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Smoky Mountain Matches #9
The Sheriff's Christmas Twins
Holiday Baby Blessings
Convinced that Allison Ashworth deserves better, Sheriff Shane Timmons has always tried to remain aloof around his childhood companion. But with Allison in Gatlinburg for the holidays, insisting on caring for two motherless babies, Shane feels obliged to help her. How can he keep his distance when she and the children are quickly becoming the family he never dared to wish for?
As a girl, Allison was drawn to the wary yet handsome Shane, who never seemed to look her way. But in spending time with him and two sweet babies, she might yet find a chink in the confirmed bachelor's armor. Every shared moment gives Allison hope that this Christmas, her dreams of motherhood—and a life with Shane—may finally be coming true.
Convinced that Allison Ashworth deserves better, Sheriff Shane Timmons has always tried to remain aloof around his childhood companion. But with Allison in Gatlinburg for the holidays, insisting on caring for two motherless babies, Shane feels obliged to help her. How can he keep his distance when she and the children are quickly becoming the family he never dared to wish for?
As a girl, Allison was drawn to the wary yet handsome Shane, who never seemed to look her way. But in spending time with him and two sweet babies, she might yet find a chink in the confirmed bachelor's armor. Every shared moment gives Allison hope that this Christmas, her dreams of motherhood—and a life with Shane—may finally be coming true.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published October 4, 2016
97 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kirst
77 books253 followersKaren Kirst was born and raised in East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains. A lifelong lover of books, it wasn't until after college that she had the grand idea to write one herself. The pursuit of her dream would take longer than she first anticipated...years, in fact. In the fall of 2010, she got the happy news that Harlequin Love Inspired Historical wanted to publish her manuscript-a true blessing from God. Now she divides her time between being a wife, homeschooling mom, and romance writer. She enjoys reading, hosting tea parties and spending time with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 29, 2021
I can't believe how Allison gave Shane so many chances after his constant rebuffings- both in their youth and now as reunited adults. He is a tough nut to crack, I'll give him that. And she is endlessly patient with him, seeing into his heart what he can't even see for himself- or refuses to. Over the course of her stay in Gatlinburg, she has plenty of mishaps but also endears herself to the community, and she can see herself staying there with the children- if only Shane can get it together and figure out that he deserves to have her in his life! I enjoyed Shane's friendship with the characters from previous books and how they encouraged him to turn to God and develop his own faith.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
October 11, 2016
**copy was provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Now that I have finished the book, I looked into the author and found out it wasn't the first in the series.
I loved this book so much that I am most likely going to read the previous book in the series to find out more about the other couples which I have glimpsed in this book.
It has been a while since I've read a book in the mid-Western like setting, especially one which was specifically set in the 1880's. I got to admit it was a bit refreshing.
Nowadays, books are centered on gadgets, paragraphs about TV shows and other trivial things just to pass a few pages. In this book, there's none of that. Gone are the gadgets - in their place, to pass their time, people had the good time to bond between board games and take a stroll about their town. It's really a welcoming read since you don't read much about these special things anymore, more so see it in real life.
What is also good about this book was that it didn't center on Love, Friendship and Family. This one had it ingrained from the first few chapters the Values and importance of Religion which made it a very easy read but at the same time, an emotional one. Another huge difference in the novels we spend reading today. No hot erotic scenes here but just the 'wooing' and 'courting' of women in a bit of traditional way - which I think is a good thing.
In this very well-written novel, take a stroll in the past and look into Allison's and Shane's love story.
Now that I have finished the book, I looked into the author and found out it wasn't the first in the series.
I loved this book so much that I am most likely going to read the previous book in the series to find out more about the other couples which I have glimpsed in this book.
It has been a while since I've read a book in the mid-Western like setting, especially one which was specifically set in the 1880's. I got to admit it was a bit refreshing.
Nowadays, books are centered on gadgets, paragraphs about TV shows and other trivial things just to pass a few pages. In this book, there's none of that. Gone are the gadgets - in their place, to pass their time, people had the good time to bond between board games and take a stroll about their town. It's really a welcoming read since you don't read much about these special things anymore, more so see it in real life.
What is also good about this book was that it didn't center on Love, Friendship and Family. This one had it ingrained from the first few chapters the Values and importance of Religion which made it a very easy read but at the same time, an emotional one. Another huge difference in the novels we spend reading today. No hot erotic scenes here but just the 'wooing' and 'courting' of women in a bit of traditional way - which I think is a good thing.
