along with his home. (publisher)

My take: When Abby Powell is contacted by Lucy, her former college roommate, she’s in the middle of packing up her Arizona home to move to Texas. Lucy’s grandmother fell and needs assistance in her home until Lucy can get home from abroad. Abby agrees to help and heads to Colorado with her young son for a few weeks. When she arrives she meets her client’s grandson Ethan who thinks his grandmother should be at a rehab center instead of in her home with a stranger. Abby is in an uncomfortable situation but will stay until Lucy arrives.

A little backstory: Abby’s life changed in a heartbeat by an event that made her a widow. She has an adorable son and is looking toward the future. Lucy and her brother Ethan had an unconventional upbringing by their parents, both narcissists, that left them with a screwed up view of relationships and an inability to have normal ones. It was easy to sympathize with them.

Christmas at Holiday House is set in a charming mountain resort town during the holidays. It’s a heartwarming tale about finding the courage to not allow fear to stand in the way of happiness. Fans of contemporary romance and RaeAnne Thayne are sure to love it. Recommended!

Summer at Lake Haven

June 4, 2020June 1, 2020 Mary Contemporary Fiction, HQN, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Summer at Lake Haven by RaeAnne Thayne

Expected publication date: June 23, 2020 – HQN

E-galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

Samantha Fremont has been struggling with the weight of her mother’s expectations for years. But now that her mother has passed away, it’s time for Sam to be bold and finally establish the fashion design business she’s always dreamed of. And the perfect opportunity has fallen into her lap. Her friend’s getting married and has asked Sam to create her wedding dress…if only she can avoid the bride’s infuriating brother, who’s temporarily the boy next door.

Ian Summerhill knows a sabbatical in Haven Point is exactly what he and his children need to recover from their mother’s death. His romantic relationship with his ex-wife may have ended years ago, but caring for her throughout her illness broke his heart. All he wants is to watch his little sister walk down the aisle and to see his kids smile again. And somehow his lovely new neighbor is instrumental in both. But as their uneasy truce blossoms into a genuine friendship and more, Ian has obligations in England he can’t ignore—and a secret that threatens the fragile trust he and Sam have built. (publisher)

My take: Fans of the Haven Point series will enjoy visiting the scenic Idaho town this summer. Samantha has her hands full with a successful boutique and clothing design business. She is putting the finishing touches on Gemma Summerhill’s wedding dress when she meets the bride’s brother (Ian) and his children. They rent the cottage next to hers and make a somewhat instant connection thanks to some adorable puppies. Neither Ian nor Samantha are looking for love but isn’t that just the time when love finds you?

So, if you’re a reader who enjoys a gorgeous setting, an unexpected chance for love, and the appearance of familiar characters from previous books – I think you’ll enjoy Summer at Lake Haven.

About the author: (from RaeAnne Thayne’s website)

#1 Publishers Weekly, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne has written more than 60 books for HQN, Special Edition, Intimate Moments/Romantic Suspense and Bantam Loveswept. A seven-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. She finds inspiration from the beautiful mountains of northern Utah, where she lives with her family.

The Sea Glass Cottage

March 25, 2020February 24, 2020 Mary Blog Tour, Contemporary Fiction, HQN, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

The Sea Glass Cottage by RaeAnne Thayne

Published: March 2020 – HQN Books

Digital galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

The life Olivia Harper always dreamed of isn’t so dreamy these days. The 16-hour work days are unfulfilling and so are things with her on-again, off-again boyfriend. But when she hears that her estranged mother, Juliet, has been seriously injured in a work accident, Liv has no choice but to pack up her life and head home to beautiful Cape Sanctuary on the Northern California coast.

It’s just for a few months—that’s what Liv keeps telling herself. But the closer she gets to Cape Sanctuary, the painful memories start flooding back: Natalie, her vibrant, passionate older sister who downward-spiraled into addiction. The fights with her mother who enabled her sister at every turn. The overdose that took Natalie, leaving her now-teenaged daughter, Caitlin, an orphan.

