Books! (What I've Read Recently)

 Hey Y'all!

There's not as many, and definitely not as favorable reviews this go 'round...

1) Montana, Debbie Macomber

Her grandfather wants her to move home, and Molly thinks she just might. His ranch will be a good place for her sons to grow up, a place to escape big-city influence. Then she learns--from a stranger named Sam Dakota--that her grandfather is ill. Possibly dying. Molly packs up the kids without a second thought and makes the long drive to Sweetgrass, Montana.

Once she arrives, she immediately has questions about Sam Dakota. Why is he working on her grandfather's ranch? Why doesn't the sheriff trust him? Just who is he? Despite everything, Molly can't deny her attraction to Sam--until her ailing grandfather tries to push them into marriage. Moving to the state of Montana is one thing; entering the state of matrimony is another! Some borders aren't so easy to cross.

I liked this one. The story was good, the characters well written, and even the subplot(s) were interesting.

2) Star, V.C. Andrews

In the second volume in the Wildflowers quartet, Star hides her nightmarish secrets from the other girls in her therapy group, until she gradually reveals her story to Dr. Marlowe and the others, allowing her to finally confront the horrors of her past.

I liked this better than Misty, and they are quick easy reads. I still don't understand why these girls have been made go to this therapist, but the stories are heartbreaking and a good read.

3) Leashed, Zoe Dawson

Jack has some ‘splainin’ to do!

That's right! Callie Lassiter's normally well-behaved Great Dane Jack has run off and done the wild thing with the neighbor's dog. It must be puppy love! It's doubly embarrassing since she's a professional dog trainer. Of course, the neighbor would have to be hot, hot nightclub owner bad boy Owen McKay, just the kind of man Callie is determined to avoid.

Owen’s comfortable with his playboy status and the hype in the media. But the ground moves beneath his feet when he gets an eyeful of the girl next door. The Dog Whisperer never looked this good! How can he convince this wholesome honey that his player days are behind him? Maybe Jill, his Great Dane can help him with this dilemma now that she’s pregnant and Callie’s dog is to blame.

Is this bad boy a bad bet?

Beware of dogs, romance and deep belly laughs!
Going to the Dogs is a romp through the urban jungle of New York City to find true love, the perfect cocktail, and expensive heels. Dog is a man’s best friend, but sometimes a woman just needs a hot man in the city. This series will appeal to a mature crowd, especially fans of Sex in The City.

This was just....boring. It takes forever to get to the actual story, and too much about Callie, her friends, their dogs, her hobbies, etc. Rich people problems with dogs. Meh.

4) Beg For You, Sherilee Gray

Ten years. Ten endless years I've waited to destroy the man who tore my family apart. But I never thought I'd get the chance... until his daughter walked into my tattoo parlour, looked me in the eye — and had no damned clue who I was.

I never planned on falling for Cassandra Deighton. She's silk scarves and manicures. I'm scars and rage. Yet I can't resist when she begs for more, my ice queen who burns with enough heat to sear the soul.

I need to end this. Before she finds out who I am. Before she gets hurt.

But I'm not the only one with secrets. We both have our scars, and if the truth comes out, we could lose everything...

The story here is pretty good. The writing however, is okay at best. The author clearly doesn't have access to a thesaurus as the same 4 or 5 words are used until they no longer have meaning, and it's just a game of count how many times this word is used per page.

What have you read recently? Any suggestions for me? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife
 

Books! AKA What I've Read Recently

 Hey Y'all!

I actually have a few to share this month, much better than January...

1) -4) This series:

The Hayden Family Series, Jennifer Millikin

While these books are stand alone, it's definitely worth reading the whole series. Each sibling has there own story to tell, and all four are complex, with their own issues, conflict, and resolutions. Each one is a well written character, you can really submerse yourself in the ranch, and surrounding areas. 

While book 3 was probably my favorite, it's hard to believe X is a psychologist, therefore IDK that I'd want her working in that capacity. (Trying not to spoil it, but if you read these, let me know your opinion!)

A bit from each book:

The Patriot-

I'm a soldier.
A cattle rancher.
A Hayden.

My family's legacy is spread out in front of me, just waiting for me to seize it. If it weren't for one outdated rule, I'd be the owner of the Hayden Cattle Company and my aging father could retire.

When Dakota Wright shows up to buy and develop twenty acres of Hayden land, I see more than a pretty mouth and strawberry blonde hair. I see a way around the decree keeping me from getting what I want.

And, as luck would have it, Dakota has a big problem of her own. We strike two deals: one for the land, and a second that'll make both our problems a distant memory.

It isn't too long before I realize I'm in over my head. I've convinced myself the ends should justify the means, but everything begins to fall apart when my birthright is no longer all that I'm after.

I never thought there'd be anything I could love more than my ranch and my country.
I was wrong.

Turns out, I want it all.
Including her.

The Maverick-

I know you’ve heard about me.

The middle Hayden brother, the one whose wife ran off.

