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Christmas Eve Cowboy
Headlined by the legendary storyteller Diana Palmer, this Christmas, the best kind of trouble comes in Three bestselling authors. Three stories of holiday romance. And three rugged cowboys who are ready for love—whether they know it yet or not.
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors . . .
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes . . . by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted . . .
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors . . .
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes . . . by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted . . .
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 27, 2022
162 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
About the author
Diana Palmer
1,042 books3,098 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Diana Palmer is a pseudonym for author Susan Kyle.
(1)romance author
Susan Eloise Spaeth was born on 11 December 1946 in Cuthbert, Georgia, USA. She was the eldest daughter of Maggie Eloise Cliatt, a nurse and also journalist, and William Olin Spaeth, a college professor. Her mother was part of the women's liberation movement many years before it became fashionable. Her best friends are her mother and her sister, Dannis Spaeth (Cole), who now has two daughters, Amanda Belle Hofstetter and Maggie and lives in Utah. Susan grew up reading Zane Grey and fell in love with cowboys. Susan is a former newspaper reporter, with sixteen years experience on both daily and weekly newspapers. Since 1972, she has been married to James Kyle and have since settled down in Cornelia, Georgia, where she started to write romance novels. Susan and her husband have one son, Blayne Edward, born in 1980.
She began selling romances in 1979 as Diana Palmer. She also used the pseudonyms Diana Blayne and Katy Currie, and her married name: Susan Kyle. Now, she has over 40 million copies of her books in print, which have been translated and published around the world. She is listed in numerous publications, including Contemporary Authors by Gale Research, Inc., Twentieth Century Romance and Historical Writers by St. James Press, The Writers Directory by St. James Press, the International Who's Who of Authors and Writers by Meirose Press, Ltd., and Love's Leading Ladies by Kathryn Falk. Her awards include seven Waldenbooks national sales awards, four B. Dalton national sales awards, two Bookrak national sales awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award for series storytelling from Romantic Times, several Affaire de Coeur awards, and two regional RWA awards.
Inspired by her husband, who quit a blue-collar manufacturing job to return to school and get his diploma in computer programming, Susan herself went back to college as a day student at the age of 45. In 1995, she graduated summa cum laude from Piedmont College, Demorest, GA, with a major in history and a double minor in archaeology and Spanish. She was named to two honor societies (the Torch Club and Alpha Chi), and was named to the National Dean's List. In addition to her writing projects, she is currently working on her master's degree in history at California State University. She hopes to specialize in Native American studies. She is a member of the Native American Rights Fund, the American Museum of Natural History, the National Cattlemen's Association, the Archaeological Institute of Amenca, the Planetary Society, The Georgia Conservancy, the Georgia Sheriff's Association, and numerous conservation and charitable organizations. Her hobbies include gardening, archaeology, anthropology, iguanas, astronomy and music.
In 1998, her husband retired from his own computer business and now pursues skeet shooting medals in local, state, national and international competition. They love riding around and looking at the countryside, watching sci-fi on TV and at the movies, just talking and eating out.
Diana Palmer is a pseudonym for author Susan Kyle.
(1)romance author
Susan Eloise Spaeth was born on 11 December 1946 in Cuthbert, Georgia, USA. She was the eldest daughter of Maggie Eloise Cliatt, a nurse and also journalist, and William Olin Spaeth, a college professor. Her mother was part of the women's liberation movement many years before it became fashionable. Her best friends are her mother and her sister, Dannis Spaeth (Cole), who now has two daughters, Amanda Belle Hofstetter and Maggie and lives in Utah. Susan grew up reading Zane Grey and fell in love with cowboys. Susan is a former newspaper reporter, with sixteen years experience on both daily and weekly newspapers. Since 1972, she has been married to James Kyle and have since settled down in Cornelia, Georgia, where she started to write romance novels. Susan and her husband have one son, Blayne Edward, born in 1980.
She began selling romances in 1979 as Diana Palmer. She also used the pseudonyms Diana Blayne and Katy Currie, and her married name: Susan Kyle. Now, she has over 40 million copies of her books in print, which have been translated and published around the world. She is listed in numerous publications, including Contemporary Authors by Gale Research, Inc., Twentieth Century Romance and Historical Writers by St. James Press, The Writers Directory by St. James Press, the International Who's Who of Authors and Writers by Meirose Press, Ltd., and Love's Leading Ladies by Kathryn Falk. Her awards include seven Waldenbooks national sales awards, four B. Dalton national sales awards, two Bookrak national sales awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award for series storytelling from Romantic Times, several Affaire de Coeur awards, and two regional RWA awards.
Inspired by her husband, who quit a blue-collar manufacturing job to return to school and get his diploma in computer programming, Susan herself went back to college as a day student at the age of 45. In 1995, she graduated summa cum laude from Piedmont College, Demorest, GA, with a major in history and a double minor in archaeology and Spanish. She was named to two honor societies (the Torch Club and Alpha Chi), and was named to the National Dean's List. In addition to her writing projects, she is currently working on her master's degree in history at California State University. She hopes to specialize in Native American studies. She is a member of the Native American Rights Fund, the American Museum of Natural History, the National Cattlemen's Association, the Archaeological Institute of Amenca, the Planetary Society, The Georgia Conservancy, the Georgia Sheriff's Association, and numerous conservation and charitable organizations. Her hobbies include gardening, archaeology, anthropology, iguanas, astronomy and music.
In 1998, her husband retired from his own computer business and now pursues skeet shooting medals in local, state, national and international competition. They love riding around and looking at the countryside, watching sci-fi on TV and at the movies, just talking and eating out.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 29, 2022
This is three Short Christmas Cowboy Romance Stories. I loved the first short story in this book (Once There was a Lawman) so much. I loved the two main characters in this book, and their romance was so great. I found the suspense to be great, and the romance cute and there were funny parts too. The second book (Christmas Creek Cowboy) was cute and fun to read. I really got into the story. The characters were great too. The third book (Christmas Eve Cowboy) was a good story, but it was not my favorite of the three. The characters were good. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
November 27, 2022
'Once There Was A Lawman', Diana Palmer **** 4 stars
This story turned out to be a wee pearl. It's brief, but the characters were engaging and the mystery, although obvious, wasn't bad either.
Tom is an fbi man from Chicago visiting a small town in Colorado to investgate a botched kidnapping. There he meets Annalise, a sweet loner who lives life the best she knows how.
Basically two loners meet when they least expect it and fall in love just in time for Christmas. I loved Annalise's character. She was a strong loner but not in a passive way. He didn't stand a chance really ; )
'A Christmas Cowboy' Delores flossen *** 3 stars
A friends to lovers romance set in a small town. Calen and Emmy have been friends since they were kids. She's been in love with him since she was 18... And really, he probably has been too. But they were firmly in each others' friend zones so they had planned to marry others. About a year ago those 'others' were caught in flagrante delicto by the whole town. Now Calen and Emmy share their hurt feelings with each other but really I think it was mostly hurt pride. They need a catalyst to get them out of their friend zone rut. This comes in the shape of 4 large bags of unopened Christmas mail that a postal carrier kept illegally. The carrier is now dead and the mail goes back as far as 18 years.
Turns out the town is mighty concerned about this old mail and how it being sent now will rattle a few skeletons in closets.
Anyways, the story was cute and the MCs were sweet. Wish they had figured out their love sooner as it's been 18 years since Emmy was 18. That's my biggest complaint about the story. The angst was surprisingly low. Their unfaithful ex-fiancees were already in the town's shit books so no need for justice there, but we still get a few good digs in.
Safety is good.
'Coming Home for Christmas' Kate Pearce ** 2 stars
To be honest, I skimmed this one a lot. I wasn't terribly interested in the MCs. I thought she was too needy and he was too much the opposite of needy. Plus his manners coulda used some work.
She was 6 years behind him in school and of course she's crushed on him since she was a kid and of course the whole town knows about it. He was her older brother's friend and she was the annoying kid always trying to tag along. So he was mean to her back then.
When they meet again, his POS truck has died outside her bed and breakfast during a snow storm. He doesn't recognize her at first and yet he wasn't entranced or anything by her either. So the whole meet cute after so many years was not so cute and kinda a let down.
He has issues with his curmudgeonly dad and she stays away from her family because of issues too.
So they have that in common.
Anyways, it was kinda boring and he was no H to write home about. But on the plus side there's no OW/OM stuff. He does regret briefly in his head the way he treated her in the past but doesn't grovel about it or make any overtures.
Meh.
Safety is good I guess.
This story turned out to be a wee pearl. It's brief, but the characters were engaging and the mystery, although obvious, wasn't bad either.
Tom is an fbi man from Chicago visiting a small town in Colorado to investgate a botched kidnapping. There he meets Annalise, a sweet loner who lives life the best she knows how.
Basically two loners meet when they least expect it and fall in love just in time for Christmas. I loved Annalise's character. She was a strong loner but not in a passive way. He didn't stand a chance really ; )
'A Christmas Cowboy' Delores flossen *** 3 stars
A friends to lovers romance set in a small town. Calen and Emmy have been friends since they were kids. She's been in love with him since she was 18... And really, he probably has been too. But they were firmly in each others' friend zones so they had planned to marry others. About a year ago those 'others' were caught in flagrante delicto by the whole town. Now Calen and Emmy share their hurt feelings with each other but really I think it was mostly hurt pride. They need a catalyst to get them out of their friend zone rut. This comes in the shape of 4 large bags of unopened Christmas mail that a postal carrier kept illegally. The carrier is now dead and the mail goes back as far as 18 years.
Turns out the town is mighty concerned about this old mail and how it being sent now will rattle a few skeletons in closets.