As Liv tries to balance her own needs with those of her injured mother and an obstinate, resentful fifteen-year-old, it becomes clear that all three Harper women have been keeping heartbreaking secrets from one another. And as those secrets are revealed, Liv, Juliet, and Caitlin will see that it’s never too late—or too early—to heal family wounds and find forgiveness. (publisher)

My take: The Sea Glass Cottage is where Olivia Harper grew up and its where her mother and teen aged niece live still. When Olivia’s mother Juliet winds up in the hospital with a broken hip she comes home to help with the family business. What she finds is a niece who suddenly resents her, a mother who has a few secrets, and the new fire chief who makes her feel emotionally off-balance. But she can handle it all because she’s only there for a few weeks and then will go back to her life and job in Seattle. Olivia’s mom and niece have worries of their own and navigate the feelings and actions that may or may not give the desired results. This is a story about strong, proud people learning to ask for and accept help, learning that “the greatest risk carries the greatest reward”. No spoiler here but I can say I enjoyed how RaeAnne Thayne brought her characters through their drama. Recommended to fans of the author and women’s fiction.

About the author:

New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including six RITA Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and Career Achievement and Romance Pioneer awards from RT Book Reviews.

Social Links:

Author Website
Twitter: @RaeAnneThayne
Facebook: AuthorRaeAnneThayne
Instagram: @RaeAnneThayne
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/116118.RaeAnne_Thayne

Buy Links:

Coming Home for Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne

September 17, 2019September 17, 2019 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Fiction, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Coming Home for Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne

Expected publication: September 24, 2019 – HQN

Book courtesy of HQN, NetGalley and Little Bird Publicity

Description: Hearts are lighter and wishes burn a little brighter at Christmas…

Elizabeth Hamilton has been lost. Trapped in a tangle of postpartum depression and grief after the death of her beloved parents, she couldn’t quite see the way back to her husband and their two beautiful kids…until a car accident stole away her memories and changed her life. And when she finally remembered the sound of little Cassie’s laugh, the baby powder smell of Bridger and the feel of her husband’s hand in hers, Elizabeth worried that they’d moved on without her. That she’d missed too much. That perhaps she wasn’t the right mother for her kids or wife for Luke, no matter how much she loved them.

But now, seven years later, Luke finds her in a nearby town and brings Elizabeth back home to the family she loves, just in time for Christmas. And being reunited with Luke and her children is better than anything Elizabeth could have imagined. As they all trim the tree and bake cookies, making new holiday memories, Elizabeth and Luke are drawn ever closer. Can the hurt of the past seven years be healed over the course of one Christmas season and bring the Hamiltons the gift of a new beginning? (publisher)

My take: If, like me, readers of the Haven Point series have been wondering about Luke and Elizabeth Hamilton – this is their book! Her disappearance several years earlier sparked many wild theories among locals, none that placed Luke in a positive light. When Elizabeth comes back to Haven Point she reveals what happened. RaeAnne Thayne gives readers a plausible, emotional story. This novel touches on depression (clinical and postpartum) and my heart went out to Elizabeth and the family she left behind. Coming Home for Christmas is a story of forgiveness and courage – and love. Perfect themes for the season. Recommended to fans of the series, RaeAnne Thayne, and a good Christmas story.

About the author:

New York Times and USA Today best-selling 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 60 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 a http://www.raeannethayne.com

The Cliff House by RaeAnne Thayne

March 26, 2019March 26, 2019 Mary Contemporary Fiction, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

The Cliff House by RaeAnne Thayne

Published: March 2019 – HQN

Review book courtesy of HQN, NetGalley and Little Bird Publicity

My take: RaeAnne Thayne’s new stand-alone novel is about three women on the precipice of change. The events that transpired years earlier will determine their futures unless and until they find the courage to go after the future they desire.

When sisters Daisy and Beatriz were young girls, orphaned after their mother overdosed, they were taken in and cared for by their young aunt, Stella. Stella hadn’t even graduated from college at this point. Daisy and Beatriz were 11 and 9 years old. They all grew up together while their new family unit became strong.

Beatriz became a wife and mother while still in her teens. Her marriage may not have succeeded but she now had a lovely and smart daughter as well as an ex-husband who maintained a presence in his daughter’s life. Lately he seems interested in rekindling their relationship. She’s been there, done that and doesn’t want to move backward. She’d like to explore her feelings for her best friend since fifth grade!

As the novel opens Daisy meets a stranger in the toothpaste aisle of the grocery store and he’s convinced they’ve met before. She’s certain they haven’t. She’d remember meeting him. Daisy is the serious sister and has always taken on responsibility well beyond her years. That habit has proven hard to break – much to her detriment. It’s made her closed-off to expressing her emotions and that has made her life quite lackluster until her unexpected second meeting with ‘the stranger’. Will she open herself up to the possibility of experiencing more in her life?