I’m not the short-tempered new owner of the Hayden Cattle Company, like my big brother. I’m not the wild stallion with a mystery ax to grind, like my little brother.

I’m Warner Hayden. Single-father, second-in-command of my family’s ranching dynasty, and my steady, secure world is about to get rocked by America’s sweetheart.

I’d heard Tenley Roberts was coming to our small town to film her latest movie, I just didn't think she’d be driving a 1976 Bronco. So, no, I didn't know the identity of the beautiful stranger I helped on the side of the road, but I figured it out a few days later. And I haven't been the same since.

Tenley is unexpectedly funny, and complicated. I’m recently divorced, fearful of the way she makes my heart beat double-time, and gun-shy.

Despite all this, we’re too wrapped up in each other to care.

But then things with Tenley take an unforeseen turn, and everyone assumes I’ll take my licks the way I always have.

Not this time.

Maybe I am the nice, dependable brother.

But I’m also a Hayden, born and bred.

And this bull has horns.

The Outlaw-

There’s a thin line between being a hero and a villain, and I’m well aware I walk right down the middle of it. My reputation precedes me, even when I’m making a bad choice for the right reason. This is how I wind up in the back of a police car late one night.

My infamous last name keeps my record clean, with a single caveat: community service at a ranch recently purchased by Jo Shelton. I think I’d rather go to jail than serve time with the woman who has made it clear she can’t stand me, even though we used to be friends.

Despite the tense atmosphere and how she keeps me at arms’ length, I show up every day, ready to work. Quickly I learn a valuable lesson: while it’s difficult being around someone I don’t like, it’s far more difficult being around someone I find myself intensely attracted to, but cannot have.

Because Jo, the woman who's driving me crazy with her quiet strength and beautiful face, is in a relationship. With a man who, I’d like to point out, is not out there getting his hands dirty on his girlfriend’s ranch. Possession is 9/10th’s of the law, and as far as I’m concerned, I’m currently in possession of Jo’s time and attention.

One day, the unexpected happens. Her blue eyes pierce my callused exterior, seeing deep down into a wound I work hard to hide. It’s in this moment, and so many that follow, that I become certain there’s no hope left for me. I’m in love with Jo, and I’m desperate to show her I’m someone worthy of her love in return.

Lucky for me, nobody rises to the occasion quite like an outlaw.

The Calamity-

I’ve made a mess of things again. Not that anybody is surprised.

After I’m politely asked to withdraw from college for my antics, I return home to my family’s cattle ranch. The sweeping views, the towering pine trees, and the whisper of the wind remind me I belong on this land. My heart is in the alpine air, my soul mixed into the soil. All I’ve ever wanted is to run the ranch alongside my oldest brother, but my family refuses to see me as anything but a walking disaster.

If I’m going to show them what I’m capable of, I have to prove myself. Lucky for me, I’m a Hayden through and through. I’ll dirty my hands in more ways than one.

That includes the man who showed up in town again after all these years. Sawyer Bennett. I’ve heard the stories about his family, and they don’t scare me. Our attraction is undeniable, and the best part? Sawyer looks at me with fresh eyes. When I’m with him, I get to be the woman I’m fighting to become. And I’m learning just how much I want to be that woman.

But then I make the ultimate mistake: I utter the word perfect. I should've known better. There’s nowhere to go but down after that. And down we go, until we hit rock bottom.

Sawyer unearths a long-buried secret, and challenges everything my brothers and I grew up believing. Nobody is surprised I’ve brought disaster to our doorstep again, but it’s not over.

Because when it rains out on the ranch? It pours.

5) Next I continued the Bridgerton series, and this one wasn't my favorite. I feel like we already knew most of what was happening. It's also almost solely from Michaels point of view. I feel like I don't really know Francesca at all... And that doesn't bother me.

When He Was Wicked, Julia Quinn

In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one’s life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London’s most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca’s surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer—the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.

But that was then . . . Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love . . . until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets . . .

6) &7) Wildwood Society Romance Series, Roxie Nior

Why it's called that I don't know, it's only mentioned (by name) once or twice across books 1 & 2.

Both of these were good, quick afternoon reads. Easily stand alone books, the first one mentions the friend group, and they get together far more than book 2. I'll save up my Google Play points to get the rest in the series.

I like that the cast of characters each are unique and flawed. They are well written, as is the book series, except the F word gets tossed around far too much to make it remotely impactful. Especially in the character that has a lot of religious trauma. It just doesn't fell like he'd say it that much compared to the way he talks/acts otherwise. It's like the writer couldn't think of a different word, so she just shoves that one in, regardless of if it actually "fits". Still good stories though... A bit steamier than my usual read.

The One Month Boyfriend-

Silas and I agree on one thing, and one thing only: my ruthless, heartless, narcissistic jerk of an ex-fiancé needs to be taken down a notch.

So we do what anyone would do: we pretend to be a couple.

Even though Silas and I are polar opposites. Silas is a loud, cheerful, over the top showboat. He’s his hometown’s golden boy, the Marine who came back to rescue kittens from trees and walk old ladies across the street.

