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Shelter Springs #2
The December Market
The magic of Christmas—and a second shot at romance—is in the air in Shelter Springs this holiday season…
Amanda Taylor isn’t a fan of Christmas, but as the owner of a local soap shop, ignoring the holiday season isn’t an option. To forget the pain of Christmases past, Amanda focuses on making the season bright for her customers at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market. But when her beloved grandmother, Birdie, starts dating the dashing new resident of the Shelter Inn retirement community, Amanda smells trouble. Fortunately, Rafe Arredondo, the grandson of Birdie’s charming suitor, is equally dubious of the match. Unfortunately, he's just as fiery as his grandfather—and Amanda has zero interest in getting burned.
As a single father, paramedic and assistant fire chief, Rafe has more than enough on his plate. Sure, he and Amanda share a common goal in keeping their grandparents apart. Still, that doesn’t mean he should allow himself to feel as drawn to her as he does. Even if she is great with his young son. Even if she does help the burden of his own painful past feel a little lighter… But when their paths keep crossing at the holiday market, it starts to feel like fate, prompting them both to wonder if taking a chance on love might gift them everything they’ve been wishing for.
Amanda Taylor isn’t a fan of Christmas, but as the owner of a local soap shop, ignoring the holiday season isn’t an option. To forget the pain of Christmases past, Amanda focuses on making the season bright for her customers at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market. But when her beloved grandmother, Birdie, starts dating the dashing new resident of the Shelter Inn retirement community, Amanda smells trouble. Fortunately, Rafe Arredondo, the grandson of Birdie’s charming suitor, is equally dubious of the match. Unfortunately, he's just as fiery as his grandfather—and Amanda has zero interest in getting burned.
As a single father, paramedic and assistant fire chief, Rafe has more than enough on his plate. Sure, he and Amanda share a common goal in keeping their grandparents apart. Still, that doesn’t mean he should allow himself to feel as drawn to her as he does. Even if she is great with his young son. Even if she does help the burden of his own painful past feel a little lighter… But when their paths keep crossing at the holiday market, it starts to feel like fate, prompting them both to wonder if taking a chance on love might gift them everything they’ve been wishing for.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2024
1038 people are currently reading
18457 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
311 books3,833 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 626 reviews
December 4, 2025
Listen… the cover had me fooled. She’s cute, she’s festive, she whispered “pick me up, I’m adorable.” 🎄✨ And I fell for it. Hard.
But the story? Whew. Amanda was working my last nerve. How do you go through an entire book and not realize you’re in love with Rafe?! Girl, the man could’ve held up a neon sign and she still would’ve blinked in confusion. 🤦♀️🔦😂
I kept waiting for some spark, some magic, something... but instead, I felt like I got stuck at the world’s most awkward holiday market with no exit and no cinnamon roll to comfort me. ❄️😩
In the end, the characters didn’t click for me, the romance fell flat, and I spent most of the book thinking, “Is it too late to go back to judging by the cover?” 😂📚
But the story? Whew. Amanda was working my last nerve. How do you go through an entire book and not realize you’re in love with Rafe?! Girl, the man could’ve held up a neon sign and she still would’ve blinked in confusion. 🤦♀️🔦😂
I kept waiting for some spark, some magic, something... but instead, I felt like I got stuck at the world’s most awkward holiday market with no exit and no cinnamon roll to comfort me. ❄️😩
In the end, the characters didn’t click for me, the romance fell flat, and I spent most of the book thinking, “Is it too late to go back to judging by the cover?” 😂📚
January 14, 2025
I usually like this authors book, but I did not care for this book. I did not care for Rafe at all.
October 6, 2024
RaeAnne Thayne has written many books, but this is only the second one of hers I have read. I have so many more to discover! This is the second book in the Shelter Springs series, but can easily be read as a stand alone.
Description:
Amanda Taylor isn’t a fan of Christmas, but as the owner of a local soap shop, ignoring the holiday season isn’t an option. To forget the pain of Christmases past, Amanda focuses on making the season bright for her customers at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market. But when her beloved grandmother, Birdie, starts dating the dashing new resident of the Shelter Inn retirement community, Amanda smells trouble. Fortunately, Rafe Arredondo, the grandson of Birdie’s charming suitor, is equally dubious of the match. Unfortunately, he's just as fiery as his grandfather—and Amanda has zero interest in getting burned.