Anyways, the story was cute and the MCs were sweet. Wish they had figured out their love sooner as it's been 18 years since Emmy was 18. That's my biggest complaint about the story. The angst was surprisingly low. Their unfaithful ex-fiancees were already in the town's shit books so no need for justice there, but we still get a few good digs in.
Safety is good.
'Coming Home for Christmas' Kate Pearce ** 2 stars
To be honest, I skimmed this one a lot. I wasn't terribly interested in the MCs. I thought she was too needy and he was too much the opposite of needy. Plus his manners coulda used some work.
She was 6 years behind him in school and of course she's crushed on him since she was a kid and of course the whole town knows about it. He was her older brother's friend and she was the annoying kid always trying to tag along. So he was mean to her back then.
When they meet again, his POS truck has died outside her bed and breakfast during a snow storm. He doesn't recognize her at first and yet he wasn't entranced or anything by her either. So the whole meet cute after so many years was not so cute and kinda a let down.
He has issues with his curmudgeonly dad and she stays away from her family because of issues too.
So they have that in common.
Anyways, it was kinda boring and he was no H to write home about. But on the plus side there's no OW/OM stuff. He does regret briefly in his head the way he treated her in the past but doesn't grovel about it or make any overtures.
Meh.
Safety is good I guess.
December 31, 2023
Really liked the first story and I wouldn't have minded if it was a full book, but the other two fell a bit flat for me. The second was kinda cute, but when compared to the first it was just alright, and the third one failed to make me care about the characters, but I don't mind that I read it.
I actually haven't read anything by any of these authors before, so since I'm the most impressed by Diana Palmer I'll give her other works a try first.
I actually haven't read anything by any of these authors before, so since I'm the most impressed by Diana Palmer I'll give her other works a try first.
November 7, 2022
I picked this anthology up because my friend Delores Fossen had a novella in it. But I read all three stories, all featuring cowboys/sheriff who owns a ranch as the hero. All three were reunion stories. And, of course, as you can guess from the title, they all happen around the holidays.
I enjoyed all three stories. Guess I haven't read Diana Palmer for a while--I didn't realize she wrote mysteries, and this had a pretty good one. Ms. Fossen's had her trademark romantic comedy elements, but focused on the romance. Ms. Pearce's had an abrupt ending, I thought. But I loved the heroine's bed & breakfast and how he helped mend her family issues, while she helped mend his.
A feel-good read, perfect for this time of year.
I enjoyed all three stories. Guess I haven't read Diana Palmer for a while--I didn't realize she wrote mysteries, and this had a pretty good one. Ms. Fossen's had her trademark romantic comedy elements, but focused on the romance. Ms. Pearce's had an abrupt ending, I thought. But I loved the heroine's bed & breakfast and how he helped mend her family issues, while she helped mend his.
A feel-good read, perfect for this time of year.
October 21, 2022
Stunningly, this does not have any actually cowboys, it’s just about 2 cops and some guy from Seattle.
I don’t want to belabor how much I hate this book so four points summarizing my feelings are:
1) The straights are not okay
2) I was incredibly let down by the lack of cowboys and the toxic relationships
3) One love interest suggested leaving a cat alone in a house which might lose power in a blizzard. The woman should have left him in the snow.
4) The audio narration was actually pretty good.
Don’t recommend, you can get better romances and THERE ARE NO COWBOYS.
I don’t want to belabor how much I hate this book so four points summarizing my feelings are:
1) The straights are not okay
2) I was incredibly let down by the lack of cowboys and the toxic relationships
3) One love interest suggested leaving a cat alone in a house which might lose power in a blizzard. The woman should have left him in the snow.
4) The audio narration was actually pretty good.
Don’t recommend, you can get better romances and THERE ARE NO COWBOYS.
July 12, 2022
It's never too early to read Christmas stories:) I very much enjoyed the 3 short stories that make up this book. You get a little bit of everything and a whole lot of romance and they all take place at my favourite time of year....Christmas!
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 11, 2022
3 short stories by 3 superb authors
Once There was a Lawman by Dianna Palmer
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen
Christmas Eve Cowboy by Kate Pearce
I enjoyed all of these stories, the characters are exciting and the interaction engaging.
Kate Pearce’s story give you an introduction into her new series with Lucy Smith who runs the fictional B&B in the town of Quincy in Northern California.
Once There was a Lawman by Dianna Palmer
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen
Christmas Eve Cowboy by Kate Pearce
I enjoyed all of these stories, the characters are exciting and the interaction engaging.
Kate Pearce’s story give you an introduction into her new series with Lucy Smith who runs the fictional B&B in the town of Quincy in Northern California.
September 11, 2022
It had great short and easy to read stories that all take place around Christmas time. I thought his was a great book to read around the holidays.
August 18, 2022
One There was a Lawman- Thomas Kincaid Jones is an FBI agent in town to solve a murder/kidnapping. He loves is job and is not interested in settling down especially in a small town. Annalisa Davis lives next door to the motel he is staying; he parked in her driveway, and she comes to get him to move his car. Since it's a small town everyone knows everyone's business and he keep finding clues to the case he is working. He becomes friends with Annalisa and they share time together, but neither is interested in marriage.. Can Tom leave town when the case is solved?
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Sheriff Calen Jameson is not in the spirit of the season this year and neither is Emmy Kendrick. They found the fiancés together last year at Christmas and have spent the last year spending time together griping about the ex's. Emmy is living in Calen's decease fathers house and finds 4 bags of underlived mail. The town finds out about the mail, and everyone is worried letters from years ago will cause problems.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS - Lucy is running the local B&B and Caleb Erickson shows up at the B&B. Caleb washer brothers' best friend growing up and she has loved him for years. Caleb is in town to see his father and try to close out his past with his father. Lucy's B&B is empty due to terrible weather and Caleb and her spend time together. The inn loses power, and they go to his father's ranch; can they found what they both need before Christmas?
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Sheriff Calen Jameson is not in the spirit of the season this year and neither is Emmy Kendrick. They found the fiancés together last year at Christmas and have spent the last year spending time together griping about the ex's. Emmy is living in Calen's decease fathers house and finds 4 bags of underlived mail. The town finds out about the mail, and everyone is worried letters from years ago will cause problems.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS - Lucy is running the local B&B and Caleb Erickson shows up at the B&B. Caleb washer brothers' best friend growing up and she has loved him for years. Caleb is in town to see his father and try to close out his past with his father. Lucy's B&B is empty due to terrible weather and Caleb and her spend time together. The inn loses power, and they go to his father's ranch; can they found what they both need before Christmas?
June 15, 2022
I liked all the individual stories. They were all quick reads.
Once There Was A Lawman by Diana Palmer
This was a short story that had a touch of mystery to it. It was more about the romance between Tom and Annalisa. They were both lonely. It was a sweet story told in Diana Palmer’s signature style.
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores FOSSEN
Calen and Emmy are such a cute couple. It had a little mystery with undelivered mail by the sheriff’s deceased mailman dad.
Coming Home For Christmas by Kate Pearce
It’s a cute little story. I really liked Caleb and Lucy.
Once There Was A Lawman by Diana Palmer
This was a short story that had a touch of mystery to it. It was more about the romance between Tom and Annalisa. They were both lonely. It was a sweet story told in Diana Palmer’s signature style.
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores FOSSEN
Calen and Emmy are such a cute couple. It had a little mystery with undelivered mail by the sheriff’s deceased mailman dad.
Coming Home For Christmas by Kate Pearce
It’s a cute little story. I really liked Caleb and Lucy.
September 13, 2022
There's nothing quite like a Christmas anthology to get me into the mood for a white Christmas, and these three short novels did just that. As listed, they rated 3, 4, and 5 stars, respectively, and that became a 4-star average.
The first story is by Diana Palmer, Once There Was a Lawman. The lawman in question is Thomas, an FBI agent, only in Raven Springs, Colorado, searching for the person who kidnapped a young girl, and although the ransom was paid, left her to freeze to death in an empty cabin. Staying at the only motel in town, he parks in an adjacent driveway, which is how he meets Annalisa--it's her driveway, it's almost 11:00 p.m., and she needs him to move his car so she can get to work. He teases the younger woman about being a pole dancer--rather inappropriate, I must say. He's the typical Diana Palmer, cookie-cutter hero--tall, black hair, dark eyes, and with the usual forest full of dark chest hair. He's also more than a decade older than her heroine. Thankfully, he's not verbally abusive to Annalisa (many of Ms. Palmer's previous heroes have been), and also, thankfully, this story is not set in Texas, and I'll admit to not missing the usual Texas history lesson or an update on the entire cast of every novel of hers set in Jacobsville, Texas. Instead we have an interesting whodunit, and Thomas has a change of heart about small towns, as well as the younger Annalisa, all of which leads to an HEA ending. Not a great read, but a rather pleasant one. 3 stars.
The second short novel is Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen, a truly enjoyable, quirky, and sometimes funny read set in Christmas Creek, Texas, where Calen Jameson is sheriff. He now hates Christmas because one year earlier, he walked in on his half-naked fianceé having sex with the mayor, who was dressed as Santa Claus. He commiserates with his best friend's younger sister, Emmy, who was engaged to Owen, the cheating mayor in question, and who, after Calen's father died, bought the house belonging to Calen's father. While searching the attic for Christmas decorations, Emmy discovers years-old bags of undelivered Christmas cards, letters and packages, and that discovery leads to some really interesting developments, revelations, an HEA ending, and this short novel was an absolute joy to read. 4 stars.