Stella receives news on her 40th birthday that, while not a surprise, will definitely be life-changing. She also finds out that the only man she ever loved has moved to her town. Their lives become entwined from day one and give her hope for what she once thought an impossibility – a second chance.

I loved every minute I spent with the women in the gorgeous coastal setting of Cape Sanctuary, California. It’s a story of learning to trust and being open to new and second chances. Recommended to fans of Women’s Fiction and RaeAnne Thayne.

About the author:

RaeAnne Thayne is the author of more than 60 novels, including her beloved Haven Point series. Her books have won numerous honors, including four RITA® Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. THE CLIFF HOUSE is her first-ever standalone hardcover novel, marking an exciting new chapter in her career.

Season of Wonder by RaeAnne Thayne

September 27, 2018September 27, 2018 Mary Contemporary Romance, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Season of Wonder by RaeAnne Thayne

A Haven Point novel

Published September 25, 2018 – HQN

Review copy courtesy of the publisher; Little Bird Publicity; NetGalley

Description:

It’s a long way from New York to Idaho…but could they have found a home at last?

Dani Capelli has never truly belonged anywhere. And from her earliest days as a foster child in Queens, she would have been lost if it weren’t for her love of animals. Until high school, when she fell hard for the wrong boy, and found herself pregnant—and married—by graduation. Two daughters later, Dani realized her mistake and filed for divorce, and with the help of scholarships and loans—and a lot of macaroni and cheese dinners—she enrolled in vet school. Things were finally looking up…until her ex-husband became her late husband, in the most notorious way possible.

Now Dani and her daughters need an out-of-town pass more than ever. So when the retiring Haven Point veterinarian offers her a chance to settle in the small Idaho town and take over his practice, she jumps at it. But adjusting to the charming mountain community isn’t easy; thirteen-year-old Silver begins acting out while six-year-old Mia is growing too attached to Haven Point and everything in it, especially their next-door-neighbor, Deputy Sheriff Ruben Morales. And Dani can’t blame her. Ruben is everything she’s secretly wanted—and everything she can’t bear to risk loving…and losing.

As the holidays draw near, their shared concern for Dani’s daughters brings them closer together, giving Ruben the chance to show this big-city woman just how magical Christmas in Haven Point can be…and that the promise of a home at last is very real in the most wondrous season of the year… (publisher)

My take: RaeAnne Thayne takes us back to Haven Point at Christmas time. Dani and her daughters are new in town. She’s the new veterinarian set to take over the ready-to-retire Dr. Morales’ practice. Older daughter Silver isn’t happy in a new place and school but younger daughter Mia loves the town and everyone she meets. When Silver acts out in a big way their neighbor becomes involved with the family.

Deputy Ruben Morales (son of Dr. Morales) is someone Dani wants to avoid. If she offends him it could jeopardize her future in Haven Point. The problem is, there’s a growing attraction and it’s not one-way. Ruben has made it a policy not to date women with children. He doesn’t know what to do when he realizes he actually enjoys Dani and her girls. This could go well or very, very wrong for everyone involved.

For good reason Dani has had trust issues her entire life. She wants to provide her daughters with a different life. Is that even possible without opening herself to the possibilities that present in Haven Point. She’s about to find out. Season of Wonder is a lovely novel about the good that can come from rising above challenges both big and small.

About the author:

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.

The Cottages On Silver Beach by RaeAnne Thayne

June 12, 2018June 9, 2018 Mary Contemporary Romance, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Review copy provided by HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley

THE COTTAGES ON SILVER BEACH

On-sale: June 19, 2018
$7.99 U.S. / $9.99 CAN.
ISBN-13: 978-1335007018

Description: Years after betraying her, he’s back in Haven Point…and ready to learn the truth

Megan Hamilton never really liked Elliot Bailey. He turned his back on her family when they needed him the most and it almost tore them all apart. So she’s shocked when Elliot arrives at her family’s inn, needing a place to stay and asking questions that dredge up the past. Megan will rent him a cottage, but that’s where it ends—no matter how gorgeous Elliot has become.

Coming back home to Haven Point was the last thing bestselling writer Elliot Bailey thought he’d ever do. But the book he’s writing now is his most personal one yet and it’s drawn him back to the woman he can’t get out of his mind. Seeing Megan again is harder than he expected and it brings up feelings he’d thought were long-buried. Could this be his chance to win over his first love? (publisher)

My take: Megan Hamilton is a talented photographer and owner of the Inn at Haven Point. She’s also quite adept at guarding her feelings. When FBI agent Elliot Bailey comes back to town she’s on high alert knowing he could bring down her brother, the prime suspect of a cold case, as well as capture her heart. What she doesn’t know is that Elliot is on leave having disobeyed a direct order. He’s nursing a physical wound and now he has to deal with the re-opened wound of loving Megan from afar but never being able to act on it. What will happen when the two are thrown together?

I love a good road trip and really enjoyed the one that put Megan and Elliot together for several hours. You’ll want to read the latest in the Haven Point series to see if they’ll be able to work through misunderstandings and perceived personal offenses to find their chance for love. As expected, I enjoyed The Cottages on Silver Beach and look forward to the promised follow-up story of Luke and Elizabeth – Megan’s brother and sister-in-law.

Note: Although this book is the 8th in the Haven Point series it can stand alone.

About the author:

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 http://www.raeannethayne.com.

The Rancher’s Christmas Song by RaeAnne Thayne

November 2, 2017October 30, 2017 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, Harlequin Special Edition, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Title: The Rancher’s Christmas Song
Series: The Cowboys of Cold Creek #16
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Genre: Contemporary Romance; Christmas
Pages: 224
Published: October 2017 – Harlequin Special Edition
Source: Publisher; NetGalley

Description: Keep a song in your heart this holiday season…

Music teacher Ella Baker’s plate is already full. But when single dad Beckett McKinley’s wild twin boys need help preparing a Christmas song for their father, Ella agrees on one condition: they teach her to ride a horse. She’s hoping that’ll help mend her strained relationship with her rancher father; it certainly has nothing to do with the crush that’s lingered since her one and only date with Beck.

It isn’t disinterest spurring Beck to keep his distance—if anything, the spark is too strong, with Ella reminding him of his ex-wife. Soon what started as an innocent arrangement is beginning to feel a lot like family. But with the holidays approaching, Beck and Ella will have to overcome past hurts if they want to keep each other warm this Christmas… (publisher)

My take: I was introduced to the Cowboys of Cold Creek series with book #13. I didn’t feel like I missed anything by not reading the previous books in the series and I can tell you the same after reading #16 – so don’t let the number scare you. I’ve found all of her books can stand alone.

This year’s Christmas book is a lovely family story. There’s rancher Beck, single father of young twin boys, and Ella, former city girl and current local music teacher. Ella’s father owns the ranch next door to Beck’s so they are acquainted but that’s all – until the annual Christmas program begins rehearsals and the two find themselves playing more important roles in the other’s life.

In true RaeAnne Thayne style The Rancher’s Christmas Song is a charming story that embraces the true meaning of the season. Recommended to fans of the author and romantic Christmas novels you want to read in one sitting.

Sugar Pine Trail by RaeAnne Thayne

October 10, 2017October 10, 2017 Mary Christmas, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Title: Sugar Pine Trail
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Series: Haven Point #7)
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 384
Published: September 2017 – HQN
Source: Publisher; NetGalley; Little Bird Publicity

Description: Librarian Julia Winston is ready to ditch the quiet existence she’s been living. She’s made a list of new things to experience, but falling for Jamie Caine, her sexy military pilot neighbor, isn’t one of them. Julia’s looking to conquer life, not become the heartbreaker’s latest conquest. But when two young brothers wind up in Julia’s care for the holidays, she’ll take any help she can get—even Jamie’s.

Happy to step in, Jamie reveals a side of himself that’s much harder to resist. Not only is he fantastic with kids, he provides the strength Julia needs to tackle her list. She knows their temporary family can’t last beyond the holidays, but the closer she gets to Jamie, the more she wonders if things could be this merry and bright forever… (publisher)

My take: Julia’s life hasn’t gone the way she’d expected. She ended up putting other people before her own dreams and had accepted that path. That was before two little boys showed up at her library and, once again, the course of her life changed. Jamie’s life is filled with running the corporate air travel for his brother’s tech company and only dating casually. He doesn’t do serious relationships. When he rents Julia’s upstairs apartment his only intent is to have a place to sleep when in town until his condo is ready for him to move in. What he doesn’t expect is to have his life turned upside down by the same two little boys and his pretty landlord. Sugar Pine Trail is perfect for getting readers in the holiday spirit – and it should come with a box of tissues. It’s an emotional story about learning to trust, giving and receiving, and learning to take a chance. I loved it all and recommend it to fans of RaeAnne Thayne, the Haven Point series, and a heart-warming Christmas novel. It can stand alone if you haven’t had the chance to read the rest of the series.