As a single father, paramedic and assistant fire chief, Rafe has more than enough on his plate. Sure, he and Amanda share a common goal in keeping their grandparents apart. Still, that doesn’t mean he should allow himself to feel as drawn to her as he does. Even if she is great with his young son. Even if she does help the burden of his own painful past feel a little lighter… But when their paths keep crossing at the holiday market, it starts to feel like fate, prompting them both to wonder if taking a chance on love might gift them everything they’ve been wishing for.
My Thoughts:
This is a sweet romance and a great way to spend an afternoon. I liked all the characters, especially the hot fireman, Rafe. He is just what a woman wants in a man. I liked Amanda too and thought she came across as an independent, motivated, and dedicated woman. I could see why she was a little reticent to get involved again after being burned before. I enjoyed the story, the town and the characters. The plot was simple but effective.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing - Canary Street Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Amanda Taylor isn’t a fan of Christmas, but as the owner of a local soap shop, ignoring the holiday season isn’t an option. To forget the pain of Christmases past, Amanda focuses on making the season bright for her customers at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market. But when her beloved grandmother, Birdie, starts dating the dashing new resident of the Shelter Inn retirement community, Amanda smells trouble. Fortunately, Rafe Arredondo, the grandson of Birdie’s charming suitor, is equally dubious of the match. Unfortunately, he's just as fiery as his grandfather—and Amanda has zero interest in getting burned.
As a single father, paramedic and assistant fire chief, Rafe has more than enough on his plate. Sure, he and Amanda share a common goal in keeping their grandparents apart. Still, that doesn’t mean he should allow himself to feel as drawn to her as he does. Even if she is great with his young son. Even if she does help the burden of his own painful past feel a little lighter… But when their paths keep crossing at the holiday market, it starts to feel like fate, prompting them both to wonder if taking a chance on love might gift them everything they’ve been wishing for.
My Thoughts:
This is a sweet romance and a great way to spend an afternoon. I liked all the characters, especially the hot fireman, Rafe. He is just what a woman wants in a man. I liked Amanda too and thought she came across as an independent, motivated, and dedicated woman. I could see why she was a little reticent to get involved again after being burned before. I enjoyed the story, the town and the characters. The plot was simple but effective.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing - Canary Street Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
June 3, 2024
Amanda is a shop owner in the small town of Shelter Springs, Idaho. She helps take care of her 80 year old grandmother, Birdie, who now lives in a local retirement community As in many small towns, everyone seems familiar with others and their misfortunes: handsome paramedic Rafe’s wife died from a drug overdose, Holly’s husband left her and their Downs syndrome child, and several people are touched by alcohol addiction and its consequences. Amanda refuses to admit that she is attracted to Rafe, but since she’s in charge of the local Christmas market and Rafe will be working at the first aid tent, they will have trouble avoiding each other. She’s also unhappy that Birdie has a boyfriend: Rafe’s grandfather. I am new to this author and was hoping for someone like Debbie Macomber or Viola Shipman, but I didn’t find the same humor and warmth in this novel. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
July 4, 2024
Rafe and Amanda have both had heartache in their lives with the deaths of loved ones. Rafe has his son Issac to raise and has stayed away from relationships. Amanda has kept busy helping neighbors, building her store, and overseeing the Christmas Market. But she, has put love on hold because of fear. In this Christmas romance they find security and love with each other. Isaac is adorable. Thanks NetGalley for a preview copy. Christmas in July!!
October 10, 2024
RaeAnne Thayne is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her writing is so warm and her characters are all believable. Once you start reading, you aren’t going to be able to stop. A family coming together at Christmas time…what more could you ask for? Rafe and Amanda both have walls up around their hearts and aren’t looking to fall in love, but you know how that goes right? I thought I knew how THE DECEMBER MARKET was going to end but I sure was wrong! I’m looking forward to reading more by this wonderful and heart-tugging author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
You can read my full review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
You can read my full review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
October 13, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this series last year and I found this one to be just as delightful. You can read this on its own but I so enjoyed catching up with the previous characters. Shelter Springs is the sweetest little town and I was once again charmed by the town and its residents. While this is plenty light and sweet there are also some dark moments to add depth as well. The market itself sounded adorable and there was so much holiday cheer and cuteness
December 24, 2024
The December Market was a sweet, holiday romance set in the small town of Shelter Springs, Idaho. Amanda throws herself into the planning and executing of the town’s Christmas market each year, leaving little time for other activities or people in her life. She still holds guilt and grief from past events, keeping her guarded.