The third, and longest of the three short novels is Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce. Her heroine, Lucy, runs her late grandmother's B&B in the small town of Quincy, in northern California, where she was born and raised. This is her first year running the B&B, and she's missing her gran's presence. It's been less than a year since the older woman's death, and Lucy is struggling to keep the business afloat--the bizarre weather has kept tourists away, her B&B is devoid of guests this Christmas season, and she's soon surprised by an unexpected, late-night visitor in the current snowstorm--Caleb Erickson, the guy she'd crushed since she was a mere child. He was planning to make a rare Christmas visit to his father's ranch when his truck broke down, and, in this small town, the B&B was the only place with its lights on. Trapped by the snowstorm, these two old acquaintances begin to bond--Caleb helping Lucy as the electricity goes out and her backup generator fails, and Lucy helping Caleb with some advice on his difficult relationship with his rather surly dad. The dead generator means Lucy will also be spending time at Caleb's father's ranch, and also, spending time in Caleb's bed--her longtime dream. As she helps Caleb and his dad mend their relationship, is it possible that her one/two-night stand with Caleb will turn into more? He lives and works in Seattle, and Lucy has no plans to leave town. But it's Christmas, a time for miracles, and also a time for HEA endings. This was my favorite of the 3 books in this heartwarming anthology, and it was a 5-star read for me.
All in all, 3 enjoyable reads that are sweet, a bit steamy, and just perfect for the Christmas season.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this anthology. The opinions stated are my own.
The first story is by Diana Palmer, Once There Was a Lawman. The lawman in question is Thomas, an FBI agent, only in Raven Springs, Colorado, searching for the person who kidnapped a young girl, and although the ransom was paid, left her to freeze to death in an empty cabin. Staying at the only motel in town, he parks in an adjacent driveway, which is how he meets Annalisa--it's her driveway, it's almost 11:00 p.m., and she needs him to move his car so she can get to work. He teases the younger woman about being a pole dancer--rather inappropriate, I must say. He's the typical Diana Palmer, cookie-cutter hero--tall, black hair, dark eyes, and with the usual forest full of dark chest hair. He's also more than a decade older than her heroine. Thankfully, he's not verbally abusive to Annalisa (many of Ms. Palmer's previous heroes have been), and also, thankfully, this story is not set in Texas, and I'll admit to not missing the usual Texas history lesson or an update on the entire cast of every novel of hers set in Jacobsville, Texas. Instead we have an interesting whodunit, and Thomas has a change of heart about small towns, as well as the younger Annalisa, all of which leads to an HEA ending. Not a great read, but a rather pleasant one. 3 stars.
The second short novel is Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen, a truly enjoyable, quirky, and sometimes funny read set in Christmas Creek, Texas, where Calen Jameson is sheriff. He now hates Christmas because one year earlier, he walked in on his half-naked fianceé having sex with the mayor, who was dressed as Santa Claus. He commiserates with his best friend's younger sister, Emmy, who was engaged to Owen, the cheating mayor in question, and who, after Calen's father died, bought the house belonging to Calen's father. While searching the attic for Christmas decorations, Emmy discovers years-old bags of undelivered Christmas cards, letters and packages, and that discovery leads to some really interesting developments, revelations, an HEA ending, and this short novel was an absolute joy to read. 4 stars.
The third, and longest of the three short novels is Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce. Her heroine, Lucy, runs her late grandmother's B&B in the small town of Quincy, in northern California, where she was born and raised. This is her first year running the B&B, and she's missing her gran's presence. It's been less than a year since the older woman's death, and Lucy is struggling to keep the business afloat--the bizarre weather has kept tourists away, her B&B is devoid of guests this Christmas season, and she's soon surprised by an unexpected, late-night visitor in the current snowstorm--Caleb Erickson, the guy she'd crushed since she was a mere child. He was planning to make a rare Christmas visit to his father's ranch when his truck broke down, and, in this small town, the B&B was the only place with its lights on. Trapped by the snowstorm, these two old acquaintances begin to bond--Caleb helping Lucy as the electricity goes out and her backup generator fails, and Lucy helping Caleb with some advice on his difficult relationship with his rather surly dad. The dead generator means Lucy will also be spending time at Caleb's father's ranch, and also, spending time in Caleb's bed--her longtime dream. As she helps Caleb and his dad mend their relationship, is it possible that her one/two-night stand with Caleb will turn into more? He lives and works in Seattle, and Lucy has no plans to leave town. But it's Christmas, a time for miracles, and also a time for HEA endings. This was my favorite of the 3 books in this heartwarming anthology, and it was a 5-star read for me.
All in all, 3 enjoyable reads that are sweet, a bit steamy, and just perfect for the Christmas season.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this anthology. The opinions stated are my own.
September 27, 2022
4.5 stars
Once again, I am tempted by an ARC of a compilation with a favorite author and an author whose writing doesn’t align with my reading preferences. As I learned to let myself do, I skipped that author’s story in this book. It’s better for me and the author that I do it that way. But, as you may know, I’m a huge fan of Kate Pearce and could not pass this up. To follow are my reviews of the other two stories in this book.
Christmas Creek Cowboy
by Delores Fossen
This is a new-to-me author although her name is so familiar I was shocked I hadn’t read any of her books before. I don’t know if this short story is a kick-off of a new series for her, but it sure could be. This is a sweet friends-to-lovers tale. Calen and Emmy have been friends forever and were even engaged to people who were good friends themselves. A little too good of friends, which brings us to a year later when Emmy and Calen are the subjects of pitying looks and gossip on the anniversary of the day their engagements imploded.
This couple is very believable. I was rooting for them to give in to their desires. Of course, there was a lot of them not wanting to ruin their friendship, but chemistry eventually wins out. On top of them trying to figure out their relationship with each other, there are bags of old undelivered mail discovered in Emmy’s attic and some of the letters could have huge ramifications for the senders and/or recipients. Including Calen and Emmy.
If this is the start of a series, I would love to see how these letters end up affecting the other townspeople. I’m a huge fan of the Christmas season, so a whole town named after things to do with the holiday seems like fun to me. The only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the intimate scenes. It almost seemed as though the author was not comfortable writing them? Seems odd since she has such a vast library of published work. But since I haven’t read her other books I don’t know if she usually does behind closed doors stories. I ended up thinking this story would have been better off leaving those scenes off the page.
~ 4 stars
Coming Home for Christmas
by Kate Pearce
How can you go wrong with this story? Snowed in, brother’s best friend, unrequited lifelong crush, grumpy/sunshine. This story was just what I want in a Christmas romance.
Caleb’s truck breaks down just as he rolls into town, but before he can make it to his father’s ranch. Nobody is around as they are smack dab in the middle of a blizzard so he makes his way over to the local B&B, the establishment his best friend’s grandmother owned. Only Caleb is not aware that his best friend’s little sister Lucy now runs the place. Poor Lucy, the year has been full of bad weather leading to canceled bookings. Her first year as the proprietor of her grandmother’s beloved B&B and she is afraid she’s not going to be able to keep the doors open much longer if her luck doesn’t change.
Lucy and Caleb are so great together, at least once Caleb thaws out. Lucy is always wanting to help others and makes a point to show a brave face to the world when it comes to her own troubles. Caleb can see through that tough exterior and makes sure to show Lucy that she is worth the time and effort that so many seem to not give her. At the same time, Lucy helps Caleb to navigate the tough relationship he has with his father so both Caleb and his father can learn to show the love and respect they have for one another.
This is a sweet holiday romance with some fire and butterflies thrown into the mix. The perfect short story for the upcoming season.
~5 stars
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
Once again, I am tempted by an ARC of a compilation with a favorite author and an author whose writing doesn’t align with my reading preferences. As I learned to let myself do, I skipped that author’s story in this book. It’s better for me and the author that I do it that way. But, as you may know, I’m a huge fan of Kate Pearce and could not pass this up. To follow are my reviews of the other two stories in this book.
Christmas Creek Cowboy
by Delores Fossen
This is a new-to-me author although her name is so familiar I was shocked I hadn’t read any of her books before. I don’t know if this short story is a kick-off of a new series for her, but it sure could be. This is a sweet friends-to-lovers tale. Calen and Emmy have been friends forever and were even engaged to people who were good friends themselves. A little too good of friends, which brings us to a year later when Emmy and Calen are the subjects of pitying looks and gossip on the anniversary of the day their engagements imploded.
This couple is very believable. I was rooting for them to give in to their desires. Of course, there was a lot of them not wanting to ruin their friendship, but chemistry eventually wins out. On top of them trying to figure out their relationship with each other, there are bags of old undelivered mail discovered in Emmy’s attic and some of the letters could have huge ramifications for the senders and/or recipients. Including Calen and Emmy.
If this is the start of a series, I would love to see how these letters end up affecting the other townspeople. I’m a huge fan of the Christmas season, so a whole town named after things to do with the holiday seems like fun to me. The only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the intimate scenes. It almost seemed as though the author was not comfortable writing them? Seems odd since she has such a vast library of published work. But since I haven’t read her other books I don’t know if she usually does behind closed doors stories. I ended up thinking this story would have been better off leaving those scenes off the page.
~ 4 stars
Coming Home for Christmas
by Kate Pearce
How can you go wrong with this story? Snowed in, brother’s best friend, unrequited lifelong crush, grumpy/sunshine. This story was just what I want in a Christmas romance.
Caleb’s truck breaks down just as he rolls into town, but before he can make it to his father’s ranch. Nobody is around as they are smack dab in the middle of a blizzard so he makes his way over to the local B&B, the establishment his best friend’s grandmother owned. Only Caleb is not aware that his best friend’s little sister Lucy now runs the place. Poor Lucy, the year has been full of bad weather leading to canceled bookings. Her first year as the proprietor of her grandmother’s beloved B&B and she is afraid she’s not going to be able to keep the doors open much longer if her luck doesn’t change.