And me? I'm the awkward new girl who freezes up around strangers and can’t make small talk to save my life.

It shouldn’t work. We can barely have a conversation without arguing. There's no way we should be friends, let alone dating, except... Everyone believes it.

Especially my ex.

Now I'm having way too many real fantasies about the man who gets on my last nerve. My fake boyfriend is starting to feel a whole lot like a real one.

The kisses feel real.
The way he protects me feels real.
The night we spend together in a hotel bed feels very real.

This was supposed to be fake, but I think I might have fooled myself most of all.

The Two Week Roommate- 

There are probably worse things than being stuck in a remote cabin with the rugged-yet-grumpy forest ranger who saved my life in a blizzard. Getting mauled by a bear, for example, though I might prefer that to eating breakfast with Gideon Bell, the guy who nearly ruined my life when we were kids.

It was twenty years ago. We haven’t spoken since. Our families still hate each other, and our lives are completely different. I’m not sure we’ve got anything in common besides childhood memories.

But when it’s just the two of us for a couple of weeks, none of that really matters.

What matters is the way Gideon grumbles, but makes my tea exactly the way I like it. What matters is how he always gives me the spot on the couch closest to the fireplace. What matters is how he looks at me when he thinks I’m not paying attention.

And those childhood memories? He’s in all my favorites.

Up here, in the cabin, it’s easy to look past all that because it feels so good to kiss him. It’s easy to spend a wild night in front of the fireplace and wake up still wrapped together. But back in the real world, where everything that drove us apart is still alive and kicking? It’s a lot harder.

Can Gideon and I fix what broke twenty years ago, or does what happens in the cabin have to stay in the cabin?

8) I know I said in a previous blog I wasn't going to read any more of the Deliverance Co books, but I think this one is stand alone enough. Hubby picked it up for me from a local thrift store.

The Sooner The Better, Debbie Macomber

I liked this one more than book one. Overall the story was more interesting, and the main characters far more likable. I won't look for book 2.

She’s stuck with Jack…

Lorraine Dancy has just discovered that everything she believes about her father is a lie—starting with the fact that Thomas supposedly died years ago. Now she’s learned that not only is he not dead, he’s living in a small town south of the border. In the process of tracking him down, she manages to get framed for theft and pursued by the real thief, the police and a local crime boss. Her father’s friend Jack Keller agrees to help her escape, although Lorraine’s reluctant to depend on a man like him.

And he’s stuck with her!

Jack’s every bit the renegade Lorraine thinks he is—an ex-mercenary and former Deliverance Company operative. He’s also the one person who can guide her to safety. But there are stormy waters ahead, including an attraction neither of them wants to feel. An attraction that’s as risky as it is intense—for both of them. The sooner he can get Lorraine home, the better!

8 books this moth was pretty good! What should I read next? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife

Books! (AKA What I've Read Recently)

 Hey Y'all,

Sorry I'm a few days late here... let's blame the Holiday prep.

I recently realized I could use my google play (rewards) money to buy books, so there are a few purchases from there in the mix too.

First off though I'll start with this one:

1)  Christmas Bodyguard, Margaret Daley

Slade, a wealthy Texan, and his daughter are under attack. But why, and from whom? 

He hires Elizabeth as a bodyguard for his daughter, and while they try to figure out the who, sparks fly.

Christmas Bodyguard is well written, and I had several suspects in my head but never did figure it out.

The characters are well fleshed out, and all of them are easy to visualize. The story flows well, and it's an easy read.

Someone's after wealthy Texan Slade Caulder's daughter. Desperate to keep her safe while he determines the motive, the widowed father hires a bodyguard for Abbey. A female bodyguard, with the training to protect the girl and an understanding of a willful teenager who keeps trying to outsmart her. Elizabeth Walker is the perfect combination of caring and toughness for her job. But as the holidays approach, the stalker's threats escalate. And Slade finds himself willing to risk everything to keep his Christmas bodyguard by his side forever.

This review sums it up well:

I was quickly drawn into the story which starts with a father teaching his daughter to drive. Then, fasten your seatbelt as the story takes off! Slade is a man who started his own business and is raising his daughter alone after the death of his wife five years earlier. Now, it seems there is someone with nefarious intent to bring real harm to Abby, Slade’s daughter, or is the real target the father?
Once you start reading the book you will become so engrossed in the high tension and captivating turn of events, you won’t want to put the book down until you reach the last page! I couldn’t believe how fast the story moves. It almost felt like a slow roller coaster that then surprises the riders by picking up the pace which is off the scale.
Then the author introduces the personal bodyguards hired for both the daughter and the father which brings a whole new aspect to the tale. Try as they might a couple of the characters are finding themselves strongly attracted to each other when they least expect this to occur. While the book is older, the story is solid and riveting! Don’t miss reading the book that will take you on an adventure with twists and turns you might not see coming!

