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Hope's Crossing #7
Wild Iris Ridge
Lucy Drake and Brendan Caine have only one thing in common…
And it's likely to tear them apart. Because it was Brendan's late wife, Jessie—and Lucy's best friend—who'd brought them together in the first place. And since Jessie's passing, Brendan's been distracted by his two little ones…and the memory of an explosive kiss with Lucy years before his marriage. Still, he'll steer clear of her. She's always been trouble with a capital T.
Lucy couldn't wait to shed her small-town roots for the big city. But now that she's back in Hope's Crossing to take care of the Queen Anne home her late aunt has left her, she figures seeing Brendan Caine again is no big deal. After all, she'd managed to resist the handsome fire chief once before, but clearly the embers of their attraction are still smoldering….
And it's likely to tear them apart. Because it was Brendan's late wife, Jessie—and Lucy's best friend—who'd brought them together in the first place. And since Jessie's passing, Brendan's been distracted by his two little ones…and the memory of an explosive kiss with Lucy years before his marriage. Still, he'll steer clear of her. She's always been trouble with a capital T.
Lucy couldn't wait to shed her small-town roots for the big city. But now that she's back in Hope's Crossing to take care of the Queen Anne home her late aunt has left her, she figures seeing Brendan Caine again is no big deal. After all, she'd managed to resist the handsome fire chief once before, but clearly the embers of their attraction are still smoldering….
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2016
640 people are currently reading
2343 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
312 books3,860 followersI'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
November 19, 2022
Three and a half stars
Lucy Drake still remembers the kiss from Brendan Caine which obviously meant far more to the then twenty one year old Lucy than to him. For it was only a short while later he started dating Lucy’s cousin and best friend, Jessie, who he then married. Lucy did he best to keep away from Brendan while maintaining her friendship with Jess and showering their two kids with affection and gifts. Then two years ago Jessie died. Brendan has battled on as single parent to young Faith and Carter while maintaining his role as Fire Chief in the town of Hope’s Crossing.
When Lucy is sacked from her high tech job after an advertising campaign goes wrong, she returns to Hope’s Crossing and the beautiful old home her a great aunt Annabelle left her. Annabelle and Iris House provided a refuge for Lucy as a teenager when she needed one. She plans to stay long enough to get it restored and running as a B and B which is something Annabelle and Jessie dreamed of doing. Things get off to a very rocky start. As far as Brendan is concerned Lucy is trouble with a capital T. Her feelings for him are similar. And yet.... there seems to be flickering embers of attraction between them.
Though I have read and enjoyed books in another series by this author, I haven’t read the earlier books about Hope’s Crossing and its inhabitants. No problems though as I was quickly able to settle into this one. I liked Lucy and Brendan and his two children are so cute. Loved Brendan's father and the rest of the Caine family. An enjoyable book about family, friendship, romance and community. Perhaps a tad predictable but a sweet, entertaining read that I am sure will appeal to many readers of women’s fiction. From its lovely cover to the end of the book this is a delightful way to spend some time.
Lucy Drake still remembers the kiss from Brendan Caine which obviously meant far more to the then twenty one year old Lucy than to him. For it was only a short while later he started dating Lucy’s cousin and best friend, Jessie, who he then married. Lucy did he best to keep away from Brendan while maintaining her friendship with Jess and showering their two kids with affection and gifts. Then two years ago Jessie died. Brendan has battled on as single parent to young Faith and Carter while maintaining his role as Fire Chief in the town of Hope’s Crossing.
When Lucy is sacked from her high tech job after an advertising campaign goes wrong, she returns to Hope’s Crossing and the beautiful old home her a great aunt Annabelle left her. Annabelle and Iris House provided a refuge for Lucy as a teenager when she needed one. She plans to stay long enough to get it restored and running as a B and B which is something Annabelle and Jessie dreamed of doing. Things get off to a very rocky start. As far as Brendan is concerned Lucy is trouble with a capital T. Her feelings for him are similar. And yet.... there seems to be flickering embers of attraction between them.
Though I have read and enjoyed books in another series by this author, I haven’t read the earlier books about Hope’s Crossing and its inhabitants. No problems though as I was quickly able to settle into this one. I liked Lucy and Brendan and his two children are so cute. Loved Brendan's father and the rest of the Caine family. An enjoyable book about family, friendship, romance and community. Perhaps a tad predictable but a sweet, entertaining read that I am sure will appeal to many readers of women’s fiction. From its lovely cover to the end of the book this is a delightful way to spend some time.
June 24, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive and advance copy of Wild Iris Ridge to review. I discovered RaeAnne Thayne about a year ago, and have since devoured pretty much everything thing I can find written by her. She has a great way of writing characters who feel real, and who have depth. The towns about which she writes become almost characters of their own, and Hope's Crossing is no exception to this rule. The families and characters that make up the town of Hope's Crossing remind be a bit of my own growing up in a small town. While a small town can be an ideal place to be, it does not exempt you from problem and trials, and adding to it, everyone knows about everything that goes on in town.
Brendan and Lucy's story is an interesting one of misunderstanding and hurt. They have a muddied past, but are brought together by two sweet children (with the help of a couple puppy dogs and an entire town rooting for them). Both characters fight against their growing attraction to each other, and do everything they can to avoid each other, but seem to be thrown together at every turn (and when that happens, sparks fly..romantically and often tempters too).