Lucy and Caleb are so great together, at least once Caleb thaws out. Lucy is always wanting to help others and makes a point to show a brave face to the world when it comes to her own troubles. Caleb can see through that tough exterior and makes sure to show Lucy that she is worth the time and effort that so many seem to not give her. At the same time, Lucy helps Caleb to navigate the tough relationship he has with his father so both Caleb and his father can learn to show the love and respect they have for one another.
This is a sweet holiday romance with some fire and butterflies thrown into the mix. The perfect short story for the upcoming season.
~5 stars
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
March 10, 2023
This is a three-in-one set of stories. Each involves a cowboy, who is embittered with Christmas, surprised by love and the joy of the season.
The first is Once There Was a Lawman by Diana Palmer:
Sent to the wilds of Colorado in the backwoods tiny town of Raven Springs, Tom Jones is investigating a murder for the FBI. A young female kidnapping victim named Julia was found dead and Tom is there to find out who is responsible. He's staying at the local motel and meets his neighbor when she bangs on his door to have him move his car. His first assumption is that she's a pole dancer, her first perception is he's an overweight assassin. Both thankfully wrong, they find themselves smitten; but he thinks he's too old for her and she fears his job. Christmas is fast approaching, Tom almost has the case nailed down, and will leave when he does. But now he doesn't want to leave and his neighbor has everything to do with it.
The second is Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen:
Sheriff Calen Jameson is having a very bad day. First a group of tourists fell in the lake, then the giant inflatable cowboy Santa fell across Main street causing a traffic jam. Now his best friend, and fellow Christmas-hater, Emmy Kendrick tells him she discovered undelivered mail in her attic, which used to be Calen's father's home. When word gets out about the mail the whole town is a buzz, with worry and joy in equal measures; secrets are going to be outed left and right when that mail is turned over to the Post Office. Calen himself is in for a shock when he goes through the mail and discovers letters to his father in a child's hand. And a letter 17 years old pushes Calen and Emmy's relationship to a whole other level.
The third is Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce:
Caleb Erickson's truck strands him at the edge of town. Seeing the welcome lights of Granny Smith's B&B, he seeks shelter there. But it's his best friend's little sister, Lucy Smith, who greets him. Lucy has had a crush on Caleb for forever and welcomes him as a Christmas wish fulfilled. When the snowstorm knocks out the power Lucy comes to him for refuge and they spend the night together. Then the generator fails so Caleb moves Lucy out to his family's ranch. Lucy orchestrates a discussion between father and son, one she hopes will mend some fences; but gets spooked and runs back to the B&B when Caleb suggests she move back to Seattle. Knowing he screwed up, and not wanting her to spend Christmas alone, Caleb invites her family down and facilitates a reunion for them culminating in a dinner at the ranch and an announcement that he's coming home for good and for Lucy.
This book had it all--fun and spunky holiday stories, steamy romance, and unusual setups. I loved them all but I think the one about the lost mail might have been my favorite--at least it had the most unique storyline. What a wonderful way to escape for a while. It's a fast read but a thoroughly good romp--highly recommend!
The first is Once There Was a Lawman by Diana Palmer:
Sent to the wilds of Colorado in the backwoods tiny town of Raven Springs, Tom Jones is investigating a murder for the FBI. A young female kidnapping victim named Julia was found dead and Tom is there to find out who is responsible. He's staying at the local motel and meets his neighbor when she bangs on his door to have him move his car. His first assumption is that she's a pole dancer, her first perception is he's an overweight assassin. Both thankfully wrong, they find themselves smitten; but he thinks he's too old for her and she fears his job. Christmas is fast approaching, Tom almost has the case nailed down, and will leave when he does. But now he doesn't want to leave and his neighbor has everything to do with it.
The second is Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen:
Sheriff Calen Jameson is having a very bad day. First a group of tourists fell in the lake, then the giant inflatable cowboy Santa fell across Main street causing a traffic jam. Now his best friend, and fellow Christmas-hater, Emmy Kendrick tells him she discovered undelivered mail in her attic, which used to be Calen's father's home. When word gets out about the mail the whole town is a buzz, with worry and joy in equal measures; secrets are going to be outed left and right when that mail is turned over to the Post Office. Calen himself is in for a shock when he goes through the mail and discovers letters to his father in a child's hand. And a letter 17 years old pushes Calen and Emmy's relationship to a whole other level.
The third is Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce:
Caleb Erickson's truck strands him at the edge of town. Seeing the welcome lights of Granny Smith's B&B, he seeks shelter there. But it's his best friend's little sister, Lucy Smith, who greets him. Lucy has had a crush on Caleb for forever and welcomes him as a Christmas wish fulfilled. When the snowstorm knocks out the power Lucy comes to him for refuge and they spend the night together. Then the generator fails so Caleb moves Lucy out to his family's ranch. Lucy orchestrates a discussion between father and son, one she hopes will mend some fences; but gets spooked and runs back to the B&B when Caleb suggests she move back to Seattle. Knowing he screwed up, and not wanting her to spend Christmas alone, Caleb invites her family down and facilitates a reunion for them culminating in a dinner at the ranch and an announcement that he's coming home for good and for Lucy.
This book had it all--fun and spunky holiday stories, steamy romance, and unusual setups. I loved them all but I think the one about the lost mail might have been my favorite--at least it had the most unique storyline. What a wonderful way to escape for a while. It's a fast read but a thoroughly good romp--highly recommend!
September 5, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley, Kensington Books and the authors for the E ARC of this anthology.
Book 1 – Once there was a lawman by Diana Palmer.
We meet Thomas who is an FBI agent on the hunt for the people who left a young woman in a cabin to freeze to death. On his 1st night in town, he meets Annalisa, she is a woman who knows what she wants and that is for Thomas to not park his car in her driveway, especially when she is trying to get to work. To make amends he invites her for dinner, she agrees and from there they decide to spend time together whilst he is in town. Annalisa loves Christmas, Thomas not so much, as they spend time together his no liking of Christ as thaws. Can they stay together once the case is closed? Will this Christmas be special for them both?
I really enjoyed this story, the plot was well paced and thought out, I really enjoyed the banter between Thomas and Annalisa, also the caring that they both had for each other.
Book 2 – Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen.
Calen Jameson is the Sherriff in Christmas Creek; he doesn’t really want much to do with Christmas this year but the town does Christmas big. He wants to spend time with his best friend Emmy as they commiserate together about their cheating exes. However, Emmy finds some bags of mail that were stored in Calen’s father’s attic (she has bought the house). This sets the towns folk a flutter, there are a lot of people who want their letters. There is also a letter that Emmy sent Calen one Christmas, could this letter bring them closer together?
I loved the small town in this book, it had a nice feel to it. There were the quirky characters, fun Christmas decorations and a few characters that maybe were going to get an unexpected Christmas. Good plot and pacing.
Book 3 – Coming Home for Christmas by Katie Pearce.
Lucy runs her Gran’s B7B that she inherited. She loves everything about it, except the lack of people staying at the moment. The town is being struck with some severe snow and no one wants to be travelling in that. One afternoon a knock at the door finds her school crush Calen needing a bed for the night. He is trying to get to his father’s ranch just outside of town but his car has broken down. Spending time together a friendship starts and he helps her with things around the B&B that need some repair. However, things workout that Lucy has to go to Calen’s father’s ranch with him. Can they have a Christmas that neither of them thought of? Will Calen stay in town?
This was my favourite of the 3 books. I am a sucker for B&B running books. I loved the characters and the plot line. I was turning the pages to fins out what happened next.
A great anthology that would be perfect for sitting snuggled in a cosy blanket with the Christmas Tree lights twinkling, a hot cup of chocolate and the snow falling outside.
Book 1 – Once there was a lawman by Diana Palmer.
We meet Thomas who is an FBI agent on the hunt for the people who left a young woman in a cabin to freeze to death. On his 1st night in town, he meets Annalisa, she is a woman who knows what she wants and that is for Thomas to not park his car in her driveway, especially when she is trying to get to work. To make amends he invites her for dinner, she agrees and from there they decide to spend time together whilst he is in town. Annalisa loves Christmas, Thomas not so much, as they spend time together his no liking of Christ as thaws. Can they stay together once the case is closed? Will this Christmas be special for them both?
I really enjoyed this story, the plot was well paced and thought out, I really enjoyed the banter between Thomas and Annalisa, also the caring that they both had for each other.
Book 2 – Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen.
Calen Jameson is the Sherriff in Christmas Creek; he doesn’t really want much to do with Christmas this year but the town does Christmas big. He wants to spend time with his best friend Emmy as they commiserate together about their cheating exes. However, Emmy finds some bags of mail that were stored in Calen’s father’s attic (she has bought the house). This sets the towns folk a flutter, there are a lot of people who want their letters. There is also a letter that Emmy sent Calen one Christmas, could this letter bring them closer together?
I loved the small town in this book, it had a nice feel to it. There were the quirky characters, fun Christmas decorations and a few characters that maybe were going to get an unexpected Christmas. Good plot and pacing.
Book 3 – Coming Home for Christmas by Katie Pearce.
Lucy runs her Gran’s B7B that she inherited. She loves everything about it, except the lack of people staying at the moment. The town is being struck with some severe snow and no one wants to be travelling in that. One afternoon a knock at the door finds her school crush Calen needing a bed for the night. He is trying to get to his father’s ranch just outside of town but his car has broken down. Spending time together a friendship starts and he helps her with things around the B&B that need some repair. However, things workout that Lucy has to go to Calen’s father’s ranch with him. Can they have a Christmas that neither of them thought of? Will Calen stay in town?
This was my favourite of the 3 books. I am a sucker for B&B running books. I loved the characters and the plot line. I was turning the pages to fins out what happened next.
A great anthology that would be perfect for sitting snuggled in a cosy blanket with the Christmas Tree lights twinkling, a hot cup of chocolate and the snow falling outside.
October 6, 2022
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
The storyline was interesting with an easily deduced murder mystery to be solved and a not-too-bright murderer to be apprehended by FBI agent Thomas Kincaid, who falls under the spell of sweet, caring nurse Analissa Davis who lives next door to the hotel he is staying at and whose driveway he inadvertently blocks her exit from when she has to leave for work. Their initial confrontation leads to him stopping by her door after his day's investigating the murder he was sent to solve to get information on the area and those that live there, and he finds himself enjoying her company way more than he should while she makes sure that he gets a home-cooked meal before she leaves for work on the night shift at the local hospital. This was a slow-build sugary sweet, sex only-after-marriage, classic Diana Palmer novella.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
I really, really liked this story and the characters of Calen and Emmy. It was a trope that has been done before, but Ms. Fossen was able to make it feel fresh, new, and interesting. The story flowed smoothly and never had any lags that would have caused the reader to lose interest. An overall lovely story that I was disappointed to have come to an end!
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
This was a wonderfully written second-chance-with-the-one-that-always-seemed-unattainable-brother's-best-friend love story. Lucy has always had a thing for Caleb, but felt that he never really noticed her when they were growing up, and he would hang out with his best friend who also happened to be her older brother. Caleb is back in town though to help his father out on the family ranch and is stranded by a snowstorm before he can make the drive out of town to the ranch property. Luckily for him, Lucy now owns and manages the local B&B that she inherited from her grandmother and has plenty of rooms available due to the terrible weather. This was a beautiful story and I loved how it was gradually revealed to the reader how the attraction had always been mutual, but the circumstances in his life and that ever so pesky bro-code kept Caleb from acting on it until the opportunity so ideally presented itself now. Warm-fuzzies abound!
Each of the novellas in this collection were written by well-known and very talented authors that leave the reader with a feeling of peace and contentment long after the last word has been finished.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book, which was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
The storyline was interesting with an easily deduced murder mystery to be solved and a not-too-bright murderer to be apprehended by FBI agent Thomas Kincaid, who falls under the spell of sweet, caring nurse Analissa Davis who lives next door to the hotel he is staying at and whose driveway he inadvertently blocks her exit from when she has to leave for work. Their initial confrontation leads to him stopping by her door after his day's investigating the murder he was sent to solve to get information on the area and those that live there, and he finds himself enjoying her company way more than he should while she makes sure that he gets a home-cooked meal before she leaves for work on the night shift at the local hospital. This was a slow-build sugary sweet, sex only-after-marriage, classic Diana Palmer novella.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
I really, really liked this story and the characters of Calen and Emmy. It was a trope that has been done before, but Ms. Fossen was able to make it feel fresh, new, and interesting. The story flowed smoothly and never had any lags that would have caused the reader to lose interest. An overall lovely story that I was disappointed to have come to an end!
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
This was a wonderfully written second-chance-with-the-one-that-always-seemed-unattainable-brother's-best-friend love story. Lucy has always had a thing for Caleb, but felt that he never really noticed her when they were growing up, and he would hang out with his best friend who also happened to be her older brother. Caleb is back in town though to help his father out on the family ranch and is stranded by a snowstorm before he can make the drive out of town to the ranch property. Luckily for him, Lucy now owns and manages the local B&B that she inherited from her grandmother and has plenty of rooms available due to the terrible weather. This was a beautiful story and I loved how it was gradually revealed to the reader how the attraction had always been mutual, but the circumstances in his life and that ever so pesky bro-code kept Caleb from acting on it until the opportunity so ideally presented itself now. Warm-fuzzies abound!
Each of the novellas in this collection were written by well-known and very talented authors that leave the reader with a feeling of peace and contentment long after the last word has been finished.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book, which was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
September 15, 2022
Charming collection of Christmas couplings
This holiday set was a lot of fun to read. Each of the three stories is a standalone romance with its own HEA. Each is novella length, packed with complexities and substantive characters. With such a varied selection of authors, everyone is sure to find a favorite.
The first story, "Once There Was a Lawman" by Diana Palmer, was a sweet story about an FBI agent in town investigating a murder who connects with a local nurse who knows everyone in the small, close-knit community. There were a few continuity inconsistencies and the murder mystery wasn't much of a mystery, but the romance was a joy to read. Annalisa is a delight, and more than a match for Tom. I loved reading these two together, a natural sunshine/grump pairing, and I thought their HEA was perfectly suited for them.
The second story is "Christmas Creek Cowboy" by Delores Fossen. This captivating story pairs up friends Calen and Emmy, who are still smarting from the betrayal of finding their respective fiancés hooking up the previous Christmas. Add to that a community-wide mystery of some missing mail and we get a splendid everyone's-in-everyone-else's-business non-stop holiday romp that clears all the secrets and doubts that Emmy and Calen didn't even realize were keeping them apart. Set in a small, Christmas-themed town in Texas, this story was truly unputdownable and I loved every bit of it.
My favorite was saved for last. In "Coming Home for Christmas" by Kate Pearce, Caleb and Lucy are forced together by a snowstorm and find that even though they've known each other for years, there's still a lot to learn about each other and themselves. Set in a small mountain town in Northern California, one I'm intimately familiar with after having lived there for the better part of two decades, this story shows a different side of California, far from the typical SoCal starlets and beaches. It's not the first book I've read that is set in that picturesque region, but it is by far the most accurate to the real-life setting.
Caleb and Lucy each have family issues that must be addressed before they can figure out what they mean to each other, and just what their future can hold. I always love reading this author's vibrant characters and enthralling emotional journeys, and this compact story stands out as one of her best.
All together, this is a wonderful set of holiday stories, one that I highly recommend. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This holiday set was a lot of fun to read. Each of the three stories is a standalone romance with its own HEA. Each is novella length, packed with complexities and substantive characters. With such a varied selection of authors, everyone is sure to find a favorite.
The first story, "Once There Was a Lawman" by Diana Palmer, was a sweet story about an FBI agent in town investigating a murder who connects with a local nurse who knows everyone in the small, close-knit community. There were a few continuity inconsistencies and the murder mystery wasn't much of a mystery, but the romance was a joy to read. Annalisa is a delight, and more than a match for Tom. I loved reading these two together, a natural sunshine/grump pairing, and I thought their HEA was perfectly suited for them.
The second story is "Christmas Creek Cowboy" by Delores Fossen. This captivating story pairs up friends Calen and Emmy, who are still smarting from the betrayal of finding their respective fiancés hooking up the previous Christmas. Add to that a community-wide mystery of some missing mail and we get a splendid everyone's-in-everyone-else's-business non-stop holiday romp that clears all the secrets and doubts that Emmy and Calen didn't even realize were keeping them apart. Set in a small, Christmas-themed town in Texas, this story was truly unputdownable and I loved every bit of it.
My favorite was saved for last. In "Coming Home for Christmas" by Kate Pearce, Caleb and Lucy are forced together by a snowstorm and find that even though they've known each other for years, there's still a lot to learn about each other and themselves. Set in a small mountain town in Northern California, one I'm intimately familiar with after having lived there for the better part of two decades, this story shows a different side of California, far from the typical SoCal starlets and beaches. It's not the first book I've read that is set in that picturesque region, but it is by far the most accurate to the real-life setting.
Caleb and Lucy each have family issues that must be addressed before they can figure out what they mean to each other, and just what their future can hold. I always love reading this author's vibrant characters and enthralling emotional journeys, and this compact story stands out as one of her best.
All together, this is a wonderful set of holiday stories, one that I highly recommend. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 26, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this anthology and I also purchased a copy.
Once There Was a Lawman - Diana Palmer
This was a charming tale of two people who have so many similarities but yet different in a few meaningful ways.
Tom Jones (love the name!) is a FBI agent from Chicago that comes to investigate a murder of a young woman who was kidnapped. Tom doesn’t like small towns and can’t wait to return to the big city. He is grumpy at best. He doesn’t do love since his ex left him right before he was going to propose.
Annalisa Davis is a young nurse. She is a pure innocent. She works hard but has a hard time with men after her father’s treatment of her.
When Annalisa goes to the motel next door to her home to get someone to move their car from her driveway so she can go to work, she meets the sexy FBI agent. The two are drawn to each other but they have several hurdles to overcome.
I loved the interaction between the two. There were some very funny conversations between them that had me laughing out loud more than once.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
This was a very charming story. I adored the dual POV format. Two BFFs commensurate the anniversary of their engagement break ups. Not from each other but from their respective partners.
Calen Jameson is the Sheriff in town and is busy trying to move the giant inflatable Santa out of the way of traffic when his BFF Emmy Kendrick comes charging up to him with a crisis.
It appears that Calen’s deceased father Waylon, who hated Christmas and worked for the post office, had done the unthinkable! Now Calen is tasked with how to solve the issue.
Emmy has a secret now that Waylon’s deception has come to light. Can she share her secret with Calen? What other secrets are hidden within?
This is a slightly sexy read with the scene being very highly glossed over.
Coming Home for Christmas - Kate Pearce
This last story was also great. It was told in a dual POV format like the others. Where this one differed was it was more descriptive in a sexy way than the other two
The story was a charming one but it just seemed strange to have three different levels of sexy to the collection.
Once There Was a Lawman - Diana Palmer
This was a charming tale of two people who have so many similarities but yet different in a few meaningful ways.
Tom Jones (love the name!) is a FBI agent from Chicago that comes to investigate a murder of a young woman who was kidnapped. Tom doesn’t like small towns and can’t wait to return to the big city. He is grumpy at best. He doesn’t do love since his ex left him right before he was going to propose.