2) Yuletide Baby, Deb Kastner

I had the physical copy of the book, but passed it on to a lady I met from Netherlands, at a camp ground. She had seen me reading, and we struck up a conversation. In so she said she'd just finished the last Dutch book she'd brought, and didn't really want to read on her Kindle yet.

Yuletide Baby was a cute, easy read. The story was simple, and it was well written.

It's a Love Inspired story about an abandon baby on Christmas Eve. What will the pastor do with the infant?

Shawn O'Riley is shocked to find a baby girl abandoned at his church on Christmas Eve. He's a pastor and a cowboy not a daddy! Haunted by family tragedy, he's not sure he can risk his heart to baby Noelle or to anyone else. But he needs help. Experienced foster mom Heather Lewis was anticipating a quiet holiday. When Shawn pops up at her door, she's happy to show him the ropes of baby care but isn't prepared for the way he melts the walls around her heart. Can Shawn and Heather give each other the best Christmas gift of all family and love?  

3) Christmas Homestead, Kara Tate

I picked this one up on a whim, for $3 at Ollie's. It definitely reads like a Hallmark movie, which was the intent. I still enjoyed the book, but I haven't seen the movie. 

A small town inn owner/mayor has to deal with a huge movie production, and the actors taking over the town to film their Christmas movie. Sparks fly and tempers flare. It's easily a one or 2 day read, and was enjoyable, especially at this time of year.

 

Treat yourself to books inspired by Hallmark Christmas movies. Enjoy a heartwarming, feel-good story…and find out what happens after the movie ends. A Hollywood movie star. A small-town single dad. A magical romance. Christmas is almost here, but Jessica has other things on her mind. Being the producer as well as the star of her new movie is a big challenge, and her co-star ex-boyfriend doesn’t seem to be quite over her. Still, she has the project carefully planned out, and the location is perfect: Homestead, Iowa. Matt, the mayor of Homestead, owns the inn where Jessica and her co-star are staying. He barely knows who Jessica is, even though his young daughter, Sophie, is one of her best fans. Christmas became even more important to Matt after his wife passed away, and he isn’t happy about the Hollywood production interfering with the community’s traditions. After Jessica makes more than one faux pas in her first encounter with Matt, she tries to prove that she isn’t just a Hollywood stereotype. Gradually, she grows enamored with Homestead...and with him, which was definitely not part of her plans. Matt’s falling for her, too, but their two worlds clash. Can an innkeeper and an A-list actress really hope for a romantic future together? This sweet story includes a free original recipe for Snowflake Cherry Pie.

4-6) A Christmas Colorado Collection, Debbie Mason

This was the Google Play (Books) purchase. I really liked the book I read previously (Snowbound at Christmas) and mention in that blog that I was glad I picked the book up and would look for the others. It was only like $8 USD for the trio on Google, so it was an easy yes.

I like how the characters are all still present in each others stories, but the main focus on the book is the lead couple. Each story was heartwarming, and full of  mishaps and community. I really like these and will try to figure out the order in which they go to read the rest.

I have already read Snowbound, but it's still hard to figure Ethan (It Happened At Christmas) as their brother, they're all just so very different.

 
The Trouble with Christmas
Resort developer Madison Lane spoiled a deal that would turn quaint Christmas, Colorado, into a tourist's winter wonderland. The citizens want her fired, but her company sends Madison to the small town to restore the holiday cheer. For Sheriff Gage McBride, no hotshot executive from New York City is going to destroy the dreams of the people he loves. But in just a few days, Madison causes more trouble than he's had to deal with all year. He can't decide if she's naughty or nice, but one thing is for certain-Christmas will never be the same again . . .

Christmas in July Grace Flaherty had given up hope of ever seeing her husband again after he went missing in combat. So when he strides through the door of her bakery, she can hardly believe her eyes. But her happily-ever-after is going to take some effort-because Jack has no memory of his family. All Jack Flaherty remembers about Christmas is that he couldn't wait to leave town. Now he's a local hero with a wife and son he doesn't know. Even as he struggles to rekindle the romance with his wife, he knows in his heart what he wants: a second chance at love.

It Happened at Christmas
Free-spirited activist Skylar Davis hides out in Christmas, hoping to forget the reckless actions of her past. All goes well . . . until she comes face-to-face with one of her mistakes: the town's gorgeous young mayor. Ethan O'Connor is about to move from small-town politics to the Colorado State Senate, but if word ever got out about the night he and Skye spent together, the scandal could cripple his career. Yet as he starts his campaign, Ethan finds that, like the town of Christmas itself, he can't get Skye out of his head . . . or his heart.

Reviews:

I feel like I could have written this one, lol.

5.0 out of 5 stars Maddie and Gage, Jack and Grace; Ethan and Skye

Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2019

Verified Purchase

I loved these stories SO MUCH!!!! The first story got me glued to the "pages", the second was a bit emotional and I wanted to kill Maria myself, but I loved Skye the most . She was definitely my favourite character in all three books -- as a friend in the first two and the main character in the last. She is a bit weird and quirky but so adorable . Loved her. Now it's on to the next book. i am hooked.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Group Of Books By Debbie Mason.

Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2015

Verified Purchase

I loved everything about this these books. The humor, sometimes mystery, how the town got involved in everyone's life trying to help them. They kept your interest and you could not put the book down. You get caught up in Madison, Grace and Skylar's life and you so want them to have a happy ending.

I would recommend these books to everyone. I look forward to reading more books by Debbie Mason.

7) Dear Santa, Debbie Macomber

While a little cheesy with the letters to Santa, it is a cute book.

Lindy had a great job, an awesome best friend, and a great boyfriend... Until the friends look for new apartments, and Lindy finds out her best friend and boyfriend are together. So she goes home for the holidays to get away from it all, and make some decisions.

The characters are great, you really get to know them all. Lindy is a likable heroine, and you really feel for her with the loss of not only her BF but also her long time friend, such a betrayal. The hero is also a likable, fun character. 

It's a fun Christmas story that's easily read in an afternoon.

Lindy Carmichael isn’t feeling particularly joyful when she returns home to Wenatchee, Washington, for Christmas. The man she thought was “the one” has cheated on her with her best friend, and she feels completely devoid of creativity in her graphic-design job. Not even carolers or Christmas cookies can cheer her up—but Lindy’s mother, Ellen, remembers an old tradition that might lift her daughter’s spirits.
 
Reading through a box of childhood letters to Santa and reminiscing about what she’d wished for as a young girl may be just the inspiration Lindy needs. With Ellen’s encouragement, she decides to write a new letter to Santa, one that will encourage her to have faith and believe just as she’d done all those years ago. Little does Lindy know that this exercise in gratitude will cause her wishes to unfold before her in miraculous ways. And, thanks to some fateful twists of Christmas magic—especially an unexpected connection with a handsome former classmate—Lindy ultimately realizes that there is truly no place like home for the holidays.

What have you read recently? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife

Books I've Read Recently

 Hey Y'all,

Let's get into it! This month I've focused mostly on Christmas themed romance...

Last month-

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2024/11/books-aka-what-ive-read-recently.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2024/09/books-july-august-september.html

Considering it hadn't quite been a month I bet you thought I wouldn't have many...

1) Home for the Holidays, Debbie Macomber

- Contains both The Forgetful Bride, and When Christmas Comes

 

Everyone wants to be home for the holidays…

The Forgetful Bride

Caitlin Marshall's trying to go home to Minnesota, but at the last minute she gives her airline ticket to a stranded soldier. So Cait spends Christmas with Joe Rockwell, who was a childhood friend—and is still a terrible tease, claiming that Cait's his wife. Oh, sure, they were "married" in a pretend ceremony when she was eight, but now Joe wants to make their "marriage" real!

When Christmas Comes

Emily Springer trades her Leavenworth, Washington, home for Charles Brewster's Boston condo. Then Emily's friend Faith comes to visit her in Washington—and instead finds Charles, a complete stranger and a curmudgeon, to boot. His brother, Ray, meanwhile, shows up at Charles's place, only to discover Emily living there. But through all the mix-ups and misunderstandings, among the chaos and confusion, romance begins to emerge….

I liked the first book better, the second was a bit too much happy ending. Everything is resolved, and everything forgiven with the daughter without really any discussion (then why include her mini story?) in just a page or two. I'd have liked more realness and depth there. The other two stories are cute, though a bit predictable.

I did find the heroine of The Forgetful bride a bit... juvenile. Her insistence, and actions surrounding, her "love" for a boss she has virtually no interaction with is a bit silly for a  grown woman nearing 30. Outside of that the story is cute and I did enjoy reading it.

Excerpt, The Forgetful Bride (Caitlin's annoying "love")-

The wind went out of her argument at the merest hint of his devastating smile. "Don't worry about it," she said, the picture of meekness and tolerance. "Things like this happen when a company grows as quickly as ours."

She glanced across the hallway to her best friend's office, shrugging as if to ask, Is Paul ever going to notice me? Lindy shot her a crooked grin and a quick nod that suggested Cait stop being so negative. Her friend's confidence didn't help. Paul was a wonderful district manager and she was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him. He was both talented and resourceful. The brokerage firm of Webster, Rodale and Missen was an affiliate of the fastest-growing firm in the country. This branch had been open for less than two years and already they were breaking national sales records. Due mainly, Cait believed, to Paul's administrative skills.

Paul was slender, dark-haired and handsome in an urbane, sophisticated way—every woman's dream man. Certainly Cait's. But as far as she could determine, he didn't see her in a similar romantic light. He thought of her as an important team member. One of the staff. At most, a friend.

Cait knew that friendship was often fertile ground for romance, and she hoped for an opportunity to cultivate it. Willingly surrendering her office to an irritating crew of carpenters and electricians was sure to gain her a few points with her boss.