About the author:

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

Praise for RaeAnne Thayne:

“Entertaining, heart-wrenching, and totally involving, this multi-threaded story overflows with characters readers will adore.” —Library Journal on Evergreen Springs (starred review)

“Romance, vivid characters and a wonderful story; really who could ask for more?” —Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“This quirky, funny, warmhearted romance will draw readers in and keep them enthralled to the last romantic page.” —Library Journal on Christmas in Snowflake Canyon

“RaeAnne Thayne is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors… Once you start reading, you aren’t going to be able to stop.” —Fresh Fiction

“RaeAnne has a knack for capturing those emotions that come from the heart.” —RT Book Reviews

“A sometimes heartbreaking tale of love and relationships in a small Colorado town…. Poignant and sweet.” —Publishers Weekly on Christmas in Snowflake Canyon

“Her engaging storytelling…will draw readers in from the very first page.” —RT Book Reviews on Riverbend Road

SUGAR PINE TRAIL

by RAEANNE THAYNE

$7.99 U.S. / $9.99 CAN.

ISBN-13: 978-0373803682

Serenity Harbor by RaeAnne Thayne

June 20, 2017June 16, 2017 Mary Contemporary Romance, HQN Books, Little Bird Publicity, RaeAnne Thayne

Title: Serenity Harbor
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Series: Haven Point #6
Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pub. Date: June 27, 2017 – HQN Books

Description: Computer-tech millionaire Bowie Callahan is about the last person that schoolteacher Katrina Bailey wants to work for. As far as she can see, he’s arrogant, entitled and not up to the task of caring for his young half-brother, Milo. But Kat is, especially if it brings her closer to her goal of adopting an orphaned little girl. And as her kindness and patience work wonders with Milo, she realizes there’s more to sexy, wary Bo than she’d ever realized.

Bo never imagined he’d be tasked with caring for a sibling he didn’t know existed. Then again, he never pictured himself impulsively kissing vibrant, compassionate Katrina in the moonlight. Now he’s ready to make her dream of family come true…and hoping there’s room in it for him, too… (publisher)

My take: Serenity Harbor is the newest book in RaeAnne Thayne’s Haven Point series. It’s the story of Bowie and Katrina, two people who aren’t looking for love. Bowie’s life took an unexpected turn when he found he had a little brother he didn’t previously know existed. Now he’s responsible for the little boy who is on the autism spectrum. He has no idea how he can juggle seeing to Milo’s needs as well as work a full-time job. Katrina is the answer to his prayers. Turns out, he can help her. She’s in the middle of complicated adoption proceedings of a little girl in Columbia. When Bowie offers Kat a sizable amount of money to care for Milo until permanent help arrives she can’t refuse him. That money will help her with adoption costs so she accepts the offer. What she didn’t see coming was the attraction to Bowie. She’d been concentrating only on bringing Gabi home to Haven Point – not her love life. She’d made so many mistakes in that area before that she’s going to set her sights on making Gabi’s life better and forget about romance.

I so enjoyed this story of people finding out that perspective can change your idea of how life should go. Yes, a few things worked out much easier than they probably would in real life but this is a novel and I just went with it. I love the series, the characters and the setting and recommend it fans of the author and contemporary, small town romance.

About the author:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including six RITA Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews magazine. RaeAnne loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at http://www.raeannethayne.com.

The Holiday Gift by RaeAnne Thayne

November 29, 2016October 6, 2016 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, Harlequin, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne, Series

Title: The Holiday Gift
Series: The Cowboys of Cold Creek
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Pages: 224
Genre: Contemporary Romance; Christmas
Published: November 2016 – Harlequin
Source: Publisher; NetGalley

Description: With two kids and an active life, widow Faith Dustin only wants peace and quiet for Christmas. But her snowy Pine Gulch ranch is nothing but chaotic. All that keeps Faith going is her helpful neighbor, cowboy Chase Brannon. He’s always been “good ol’ Chase,” her faithful friend. Until he kisses her under the mistletoe…

Years ago Chase blew his chance with the woman he’s loved since childhood. Now he’s determined to step out of the friend zone…and into the role of husband. But the scared and stubborn Faith won’t let herself fall. With Christmas just days away, Chase will need all the magic of the season—and the help of her two matchmaking children—to unwrap a second chance at love. (publisher)

My take: The Holiday Gift is the third of the Nichols sisters’ books within the Cowboys of Cold Creek series. It can stand alone but I think you’d enjoy it a bit more if you read the previous two books ( The Christmas Ranch and A Cold Creek Christmas Story).

I love a good Christmas romance and this one didn’t disappoint – even despite Faith’s frustrating denial of her true feelings for Chase. But I trusted RaeAnne Thayne to bring her characters to a HEA and she didn’t let me down. The Idaho mountain ranch setting as described by Thayne is wonderfully inviting. It was fun to read about all the happenings at The Christmas Ranch and with Faith’s sisters.

The Holiday Gift is a lovely story and a satisfying completion to the Nichols sisters’ trilogy. Recommended to fans of the author, novels about families, and a nice Christmas romance.

Giveaway winner

November 1, 2016November 1, 2016 Mary Giveaway winner, HQN, Little Bird Publicity, RaeAnne Thayne

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Snowfall on Haven Point by RaeAnne Thayne plus a US Giveaway

October 25, 2016November 1, 2016 Mary Blog Tour, Contemporary Romance, HQN Books, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne, Series

Title: Snowfall on Haven Point
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Series: Haven Point #5
Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Published: September 2016 – HQN Books
Source: Publisher; NetGalley; Little Bird Publicity

Description: It’s been two rough years since Andrea Montgomery lost her husband, and all she wants is for her children to enjoy their first Christmas in Haven Point. But then Andie’s friend asks a favor—to keep an eye on her brother, Sheriff Marshall Bailey, who’s recovering from a hit and run. Andie will do anything for Wyn, even park her own misgivings to check on her grouchy, wounded bear of a brother.

Marshall hates feeling defenseless and resents the protective impulses that Andie brings out in him. But when a blizzard forces them together for the holidays, something in Marshall begins to thaw. Andie’s gentle nature is a salve, and her kids’ excitement for the holidays makes him forget why he never wanted a family. If only he and Andie can admit what they really want—each other—their Christmas wishes might come true after all. (publisher)

My take: Readers met Andrea Montgomery (Andie) in Riverbend Road, book 4 in the Haven Point series. She’s been to hell and back and just wants to live a normal life with her two young children in the town they recently moved to. When the local sheriff is run down by a hit-and-run driver his sister Wyn, Andie’s good friend, asks her to look in on him until she can get home.

As you might expect, Andie and Marshall’s friendship grows into something more. The thing is, Andie doesn’t want to be involved with anyone in law enforcement. Her first husband was killed in the line of duty and she just can’t put herself or her children through that again. Marshall never liked kids and certainly never wanted any of his own. Then why does he think Andie’s kids are so sweet? Changes are in the air.

Snowfall on Haven Point is an enjoyable Christmas romance. Along with the issues between Andie and Marshall there’s the mystery of the hit-and-run, some missing money at the Sheriff’s Department, and the next-door neighbors may be more than just neighbors. I liked it all and recommend it to fans of RaeAnne Thayne and contemporary Christmas romance novels.

Best-selling author RaeAnne Thayne 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.

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 http://www.raeannethayne.com.

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Riverbend Road by RaeAnne Thayne

July 7, 2016June 9, 2016 Mary Contemporary Romance, HQN Books, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Title: Riverbend Road
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Series: Haven Point, #4
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 368
Published: June 2016 – HQN Books
Source: Publisher; NetGalley

Description: 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? (publisher)

My take: The latest addition to the Haven Point series is Riverbend Road. RaeAnne Thayne gives readers a look into the lives of a couple of Haven Point’s finest. Cade and Wyn have known each other since childhood and have worked together for the past few years. Gradually their friendship grows to a surprising (to them) romance of sorts. That’s a problem because he’s her boss. Along with this dilemma Wyn is concerned about a new family that moved into her neighborhood. Her internal radar tells her something’s not quite right. And on top of everything else she suspects her recently widowed mother has started dating someone. How can that be?

Riverbend Road features two people who’ve faced challenges in life and were made stronger as a result. It was easy to cheer for Wyn and Cade. This is a romantic story that focused on the importance of family and friends.

I love RaeAnne Thayne’s novels and Riverbend Road was no exception. They are warm and charming and this was a perfect in-between book. I’d read some heavier books and this was a welcome escape. It’s the fourth book in the series but can easily stand alone. Recommended to fans of the author and contemporary, small town romance.

A Cold Creek Christmas Story by RaeAnne Thayne

November 18, 2015November 18, 2015 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, Harlequin, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne

Title: A Cold Creek Christmas Story
Series: Cowboys of Cold Creek #14
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Pages: 240
Genre: Contemporary Romance; Christmas
Published: December 1, 2015 – Harlequin
Source: Publisher; NetGalley

Description: Sparkle In The Snow Leads To So Much More. Celeste Nichols has always preferred to keep to herself in her hometown of Pine Gulch, Idaho…until she becomes an instant celebrity! When one of her children’s stories becomes a major success, she’s suddenly the talk of the town. Celeste should be gloriously happy…but something, someone, special is still missing from her life. Could the return of her childhood crush be the answer?

Flynn Delaney has moved back home for his daughter’s sake. Yet all the millionaire’s resources can’t help the little girl heal from the tragic loss of her mother. Shy librarian Celeste and her stories do hold some indefinable magic, though. Flynn came home looking for support—can he find that, and true love, in the one who got away? (publisher)

My take: RaeAnne Thayne’s new Christmas story is a sweet tale about coming to terms with a new normal – especially for the young daughter of Flynn Delaney. When he comes back to Pine Gulch to prepare his grandmother’s house for sale Flynn meets Celeste who also happens to be his daughter’s favorite author.

Celeste and young Olivia find they have more in common than most people realize. That connection is a gift to them both. What no one expected was the connection made between Flynn and Celeste. What Flynn didn’t expect was a joyful Christmas this year.

A Cold Creek Christmas is a lovely novel and perfect for the season. I enjoyed it and recommend it to fans of RaeAnne Thayne and contemporary romance with a Christmas theme. Although this is the 14th book in the series it can stand alone. I’ve only read one other (last year’s Christmas book) and had no problem keeping up.

Evergreen Springs by RaeAnne Thayne

October 1, 2015September 30, 2015 Mary Christmas, Contemporary Romance, HQN Books, Little Bird Publicity, NetGalley, RaeAnne Thayne, Series

Title: Evergreen Springs
Series: Haven Point #3
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Genre: Contemporary Romance; Christmas
Pages: 384
Published: September 2015 – HQN Books
Source: Publisher

Description: Christmas is the last thing on Cole Barrett’s mind this year. He’s barely hanging on trying to care for his two grieving children since his ex-wife died in a tragic accident. For the reclusive Cole, this is no time for gift-giving and celebration—and certainly not for a sunny-natured optimist to blow into his screwed-up life.

Physician Devin Shaw has long researched the curative powers of Lake Haven’s mineral waters. Unfortunately, the hot springs are on Barrett property, forcing Devin to strike a bargain with the ranch’s attractively gruff owner: she’ll give Cole’s children a magical Christmas, and Cole will allow her patients access to the springs. But can she work her holiday magic to heal the Barrett family’s battered hearts—and her own? (publisher)

My take: Evergreen Springs is the third book in the Haven Point series. It can stand alone but I recommend reading in order from the start. Even though I’ve read her books for a year or so I consider myself a new fan of RaeAnne Thayne’s books. I love the emotional tone struck in each book.

In Evergreen Springs Cole Barrett is trying to do right by his children. He wants to give them a safe and secure place to live – something that’s been missing in their short lives. He also wants to establish his horse-training business at the family ranch he recently inherited. If that doesn’t seem like enough to juggle his very pregnant-with-twins sister has just moved in with him.

Devin Shaw is a doctor and, of course, wants to help people. When she meets Cole she can see he needs to be helped if not saved. He also needs to cut himself some slack. They hit it off but then he starts to feel she can do much better than him. But what if that’s not what she wants.

The theme of forgiveness runs through Evergreen Springs which makes it a perfect book to read during the holidays (or any other time of the year!). I loved seeing Haven Point decorated for Christmas and the cameos by previously featured characters were fun.

I enjoyed Evergreen Springs and recommend it to fans of RaeAnne Thayne, the Haven Point series, and contemporary small-town romance.

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 magazine.