When Amanda runs into Rafe, her neighbor and his son, Isaac, she feels her guarded demeanor threatening to slip, especially as they keep encountering each other and learn more about their grandparents.
The December Market was sweet and wholesome. Even with some deeper topics included, the story leaned surface level. The dialogue felt very formal but I enjoyed the setting and the holiday vibes.
When Amanda runs into Rafe, her neighbor and his son, Isaac, she feels her guarded demeanor threatening to slip, especially as they keep encountering each other and learn more about their grandparents.
The December Market was sweet and wholesome. Even with some deeper topics included, the story leaned surface level. The dialogue felt very formal but I enjoyed the setting and the holiday vibes.
January 2, 2025
Sadly, this is one of those stories that I just finished reading a few days ago and I have already started to forget about the plot. If I remember correctly, Amanda was 31 years old and had never been married. She thought she had loved twice in her life, but things didn't go as planned.
Rafe was divorced after a shaky marriage and his wife died soon afterwards. They had a son, Isaac, who was his pride and joy. When Isaac was on the page, he was a cutie pie.
Amanda and Rafe brought a lot of baggage into the mix and at some point, I started to skim a few pages. I remember some thoughts repeated more than twice throughout the story which is a big turnoff for me. Of course, tell me something once and a second time if you feel the need. After that, stop, because the story starts to drag.
Of course, there was the necessary HEA but by then I was happy to see the story end.
Rafe was divorced after a shaky marriage and his wife died soon afterwards. They had a son, Isaac, who was his pride and joy. When Isaac was on the page, he was a cutie pie.
Amanda and Rafe brought a lot of baggage into the mix and at some point, I started to skim a few pages. I remember some thoughts repeated more than twice throughout the story which is a big turnoff for me. Of course, tell me something once and a second time if you feel the need. After that, stop, because the story starts to drag.
Of course, there was the necessary HEA but by then I was happy to see the story end.
December 4, 2024
It’s so bad I want to give you a zero, but that’s not possible, so I give you a one ….. literally perhaps the worst, most dry bland boring STALE book I’ve ever read in my entire life, I could’ve written something more interesting and dynamic in grade 7 and I’m being so serious
December 17, 2024
A great follow-up to "Christmas at the Shelter Inn." It brought back familiar characters along with some new ones. Filled with family, friendship, and romance. I would love to see this series continued.
December 14, 2024
3.5 Stars
The December Market by RaeAnne Thayne was a heartwarming Hallmark movie type of romance! Beautiful setting and very festive!
The story had a nice cast of fun secondary characters. I appreciated the strong family bonds both Amanda and Rafe had and I’m a sucker for a sweet single dad! Amanda’s reason for hesitation I felt was weak, however, the romance was still pretty low angst.
A copy was kindly provided by Canary Street Press. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The December Market by RaeAnne Thayne was a heartwarming Hallmark movie type of romance! Beautiful setting and very festive!
The story had a nice cast of fun secondary characters. I appreciated the strong family bonds both Amanda and Rafe had and I’m a sucker for a sweet single dad! Amanda’s reason for hesitation I felt was weak, however, the romance was still pretty low angst.
A copy was kindly provided by Canary Street Press. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 7, 2024
Well hello gorgeous!! 👀 Look at this cover!! I read my first @raeannethayne book last year and I LOVED it. ❤️ So when I heard we were going back to Shelter Springs.. I couldn’t wait!! Thank you soo much @uplitreads @canarystreetpress @htpbooks for this gorgeous gifted copy and having me along on this campaign!! 🥰🫶
So while this is the second book in the Shelter Springs series.. trust me.. it can 100% be read as a standalone. 😉 This is a cozy Hallmark type book that with leave you feeling all the warm fuzzy feels. ❤️ What did I love?? 🔽
🎄 Small town vibes- always a win!!
🎄 A handsome sweet fireman 👨🚒.. ALWAYS also a win. ❤️🤷♀️
🎄Fantastic characters!! I want to be friends with them all!! Especially Rafe. 😉😂
🎄A Christmas market… with all holiday feels 😍
So grab a cup of cocoa.. a warm blanket and snuggle up with this PERFECT holiday read. 🎄 I totally could see this as a @hallmarkchannel movie!! Fingers crossed for another Shelter Springs book. ❤️
So while this is the second book in the Shelter Springs series.. trust me.. it can 100% be read as a standalone. 😉 This is a cozy Hallmark type book that with leave you feeling all the warm fuzzy feels. ❤️ What did I love?? 🔽
🎄 Small town vibes- always a win!!
🎄 A handsome sweet fireman 👨🚒.. ALWAYS also a win. ❤️🤷♀️
🎄Fantastic characters!! I want to be friends with them all!! Especially Rafe. 😉😂
🎄A Christmas market… with all holiday feels 😍
So grab a cup of cocoa.. a warm blanket and snuggle up with this PERFECT holiday read. 🎄 I totally could see this as a @hallmarkchannel movie!! Fingers crossed for another Shelter Springs book. ❤️
November 4, 2024
The Christmas part of this book was great.
The romance was... nonexistent? Like. It was not organic at all and then it felt phony once it happened. And it truly felt like the guy was more into her so his son could have a mom than because he had feelings for her. Which, no thanks. The story as a whole did feel quite flat.
Also the ending nearly gave me whiplash.
The romance was... nonexistent? Like. It was not organic at all and then it felt phony once it happened. And it truly felt like the guy was more into her so his son could have a mom than because he had feelings for her. Which, no thanks. The story as a whole did feel quite flat.
Also the ending nearly gave me whiplash.
December 24, 2024
Review coming soon.
September 28, 2024
RaeAnne Thayne perfectly captures the magic of Christmas, and the importace of family in The December Market. Amanda Taylor focuses her energy in helping others, and her soap shop. She has had her fair share of loss, but continues to show up for others, including Rafe. Charming Rafe is a single father, and has had his share of loss as well. They are both set on protecting their hearts, but find themselves with a budding romance when they spent plenty of time together at the hands of The December Market and Rafe's son. Their journal toward healing and opening their hearts up to love is beautifully written. This was a heartwarming holiday read that will make you believe in love and the spirit of the season! Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2024
4.5
I read Christmas at the Shelter Inn last year and loved it, so I knew I had to read this one. Even though this is the 2nd book in the Shelter Spring series, it can totally be read as a standalone since it focuses on completely different characters.
Amanda Taylor is not a fan of Christmas because of the heartbreak she's suffered in the past. But she realizes the best way to get through it is to stay busy. She becomes fully invested in her store, her kiosk at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market, which she's the chair of. She also keeps busy taking care of her grandmother, Birdie. Birdie, however, seems to be doing just fine in her new retirement community. She even has a new love interest🤭
Rafe, the hot single dad firefighter, has had his own share of heartbreak. He also happens to be the grandson of Birdie's new love interest. Can Amanda and Rafe get past their pasts and open their hearts to each other?
This was such a great, cozy Christmas romance. Two people who have suffered past tragedies coming together during the holidays is just heartwarming. Throw a cute child into the mix, and this story is perfection. It was such a sweet story, and I really loved Amanda & Rafe. This is seriously the perfect book to add to your holiday TBR!
I read Christmas at the Shelter Inn last year and loved it, so I knew I had to read this one. Even though this is the 2nd book in the Shelter Spring series, it can totally be read as a standalone since it focuses on completely different characters.
Amanda Taylor is not a fan of Christmas because of the heartbreak she's suffered in the past. But she realizes the best way to get through it is to stay busy. She becomes fully invested in her store, her kiosk at the Shelter Springs Holiday Giving Market, which she's the chair of. She also keeps busy taking care of her grandmother, Birdie. Birdie, however, seems to be doing just fine in her new retirement community. She even has a new love interest🤭
Rafe, the hot single dad firefighter, has had his own share of heartbreak. He also happens to be the grandson of Birdie's new love interest. Can Amanda and Rafe get past their pasts and open their hearts to each other?