"Where would you like me to set up my desk in the meantime?" she asked, smiling warmly at Paul. From habit, she lifted her hand to push back a stray lock of hair, forgetting she'd recently had it cut. That had been another futile attempt to attract Paul's affections—or at least his attention. Her shoulder-length chestnut-brown hair had been trimmed and permed into a pixie style with a halo of soft curls.

The difference from the tightly styled chignon she'd always worn to work was striking, or so everyone said. Everyone except Paul. The hairdresser had claimed it changed Cait's cooly polished look into one of warmth and enthusiasm. It was exactly the image Cait wanted Paul to have of her.

Unfortunately he didn't seem to detect the slightest difference in her appearance. At least not until Lindy had pointedly commented on the change within earshot of their absentminded employer. Then, and only then, had Paul made a remark about noticing something different; he just hadn't been sure what it was, he'd said.

"I suppose we could move you.…" Paul hesitated.

"Your office seems to be the best choice," the foreman said.

Cait resisted the urge to hug the man. He was tall, easily six three, and as solid as Mount Rainier, the majestic mountain she could see from her office window. She hadn't paid much attention to him until this moment and was surprised to note something vaguely familiar about him. She'd assumed he was the foreman, but she wasn't certain. He seemed to be around the office fairly often, although not on a predictable schedule. Every time he did show up, the level of activity rose dramatically.

"Ah…I suppose Cait could move in with me for the time being," Paul agreed. In her daydreams, Cait would play back this moment; her version had Paul looking at her with surprise and wonder, his mouth moving toward hers and—

2) Starry Night, Debbie Macomber

This one was better. A real go getter reporter who'd like to move on to "better" assignments is taxed with finding, and then interviewing a reclusive author...

Both main characters were well written, and likable. Debbie Macomber does a great job at describing the bitter cold of Alaska, and you feel like you're in the cabin with the pair.

Carrie Slayton, a big-city society-page columnist, longs to write more serious news stories. So her editor hands her a challenge: She can cover any topic she wants, but only if she first scores the paper an interview with Finn Dalton, the notoriously reclusive author.
 
Living in the remote Alaskan wilderness, Finn has written a megabestselling memoir about surviving in the wild. But he stubbornly declines to speak to anyone in the press, and no one even knows exactly where he lives.
 
Digging deep into Finn’s past, Carrie develops a theory on his whereabouts. It is the holidays, but her career is at stake, so she forsakes her family celebrations and flies out to snowy Alaska. When she finally finds Finn, she discovers a man both more charismatic and more stubborn than she even expected. And soon she is torn between pursuing the story of a lifetime and following her heart.
 
Filled with all the comforts and joys of Christmastime, Starry Night is a delightful novel of finding happiness in the most surprising places.

Excerpt-

Determined to stick with her plan, Carrie went directly into Nash Jorgen’s office.

A veteran newsman, Nash glanced up from his computer screen and glared in her direction. He seemed to sense this wasn’t a social visit. His shoulders rose with a weary sigh. “What now?” he growled.

“I’m handing in my two-week notice.” If she’d been looking for a response, she would have been disappointed.

He blinked a couple of times, ran his hand down the side of his day-old beard, and asked, “Any particular reason?”

“I hoped to prove I can be a darn good reporter, but I’ll never get the chance writing anything more than copy for society weddings. You said when you hired me that you’d give me a shot at reporting real news.”

“I don’t remember what I said. What’s wrong with what you’re writing now? You’re good.”

“It isn’t what I want to write.”

“So? You make the best of it, pay your dues, and in time you’ll get the break you’re looking for.”

Carrie was tired of waiting. She straightened her shoulders, her resolve tightening. “I know I’m fortunate to work for the Herald. It was a real coup to get this position, but this isn’t the career I wanted. You give me no choice.” She set her letter of resignation on his desk.

That got Nash’s attention. He swiveled his chair around to look at her once more. His frown darkened, and he ran his hand through his thinning hair. “You really are serious, aren’t you?”

A chill went down her spine. Nash was actually listening. “Yes, I’m serious.”

“Fine, then.” He reached across his desk and picked up a hardcover book and handed it to her. “Find Finn Dalton, get an interview, and write me a story I can print.”

She grabbed hold of the book, not recognizing the author’s name. “And if I do?”

“Well, first, there’s a snowball’s chance of you even locating him. Every reporter in the universe is dying to interview him. But if you get lucky and he’s willing to talk and we print the piece, then I’ll take you off the society page.”

Carrie wavered. He seemed to be offering her a chance, as impossible as it might seem. Now it was up to her to prove herself. She dared not show him how excited she was. “I’ll find him.”

He snickered as though he found her confidence amusing, and then sobered. He regarded her with the same dark frown he had earlier before a slow, easy smile slid over his harsh features. “I bet you will. Now, listen up—if you get an interview with Finn Dalton, you can have any assignment you want.”

Taking small steps, Carrie backed out of the office. She pointed at Nash. “I’m holding you to your word.”

The managing editor was already back to reading his computer screen and didn’t appear to have heard her. It didn’t matter; she’d heard him, and he’d come across loud and clear.