I loved Wild Iris Ridge, as well as the other books in the Hope's Crossing series. You could start with just this book alone, but it helps to know about the other characters by having read the others in the series.
Brendan and Lucy's story is an interesting one of misunderstanding and hurt. They have a muddied past, but are brought together by two sweet children (with the help of a couple puppy dogs and an entire town rooting for them). Both characters fight against their growing attraction to each other, and do everything they can to avoid each other, but seem to be thrown together at every turn (and when that happens, sparks fly..romantically and often tempters too).
I loved Wild Iris Ridge, as well as the other books in the Hope's Crossing series. You could start with just this book alone, but it helps to know about the other characters by having read the others in the series.
June 9, 2014
When I read that this will be the last of the Hope Crossing books (with a caveat of maybe), I was disappointed, especially after reading Wild Iris Ridge.
RaeAnne Thayne has managed to create a town that feels so alive to me. The struggles and life itself are so real that I imagine that I’m reading about my own neighborhood or family. Only these folks are much more interesting than my relatives! (And I envision the men as MUCH cuter, too!)
Brendan and Lucy have a history that they must work through in order to move on. Their struggles and everyday life were so very heartfelt and real to me. I didn’t feel any personal angst reading this wonderful novel – as in “somebody tell me why the heck I wanted to read this story?” – however I DID feel all the hero’s and heroine’s struggles. Ms. Thayne does such a wonderful job creating this world we call a story. Brendan and Lucy are so good for one another and their personal struggles are real and such great reading.
I have to say that my personal favorite supporting characters are Faith and Carter. What adorable munchkins! I truly believe their dad did a wonderful job raising them after their mom passed away. A. Dor. Able.
I highly recommend everyone buy and read this book. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review however it was on my “to buy” list, as are all of this author’s books. I truly enjoyed Wild Iris Ridge and managed to lose myself in the world of Hope Crossing one more time.
RaeAnne Thayne has managed to create a town that feels so alive to me. The struggles and life itself are so real that I imagine that I’m reading about my own neighborhood or family. Only these folks are much more interesting than my relatives! (And I envision the men as MUCH cuter, too!)
Brendan and Lucy have a history that they must work through in order to move on. Their struggles and everyday life were so very heartfelt and real to me. I didn’t feel any personal angst reading this wonderful novel – as in “somebody tell me why the heck I wanted to read this story?” – however I DID feel all the hero’s and heroine’s struggles. Ms. Thayne does such a wonderful job creating this world we call a story. Brendan and Lucy are so good for one another and their personal struggles are real and such great reading.
I have to say that my personal favorite supporting characters are Faith and Carter. What adorable munchkins! I truly believe their dad did a wonderful job raising them after their mom passed away. A. Dor. Able.
I highly recommend everyone buy and read this book. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review however it was on my “to buy” list, as are all of this author’s books. I truly enjoyed Wild Iris Ridge and managed to lose myself in the world of Hope Crossing one more time.
June 21, 2014
RaeAnne Thayne takes us back to Hope's Crossing for a sweet romance that deals with two people who get a chance to explore what might have been.
Lucy Drakes came to Iris House during her teen years to live wit her Aunt Annabelle. The adjustment was a difficult one considering that her mother had just overdosed and had a father who didn't want to deal with a teenager who was close in age to his new wife. What Lucy found was security and love. Her cousin, Jessie was also living there and they soon became the best of friends. During school she focused on her grades and becoming a success. Leaving for college was the next step, but she knew Iris House would always be home. I liked Lucy, but always felt so much empathy for her. I can't imagine the hurt she endured at the hands of those who were suppose to love her unconditionally.
She has been living in Seattle and successful in marketing with a company since college, but is suddenly fired and her life is turned upside down. Lucy decides to return to Hope's Crossing and settle everything with Iris House while regrouping and deciding what to do with her career. What she hadn't planned on was the fire of running into Brendon Caine! The fire was easily contained, but her animosity towards Brendan was a completely different matter entirely.
Brendan Caine has lived in Hope's Crossing his entire life except for the time at college and a brief 2 year stint with the NFL before his injury. Since returning he has worked at the fire department, married and the father of 2 young children. 2 years ago his life was forever changed when his young, pregnant wife died suddenly. Loosing Jessie and their unborn child was a heartbreak he was still dealing with. I can't imagine how hard it was for him to get up in the morning and take care of his family.
Lucy and Brendan had met briefly years ago, but Brendan didn't persue a relationship and that literally broke Lucy's heart. To make things worse he started dating Jessie and proceeded to marry her. Lucy never warmed up to Brendan, but maintained a close relationship with Jessie and eventually her children. Even after Jessie's death Lucy kept in contact with the children. Lucy decides for the children's sake to try to put her feelings for Brendan aside and hopefully to at least become friends. Suddenly Brendan is seeing Lucy differently and he's not certain he likes it.
This is a beautiful story about loss and starting over. Lucy has lost not only her job, but the feeling of security. She must regroup and decide where she wants to go from here. Brendan is dealing with grief after the loss of his wife and child and must decide if he's ready to move forward with his life. I really enjoyed both characters and their struggles. The storyline will pull the reader in and keep them turning the pages. The imagery gives the reader a real feel for what living in Hope's Crossing is really like. I would recommend this book to anyone. I received this book as a give from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influences.