In this very well-written novel, take a stroll in the past and look into Allison's and Shane's love story.
September 23, 2016
Love and laughter and some heart-tugging Christmas spirit!
The first meet is so funny -- I love it when an author finds an innovative way of getting a hero and heroine together. It really gets my attention and pulls me into the story.
Allison and Shane are pretty much at odds from the get go. She's dismayed to discover that her long ago crush hasn't diminished. He's trying to ignore the lure of that winsome smile in favour of preserving his solitary bachelorhood. Of course attraction and circumstances (like motherless twin babies) get in the way. Shane finds that the more time he spends in Allison's company the more territorial he gets which proves difficult when she naturally attracts attention from other men. "Shane was like an unarmed man in an ambush as jealousy pummeled him." (p.38) Don't those words paint a vivid picture? So there's this wonderful push/pull dimension to this romance which leads to some heart-skipping, toe-curling scenes. Delish!
A captivating Christmas romance that's full to brimming with the hope of the season.
The first meet is so funny -- I love it when an author finds an innovative way of getting a hero and heroine together. It really gets my attention and pulls me into the story.
Allison and Shane are pretty much at odds from the get go. She's dismayed to discover that her long ago crush hasn't diminished. He's trying to ignore the lure of that winsome smile in favour of preserving his solitary bachelorhood. Of course attraction and circumstances (like motherless twin babies) get in the way. Shane finds that the more time he spends in Allison's company the more territorial he gets which proves difficult when she naturally attracts attention from other men. "Shane was like an unarmed man in an ambush as jealousy pummeled him." (p.38) Don't those words paint a vivid picture? So there's this wonderful push/pull dimension to this romance which leads to some heart-skipping, toe-curling scenes. Delish!
A captivating Christmas romance that's full to brimming with the hope of the season.
December 13, 2018
The Sheriff's Christmas Twins was a cute Love Inspired Historical. I enjoyed the story and found the characters to be delightful. I liked how the romance was not an "insta-romance".
The writing was great. I didn't have any issues following the storyline or finding it interesting. I liked the ending and how, even though it was expected, it was still sweet.
All in all, The Sheriff's Christmas Twins was a great read and I recommend it. I don't think this is a series you need to read in order.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.* (less) [edit]
The writing was great. I didn't have any issues following the storyline or finding it interesting. I liked the ending and how, even though it was expected, it was still sweet.
All in all, The Sheriff's Christmas Twins was a great read and I recommend it. I don't think this is a series you need to read in order.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.* (less) [edit]
July 31, 2019
So I read "The Sheriff's Christmas Twins" (Book 9 of Smoky Mountain Matches) a couple of years ago and previously gave the novel a 5 out of 5 star review - obviously my head was in a different space after the read and/or I must have read some pretty lousy romance novels prior... anyway, this time around, I am ranking the book 2.5 out of 5.
It just really bothered me that the conflict between the hero and heroine finally reached a resolution at the end of the novel, like with paragraphs remaining. I also disliked that the hero had the heroine repeat a rather depressing (heartbreaking) line back to him - again, this all took place a few pages away from the story's conclusion.
Let's just say that long suffering heroines are not my favourite troop :P Been there and done that a few too many times in real life as well :P
It just really bothered me that the conflict between the hero and heroine finally reached a resolution at the end of the novel, like with paragraphs remaining. I also disliked that the hero had the heroine repeat a rather depressing (heartbreaking) line back to him - again, this all took place a few pages away from the story's conclusion.
Let's just say that long suffering heroines are not my favourite troop :P Been there and done that a few too many times in real life as well :P
November 10, 2016
Series Smoky Mtn Matches book #9, Karen Kirst writes The Sheriff's Christmas Twins.
This story is about old friends reuniting and He wanting to be aloof and not let her know he cares -more then he should. She has loved him for a very longtime but knows he wants to stay single so she curbs her feelings and renews the friendship they had.
So much written into this small book, love and friendship, Mystery when someone is stealing from nearby ranches, forgiveness of oneself when the sheriff holds onto anger from home he grew up in being abusive,Loss as a young girl falls for a guy and gets pregnant and when he turns her away -she is devastated. She lives with her grandfather and when illness overcomes her and she dies she leaves him with her 6month old twins.