Annalisa Davis is a young nurse. She is a pure innocent. She works hard but has a hard time with men after her father’s treatment of her.
When Annalisa goes to the motel next door to her home to get someone to move their car from her driveway so she can go to work, she meets the sexy FBI agent. The two are drawn to each other but they have several hurdles to overcome.
I loved the interaction between the two. There were some very funny conversations between them that had me laughing out loud more than once.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
This was a very charming story. I adored the dual POV format. Two BFFs commensurate the anniversary of their engagement break ups. Not from each other but from their respective partners.
Calen Jameson is the Sheriff in town and is busy trying to move the giant inflatable Santa out of the way of traffic when his BFF Emmy Kendrick comes charging up to him with a crisis.
It appears that Calen’s deceased father Waylon, who hated Christmas and worked for the post office, had done the unthinkable! Now Calen is tasked with how to solve the issue.
Emmy has a secret now that Waylon’s deception has come to light. Can she share her secret with Calen? What other secrets are hidden within?
This is a slightly sexy read with the scene being very highly glossed over.
Coming Home for Christmas - Kate Pearce
This last story was also great. It was told in a dual POV format like the others. Where this one differed was it was more descriptive in a sexy way than the other two
The story was a charming one but it just seemed strange to have three different levels of sexy to the collection.
September 21, 2022
A heartwarming trio of small town Christmas romances written by three masters of the genre. Three men, soured on love and drowning in "bah humbug". Three women, full of holiday cheer and anxious to share it. Sometimes Christmas IS a time of miracles.
Diana Palmer
Once There Was a Lawman
FBI agent Thomas Jones just wants to solve the case he's working and get out of the small town which seems to be engulfed in Christmas cheer. He wasn't ready for ER nurse Annalise Davis and her sarcastic attitude. What he doesn't expect is that she becomes his greatest source of information about the town and it's citizens. In the process, she crawls under his skin and into his heart.
Delores Fossen
Christmas Creek Cowboy
Christmas Creek sheriff Caleb Jameson doesn't have much use for Christmas, not since the last one when he discovered his fiance was cheating on him. This Christmas doesn't promise to be much better.Caleb's best friend, Emmy, discovered a lost load of undelivered mail from several years earlier in the attic of the house she recently purchased. Caleb doesn't need the head aches as the town's citizens try to get hold of mail that just might contain secrets and surprises they prefer remain hidden. But it's Christmas, and sometimes secrets are meant to be shared.
Kate Pearce
Coming Home for Christmas
Caleb Erickson is headed back, somewhat reluctantly, to the small town he once called home. Being CEO of his own company has left him exhausted, burnt out, and wondering just what all his hard work is for. When his truck breaks down just outside town, he finds himself knocking on the door of the B and B, now run by his best friend's little sister, Lucy. She's no longer the annoying pest she used to be. Spending time with her in the B & B, which is decked out for Christmas and smells of gingerbread and sugar cookies, Caleb begins to consider the possibility that the answers he's looking for may just be in the last place he expected to find them.
Diana Palmer
Once There Was a Lawman
FBI agent Thomas Jones just wants to solve the case he's working and get out of the small town which seems to be engulfed in Christmas cheer. He wasn't ready for ER nurse Annalise Davis and her sarcastic attitude. What he doesn't expect is that she becomes his greatest source of information about the town and it's citizens. In the process, she crawls under his skin and into his heart.
Delores Fossen
Christmas Creek Cowboy
Christmas Creek sheriff Caleb Jameson doesn't have much use for Christmas, not since the last one when he discovered his fiance was cheating on him. This Christmas doesn't promise to be much better.Caleb's best friend, Emmy, discovered a lost load of undelivered mail from several years earlier in the attic of the house she recently purchased. Caleb doesn't need the head aches as the town's citizens try to get hold of mail that just might contain secrets and surprises they prefer remain hidden. But it's Christmas, and sometimes secrets are meant to be shared.
Kate Pearce
Coming Home for Christmas
Caleb Erickson is headed back, somewhat reluctantly, to the small town he once called home. Being CEO of his own company has left him exhausted, burnt out, and wondering just what all his hard work is for. When his truck breaks down just outside town, he finds himself knocking on the door of the B and B, now run by his best friend's little sister, Lucy. She's no longer the annoying pest she used to be. Spending time with her in the B & B, which is decked out for Christmas and smells of gingerbread and sugar cookies, Caleb begins to consider the possibility that the answers he's looking for may just be in the last place he expected to find them.
January 31, 2025
Christmas Eve Cowboy
Read: Dec 13-15, 2022
Official Summary:
Headlined by the legendary storyteller Diana Palmer, this Christmas, the best kind of trouble comes in threes: Three bestselling authors. Three stories of holiday romance. And three rugged cowboys who are ready for love—whether they know it yet or not.
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors…
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN - Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY - Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes… by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS - Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted
My Thoughts:
The first story in Christmas Eve Cowboy was my favorite. The characters were fun, the romance was both cute and funny, and there was a nice touch of suspense. Diana Palmer is fantastic at creating engaging characters and storylines. This anthology of three Christmas-themed romances is sweet, festive, and heartwarming—perfect for fans of lighthearted, romantic holiday reads. Each story brings its own charm and warmth, making it an enjoyable read for anyone seeking a cozy, festive escape.
Rated: 3.0/5.0
Read: Dec 13-15, 2022
Official Summary:
Headlined by the legendary storyteller Diana Palmer, this Christmas, the best kind of trouble comes in threes: Three bestselling authors. Three stories of holiday romance. And three rugged cowboys who are ready for love—whether they know it yet or not.
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors…
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN - Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY - Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes… by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS - Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted
My Thoughts:
The first story in Christmas Eve Cowboy was my favorite. The characters were fun, the romance was both cute and funny, and there was a nice touch of suspense. Diana Palmer is fantastic at creating engaging characters and storylines. This anthology of three Christmas-themed romances is sweet, festive, and heartwarming—perfect for fans of lighthearted, romantic holiday reads. Each story brings its own charm and warmth, making it an enjoyable read for anyone seeking a cozy, festive escape.
Rated: 3.0/5.0
January 10, 2023
Headlined by the legendary storyteller Diana Palmer, this Christmas, the best kind of trouble comes in threes: Three bestselling authors. Three stories of holiday romance. And three rugged cowboys who are ready for love—whether they know it yet or not
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors . . .
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes . . . by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted
Everyone loves cowboys and this book delivers 3 tales of cowboys and the girls they fall in love with and who fall in love with them. I enjoyed each story for a different reason but my favorite was Once There was a Lawman by Diana Palmer! about an FBI agent and the reasons a girl should never fall in love with one! If you need a bit of romance for the holidays-- this book will make you all warm and cozy! Enjoy!
Snow is falling, and when it comes to love, so are these rugged, gorgeous cowboys, in a romantic holiday collection from three bestselling authors . . .
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. And Tom has a case to solve that has nothing to do with love. Yet the spirit of the holidays just might spark a lifetime connection . . .
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk, yet maybe it’s time to start making some changes . . . by firing up the heat with Emmy.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted
Everyone loves cowboys and this book delivers 3 tales of cowboys and the girls they fall in love with and who fall in love with them. I enjoyed each story for a different reason but my favorite was Once There was a Lawman by Diana Palmer! about an FBI agent and the reasons a girl should never fall in love with one! If you need a bit of romance for the holidays-- this book will make you all warm and cozy! Enjoy!
September 21, 2022
I love Anthologies and Christmas Anthologies most of all. There is nothing like a great Christmas story to make me happy. Christmas Eve Cowboy did just that. It was a delightful read and put a smile on my face.
Once There Was A Lawman - Diana Palmer
Tom is an FBI agent who’s in town trying to solve a murder investigation and Annalisa lives next door to the hotel that he has been staying at. When they meet they have an instant attraction to each other, but he’s only there for a short time and neither one of them are sure they should start anything that they can’t finish.
I thought this was a cute story and there was even a little bit of a suspense thrown in there. I liked both Tom and Annalisa and I enjoyed the small little town. 4 Stars
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Delores Fossen
Calen & Emmy are best friends who both had a very crappy last Christmas. They’ve spent the last year sharing the pain together, but they’ve also been falling in love. I loved Calen & Emmy so much.
A little bit of drama, found family and love between best friends. What more could I ask for in a story. I absolutely adored it! My favorite of the three. 5 Stars
Coming Home for Christmas - Kate Pearce
Lucy has had a crush on Caleb for many years. She thinks she’s getting an early Christmas gift, when her crush ends up at her doorstep.
Caleb is coming home to his fathers ranch when his truck breaks down during a snowstorm. Lucky for him that he ends up at Lucy’s B&B. This was a good story. I’ll be honest and say that it wasn’t my favorite of the 3 stories, but a good story all the same. 3 Stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books (Zebra) for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Once There Was A Lawman - Diana Palmer
Tom is an FBI agent who’s in town trying to solve a murder investigation and Annalisa lives next door to the hotel that he has been staying at. When they meet they have an instant attraction to each other, but he’s only there for a short time and neither one of them are sure they should start anything that they can’t finish.
I thought this was a cute story and there was even a little bit of a suspense thrown in there. I liked both Tom and Annalisa and I enjoyed the small little town. 4 Stars
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Delores Fossen
Calen & Emmy are best friends who both had a very crappy last Christmas. They’ve spent the last year sharing the pain together, but they’ve also been falling in love. I loved Calen & Emmy so much.
A little bit of drama, found family and love between best friends. What more could I ask for in a story. I absolutely adored it! My favorite of the three. 5 Stars
Coming Home for Christmas - Kate Pearce
Lucy has had a crush on Caleb for many years. She thinks she’s getting an early Christmas gift, when her crush ends up at her doorstep.
Caleb is coming home to his fathers ranch when his truck breaks down during a snowstorm. Lucky for him that he ends up at Lucy’s B&B. This was a good story. I’ll be honest and say that it wasn’t my favorite of the 3 stories, but a good story all the same. 3 Stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books (Zebra) for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2022
This anthology starts of with Once There Was a Lawman by Diana Palmer. FBI Agent Tom Jones doesn't believe in love, is a grinch about Christmas and is currently in a small town. He thrives on the noise in Chicago where he lives. Annalisa Davis is a nurse and doesn't believe she should be able to ask for help personally. These two battered souls also want the same thing, to find out who killed Julia Downing. Tom kept reminding Annalisa that he was to old for her and that he was going back to Chicago when it was done. Be careful what you wish for.
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen. Sheriff Calen Jameson is not looking forward to Christmas this year. He has put out that there will be no holiday greetings towards him. Emmy Kendrick is in the same boat as the sheriff. All the towns busy bodies tongues are wagging because mail bags were found in the attic of Waylon Jameson's old house. People are afraid of the letters and packages that were mailed and never delivered. Several hints were given to people to make things right. The one letter is one Emmy sent to Calen. Can they transition from friends to more?
Coming Home For Christmas by Kate Pearce. Caleb Erickson is on his way home. His father and him don't get along much since Caleb's mother died. Lucy Smith has inherited her grandmothers B&B. She has a positive outlook on life even though she feels like she's letting her grandmother down. Due to weather and other incidents she afraid she might have to close the place. Now old nemesis is back. It doesn't help that she's had a crush on Caleb. It's going to take locking Caleb and his father to make them talk to each other. The same for Lucy's family. In the end, they were meant to be.
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen. Sheriff Calen Jameson is not looking forward to Christmas this year. He has put out that there will be no holiday greetings towards him. Emmy Kendrick is in the same boat as the sheriff. All the towns busy bodies tongues are wagging because mail bags were found in the attic of Waylon Jameson's old house. People are afraid of the letters and packages that were mailed and never delivered. Several hints were given to people to make things right. The one letter is one Emmy sent to Calen. Can they transition from friends to more?
Coming Home For Christmas by Kate Pearce. Caleb Erickson is on his way home. His father and him don't get along much since Caleb's mother died. Lucy Smith has inherited her grandmothers B&B. She has a positive outlook on life even though she feels like she's letting her grandmother down. Due to weather and other incidents she afraid she might have to close the place. Now old nemesis is back. It doesn't help that she's had a crush on Caleb. It's going to take locking Caleb and his father to make them talk to each other. The same for Lucy's family. In the end, they were meant to be.
September 11, 2022
Once There was a Lawman-
So this story starts the book off strong! So with this story even though they just met it seemed to just work. The author made it seemed liked they had known each other forever and it didn't feel like the author was forcing it. I loved Annalisa she was feisty and she could hold her own she had the biggest heart for others. I liked Tom he came off like a know it all at some times but his heart was int he right place! I would say this story out of all three was my favorite.
Christmas Creek Cowboy-
This story was so cute it had small town drama, it had best friends finding love and it had a cute baby with tons of surprises. I think in the end the only thing I was more of was Nessa and her story she felt like such a mystery that needed to be discovered. I really Liked Emmy she was a pistol. Calen he seem to have the towns problems on his shoulders but did not let that stop him from being a kind human to everyone.
Coming Home for Christmas-
This story was probably my least favorite out of all three stories. The story seemed more forced then organic. I did like Lucy she was full of sprit and a fighter but I just felt like she could have done better then Caleb. Caleb was ok but he came off very self centered. I also really liked Chip he was such a wise soul.
Overall the book was a fun read and very quick read even with three stories. Each story does contain adult content that may not be suitable for all readers. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
So this story starts the book off strong! So with this story even though they just met it seemed to just work. The author made it seemed liked they had known each other forever and it didn't feel like the author was forcing it. I loved Annalisa she was feisty and she could hold her own she had the biggest heart for others. I liked Tom he came off like a know it all at some times but his heart was int he right place! I would say this story out of all three was my favorite.
Christmas Creek Cowboy-
This story was so cute it had small town drama, it had best friends finding love and it had a cute baby with tons of surprises. I think in the end the only thing I was more of was Nessa and her story she felt like such a mystery that needed to be discovered. I really Liked Emmy she was a pistol. Calen he seem to have the towns problems on his shoulders but did not let that stop him from being a kind human to everyone.
Coming Home for Christmas-
This story was probably my least favorite out of all three stories. The story seemed more forced then organic. I did like Lucy she was full of sprit and a fighter but I just felt like she could have done better then Caleb. Caleb was ok but he came off very self centered. I also really liked Chip he was such a wise soul.
Overall the book was a fun read and very quick read even with three stories. Each story does contain adult content that may not be suitable for all readers. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 30, 2022
Once There Was a Lawman by Diana Palmer (3 stars) – FBI Agent Thomas Kincaid Jones is after the person responsible for the death of a woman who was kidnapped and who died from exposure. Meeting Annalisa Davis was not in his plans as he is anxious to head back to Chicago. Annalisa is able to provide information about the deceased victim which gives him a lead on who might have been responsible for her kidnapping and death. Will he be able to leave Annalisa behind and return to Chicago?
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen (4 stars) – Emmy Kendrick finds missing mail sacks in the home she purchased from Sheriff Calen Jameson’s father. Why did his father hide mail in the attic and when will the U.S. Post Office give permission to deliver the letters, some of which are over two decades old? One letter will lead Calen to a family member that he was unaware of and another one might just make a difference in his future.
Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce – (4 stars) – Lucy Smith is planning on spending Christmas by herself in the B&B that she inherited from her grandmother. A storm has closed the roads, but Caleb Erickson has made is to the B&B before his truck dies. As Lucy and Caleb become better acquainted, he begins to unwind from the stress of running his successful tech business. Will he make peace with his father and remember the joy of Christmas on the ranch, with Lucy? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
Christmas Creek Cowboy by Delores Fossen (4 stars) – Emmy Kendrick finds missing mail sacks in the home she purchased from Sheriff Calen Jameson’s father. Why did his father hide mail in the attic and when will the U.S. Post Office give permission to deliver the letters, some of which are over two decades old? One letter will lead Calen to a family member that he was unaware of and another one might just make a difference in his future.
Coming Home for Christmas by Kate Pearce – (4 stars) – Lucy Smith is planning on spending Christmas by herself in the B&B that she inherited from her grandmother. A storm has closed the roads, but Caleb Erickson has made is to the B&B before his truck dies. As Lucy and Caleb become better acquainted, he begins to unwind from the stress of running his successful tech business. Will he make peace with his father and remember the joy of Christmas on the ranch, with Lucy? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
December 11, 2022
*4.5 stars*
Loved this romance-filled, holiday trio…
It’s the perfect blustery weather to snuggle in front of the fire, under the blanket, getting lost in a holiday read! Christmas is a time for special things to happen and love is the best magic of all. Each more-than-a-novella story had its own appeal. And of course, right from the start, cowboys/lawmen are always at the top of my list…
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
This author has her own unique style of alpha heroes and plucky, but struggling heroines. Thomas and Annalisa fit the mold but offered their own style of banter and connection as they worked through a deadly mystery together…
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
Calen and Emmy were long-time friends and they became even closer as their respective significant others cheated in spectacular fashion. They vented and commiserated and, funnily enough, wrestled with a new problem, together… I loved their friendship to lover’s story filled with humour and heart and the right tinge of grumpiness…
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Caleb was coming home and not too sure of his welcome. Luckily, Lucy and her B&B offered a timely rest stop and delay in seeing his family. His best friend’s little sister was all grown up and her struggles soon became his. Bad weather meant a closeness they’d never shared now opened up a whole new host of possibilities.
Each story had likable characters, interesting plots and, above all, the magic of love at Christmas time!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher
Loved this romance-filled, holiday trio…
It’s the perfect blustery weather to snuggle in front of the fire, under the blanket, getting lost in a holiday read! Christmas is a time for special things to happen and love is the best magic of all. Each more-than-a-novella story had its own appeal. And of course, right from the start, cowboys/lawmen are always at the top of my list…
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
This author has her own unique style of alpha heroes and plucky, but struggling heroines. Thomas and Annalisa fit the mold but offered their own style of banter and connection as they worked through a deadly mystery together…
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
Calen and Emmy were long-time friends and they became even closer as their respective significant others cheated in spectacular fashion. They vented and commiserated and, funnily enough, wrestled with a new problem, together… I loved their friendship to lover’s story filled with humour and heart and the right tinge of grumpiness…
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
Caleb was coming home and not too sure of his welcome. Luckily, Lucy and her B&B offered a timely rest stop and delay in seeing his family. His best friend’s little sister was all grown up and her struggles soon became his. Bad weather meant a closeness they’d never shared now opened up a whole new host of possibilities.
Each story had likable characters, interesting plots and, above all, the magic of love at Christmas time!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher
September 8, 2022
I received an electronic ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley.
Three authors present short Christmas stories that pull readers in to celebrate with three couples who aren't interested in love.
Once There Was a Lawman -Palmer's romances share the sweeter side of romance but offer the depth of more intense plotlines involving murder. Her main characters are opposites in many ways and discover how similar they are too. I appreciate her gentle touch with characters.
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Fossen offers a look at two who caught their respective fiances' with each other in an embarrassing public incident. It's obvious to readers that they have feelings that go beyond friendship but it will take courage for one of them to risk their friendship by asking for more. The plot wrapped around these two offers a look at tangled family relationships within a small community. The author does not shy away from how gossip runs small towns and can cause damage but also bring support.