Once she was out of his office, she examined the book to see the author photo, but couldn’t find one, not even on the inside back flap.

Walking back to her cubicle, she paused at Sophie’s instead. “You ever heard of Finn Dalton?”

3) Snowbound at Christmas, Debbie Mason

Didn't realize this accompanied a series, I'll have to keep an eye out for the books. I actually grabbed this by mistake in a thrift stores Christmas book bin. I'm glad I did.

The book is well written, especially character development. You love to hate Chloe! The mystery kept me guessing, I really wasn't sure who was behind the attacks.

Surviving the holidays will take a Christmas miracle . . .
Ex-cop Cat O'Connor is bored working for her sister, Chloe, as a personal assistant on the set of her soap opera. Until Chloe gets an opportunity to audition for the role of a lifetime and asks her identical twin to substitute for her on the soap with no one the wiser. It's a perfect switch-until Cat attracts the attention of the mysterious Mr. Tall, Dark, and Way-too-handsome leading man.

Grayson Alexander never thought being snowbound in the charming town of Christmas, Colorado, for the holiday would get so hot. But between working with sexy, tough Cat on set and keeping his real reason for being there under wraps, he's definitely feeling the heat. And if there's one thing they'll learn as they bring out the mistletoe, it's that in this town, true love is always in season . . .

Usually with books like this I fell like there's either too much romance, or too much mystery interrupting the story. I was  surprised to find this one really struck the perfect balance.

Excerpt-

Cat tensed when the door opened and her sister swept into the dressing room wearing a ruffled peach dress and matching high heels, her long, wavy dark hair flowing down her back. Sinking gracefully onto the chair Cat had just vacated, Chloe brought the back of her hand to her forehead with a dramatic sigh.

Cat rehearsed her speech in her head, gave her hands another quick shake, then opened her mouth.

"Kit Kat, I need my pills. Get me my pills, please," Chloe said before Cat got out a single syllable.

She closed her mouth, curling her fingers into her palms. What Chloe needed was a good, swift kick in the derriere. But instead of acting on the thought, Cat retrieved the prescription bottle from her sister's makeup table. Calm Chloe was easier to deal with than Dramatic Chloe. Her sister had no idea they were sugar pills. Their sister-in-law, Skye, had come up with the idea as a way to deal with Chloe's attacks. Or as Cat privately referred to them, her Scarlett O'Hara act. Most of the time they worked.

Cat opened the bottle and shook two pills into her sister's waiting palm. Chloe raised a perfectly plucked brow. "I need something to wash them down. Did you get my tea?"

Oh, she got her tea all right. She'd scoured the streets of LA looking for her Anglophile sister's special British brew. Battling gridlock traffic, it took Cat three hours to get back to the studio in Burbank.

She stifled a sarcastic retort and poured the freshly steeped tea, timed as always to be ready for Chloe's return, into the Royal Doulton teacup.

Her pinkie raised oh-so-daintily in the air, Chloe took a sip, then pulled a face. "Kit Kat, this is not the brand I asked for."

Silently counting to ten as she retrieved the yellow box from the shelf, Cat held it up. "This is what you told me to buy."

And this was why she had to quit. Not only was she bored, Chloe was driving her insane. At times Cat wanted to strangle her. She wouldn't, of course, but their relationship had suffered. Cat loved her sister, but lately she didn't like her very much.

"Well, it's not the one I want." Chloe pursed her peach-glossed lips, then waved her hand. "Don't worry about it. I have an hour before I have to be on the set. You have time to get me--"

"I'm not buying you more tea." Cat rubbed her sweaty palms on her jeans. It was now or never. "I have something important to talk to you about."

"Me too." Chloe cast her a sidelong glance, then popped the pills in her mouth. She took a sip of tea.

"I quit."

Chloe choked, motioning for Cat to pat her back. Gritting her teeth, Cat leaned over and did as her sister directed. Chloe's rapid blinking caused her bottom and top false eyelashes to stick together. While tugging her lid from her eyeball, she squinted at Cat. "You're quitting? But you love working for me."

It wasn't an act. Chloe saw what she wanted to see. And at the genuine confusion on her sister's face, guilt wormed its way into Cat's heart. Which Chloe erased with the next words out of her mouth. "Is it because I get all the attention?" She gave Cat a commiserating smile. "Believe me, I remember what it's like to feel invisible. But honestly, Kit Kat, where else would you make the kind of money I'm paying you for doing, well, nothing?"

There was so much Cat could say to that, but it wouldn't do her any good. Better to leave with their relationship somewhat intact. "Since I don't do anything, you shouldn't need two weeks' notice." She headed for the door before her sister could insert her foot in her mouth again, and Cat said something she'd regret.

"You're leaving now?" Chloe asked, a hint of panic in her voice.

4) A Turn in the Road, Debbie Macomber

Not a Christmas book.

I wanted to throttle the daughter, the ex husband, and the heroine herself. I even posted on social media about how annoying I found it.

I took notes while reading it, I NEVER do that. Below are my notes.