You just have to read and learn how it all turns out.
This story is about old friends reuniting and He wanting to be aloof and not let her know he cares -more then he should. She has loved him for a very longtime but knows he wants to stay single so she curbs her feelings and renews the friendship they had.
So much written into this small book, love and friendship, Mystery when someone is stealing from nearby ranches, forgiveness of oneself when the sheriff holds onto anger from home he grew up in being abusive,Loss as a young girl falls for a guy and gets pregnant and when he turns her away -she is devastated. She lives with her grandfather and when illness overcomes her and she dies she leaves him with her 6month old twins.
You just have to read and learn how it all turns out.
October 29, 2016
I absolutely love this story. From the beginning where Sheriff Shane Timmons sees Allison Ashworth for the first time in years in a totally humorous situation to the consuming whirlwind of tension her visit creates. Add in motherless infant twins, a bothersome drifter mystery and Shanes' inner turmoil with faith and self-worth this is a well written and wonderful book. Allison is a great character with a heart bigger than Tennessee. They both have flaws and strong attributes of character. To top it al off the last five percent of the book (Kindle) is one of the absolute best I've ever read for an inspirational romance and I've read hundreds to thousands of them in my lifetime. This is an excellent Christmas or any time of year read.
The author has blended humor, tension, conflict, warmth and tenderhearted moments to create a most enjoyable book.
My ARC was provided by the publisher and NetGalley for my opinion about it.
The author has blended humor, tension, conflict, warmth and tenderhearted moments to create a most enjoyable book.
My ARC was provided by the publisher and NetGalley for my opinion about it.
December 26, 2024
Nice theme throughout the book about the twin babies and who would become guardian of them. Allison and the Sherriff had a history. She's always loved him and he admits he has fancied her when they were younger - living in the same house because Allison's father took him in when he had no place to go. Now she has come to town and he is trying hard not to fall in love with her. Forgiveness is a major theme throughout this book. Sometimes the hardest person we have to forgive is ourselves. This is what the Sherriff is dealing with. Allison wants to take the twins but finds out the father has an interest in them also. How this all turns out has many twists and turns. But God does love each of us and has died for us. Who are we to think we are better than Him and turn away his gift. Such a sweet ending.
December 16, 2024
Three and a half stars.
Allie is sweet, and has loved Shane since he was 14 and came to live with them. He's always had a thing for her, so he's shoved her away. This book is more of the same.
I mostly loved how Matilda and Fenton, the twins, and Clyde come to be a part of Allie's life. Personally I think she should've immediately set herself to living with Fenton and the twins, near to Clyde, and caring for all of them in Fenton's cabin. Who needs Shane's issues when there were so many who *DID* want the love she had to offer?
That he came around was a given, but honestly it wasn't the driving force of this story. It was good, but he complicated everything, and I didn't see how she could keep pining when she had so much else to do.
Allie is sweet, and has loved Shane since he was 14 and came to live with them. He's always had a thing for her, so he's shoved her away. This book is more of the same.
I mostly loved how Matilda and Fenton, the twins, and Clyde come to be a part of Allie's life. Personally I think she should've immediately set herself to living with Fenton and the twins, near to Clyde, and caring for all of them in Fenton's cabin. Who needs Shane's issues when there were so many who *DID* want the love she had to offer?
That he came around was a given, but honestly it wasn't the driving force of this story. It was good, but he complicated everything, and I didn't see how she could keep pining when she had so much else to do.
November 3, 2017
An incredibly beautiful story of forgiveness, unconditional love, healing, faith, and second-chances to change. Shane Timmons was a down on his luck child who came from poor standing. Shane had many tragedies in his life that he needs to overcome so he can learn to love and be loved in return. Allison Ashworth's family takes Shane in when he was a child homeless and alone. She feels compelled towards Shane and wants to help. A beautiful, clean, romance!
September 16, 2022
A Full House
Shane, sheriff of a quaint country down and Allison, a very rich young lady who had been in love with Shane since the day her Father had brought him home to live with them. It had many quite a few years since they had seen each other, but Allison, her brother and his family had come all the way from Norfolk, VA to spend Christmas. Read this wonderful Christmas story. It is a beautiful love story.
Shane, sheriff of a quaint country down and Allison, a very rich young lady who had been in love with Shane since the day her Father had brought him home to live with them. It had many quite a few years since they had seen each other, but Allison, her brother and his family had come all the way from Norfolk, VA to spend Christmas. Read this wonderful Christmas story. It is a beautiful love story.
December 29, 2024
What a great story
Allison has been in love with Shane since she was twelve. Because of his upbringing, he thinks he doesn't deserve to be loved by anyone but especially not Allison. With her visiting for a month, A lot happens and he ends up hurting her many times. Can he find God's love and then realize what he feels for her is truly love? Can Allison forgive him one more time? Will she take the twins and Matilda back to Virginia with her?
Allison has been in love with Shane since she was twelve. Because of his upbringing, he thinks he doesn't deserve to be loved by anyone but especially not Allison. With her visiting for a month, A lot happens and he ends up hurting her many times. Can he find God's love and then realize what he feels for her is truly love? Can Allison forgive him one more time? Will she take the twins and Matilda back to Virginia with her?
March 7, 2025
A delightdul overall (but drags a bit in parts) tale of an orphaned boy adopted by the family feom which he stole. given a second chance. Now a sheriff. he has overcome a lot of obstacles. The girl.in the adopting family falls in love at first site with the emotionally damaged young man. He is stl in touch with the family and they're visiting his turf for the holidays.
Full of surprises throughout. the book tends towards helping us see others as Christ sees them.
Full of surprises throughout. the book tends towards helping us see others as Christ sees them.
March 17, 2018
Lite reading. An uplifting book but not without questions. We all knew where the story was headed, it's all about how they get there and what happens along the way. Both main characters had a major dysfunction and these problems won't just disappear because of love. Enjoyed the Smoky Mountain setting. It takes place in the 19th century but the mindset didn't always match the era.
December 26, 2024
Good story about Allie, whose family took in a homeless boy named Shake when he was an adolescent, who is visiting Shane for Christmas. Her brother and his family had to delay their trip but were to travel with her.
Allie and Shane get caught in a storm while out on horseback to get a Christmas tree and take shelter with an elderly man who is tending to his twin infant great-grand babies.
Allie and Shane get caught in a storm while out on horseback to get a Christmas tree and take shelter with an elderly man who is tending to his twin infant great-grand babies.
December 28, 2024
Lovely book!
I loved this book! It has great characters, even the awful ones are well written. This book touched my heart, how the characters handled the things that life dealt them was so uplifting. Life is not always rosy, the harsher things of life were handled with trust in Jesus. This is a very good book.
I loved this book! It has great characters, even the awful ones are well written. This book touched my heart, how the characters handled the things that life dealt them was so uplifting. Life is not always rosy, the harsher things of life were handled with trust in Jesus. This is a very good book.
November 11, 2018
Shane and Allison
This was an amazing book. Allison has loved Shane since she was 14. Allison and her brother and his family was going to visit Shane. Shane finally accepted God. And finally asked Allison to marry him
This was an amazing book. Allison has loved Shane since she was 14. Allison and her brother and his family was going to visit Shane. Shane finally accepted God. And finally asked Allison to marry him
January 14, 2025
Great story
I enjoyed this story a lot, I don't usually read the western type romance but I am glad I made an exception. This is a great story of putting a family together love can make a family more than blood. I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this story a lot, I don't usually read the western type romance but I am glad I made an exception. This is a great story of putting a family together love can make a family more than blood. I recommend this book.
May 4, 2025
Beautiful novel!
Karen Krist did a wonderful job. Sheriff Shane Timmons was a shriff on Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Allison Ashworth comes into town. They had been friends in childhood. A great,wonderful story. Jeanette Stracner
Karen Krist did a wonderful job. Sheriff Shane Timmons was a shriff on Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Allison Ashworth comes into town. They had been friends in childhood. A great,wonderful story. Jeanette Stracner
April 12, 2018
Book was decent but not one I’d read again. For me, there were too many storylines going on in such a short book.
January 17, 2021
I thought this book was great! I loved the story! Very well written! Will definitely read again! Perfect book to add to your Christmas Reading List!
October 31, 2021
A very good book.
December 22, 2024
Great cute read
February 21, 2025
Really enjoyed this. Wonderful characters and storyline.
January 31, 2018
An awesome story of faith, healing, second chances, forgiveness, unconditional love and an inspirational read.The romance between the two characters was sweet.
January 20, 2017
Title: The Sheriff's Christmas Twins - Smoky Mountain Matches Book 9
Author: Karen Kirst
Published: 10-4-2016
Publisher: Harlequin
Pages: 288
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub Genre: Love Inspired Series; Western Frontier; Clean & Wholesome
ISBN: 13: 9780373283798
ASIN: B01CNPERJ4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.25
I received a copy of "The Sheriff's Christmas Twins" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher's Description:
Holiday Baby Blessings
Convinced that Allison Ashworth deserves better, Sheriff Shane Timmons has always tried to remain aloof around his childhood companion. But with Allison in Gatlinburg for the holidays, insisting on caring for two motherless babies, Shane feels obliged to help her. How can he keep his distance when she and the children are quickly becoming the family he never dared to wish for?
As a girl, Allison was drawn to the wary yet handsome Shane, who never seemed to look her way. But in spending time with him and two sweet babies, she might yet find a chink in the confirmed bachelor's armor. Every shared moment gives Allison hope that this Christmas, her dreams of motherhood—and a life with Shane—may finally be coming true.
My Review:
I wasn't expecting to care for this book. I do not usually read historical fiction. Unless it deals with actual events, being a history lover myself, I find the books have discrepancies or time line inconsistencies. I was not looking at the book cover properly other wise I would not have requested the publisher and NetGalley to let me review it. I have put off reading and reviewing it. I was still ignoring it until one day I decided to bite the bullet and read it to see how bad I disliked it or the errors aggravated me. Imagine my surprise when I found myself getting involved in the story and looking forward to reading more.
With characters so personable and real they seemed to leap off the pages and demand I pay attention to their story. I found no complaints with the research and the frontier town seemed so real I could hear the jingle of the spurs on the boots and the creek of the wagons as they were driven over the dirt roads. I recommend Allison's and Shane's love story. A fun read whether set in the old west or modern day Montana. It touches the heart and leaves you with a smile.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CNPERJ4/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Karen Kirst
Published: 10-4-2016
Publisher: Harlequin
Pages: 288
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub Genre: Love Inspired Series; Western Frontier; Clean & Wholesome
ISBN: 13: 9780373283798
ASIN: B01CNPERJ4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.25
I received a copy of "The Sheriff's Christmas Twins" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher's Description:
Holiday Baby Blessings
Convinced that Allison Ashworth deserves better, Sheriff Shane Timmons has always tried to remain aloof around his childhood companion. But with Allison in Gatlinburg for the holidays, insisting on caring for two motherless babies, Shane feels obliged to help her. How can he keep his distance when she and the children are quickly becoming the family he never dared to wish for?
As a girl, Allison was drawn to the wary yet handsome Shane, who never seemed to look her way. But in spending time with him and two sweet babies, she might yet find a chink in the confirmed bachelor's armor. Every shared moment gives Allison hope that this Christmas, her dreams of motherhood—and a life with Shane—may finally be coming true.
My Review:
I wasn't expecting to care for this book. I do not usually read historical fiction. Unless it deals with actual events, being a history lover myself, I find the books have discrepancies or time line inconsistencies. I was not looking at the book cover properly other wise I would not have requested the publisher and NetGalley to let me review it. I have put off reading and reviewing it. I was still ignoring it until one day I decided to bite the bullet and read it to see how bad I disliked it or the errors aggravated me. Imagine my surprise when I found myself getting involved in the story and looking forward to reading more.
With characters so personable and real they seemed to leap off the pages and demand I pay attention to their story. I found no complaints with the research and the frontier town seemed so real I could hear the jingle of the spurs on the boots and the creek of the wagons as they were driven over the dirt roads. I recommend Allison's and Shane's love story. A fun read whether set in the old west or modern day Montana. It touches the heart and leaves you with a smile.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CNPERJ4/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
December 23, 2016
Allison Ashworth will be spending the holidays in Gatlinburg. That means she'll be seeing Sheriff Shane Timmons; the man Allison has been in love with since childhood. Shane feels the same way about Allison but doesn't feel worthy of her love. When Allison finds herself caregiver to a set of motherless twins, Shane feels like he should help her out. The time Shane and Allison spend together taking care of the twins is sweet and makes each of them want more than friendship, but Shane is determined not to let it go any farther.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed but it had a bit more angst than I care for; mostly on Shane's part. There was some good romantic tension but felt it was a bit overshadowed by all the angst. Although I will say that I know there a folks that feel the way he did. I enjoyed seeing familiar folks you've come to know and liked the whole Christmas atmosphere. I appreciated the author's note at the end explaining her intention behind the story and I think she accomplished that. Karen Kirst is a favorite author and though I enjoyed this book I didn't enjoy it as much as her other books I've read. That said, if you've read the other books in this series you should definitely pick this one up.
*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
A few favorite quotes:
The O'Malleys aren't like you, an insidious voice inside his head reminded. They're worthy of God's love. You aren't. The O'Malley's were people with strong, abiding faith that didn't waver no matter what their circumstances. They weren't perfect, and neither were their lives, but they live to serve God.
"You were able to accept that God, who knows you better than you know yourself, loves you. Why is it so impossible to believe my sister would?
"I've been married a long while," he continued. "It's not about making the other person happy. It's about putting their needs above your own. It's a partnership. I love my wife in a romantic sense, but she's also my best friend. There's no one else I'd rather have at my side through good times and in bad."
For more information about this book or other books by Karen Kirst I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.karenkirst.com.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed but it had a bit more angst than I care for; mostly on Shane's part. There was some good romantic tension but felt it was a bit overshadowed by all the angst. Although I will say that I know there a folks that feel the way he did. I enjoyed seeing familiar folks you've come to know and liked the whole Christmas atmosphere. I appreciated the author's note at the end explaining her intention behind the story and I think she accomplished that. Karen Kirst is a favorite author and though I enjoyed this book I didn't enjoy it as much as her other books I've read. That said, if you've read the other books in this series you should definitely pick this one up.
*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
A few favorite quotes:
The O'Malleys aren't like you, an insidious voice inside his head reminded. They're worthy of God's love. You aren't. The O'Malley's were people with strong, abiding faith that didn't waver no matter what their circumstances. They weren't perfect, and neither were their lives, but they live to serve God.
"You were able to accept that God, who knows you better than you know yourself, loves you. Why is it so impossible to believe my sister would?
"I've been married a long while," he continued. "It's not about making the other person happy. It's about putting their needs above your own. It's a partnership. I love my wife in a romantic sense, but she's also my best friend. There's no one else I'd rather have at my side through good times and in bad."
For more information about this book or other books by Karen Kirst I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.karenkirst.com.
August 24, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, mostly because of the hero. His struggle with the acceptance of God's love and forgiveness was real - how many of us have felt like God loved everyone but us, that we were unworthy of both His and others' love, because of choices we've made and things that have happened to us beyond our control?
The heroine, on the other hand, I struggled with. There were definitely aspects of her personality I liked, and she was a caring, openhearted person that more people should strive to be. However, if she really believed the hero didn't care about her at all, there was no reason for her to still be pining after him after years of silence. And then, when he showed interest, rather than fighting to get through his hang ups, she pushed him away and whined about it internally. It got rather annoying. For example, she believed growing up that the hero hated to hear her sing, and when she found how he used to secretly listen to her practice for hours, she got mad at him for "spying" on her - what? That doesn't even make sense; she should've seen that as a sign that he wasn't immune to her even back then. It honestly felt like the hero was the only one who grew, the only one who had any sort of struggle.
The side plot of the motherless twins was great - and showed that people are not always what we've built them up to be in our heads. The drifter side plot was...interesting, but I almost wish it had been either/or, not both. I understand the drifter was needed to help lead the hero forward in his relationship with God, but it felt like an afterthought at times.
Overall, I recommend this book for all Christian Historical Romance lovers. The whole series has been great (each is a standalone), and this addition was no exception.
The heroine, on the other hand, I struggled with. There were definitely aspects of her personality I liked, and she was a caring, openhearted person that more people should strive to be. However, if she really believed the hero didn't care about her at all, there was no reason for her to still be pining after him after years of silence. And then, when he showed interest, rather than fighting to get through his hang ups, she pushed him away and whined about it internally. It got rather annoying. For example, she believed growing up that the hero hated to hear her sing, and when she found how he used to secretly listen to her practice for hours, she got mad at him for "spying" on her - what? That doesn't even make sense; she should've seen that as a sign that he wasn't immune to her even back then. It honestly felt like the hero was the only one who grew, the only one who had any sort of struggle.
The side plot of the motherless twins was great - and showed that people are not always what we've built them up to be in our heads. The drifter side plot was...interesting, but I almost wish it had been either/or, not both. I understand the drifter was needed to help lead the hero forward in his relationship with God, but it felt like an afterthought at times.
Overall, I recommend this book for all Christian Historical Romance lovers. The whole series has been great (each is a standalone), and this addition was no exception.
October 5, 2016
A heartening and uplifting novel that is sure to touch a heart of a reader with its captivating characters and their destinies.
Shane is a complex man, who's parents have left a mark in his soul that is hard to erase. He was blessed by the Ashworth family when at the young age the father found him and decide to father him like his own child. Shane has made a life in Gatlinburg, he is liked and respected, yet he has always stood a bit on the outside looking in. He has faith in God, he believes in Him as the Lord of the creation yet his faith is lacking when it comes to himself, thinking he is not worthy of any kind of love, not to mention God's. His struggles and inner battles in his lost soul are filled with angst when it comes to Allison, the one girl his heart could love if it was worthy for such emotions.
Allison's heart is pure gold. As soon as she arrives, she is part of the town, making friends and forming a family of a sort, taking care of those in need. Her patience with Shane was remarkable. His mixed signals, self-doubt, and constant angst weren't easy to take after awhile. I felt like he went back and forth too many times while struggling with his own issues. But everyone in the story was tolerant towards him, very forgiving with his tantrums.
I liked how the story was built, with the small town living, Shane's job as the sheriff, the children, and the developing feelings between Allison and Shane, and Shane's struggles with his faith, all these different elements well twined together, making a compelling tale. There's so much love, acceptance, hope, and caring about others in this tale, it warmed my heart and made me smile. A great kick off to the Christmas story season
~ Four Spoons
Shane is a complex man, who's parents have left a mark in his soul that is hard to erase. He was blessed by the Ashworth family when at the young age the father found him and decide to father him like his own child. Shane has made a life in Gatlinburg, he is liked and respected, yet he has always stood a bit on the outside looking in. He has faith in God, he believes in Him as the Lord of the creation yet his faith is lacking when it comes to himself, thinking he is not worthy of any kind of love, not to mention God's. His struggles and inner battles in his lost soul are filled with angst when it comes to Allison, the one girl his heart could love if it was worthy for such emotions.
Allison's heart is pure gold. As soon as she arrives, she is part of the town, making friends and forming a family of a sort, taking care of those in need. Her patience with Shane was remarkable. His mixed signals, self-doubt, and constant angst weren't easy to take after awhile. I felt like he went back and forth too many times while struggling with his own issues. But everyone in the story was tolerant towards him, very forgiving with his tantrums.
I liked how the story was built, with the small town living, Shane's job as the sheriff, the children, and the developing feelings between Allison and Shane, and Shane's struggles with his faith, all these different elements well twined together, making a compelling tale. There's so much love, acceptance, hope, and caring about others in this tale, it warmed my heart and made me smile. A great kick off to the Christmas story season
~ Four Spoons
September 18, 2016
Shane is the local sheriff in the small town of Gatlinburg. His two friends from his childhood are coming to visit for the holiday season. Many years ago their father took Shane in when he was abandoned as a young boy. But Shane never felt like he deserved a place in the family, so he set out as soon as he was able to make his way in the world. Now they are coming to visit and Shane isn't quite prepared for Allison. He was in love with her years ago, but knows that she deserves better. Allison knows that if Shane will only open his heart to the Savior's love, that he'll be open to her love as well. Add two twins, their aging grandparent, and a winter tree cutting adventure and Shane may never be the same.
This was a intriguing story. It wasn't typical or what I was expecting. But I definitely enjoyed it. The author did a great job of sharing the salvation story that the main character was experiencing. The romance between the two characters was sweet and made the story. I also really liked several of the secondary characters, especially the young girl and grandpa. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This was a intriguing story. It wasn't typical or what I was expecting. But I definitely enjoyed it. The author did a great job of sharing the salvation story that the main character was experiencing. The romance between the two characters was sweet and made the story. I also really liked several of the secondary characters, especially the young girl and grandpa. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
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