Coming Home From Christmas - Pearce offers a look at how difficult life can be when people refuse to talk with each other. Her two main characters have complicated relationships with their families that stem from not communicating. As the story progresses, both learn to share feelings and thoughts with each other and their families.
Well balanced set of three stories that usher in the holiday season. A lighter read that can be read in one sitting or three different ones.
Three authors present short Christmas stories that pull readers in to celebrate with three couples who aren't interested in love.
Once There Was a Lawman -Palmer's romances share the sweeter side of romance but offer the depth of more intense plotlines involving murder. Her main characters are opposites in many ways and discover how similar they are too. I appreciate her gentle touch with characters.
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Fossen offers a look at two who caught their respective fiances' with each other in an embarrassing public incident. It's obvious to readers that they have feelings that go beyond friendship but it will take courage for one of them to risk their friendship by asking for more. The plot wrapped around these two offers a look at tangled family relationships within a small community. The author does not shy away from how gossip runs small towns and can cause damage but also bring support.
Coming Home From Christmas - Pearce offers a look at how difficult life can be when people refuse to talk with each other. Her two main characters have complicated relationships with their families that stem from not communicating. As the story progresses, both learn to share feelings and thoughts with each other and their families.
Well balanced set of three stories that usher in the holiday season. A lighter read that can be read in one sitting or three different ones.
October 2, 2022
Christmas Eve Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Delores Fossen and Kate Pearce. The book is made up of three novels based around Christmas. The novels were fun to read and Just long enough to finish in one sitting.
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI lawman Thomas Kincad Jones is determined. He is investigating a death and is determined to solve the crime and head back to the city. Instead he meets Annalisa Davis. Annalisa Davis does not want to fall for anyone who is not going to stay and who is likely to be shot. However, the Christmas season is going to bring changes to both of them.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
Sheriff Calen Jameson is laminating his least favorite time of the year. Emmy Kendrick agrees as both of their exes left them for each other and did so in a very public and “naked way”. However Calen and Emmy seem to be heating things up and maybe it is time to rethink this best friends only thought.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
I love reading Kate Pearce books. In this novella, Caleb Erickson is going home for Christmas. Only his vehicle breaks down and he is stranded at a nearby Bed and Breakfast with Lucy Smith. She used to follow Caleb and her brother everywhere and was quite a pest. Interestingly Caleb is not seeing her as a pest any longer.
All three stories are fun reads. Enjoy reading Christmas Eve Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Delores Fossen and Kate Pearce.
ONCE THERE WAS A LAWMAN * Diana Palmer
FBI lawman Thomas Kincad Jones is determined. He is investigating a death and is determined to solve the crime and head back to the city. Instead he meets Annalisa Davis. Annalisa Davis does not want to fall for anyone who is not going to stay and who is likely to be shot. However, the Christmas season is going to bring changes to both of them.
CHRISTMAS CREEK COWBOY * Delores Fossen
Sheriff Calen Jameson is laminating his least favorite time of the year. Emmy Kendrick agrees as both of their exes left them for each other and did so in a very public and “naked way”. However Calen and Emmy seem to be heating things up and maybe it is time to rethink this best friends only thought.
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS * Kate Pearce
I love reading Kate Pearce books. In this novella, Caleb Erickson is going home for Christmas. Only his vehicle breaks down and he is stranded at a nearby Bed and Breakfast with Lucy Smith. She used to follow Caleb and her brother everywhere and was quite a pest. Interestingly Caleb is not seeing her as a pest any longer.
All three stories are fun reads. Enjoy reading Christmas Eve Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Delores Fossen and Kate Pearce.
January 30, 2023
Once There Was a Lawman
Once There Was a Lawman, by Diana Palmer, starts on a somewhat of a meet-cute note, developing slowly into a kidnapping/murder mystery. Though the story didn't evolve as quickly as I would have liked, the author carefully crafted well placed pieces of evidence and clues to keep me invested in the story’s outcome until all pieces came together to solve the case.
Christmas Creek Cowboy
Christmas Creek Cowboy, by Delores Fossen, tugged at my heartstrings right out of the gate. Each of the characters had their own distinct personality, the quirky townspeople kept the story lighthearted and flowing seamlessly from humor to distress as the storyline dictated. As the story unfolded, I found myself further and further immersed in the wait for the comeuppance of certain characters…but it was done in such a humorous way that it left me smiling.
Coming Home for Christmas
Coming Home for Christmas, by Kate Pearce, contains all that I have come to expect from this author…a heartwarming story, strong and relatable characters, and a feel good setting that draws you in and holds your emotions captive until the last page is turned. Including a favorite character of mine, Chase Morgan, from one of Ms. Pearce’s earlier series, was an added delight.
This ARC book was complimentary, furnished by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am providing my honest review.
Once There Was a Lawman, by Diana Palmer, starts on a somewhat of a meet-cute note, developing slowly into a kidnapping/murder mystery. Though the story didn't evolve as quickly as I would have liked, the author carefully crafted well placed pieces of evidence and clues to keep me invested in the story’s outcome until all pieces came together to solve the case.
Christmas Creek Cowboy
Christmas Creek Cowboy, by Delores Fossen, tugged at my heartstrings right out of the gate. Each of the characters had their own distinct personality, the quirky townspeople kept the story lighthearted and flowing seamlessly from humor to distress as the storyline dictated. As the story unfolded, I found myself further and further immersed in the wait for the comeuppance of certain characters…but it was done in such a humorous way that it left me smiling.
Coming Home for Christmas
Coming Home for Christmas, by Kate Pearce, contains all that I have come to expect from this author…a heartwarming story, strong and relatable characters, and a feel good setting that draws you in and holds your emotions captive until the last page is turned. Including a favorite character of mine, Chase Morgan, from one of Ms. Pearce’s earlier series, was an added delight.
This ARC book was complimentary, furnished by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am providing my honest review.
September 24, 2022
Once There Was A Lawman - Diana Palmer
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. A delightfully entertaining novella I loved both Thomas & Annalisa. There as humour, suspense & romance
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk but! Another fun, entertaining novella with great characters
Coming Home For Christmas - Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson, her brother's best friend shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted. My favourite of the three, I loved both Caleb & Lucy & loved how he realised where his heart was. Relationships were mended & the icing on the cake a cameo appearance from Chase Morgan
Three charming, delightful novellas all are ideal for whiling away a couple of hours
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
FBI agent Thomas Kincaid Jones has soured on love and Christmas, but Annalisa Davis could change all that. Except the lovely nurse isn’t looking to get involved with someone whose job requires a gun on his hip. A delightfully entertaining novella I loved both Thomas & Annalisa. There as humour, suspense & romance
Christmas Creek Cowboy - Delores Fossen
In Christmas Creek, Texas, folks go all out for the holidays, but Sheriff Calen Jameson is too busy commiserating about cheating exes with his best friend, Emmy Kendrick. Calen always thought their bond was too precious to risk but! Another fun, entertaining novella with great characters
Coming Home For Christmas - Kate Pearce
Lucy Smith thinks Santa has outdone himself when Caleb Erickson, her brother's best friend shows up at her B&B. In high school, Caleb was oblivious to her crush. But while they wait out a snowstorm, he’s discovering she may be the gift he never knew he wanted. My favourite of the three, I loved both Caleb & Lucy & loved how he realised where his heart was. Relationships were mended & the icing on the cake a cameo appearance from Chase Morgan
Three charming, delightful novellas all are ideal for whiling away a couple of hours
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 16, 2022
This was a great collection of 3 cowboy stories. I enjoyed them all but some where better than the others.
The first was a great story but not very Christmasy. It was a crime/romance novel a very different genre hybrid story. They characters were good and well developed. It was a well rounded 3.5 star story.
BOOK 2 was a nice enough story. I only connected with part of the story. The characters was OK but wasn't much depth to them probably because it was a novella. For me a not very memorable story but a nice average read 3 stars.
My favourite story was number 3 this was a lovely Christmasy story. The story-line was heartwarming and the characters were loveable and easier to relate to. I rated this novella or story 4 stars. So overall this book is a solid 3.5 star book. Although all 3 books feature cowboys and are set at Christmas time they are all very different in content with different levels of Christmas cheer and love scenes. I am wondering is a cowboy a cowboy if he doesn't ride a horse? There were no horses in sight a slight let down for me. It was an unique book that's for sure the only thing they have in common cowboy now I use this term loosely and romance. If this sounds like your type of book then give it a go you can always try a sample this could be your next 5 star read.
Many thanks to the authors and publishing team for creating this enjoyable read.
The first was a great story but not very Christmasy. It was a crime/romance novel a very different genre hybrid story. They characters were good and well developed. It was a well rounded 3.5 star story.
BOOK 2 was a nice enough story. I only connected with part of the story. The characters was OK but wasn't much depth to them probably because it was a novella. For me a not very memorable story but a nice average read 3 stars.
My favourite story was number 3 this was a lovely Christmasy story. The story-line was heartwarming and the characters were loveable and easier to relate to. I rated this novella or story 4 stars. So overall this book is a solid 3.5 star book. Although all 3 books feature cowboys and are set at Christmas time they are all very different in content with different levels of Christmas cheer and love scenes. I am wondering is a cowboy a cowboy if he doesn't ride a horse? There were no horses in sight a slight let down for me. It was an unique book that's for sure the only thing they have in common cowboy now I use this term loosely and romance. If this sounds like your type of book then give it a go you can always try a sample this could be your next 5 star read.
Many thanks to the authors and publishing team for creating this enjoyable read.
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