Lucy Drakes came to Iris House during her teen years to live wit her Aunt Annabelle. The adjustment was a difficult one considering that her mother had just overdosed and had a father who didn't want to deal with a teenager who was close in age to his new wife. What Lucy found was security and love. Her cousin, Jessie was also living there and they soon became the best of friends. During school she focused on her grades and becoming a success. Leaving for college was the next step, but she knew Iris House would always be home. I liked Lucy, but always felt so much empathy for her. I can't imagine the hurt she endured at the hands of those who were suppose to love her unconditionally.
She has been living in Seattle and successful in marketing with a company since college, but is suddenly fired and her life is turned upside down. Lucy decides to return to Hope's Crossing and settle everything with Iris House while regrouping and deciding what to do with her career. What she hadn't planned on was the fire of running into Brendon Caine! The fire was easily contained, but her animosity towards Brendan was a completely different matter entirely.
Brendan Caine has lived in Hope's Crossing his entire life except for the time at college and a brief 2 year stint with the NFL before his injury. Since returning he has worked at the fire department, married and the father of 2 young children. 2 years ago his life was forever changed when his young, pregnant wife died suddenly. Loosing Jessie and their unborn child was a heartbreak he was still dealing with. I can't imagine how hard it was for him to get up in the morning and take care of his family.
Lucy and Brendan had met briefly years ago, but Brendan didn't persue a relationship and that literally broke Lucy's heart. To make things worse he started dating Jessie and proceeded to marry her. Lucy never warmed up to Brendan, but maintained a close relationship with Jessie and eventually her children. Even after Jessie's death Lucy kept in contact with the children. Lucy decides for the children's sake to try to put her feelings for Brendan aside and hopefully to at least become friends. Suddenly Brendan is seeing Lucy differently and he's not certain he likes it.
This is a beautiful story about loss and starting over. Lucy has lost not only her job, but the feeling of security. She must regroup and decide where she wants to go from here. Brendan is dealing with grief after the loss of his wife and child and must decide if he's ready to move forward with his life. I really enjoyed both characters and their struggles. The storyline will pull the reader in and keep them turning the pages. The imagery gives the reader a real feel for what living in Hope's Crossing is really like. I would recommend this book to anyone. I received this book as a give from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influences.
June 5, 2014
We return to Hope Springs for a last time with Brendan and Lucy. They had one date before Brendan fell in love with Lucy's cousin and best friend. Lucy returns to Hope Springs after a personal upheaval and reconnects with Brendan and his family two years after his wife's death. Lucy fits well with Brendan's family, but Brendan doesn't want to admit it. I loved reconnecting with Gen (who knew we would like her so much!) and Dylan. This was a good farewell to Hope Springs!
June 10, 2014
Intriguing and beautifully written with so many emotions from start to finish. I love ReaAnne's style of writing, and how the characters come alive as I am reading, making me feel a part of the story. So much warmth and love as Lucy and Brendan overcome past struggles and find the hope and future in each other. Once I started, I could not put it down. The story will draw you in and leave you wishing you were a part of Hope's Crossing!
January 16, 2016
We return to Hope’s Crossing with Lucy Drake. She has come back to take care of her the home left to her by her aunt. While excited to be back she is not excited to see Brendan Caine. Brenden was married to Lucy’s best friend, Jessie, who recently passed away. They had a little thing before Brendan even met Jessie. They both remember that steamy hot kiss and while Lucy has been an “aunt” to his kids, they only had to endure each other’s presence on rare occasions. Now she is back in Hope’s Crossing and that means trouble with a capital T for both of them.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I love this series!!
RaeAnne Thayne brings us such terrific characters. Characters that are real and flawed and have issues and in Hope’s Crossing things happen to bring the right people together and overcome any obstacle. Of course there are residents of the town the push and sometimes shove people together so that can finally let down the walls they have built around their hearts and open their eyes and realize what or who is right in front of them. In this story two children and two little pups are key players. Lucy’s step sister also comes to Hope’s Crossing to shake things up a bit.
I have broke my rule about reading these books in order twice now and am glad I did. I also plan to catch up on the couple I have missed. I was so happy to learn that Christmas in Snowflake Canyon was not the last in the series. These stories have become my go to books when I just need to escape from everyday stress and relax and know there is going to be happy ending.
All of my visits to Hope's Crossing have been wonderful and I hope I get to visit again very soon as I catch up on the ones I missed. You can read them order but they do read well as stand alone too. I am really sorry to see this series end but it goes out on a great high note.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I love this series!!
RaeAnne Thayne brings us such terrific characters. Characters that are real and flawed and have issues and in Hope’s Crossing things happen to bring the right people together and overcome any obstacle. Of course there are residents of the town the push and sometimes shove people together so that can finally let down the walls they have built around their hearts and open their eyes and realize what or who is right in front of them. In this story two children and two little pups are key players. Lucy’s step sister also comes to Hope’s Crossing to shake things up a bit.
I have broke my rule about reading these books in order twice now and am glad I did. I also plan to catch up on the couple I have missed. I was so happy to learn that Christmas in Snowflake Canyon was not the last in the series. These stories have become my go to books when I just need to escape from everyday stress and relax and know there is going to be happy ending.
All of my visits to Hope's Crossing have been wonderful and I hope I get to visit again very soon as I catch up on the ones I missed. You can read them order but they do read well as stand alone too. I am really sorry to see this series end but it goes out on a great high note.
June 24, 2014
4 STARS
I enjoy Hope's Crossing series. The secondary characters are old friends that we can catch up on their lives. The main characters are likeable.
Lucy has come to Hope's Crossing at a time in her life is in a crisis. She has been left a big house and she is thinking of turning it into a bed and breakfast.
Lucy years ago had shared one kiss with Brendan. Then Brendan started dating her best friend. Since then she has tried to stay away from him. But she loves his children. So she is not happy to run into him with just being in town for a short time.
Brendan Caine is the fire chief. He has been a widower for two years. He has two cute children. His late wife was Lucy's cousin and best friend. He is not ready to start dating. He can not stop thinking about Lucy though he keeps trying to stay away from her.
Carter Caine is a cute five year old. Who is active.
Faith Caine is a nine year old. She loves to read.
It even has cute animals that are loveable and make you want to take them home with you.
The setting is beautiful sounding and makes me want to go for a walk in the mountains. Hope Crossing is in Colorado right close to the mountains.
I liked the drama it was not drastic but easy to read and care about the characters. I really like how the town has a day of service and every year more people get involved to help each other and the town.
I was given this ebook to read and agreed to give honest review of it in return by Net Galley and Harlequin.
I enjoy Hope's Crossing series. The secondary characters are old friends that we can catch up on their lives. The main characters are likeable.
Lucy has come to Hope's Crossing at a time in her life is in a crisis. She has been left a big house and she is thinking of turning it into a bed and breakfast.
Lucy years ago had shared one kiss with Brendan. Then Brendan started dating her best friend. Since then she has tried to stay away from him. But she loves his children. So she is not happy to run into him with just being in town for a short time.
Brendan Caine is the fire chief. He has been a widower for two years. He has two cute children. His late wife was Lucy's cousin and best friend. He is not ready to start dating. He can not stop thinking about Lucy though he keeps trying to stay away from her.
Carter Caine is a cute five year old. Who is active.
Faith Caine is a nine year old. She loves to read.
It even has cute animals that are loveable and make you want to take them home with you.
The setting is beautiful sounding and makes me want to go for a walk in the mountains. Hope Crossing is in Colorado right close to the mountains.
I liked the drama it was not drastic but easy to read and care about the characters. I really like how the town has a day of service and every year more people get involved to help each other and the town.
I was given this ebook to read and agreed to give honest review of it in return by Net Galley and Harlequin.
June 17, 2014
a good summer read
I have been a reader of RaeAnne Thayne books for years, throught the Hope's Crossing series. I am happy to say her new book, Wild Iris Ridge, did not disappoint. I enjoyed the friendship Branden and Lucy grew to have. It was fresh (although they had some history) and tender. Neither Brandon or Lucy felt their friendship could develop into a relationship because of Jessie. Jessie was Lucy's cousin and Branden's dead wife. This made their deepening friendship uncomfortable. Branden, speaking with friends, even called Lucy, "prickly " and a "little idiot." Jessie had always felt that Lucy was a 'fly in the ointment' of their marriage. The town, Wild Irish Ridge, was a very pleasant, caring, comfortable place. The neighbours and townsfolk all knew one another and saw the relationship budding between the two main characters. I believe the addition of the abandoned puppies brought all of our characters to life. It certainly changed the lives of the three children involved. Wild Iris Ridge is an inviting place and an enchanting story with truly believable characters. I loved that the story is not all rainbows and roses. Everyone had their own trials and issues. I sure wish, however, that towns like this actually existed. I will be awaiting RaeAnne's next release later this year.
June 7, 2014
I just finished my preview copy of Wild Iris Ridge.
I'm enchanted with RaeAnne's books and have read all the Hope's Crossing books.
As usual the characters have a slightly troubled past but through the book, this is worked out and a happy ending results.
I love RaeAnne's structure of the book and her writing style. I felt like I was in Hope's Crossing and could feel what the characters were feeling thoughout the book, that doesn't always happen when I read a book.
The main characters, Lucy and Brendan had a past (one night) and she moves back into town to a house her aunt had owned. They fight their attraction thru the book, but resolve it at the end.
I'm very sad this is the end of this series as I've enjoyed it thoroughly. If you haven't read the entire series, you need to put them on your read list for sure!
My favorite part of the town is the day the whole town comes together and fixes up the town and area that need improvement, then have a Gala at night to fund raise for scholarships named after a character that was killed due to a car accident in the first book in the series, Blackberry Summer.
I'm enchanted with RaeAnne's books and have read all the Hope's Crossing books.
As usual the characters have a slightly troubled past but through the book, this is worked out and a happy ending results.
I love RaeAnne's structure of the book and her writing style. I felt like I was in Hope's Crossing and could feel what the characters were feeling thoughout the book, that doesn't always happen when I read a book.
The main characters, Lucy and Brendan had a past (one night) and she moves back into town to a house her aunt had owned. They fight their attraction thru the book, but resolve it at the end.
I'm very sad this is the end of this series as I've enjoyed it thoroughly. If you haven't read the entire series, you need to put them on your read list for sure!
My favorite part of the town is the day the whole town comes together and fixes up the town and area that need improvement, then have a Gala at night to fund raise for scholarships named after a character that was killed due to a car accident in the first book in the series, Blackberry Summer.
June 24, 2014
Wild Iris Ridge by Raeanne Thayne
Coming home left much to be desired for Lucy Drake. However, circumstances beyond her control drew her back into the heart of community, Hope's Crossing. Will she find the comfort she desires? Will her life path become clearer so she could move on? Or will she become enmeshed in the hope that some things just meant to be? Will she be able to overcome the bigger obstacle named Brendan Caine?
To see if Lucy finds her heart's desires, take a trip with her up to Wild Iris Ridge to feel the hope and feeling of community, family and love.
Wild Iris Ridge, the seventh and final book in the Hope's Crossing series, will be on sale June 24, 2014. Mark that date on your calendar...you will not regret yet another trip to Hope's Crossing!
Coming home left much to be desired for Lucy Drake. However, circumstances beyond her control drew her back into the heart of community, Hope's Crossing. Will she find the comfort she desires? Will her life path become clearer so she could move on? Or will she become enmeshed in the hope that some things just meant to be? Will she be able to overcome the bigger obstacle named Brendan Caine?
To see if Lucy finds her heart's desires, take a trip with her up to Wild Iris Ridge to feel the hope and feeling of community, family and love.
Wild Iris Ridge, the seventh and final book in the Hope's Crossing series, will be on sale June 24, 2014. Mark that date on your calendar...you will not regret yet another trip to Hope's Crossing!
Read
January 12, 2016"In Thayne’s latest, her beautiful, honest storytelling goes straight to the heart. Her characters are authentically vulnerable and the light, amusing banter between them adds to the sweet warmth of this story. A well-defined plot with universal themes of love and loss make this a moving yet powerful romance" (RT Book Reviews). 4 stars
Miniseries: Hope's Crossing #7
Miniseries: Hope's Crossing #7
June 2, 2014
The book was a little slow to start but once into it, it is a typical Raeanne book with lively and interesting characters, although I felt there could have been more depth as to why the main characters didn't get together 10 years earlier. It was nice to see Dermot getting his lady. I loved the way Hopes Crossing and its people have grown and evolved through the series.
June 27, 2014
I was cheering for Brendan and Lucy from the very beginning! I think this is my favorite book in this series! I truly love this whole town and all the folks in it!!!
June 23, 2014
Brendan has 2 small children with Jessie. Jessie died of an undiagnosed heart condition when she was pregnant with their 3rd child, a son. Lucy was Jessie's cousin and best friend. She moved back to Iris House, where she lived with her great-aunt, Annabelle, after she is fired from her job. Brendan and Lucy met before she went to an internship, and kissed, she gave Brendan her name and number but Brendan didn't call, he met Jessie, and started dating her, and one year later he proposed. Lucy has never forgotten that kiss, and tried to undermine their relationship to Jessie, but after they become engaged, she stopped. Lucy watches the kids when Brendan has to work, he is the fire chief of Hope's Crossing.
Lucy wants to turn Iris house into a B&B, which was what Lucy and Annabelle wanted, and talked about doing before they passed away.
Lucy's half sister Crystal is brought to stay with her by their mutual father after Crystal is expelled due to drugs. While going to the grocery store they meet Brendan and the kids, and Faith and Crystal hear a noise and discover 2 puppies in the dumpster! They get them out and take them to the vet and Faith takes the girl dog, Daisy, and Crystal takes the boy dog, Max. Brendan is not sure he wants to have a dog, but after seeing what the dog does for the kids, by teaching them responsibility, and bringing Faith out of her shell, he tells Lucy he can't take the dog away.
We are also invited to Carter's 6th birthday party! He invites Lucy and Crystal and they both promise to attend. Lucy and Brendan kiss, again, and Lucy says they have to stop because anyone could walk in and see them, and they are both not ready to deal with that.
Brendan and Lucy are tasked with cleaning the Wild Iris Ridge Trail, they kiss, and then fight when Brendan asks Lucy to wait for him to come to terms with Jessie's death, and wants to start a relationship with her. Lucy looses her sunglasses and goes back to find them but Max slides down the hill and Lucy goes to get him but she falls and breaks her ankle. Brendan finds out she is missing when Crystal calls 911 and reports it, Brendan goes to the ridge and finds her and tells her he loves her, he was so scared he was going to loose her. He stays with her until help arrives, and stays with her at the hospital also.
The end of the book is weddings! Brendan's sister Charlotte marries Spencer Gregory and his brother Dylan marries Genevieve Beaumont (who both have books in the series).
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review as part of RaeAnne Thayne's review crew.
Lucy wants to turn Iris house into a B&B, which was what Lucy and Annabelle wanted, and talked about doing before they passed away.
Lucy's half sister Crystal is brought to stay with her by their mutual father after Crystal is expelled due to drugs. While going to the grocery store they meet Brendan and the kids, and Faith and Crystal hear a noise and discover 2 puppies in the dumpster! They get them out and take them to the vet and Faith takes the girl dog, Daisy, and Crystal takes the boy dog, Max. Brendan is not sure he wants to have a dog, but after seeing what the dog does for the kids, by teaching them responsibility, and bringing Faith out of her shell, he tells Lucy he can't take the dog away.
We are also invited to Carter's 6th birthday party! He invites Lucy and Crystal and they both promise to attend. Lucy and Brendan kiss, again, and Lucy says they have to stop because anyone could walk in and see them, and they are both not ready to deal with that.
Brendan and Lucy are tasked with cleaning the Wild Iris Ridge Trail, they kiss, and then fight when Brendan asks Lucy to wait for him to come to terms with Jessie's death, and wants to start a relationship with her. Lucy looses her sunglasses and goes back to find them but Max slides down the hill and Lucy goes to get him but she falls and breaks her ankle. Brendan finds out she is missing when Crystal calls 911 and reports it, Brendan goes to the ridge and finds her and tells her he loves her, he was so scared he was going to loose her. He stays with her until help arrives, and stays with her at the hospital also.
The end of the book is weddings! Brendan's sister Charlotte marries Spencer Gregory and his brother Dylan marries Genevieve Beaumont (who both have books in the series).
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review as part of RaeAnne Thayne's review crew.
November 18, 2015
Well, that was disappointing, in an expectations disappointed kind-of-way. Oh, the book isn't bad and I didn't hesitate in sticking it out to the end, but I have to admit I wasn't terribly engaged, even at the very end.
The problem is that Brendan just didn't work, for me. You'd think it'd be all good—a hunky, take-charge fire chief with two adorable kids and the quiet strength to weather the loss of the wife he loved without completely breaking down. All that and all I came up with was a great big meh. The thing is that all that strength and determination failed entirely to show up in his relationship with Lucy. He was dithering, avoidy, noncommittal and just plain weak. And his occasional jerkwad blamey episodes were an active turn off (you know, where he displaces his own guilt and frustration onto Lucy just because she's proximate and he doesn't want to face his true feelings). Bah.
Lucy was at least a counter balance. She's strong and kind and determined even in the face of some rather major setbacks in her life. I liked her a lot, though not without reservation. Most of my problems with her felt like authorial missteps, though. I mean, certain reactions seemed off, and her panic attacks seemed rather conveniently placed for maximum drama and and .
All of which sounds more awful than it was. Okay, maybe the central romance wasn't terribly strong, but the side characters were outstanding. I particularly liked watching Lucy develop a relationship with her sister, Crystal. And the kids and puppies were layered in with just the right touch (i.e. not cloying or twee as they so easily could have been).
In short, the side characters saved this for me. It's a real shame that it needed that booster in a setup that could have, should have, been a slam-dunk.
The problem is that Brendan just didn't work, for me. You'd think it'd be all good—a hunky, take-charge fire chief with two adorable kids and the quiet strength to weather the loss of the wife he loved without completely breaking down. All that and all I came up with was a great big meh. The thing is that all that strength and determination failed entirely to show up in his relationship with Lucy. He was dithering, avoidy, noncommittal and just plain weak. And his occasional jerkwad blamey episodes were an active turn off (you know, where he displaces his own guilt and frustration onto Lucy just because she's proximate and he doesn't want to face his true feelings). Bah.
Lucy was at least a counter balance. She's strong and kind and determined even in the face of some rather major setbacks in her life. I liked her a lot, though not without reservation. Most of my problems with her felt like authorial missteps, though. I mean, certain reactions seemed off, and her panic attacks seemed rather conveniently placed for maximum drama and and .
All of which sounds more awful than it was. Okay, maybe the central romance wasn't terribly strong, but the side characters were outstanding. I particularly liked watching Lucy develop a relationship with her sister, Crystal. And the kids and puppies were layered in with just the right touch (i.e. not cloying or twee as they so easily could have been).
In short, the side characters saved this for me. It's a real shame that it needed that booster in a setup that could have, should have, been a slam-dunk.
January 10, 2016
Lucy Drake was a Marketing Director at a Fortune 500 company but she has just lost her job due to a bad product launch. Now she has returned to her Great Aunt's house in Hope's Crossing. This is the only place she feels safe and comfortable and that's what she desperately needs right now as she puts the pieces of her life back together. As luck would have it, her arrival had it's challenges which almost immediately called for the need of the Fire Department. This is exactly what she needed to run into the one person she didn't want to see, the Fire Chief Brendan Caine. Lucy and Brendan have a rocky history. Brendan's late wife Jess happened to be Lucy's best friend and cousin. It was clear they despised each other. For years Lucy told Jess that Brendan was a washed up jock with more muscles than brains, but Brendan never could figure out why she hated him so much. Lucy and Brendan's paths kept crossing especially since she was the honorary Aunt to his children Faith and Carter. The more time they spent together they started to develop feelings for each other. Is it possible that Brendan could actually open his heart again and let another person in? Can he let someone get that close to him and his children? Will Lucy ever want to settle down in a small town or will she go back to the city life at the first chance she gets? Will they ever express their feelings for each other before it's too late? After reading this book, I will be getting the others in the series soon!
June 30, 2014
This is the second book of RaeAnne’s that I have read and the second book that I have read in this series. I thought that RaeAnne did a great job of giving enough detail about the characters that allowed you to feel like you really knew who they were. In addition, I think she did a great job of making this story able to stand on its own as if it wasn’t part of the series. The only reason that I knew that it was part of a series is 1) I read the previous book before this one and 2) it said it was number 7 in the Hope Crossing Series.
In addition, what I really liked about this book is that it was realistic. She had the characters laugh, cry, be mad at each other and make up. I really felt like these were two people that could be real people that I would know. What also was nice about the story was how she incorporated family into the story. She made you really feel like you were a part of the Caine family.
Although they say this may be the last book in the series I would have to disagree. I think that there is so many more great stories that she could get into this series. Can't wait to read what new book that she will come out with next.
In addition, what I really liked about this book is that it was realistic. She had the characters laugh, cry, be mad at each other and make up. I really felt like these were two people that could be real people that I would know. What also was nice about the story was how she incorporated family into the story. She made you really feel like you were a part of the Caine family.
Although they say this may be the last book in the series I would have to disagree. I think that there is so many more great stories that she could get into this series. Can't wait to read what new book that she will come out with next.
January 13, 2015
I could NOT put RaeAnne Thayne's Wild Iris Ridge down! If I could give this book 6 stars I would. I love ALL of RaeAnne's Hope's Crossing books, but she definitely saved the best for the last. I felt everything in this book. I laughed, I cried, I got excited, I swooned, I felt loss, I felt hope, I even squealed out loud. I was even a little jealous because I want Brendan all to myself. ;) Wild Iris Ridge is such a heartfelt story. I was very sad to see this book end, and I was even sadder knowing this was the last book in the Hope's Crossing series. I seriously want to pack my bags and go live in Colorado.
I highly recommend this book! And all of the other Hope's Crossing books! These books have become some of my all time favorite books. Thank you so much RaeAnne Thayne for making me fall in love with Hope's Crossing. Buy Wild Iris Ridge my friends, you won't be disappointed!
I highly recommend this book! And all of the other Hope's Crossing books! These books have become some of my all time favorite books. Thank you so much RaeAnne Thayne for making me fall in love with Hope's Crossing. Buy Wild Iris Ridge my friends, you won't be disappointed!
June 11, 2014
Lucy Drake comes back to Hope Crossing after losing her job and inheriting Iris House from her aunt Anabelle. Her cousin Jessie and Anabelle were going to turn it into a Bed and Breakfast but they both died before they could accomplish that. Lucy thinks it is a great idea and that is what she is planning to do with Iris House. Brendan Caine is the fire chief in town and was married to Lucy's cousin Jessie and they had two children Faith and Carter. Lucy and Brendan had shared a kiss years ago before Brendan met Jessie but he never followed thru on contacting Lucy. There are hurt feelings between Lucy and Brendan. They both need to get over the past so they can move on with the future. I loved the ending and I am so sad that this is the final book in the Hope Crossing series. I am going to miss the people in this town that I have gotten to know. Thanks RaeAnne Thayne for such an amazing series!
June 25, 2014
RaeAnne Thayne hits it out of the park with her current book Wild Iris Ridge. Lucy came to Hope's Crossing as a troubled teen and quickly left town and succeeded in marketing. Product launch failure finds her out of a job so Lucy heads back to Hope's Crossing to open a bed and breakfast in the old house left to her by her great aunt. On her first night back Lucy starts a fire in the chimney and who arrives but the Fire Chief Brendan Caine. He was a long ago interest and her departed cousin's widower. Brendan is still reeling with the loss of his wife and child and struggling to raise 2 children. If Lucy didn't have enough problems trying to rebuild her life, her father drops off her teenage out-of-control half sister Crystal who had that just got kicked out of school.
Wild Iris Ridge is a delightful tale of small town life and love. Of moving beyond mistakes of the past and building a new future filled with love and family.
Wild Iris Ridge is a delightful tale of small town life and love. Of moving beyond mistakes of the past and building a new future filled with love and family.
June 27, 2014
I have fell in love with this series from book one...hated to see it end but what an ending to an awesome series.cannot wait for more from Raeanne.
Lucy was best friends with Brendans wife Jessie, but Lucy always had feelings for Brendan and loved there kids. When her Aunt dies and leaves her the Queen Anne house she goes back to her hometown to fix up the place and get ready to sell it. But things do not turn out as you want them to.
She runs into Brendan and tells her of the plans, she starts to hang up with the family more and look after the kids while he is at work. They are coming closer as the days go on and shes not sure what she should do leave town as not to hurt the kids or give love a try. what will happen. I recommend you read it you will not be disappointed in this book or any other in the series...
Lucy was best friends with Brendans wife Jessie, but Lucy always had feelings for Brendan and loved there kids. When her Aunt dies and leaves her the Queen Anne house she goes back to her hometown to fix up the place and get ready to sell it. But things do not turn out as you want them to.
She runs into Brendan and tells her of the plans, she starts to hang up with the family more and look after the kids while he is at work. They are coming closer as the days go on and shes not sure what she should do leave town as not to hurt the kids or give love a try. what will happen. I recommend you read it you will not be disappointed in this book or any other in the series...
August 4, 2016
What a wonderful book!! This is the story of Brendan Caine and Lucy Drake. Brendan was married to Lucy's best friend and cousin Jessie, something Lucy never got over after he kissed her before he ever hooked up with Jessie. Secretly she always wanted to be with Brendan, but it was impossible for them as he was married to Jessie and had two children with her. She dies of a heart attack and loses their third baby. He tries to move on after her death and finds himself still thinking of Lucy. Lucy comes back to Hope's Crossing to build a bed and breakfast at the old Iris House. Many twists and turns happen. He falls back into her arms and their love story unfolds. I loved the ending of this wonderful book. Had to finish it tonite to see how it would end. Wonderful story RaeAnne. Can't wait for your next book!!
June 12, 2014
I'm lucky to have been given a copy before it's released. This story had me grinning ear to ear hoping there would be a happy ending. Lucy comes to Hope's Crossing after she gets fired to take care of her great aunt Annabelle's home and turn it into a bed and breakfast. Her first night there she almost burns the place down and the fire chief Brendan Caine shows up. Both Lucy and Brendan cannot forget the kiss both of them shared long ago. Brendan's wife and Lucy's cousin died two years ago due to a heart condition and he's trying to get him and his children's lives back to normal. But Lucy shakes that up for sure. If you love romance, suspense just in the end of the book so not that much and close friendships and family RaeAnne doesn't disappoint. I loved this book and can't wait for others!
June 30, 2014
RaeAnn has done it again! First of all, the Hope's Crossing series has been one of my favorites of all time. The way she has developed all of the secondary characters in each story with some leading into their own book, yet still returning in other books allows the reader to have such intimate knowledge of the characters. Lucy and Brendan have fireworks going off as soon as they see each other but try like their life depends on it to dislike each other. If you haven't read this series, you can start anywhere and read in any order, but for the absolute best understanding of this wonderful little town, I recommend reading in order. I was sitting in the orthodontist office reading this book....I started laughing out loud in one of the scenes. The lady across from me asked what I was reading and said she had to get the book if it makes you laugh like that!!
June 14, 2014
I was lucky and received an advanced reader copy of Wild Iris Ridge. This was my first Hope's Crossing experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Hope's Crossing is a small town where community and family matter. This is Brendan and Lucy's story. Brendan is the local fire chief, a widower with two young children. Lucy is his children's godmother. She left town after high school to make her way in the big city, only visiting occasionally, until she lost her job and decided to return to the only place that ever really felt like home.
Sparks fly right off the bat! Brendan and Lucy share more than just a love for Brendan's children. Throw in Lucy's half-sister and a couple of cute puppies, and this story is filled with the fun of small town life.
Wild Iris Ridge is full of relationships, meddling, and love. Raeanne Thayne has a winner here. A sweet read!
Hope's Crossing is a small town where community and family matter. This is Brendan and Lucy's story. Brendan is the local fire chief, a widower with two young children. Lucy is his children's godmother. She left town after high school to make her way in the big city, only visiting occasionally, until she lost her job and decided to return to the only place that ever really felt like home.
Sparks fly right off the bat! Brendan and Lucy share more than just a love for Brendan's children. Throw in Lucy's half-sister and a couple of cute puppies, and this story is filled with the fun of small town life.
Wild Iris Ridge is full of relationships, meddling, and love. Raeanne Thayne has a winner here. A sweet read!
June 22, 2014
Brendan and Jessie shared one kiss in the past and then he married her best friend, Lucy. Brendan and Lucy share a life and two children. When Lucy dies Brendan is devastated and tries to get on with his life.
Lucy couldn’t wait to leave Hope’s Crossing but she is back to take care of her Queen Anne home left to her by her aunt. Brendan and Lucy get reacquainted and learn things about each other realizing that they thought they knew each other but really didn’t. They begin to build a friendship that turns into more.
Another great story by RaeAnne Thayne. I really hated to leave Hope’s Crossing as all of the books in this series have been wonderful stories of hope and love. Check out Wild Iris Ridge as well as the others in this series. You won’t be sorry.
Lucy couldn’t wait to leave Hope’s Crossing but she is back to take care of her Queen Anne home left to her by her aunt. Brendan and Lucy get reacquainted and learn things about each other realizing that they thought they knew each other but really didn’t. They begin to build a friendship that turns into more.
Another great story by RaeAnne Thayne. I really hated to leave Hope’s Crossing as all of the books in this series have been wonderful stories of hope and love. Check out Wild Iris Ridge as well as the others in this series. You won’t be sorry.
June 24, 2014
Wild Iris Ridge
By: RaeAnne Thayne
Another great story written beautifully by RaeAnne Thayne. A wonderful romance story. Bringing the feelings back after a love marries your best friend. Lucy's friend Jessie marries Brandon. Jessie dies and leaves Brandon with two little ones to raise.
Lucy has left town but she is back to care for the Queen Anne home her aunt left her when she passed away. This shouldn't be a problem at all till she sees Brandon again. Or will it be? I love the way the characters are bought back together to learn about each other. I love stories of second chances don't you? I feel in love with little Carter and Faith. Melted my heart the relationship growing between them and Lucy. Wonderful story.
By: RaeAnne Thayne
Another great story written beautifully by RaeAnne Thayne. A wonderful romance story. Bringing the feelings back after a love marries your best friend. Lucy's friend Jessie marries Brandon. Jessie dies and leaves Brandon with two little ones to raise.
Lucy has left town but she is back to care for the Queen Anne home her aunt left her when she passed away. This shouldn't be a problem at all till she sees Brandon again. Or will it be? I love the way the characters are bought back together to learn about each other. I love stories of second chances don't you? I feel in love with little Carter and Faith. Melted my heart the relationship growing between them and Lucy. Wonderful story.
June 18, 2014
What a wonderful ending to the Hope's Crossing series! This is a book that you read and you cannot stop reading it! Lucy Drake returns to town after losing her job and deciding she wants to open a B&B in her aunt's old house. Brendan Caine, is the one who got away. The one who she dated and left to go to college and whom fell in love and married her cousin. He is now a widow with two kids who is trying to deal with Lucy returning to town.
The relationship that develops and gradually grows from that attraction is such a beautiful story. Bravo RaeAnne! I cannot find the words to describe how wonderful this book is.
The relationship that develops and gradually grows from that attraction is such a beautiful story. Bravo RaeAnne! I cannot find the words to describe how wonderful this book is.
June 12, 2014
RaeAnne ThayneI received the book before release as a member of the review crew. I have enjoyed all of RaeAnne Thayne's books set in Hope's Crossing. This one was the best. I am disappointed that this is the last story in the series. There are still stories to be told. How can you not love a story that includes little children, puppies, a big sister looking out for her younger sister and the growing love between two people who thought they couldn't be in the same room?
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