This was such a great, cozy Christmas romance. Two people who have suffered past tragedies coming together during the holidays is just heartwarming. Throw a cute child into the mix, and this story is perfection. It was such a sweet story, and I really loved Amanda & Rafe. This is seriously the perfect book to add to your holiday TBR!
October 7, 2024
RaeAnne Thayne, the Author of “The December Market” has written a captivating, memorable and heartfelt novel. The Genres for this story are Holiday, Christmas, Romance, Contemporary Fiction, and Women’s Fiction. I appreciate how the author provides a magical description that describes the joy and magic of the season. The author vividly describes her colorful characters as complex and complicated. Some are kind, thoughtful and helpful. Some are flawed. It would be fun to have some of the characters as neighbors. Of course, I love the feisty animal characters in the story.
Amanda Taylor has sad and tragic memories of Christmas, but tries to be positive and besides working in her little store, tries to make the holidays brighter by having a Holiday market with crafts, home-made products from the residents, and activities to light up the season. Amanda visits and helps her colorful grandmother, Birdie. Birdie lives in the same senior complex as Paolo, a handsome senior. Paolo’s grandson Rafe comes to visit, with his young child Isaac. Rafe is a single Dad, but is always helpful and respected in the community. Isaac forms an attachment to Amanda, and would like to see Rafe and Amanda become a couple. Amanda and Rafe carefully guard their hearts,
I appreciate that RaeAnne Thayne discusses addictions, alcoholism, forgiveness, and second chances. The author also talks about the importance of family, friends, neighbors, kindness, communication, love and hope. I highly recommend this memorable novel.
Amanda Taylor has sad and tragic memories of Christmas, but tries to be positive and besides working in her little store, tries to make the holidays brighter by having a Holiday market with crafts, home-made products from the residents, and activities to light up the season. Amanda visits and helps her colorful grandmother, Birdie. Birdie lives in the same senior complex as Paolo, a handsome senior. Paolo’s grandson Rafe comes to visit, with his young child Isaac. Rafe is a single Dad, but is always helpful and respected in the community. Isaac forms an attachment to Amanda, and would like to see Rafe and Amanda become a couple. Amanda and Rafe carefully guard their hearts,
I appreciate that RaeAnne Thayne discusses addictions, alcoholism, forgiveness, and second chances. The author also talks about the importance of family, friends, neighbors, kindness, communication, love and hope. I highly recommend this memorable novel.
October 6, 2025
Skip read. Could not get into this one at all.
February 17, 2025
Another heart-warming story from RaeAnne Thayne. Her books always just make you feel good when you read them. I wanted to read this as one of my holiday season picks, but time got away from me. The fact that I read this after Christmas didn't detract from the story at all. This author never disappoints if you're looking for a book with great characters and emotions.
October 7, 2024
It's been a while since I read a romance from this talented storyteller, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read from her in the past. I love her stories full of small-town charm, colorful characters, and an abundance of heart.
Amanda Taylor is a single woman who heads up the holiday market in their small town. She's suffered more than her share of loss, but she chooses to focus her grief into helping others. When single dad, neighbor, and assistant fire chief, Rafe Arredondo, falls and breaks his arm during a rooftop rescue, Amanda does the neighborly thing and takes some meals to his house. His six-year-old son, Isaac, is immediately taken with Amanda, and Rafe isn’t far behind.
The emotional aspects of this one are fantastic, with both main characters having loved and lost and becoming brave enough to try again. As kids go, little Isaac is adorable and adds so much to the story which is rounded out with entertaining and caring seniors.
My issues are with some wordiness and repetitiveness, and seeing different characters' dialog in the same paragraph, which made reading difficult for my American eyes at times. While these issues made this a 3.5 star read for me, I’m hoping a lot was corrected in final editing post galley copies. It's really a sweet, heartwarming story that's sure to put readers in a happy holiday mood.
*Special thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing/Canary Street Press and NetGalley for an early copy.
Amanda Taylor is a single woman who heads up the holiday market in their small town. She's suffered more than her share of loss, but she chooses to focus her grief into helping others. When single dad, neighbor, and assistant fire chief, Rafe Arredondo, falls and breaks his arm during a rooftop rescue, Amanda does the neighborly thing and takes some meals to his house. His six-year-old son, Isaac, is immediately taken with Amanda, and Rafe isn’t far behind.
The emotional aspects of this one are fantastic, with both main characters having loved and lost and becoming brave enough to try again. As kids go, little Isaac is adorable and adds so much to the story which is rounded out with entertaining and caring seniors.
My issues are with some wordiness and repetitiveness, and seeing different characters' dialog in the same paragraph, which made reading difficult for my American eyes at times. While these issues made this a 3.5 star read for me, I’m hoping a lot was corrected in final editing post galley copies. It's really a sweet, heartwarming story that's sure to put readers in a happy holiday mood.
*Special thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing/Canary Street Press and NetGalley for an early copy.
April 22, 2025
Nice story liked the characters.
Takes place during Christmas season so lots going on and some family drama .
Takes place during Christmas season so lots going on and some family drama .
December 24, 2024
What a cute holiday happily-ever-after, and just look at that pretty cover!! This whirlwind second-chance romance really hit my sweet spot as it features a pair of retirement villa grandparents getting involved in their grandchildren’s love lives by secretly setting them up. I had so much fun reading this! And the Christmas Market gave off all those comforting sights, sounds and feels of the holidays! 🎄🍭 4.5 stars — Pub. 10/8/24
January 27, 2025
This took me a whole month to finish because I really did NOT want to finish. Not because I didn’t want it to end, but because I didn’t want to put myself through the couple hours of suffering. This book was genuinely one of the most boring books I’ve ever read in my entire life. I can see why some may enjoy this read because it is easy and simple but there is such a thing as too simple. The characters, the plot, the setting, the trope even. There was nothing that stood out in this book whatsoever and I couldn’t even believe the relationship meaning the chemistry was not present. Face value attraction was the only thing I got from this and it was not fun to read. Would’ve liked to like this book but I just did not at all.
October 20, 2024
Love the cover for this latest small town, dual POV, single father holiday romance from RaeAnne Thayne. This book sees two people grieving the death of their former loves trying to figure out if they are brave enough to take a chance on romance again and risk getting hurt. I especially enjoyed that the couple's grandparents have their own romance going on. A feel-good, Hallmark holiday movie style Christmas story that was good on audio and had cameos from last year's Christmas at the Shelter Inn. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
CW: death of loved ones, alcoholism, drug addiction, overdose, grief, depression
CW: death of loved ones, alcoholism, drug addiction, overdose, grief, depression
December 21, 2024
The December Market is a lovely and heartwarming Christmas novel! Rafe and Amanda’s story is so endearing. They’ve each had their share of losses and tragedies, and they had been carefully guarding their hearts for years. Their connection was so intimate and powerful, and I could hardly wait until they finally took a chance on finding love and joy. This is the second book set in Shelter Springs, and although both books are great standalones, it’s so much richer to read them both. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that we get another book in this series!
December 7, 2024
I adored this story. Small town vibes, jam packed with their own trauma all the while supporting each other. It was beautiful and oh so sweet. I was instantly in love with both Amanda, Rafe and his son Isaac. All the townspeople were just so darn adorable it made me want to jump right into my book and be a part of it all. I laugh, I gasped, I cried, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
An absolutely perfect Christmas Hallmark style book.
An absolutely perfect Christmas Hallmark style book.
December 5, 2025
after reading Christmas at the Shelter Inn, i was excited to see amanda and rafe’s story. once i got to it, i wasn’t as interested as i anticipated. i love shelter springs & all it brings, but the first book was better for me. this didn’t truly feel like a christmas like book. it wasn’t giving all of the holiday aspects that i picked it up for.
October 19, 2024
The December Market by RaeAnne Thayne is the second book of the Shelter Springs series. This is a sweet romantic book about a small-town soap maker, Amanda, and a single father, Rafe. I highly recommend reading this if you want a cozy, magical Christmas read.
December 27, 2024
I adore RaeAnne Thayne.
This book is such a sweet slow-burn. Between the book and all the holiday treats, you may get a cavity. It’s worth it.
This book is such a sweet slow-burn. Between the book and all the holiday treats, you may get a cavity. It’s worth it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 626 reviews