Notes-

I will say it kept me reading, because there's no way she was really going to go back right?!? I did enjoy the road trip, and it's mishaps. I'd say it was good, simply because I had to find out what happened. Annie was still insane in her attitude.

Sometimes, where you think you’re going isn’t where you end up…

In the middle of the year, in the middle of her life, Bethanne Hamlin takes a road trip with her daughter, Annie, and her former mother-in-law, Ruth.

They’re driving to Florida for Ruth’s 50th high-school reunion. A longtime widow, Ruth would like to reconnect with the love of her teenage life. She’s curious and maybe even hopeful.

Bethanne needs time to reflect, to ponder a decision she has to make—whether or not to reconcile with her ex-husband, Grant, her children’s father.

Meanwhile, Annie’s out to prove to her onetime boyfriend that she can live a brilliant life without him!

So there they are, three women driving across America. They have their maps and their directions—but even the best-planned journey can take you to a turn in the road. Or lead you to an unexpected encounter…

From Seattle’s Blossom Street to the other end of the country, this is a trip that could change three women’s lives.

Excerpt-

I think Dad wants to get back together.” Bethanne’s daughter, Annie, spoke with studied nonchalance. “He still loves you, Mom.”

Bethanne’s spoon hovered over her bowl of soup as they sat at a window table in their favorite cafe. This wasn’t actually news and shouldn’t have come as any surprise. Didn’t come as any surprise. She’d seen the signs, as recently as this morning. These days Grant was inventing excuses to call her.

Six years ago her world had imploded when her husband confessed that he’d fallen in love with another woman. With barely a backward glance, Grant had walked out—out of their home, their marriage, their lives. And now he wanted back in.

“Don’t you have anything to say?” Annie asked, toying with her fork. She watched her mother intently.

“Not really.” She swallowed the soup and lowered her spoon for another taste.

Annie, it seemed, had forgotten. But not Bethanne.

The morning Grant told her he wanted a divorce would stay in her mind forever. He couldn’t seem to get away from her fast enough. He’d retained a lawyer and advised her to do the same, then coldly informed her that all future communication would be through their lawyers. The less contact with her and their children, the better, he’d said. A clean break was best.

Grant’s decision had struck Bethanne with the force and unpredictability of a hurricane. She’d stumbled blindly through the next few months, trying to hold her family together, clinging to the semblance of normality while her world disintegrated around her. “You really don’t have anything to say?” Annie prodded.

“No,” Bethanne said shortly. She swallowed another spoonful of soup and reached for the herb scone. “What disturbs me is that your father would let you do his talking for him.”

Annie had the grace to look chastened, but she pushed her food away as if she’d suddenly lost her appetite.

At one time Bethanne had dreamed Grant would regret what he’d done, that he’d seek her forgiveness and come crawling back to her. She’d wanted him to suffer for the way he’d treated her, for the hurt he’d inflicted when he’d turned his back on their children.

But in the years since the divorce, Bethanne had gradually found her footing and, in the process, discovered a self she didn’t know existed—a stronger, independent Bethanne, a woman forged in the fire of despair. Now her two children were on their own; her oldest, Andrew, was engaged to be married in a few weeks, following his graduation from law school. As for her daughter, Annie was a year from obtaining her MBA. She worked part-time with Bethanne on the creative end of the party business Bethanne had established in the wake of her divorce.

During her twenty years of marriage, Bethanne had become known for her lavish and inventive parties. She’d taken pride in making Grant look good by hosting unforgettable events for clients and potential clients—an invitation to Grant’s home became a sought-after privilege in certain circles. Her birthday parties for Andrew and Annie were legendary. But never once had she

dreamed that her party-giving skills would eventually be parlayed into such a success.

She’d started the business, which she called simply Parties, as a way of making enough money to continue living in their family home, although she’d had to take out a substantial second mortgage to get Parties off the ground. Grant had paid the required support, but depending on that would’ve meant moving to a smaller house in a different neighborhood. If ever her children needed stability, she knew, it was in the period after the divorce. She’d since paid off both mortgages.

To Bethanne’s astonishment, the business had taken off immediately. She’d started small, with themed birthday parties for children. The Alice in Wonderland Tea Party had been the most popular of the dozens of concepts she’d created. With busy schedules, parents were looking for an easy, economical way to make birthday parties special. Bethanne’s company had filled that need.

5) Merry & Bright, Debbie Macomber

Pretty obvious from the title Merry Knight, and Jayson Bright get together in the end, but the story is good.

I really liked all of Merry's family, especially that brother of hers. 

The coming together of the two is a very well written story. 

Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She’s taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry’s well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her—minus her photo—and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl.

Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects—or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away.

I laughed, I cried, I wanted to throw the book, and I wanted to strangle one or both of the characters on more then one occasion. I also pulled hard for them through every misunderstanding and confusing moment this book is a joy and the perfect book to get you into the holiday spirit!

Excerpt-

Read Aloud

What have you been reading lately? Let me know in the comments below.

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife