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Twilight, Texas #5

Christmas at Twilight

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It's Christmas in Twilight, Texas. The Cookie Club is baking, the town is decorated, and Delta Force Operator "Hutch" Hutchinson has finally, reluctantly, returned home . . .

. . . only to get pepper sprayed by the delicious- looking stranger who's taken over his house. She says her name is Jane, and she immediately sets down ground rules. Top priority: no touching. For Hutch that isn't easy—he was wounded in action, but one part is still working very well.

Then Hutch learns the truth. Jane harbors a frightening secret—she's really Meredith Sommers, on the run from a dangerous ex-husband and desperately in need of the safety Hutch can provide. In that moment, he vows he'd do anything in his power to protect her. And as Christmas approaches, they discover that their love can conquer the past and overcome any obstacle—but what price will they pay?

400 pages, Paperback

First published October 28, 2014

273 people are currently reading
1550 people want to read

About the author

Lori Wilde

394 books2,264 followers
Lori Wilde can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to write. She even went to nursing school so she could have a schedule flexible enough to allow her to write on the side. She nursed for 20 years, working in a variety of settings from the newborn nursery to the recovery room, to dialysis. But she never lost her desire to write.

She sold her first book in 1994 to Silhouette Romance but later discovered she had a flair for comedy and branched out to Harlequin Duets and now, to Blaze.

Lori is an adventuresome soul who loves to travel. She’s taken flying lessons, completed two marathons, rode in a hot-air balloon, performed with a professional jazz band, traveled Europe as a teenager, hiked volcanoes in Hawaii, trod on glaciers in Alaska, shot white-water rapids, water-skied, snow-skied, raced all-terrain vehicles, bodysurfed in the Gulf of Mexico, and photographed grizzly bears in Yellowstone.

She lives in her native Texas, with her own real-life hero, Bill.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
Profile Image for UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish.
1,097 reviews1,766 followers
November 20, 2015

5 "I need you" stars!

Christmas At Twilight is one of the most emotional holiday stories I've read. It's poignant, angsty, and heartbreaking, but it's also hopeful and joyous! Meredith and Hutch are two amazing people who get more than Christmas magic, they get a miracle - the kind that comes from finding your soul mate, just when you thought you'd forever be alone.

The blurb...

It's Christmas in Twilight, Texas. The Cookie Club is baking, the town is decorated, and Delta Force Operator "Hutch" Hutchinson has finally, reluctantly, returned home . . .

. . . only to get pepper sprayed by the delicious- looking stranger who's taken over his house. She says her name is Jane, and she immediately sets down ground rules. Top priority: no touching. For Hutch that isn't easy—he was wounded in action, but one part is still working very well.

Then Hutch learns the truth. Jane harbors a frightening secret—she's really Meredith Sommers, on the run from a dangerous ex-husband and desperately in need of the safety Hutch can provide. In that moment, he vows he'd do anything in his power to protect her. And as Christmas approaches, they discover that their love can conquer the past and overcome any obstacle—but what price will they pay?

My thoughts...

It seems to me that more often than not Christmas themed romances are on the lighter side, with minimal angst and a sweet happily ever after. It's what I've come to expect, and what I look forward to in my holiday reads. That said, Christmas At Twilight is not light, and while there's angst, it's the real life, to-be-expected kind of angst that military men and women live with after serving their country with honor. And yet, while it's not what I expected, not what I look forward to, I loved every minute I spent reading!

Such an exciting, romantic, and passionate story! But best of all, Hutch and Meredith's happily ever after was hard fought, well deserved, and a truly beautiful thing.

Note: Even though this is the 5th in the Twilight, Texas series, it reads very well as a stand alone!!

An ARC was provided by Avon Books.
Profile Image for Lily (Night Owl Book Cafe).
692 reviews495 followers
October 28, 2015

Can't believe this is my first book by Lori Wilde. I absolutely adored Christmas At Twilight, the writing, the characters, the romance. Meredith under the name of Jane and Hutch made a wonderful duo and the book was really hard to put down.
Hutch suffered a terrible tragedy, a Delta Force Operator, Hutch has lost his voice. He is forced to come back home and watch his sister's daughter. Hutch's sister takes off with another man to another country and leaves her daughter behind with "Jane". Jane is on a run from what seemed to be an abusive relationship. Both broken, both need each other more than either of them can imagine. Both had my heart till the very end.

Wonderfully done Lori Wilde, you have really captured these two characters with words and really made them real and made me feel for them. Made me smile, laugh and my heart ache for the both of them. Hutch and Meredith both felt very well fleshed out. The attraction between them felt oh so real. I loved the banter, I loved waiting to discover how if ever Hutch would get his voice back. The moments between them can be so touching, you could definitely feel the sparks.

I couldn't help but fall in love with Hutch, a bit damaged, but a man full of heart, full of charm that I couldn't help but root for.

I disliked his sister at first for being so obtuse and leaving her daughter behind, but after learning about her own mental suffering I couldn't help but actually feel sorry for her.

I enjoyed the little bit of action at the end. My heart broke for little Kimmie at some point, but Wilde did a nice job of mending it together. If you are looking for an enjoyable read this holiday that has a little more to it than fluff, I would suggest giving Christmas at Twilight a shot.This review was originally posted on Night Owl Book Café

Profile Image for Alp.
763 reviews468 followers
December 26, 2015
Christmas At Twilight is a sweet romance with a bit of suspense set in a small town of Twilight, Texas, where two lonely, wounded souls found love and solace in each other's embrace.

A former Delta Force Operator, 'Hutch' Brian Hutchinson, came home to Twilight after getting discharged for medical reasons. He temporarily lost the ability to speak and he also lost one of his index fingers. After being ambushed and losing his team, Hutch was suffering from PTSD.

Meredith Sommers was on the run from her sociopathic and abusive ex-husband for five years. She and her 4 years old son, Ben, couldn’t stay anywhere longer than six months because her ex never stopped tracking her down. She’d been living in fear and suffering frequent panic and flashbacks.

When Hutch found out that his little sister left her 4 years old daughter, Kimmie, with Meredith, he realized he was in no shape to take care of his niece, that he desperately needed help. Then he asked Meredith and her son to stay at his house and help him looked after Kimmie.

As they spent time together and got to know each other better, their feelings grew deeper and stronger. And when Meredith’s life was in danger, Hutch would do anything to protect her, even if it would cost him his life.

I loved the way they communicated when Hutch still couldn’t speak. He wrote on a drawing board but sometimes Meredith just understood his gestures. And the kids were so cute!

The writing was so excellent. Such intense emotions were conveyed; I got teary-eyed just from reading the first few chapters!

This is a very beautiful and heartwarming story, a wonderful Christmas treat!

I’ll finish my review with the insightful quote from this book.
"Yeah. I learned that not only are there hundreds of shades of gray, but that black isn’t really black. It’s a mix of all colors—red, yellow, green, blue, orange. And that white, not black, is the absence of color. It’s all in the way we perceive things. And because of that, good people can justify doing bad things, and bad people can sometimes do good things, until you can no longer label people as bad or good."

That's so true!
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,288 followers
November 4, 2014
3.5 Being Brave and Hopeful Stars * * * 1/2

This is book focuses on quite a few themes; there are bipolar disorder, PTSD and domestic violence... with a very hopeful love story. Those who have read some of the Twilight, Texas series by Lori Wilde will recognize... she does not shy away from tough subjects... she somehow figures out how to put them all together and make them work. This was no different.... her personal statement in the beginning of the book sets the tone.

Our female lead, Jane, is a woman similar to the Julia Roberts' character in Sleeping with the Enemy... She innocently marries a cop who turns out to be every woman's nightmare. He is so scary and punitive...she is positive he killed the only person who understood what she was going through, her shrink. She has been on the run for 5 years now... changing body type, hair and names... with only one purpose in mind... to protect her son. Somehow she landed in Twilight, Texas... Here she is fitting in, working and living with another single mother and daughter.

It turns out the woman she is renting from, Ashley, is bipolar but Jane has no indication of it. She has an adorable daughter, Kimmie. Jane receives a call from Ashley telling her she is going out with a hot guy and she may not be home for the night. Jane, concerned... tries to get as much info from her as she can... but Ashley won't give any and won't listen to reason about how dangerous this could be. Instead she just asks Jane to look out for Kimmie for the night.

The one night turns into a couple of days... then a phone call telling Jane she is going to Mexico and she is in love. Again, Jane tries and tries to get info from Ashley but to no avail. Days and weeks go by, no communication from Ashley. Jane is taking care of both children and is very worried something horrible has happened to Kimmie's mother.

While all of this is going on we meet Hutch, Ashley's older brother. He was Special Forces and recently had a very traumatic event; he lost all of his team during an secret operation overseas... was injured himself and now cannot speak. His injuries were such that he is not feeling like the man he was. He lost a finger and was hit by shrapnel in his throat. He has not talked; the service says medically he can...so they release him sending him home.

What happens is the meeting of a big, burly man with a woman ready to run at any moment. Their meeting is a combination of errors and after the dust settles both realize they need each other to be together under the same roof waiting for Kimmie's mom to comeback, the real story begins.

These two are attracted to each other big time... but both have enough baggage to load up a freight train. It will be hard for them to fight the attraction but some how they must... or must they?

This story had heart and feelings for all of the complex issues I named earlier. It took the same warm, caring path all the other Twilight, Texas books take... sweet, not too graphic sexy times... some intrigue and characters who you can bond with.

If you have liked the Twilight, Texas series then you will be happy with this entry.

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Lisa Filipe.
Author 5 books250 followers
October 23, 2014
Rated a TOP TASTY READ of 2014

CHRISTMAS AT TWILIGHT is truly special...will touch your heart in a way no other book has done, and will have you believing in the magic of TRUE LOVE!

Every time Lori, I swear, Every Time you make me fall in love with your writing and your characters...and Hutch....my heart went out to him and for Meredith (Jane)...I loved her..her strength, her character...I adored their shared smiles and touches...had my heart melting!

For two pretty broken people, to have taken one look and they just knew...and yes, they knew it would be a hard road, but they were both strong enough to know what sometimes LOVE IS ENOUGH...

With emotion that grips the heart, characters that are deep and highly loveable, a little suspense and a few laughs, CHRISTMAS AT TWILIGHT is unputdownable!

If you are in the mood for a truly heart-warming, emotional tale of how two people found their forever love...well...then CHRISTMAS AT TWILIGHT is for you...boy did I love this book!
Profile Image for Andrea Guy.
1,483 reviews67 followers
October 27, 2014
I've read several of the "Twilight, Texas" books by Lori Wilde. This book is part romance and part suspense. I love Ms. Wilde's books, but this particular story was a bit of a downer for me.

Both of our characters are wounded. Hutch, is wounded soldier, and his wounds are physical and mental. Meredith "Jane"'s are mental too, as she's got some secrets she's trying to keep hidden.

It won't take long for you to fall in love with both of these characters and you will be rooting for them to begin a real relationship.

You will also love the two children in the book, Ben, who is Meredith's son, and Kimmie who is Ashley's daughter. Ashley is Hutch's sister, and its his house that the two women were staying in. From the start, Ashley is someone you want to clobber, for her poor treatment of her daughter.

But that turns to pity when you learn about her personality disorder. You want things to happen so that everything will be made nice and happy, but things don't always work out that way. In that way, Ms. Wilde injects a bit of real life into this story.

Not everything in life will work out perfectly. Sure there is a happily ever after for the hero and heroine, but there is loss and sadness along the way.

But even though things aren't all happy, there is recovery for Hutch, and a second chance at finding love for Meredith.

This isn't your typical light holiday read, but it is definitely an unforgettable one, and one that might bring a tear or two to your eyes in a few spots.
Profile Image for Cathy.
788 reviews
October 24, 2014
"Christmas at Twilight" by Lori Wilde. Wow! Ms. Wilde does an amazing job of reaching down deep and tugging at the heart strings. My heart ached for Hutch and pounded for Meredith. They are both strong characters, struggling with hardships thrown at them. The story has two people that are afraid to love but, for some reason they can't understand, undeniably trust each other - Can they help each other heal? It's also filled with danger and suspense! For most of the book, I was a bit on the edge of my seat, waiting for the danger - it's always there in the background. I loved the town of Twilight too - everyone is so caring and I could envision the way it looked decorated for Christmas too. I thoroughly enjoyed this one - I look forward to reading the remaining books of the series. (Despite being Book Five of the series, I had no problem reading this one - in fact, I didn't know it was Book Five until after I finished). (copy received from Edelweiss for honest review).
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,723 reviews1,128 followers
December 25, 2022
Meredith Summers, is on the run, she has changed her name to "Jane", always looking over her shoulder for her abusive ex husband, and she will protect her son at any cost. Meredith has felt more contentment in Twilight, Texas than she has anywhere else. When she comes home one day, she finds a stranger there, and sprays him with pepper spray, not realizing that he is her roommate's brother. Hutch, has just been discharge from the military. Hutch worked for the Black Ops, and was the "best of the best". Then he got injured, lost a finger, and got damage to his throat, and now can't speak. He decides to return home to Twilight, only to get sprayed with very potent pepper spray, and despite being injured he feels a attraction to his "attacker", young Meredith with her son. As Christmas draws closer, so does Meredith and Hutch. At first they form a friendship, but there is sizzling chemistry between them. And Meredith knows it is only a matter of time that she will have to be on the run again, can Hutch convince her that they are worth taking a stand and fighting for?

Christmas At Twilight, was quite a wonderful romance. It is the fifth in the Twilight Texas Series. I have read most of her other books, but I have yet to read this one. Now despite the fact that it is the fifth book, you can definitely read it as a stand alone. I a curious to read the previous books and see how they connect with this one. Christmas At Twilight is such a tender and poignant romance, and there were many times, I felt such a kinship to the characters, and there was so much emotion that seemed to jump out from the pages, and due to the circumstances of the story line...it definitely keeps the reader on edge at times.

The characters in the story, were so unique and life changing. I had no issue with any aspect of the characters...both the hero and heroine I fell in love with. The hero, Hutch, well he is one sexy male, even without working voice. He definitely knows how to convey his feelings...especially sensuality with just one searing look...I practically felt it to my toes. One of the things that I adore about Lori Wilde, is her ability to convey each emotion and feeling to the reader...there was such a vitality to the story and especially in connection to the characters. Now the heroine...such is one complicated character. After you finish the story, you really come to respect her strength and determination to make a life for herself, even on the run. She loves her son, and has enough respect for herself to leave a man that would treat her with cruelty and abuse. There was such a fierce tone to the story that keeps you reader and what a page turner this one was. Now the kids...oh the kids...oh adorable they were. We have Meredith's son, and then we have Hutch's niece, and they were so precious and just made me want kids.

A beautifully written Christmas romance that will tug at your heart strings, and bring that sweet Christmas spirit to your heart! A story to keep you engaged, with sensuality and deep characters, an intriguing and suspenseful plot, expertly crafted to captive you!!! A WINNER OF A ROMANCE!!
Profile Image for Betty.
223 reviews10 followers
October 31, 2014

Captain Brian Hutchinson has been in group therapy at Walter Reed Military Medical Center for three weeks and has not participated in any activity. Hutch is unable to speak due to a damaged trachea, and hates communicating by writing on his “magic slate”; he’s missing his left index finger; and, he has slight PTSD, but he is still luckier than so many veterans. He is the lone survivor of his six member Special Forces unit. The psychologist decides to take off the kid gloves by goading Hutch to get any kind of reaction from him. The doctor hits a nerve by bringing up personal issues – his family life, especially his bipolar mother and his younger sister. There is no physical reason Hutch can’t speak, and he is released from therapy after debriefing, and then discharged from the service.

Meredith Sommers, known as Jane Brown in Twilight, and her four-year-old son, Ben, are on the run from her dangerous ex-husband. They have rented a bedroom from single mom Ashley Hutchinson and her daughter Kimmie, who is also four. Ashley meets a man, goes on a date with him, and it is several days before she contacts Meredith to say she’s in Mexico and won’t be home for a few days. Meredith has no choice but agreeing to take care of Kimmie.

Ashley’s house actually belongs to her brother, Hutch. He bought it as an investment and is letting his sister and niece live there. When Hutch arrives at his own house, he is met by a strange woman that disarms him completely with pepper spray. Things don’t get off to a very auspicious start. Hutch can’t kick Meredith out as he needs help with Kimmie, so he waives her rent in lieu of her assistance until Ashley returns. The Twilight Cookie Club work hard to get the pretty “widow” and the town hero together.

Lori Wilde beautifully interweaves patriotic threads into this sweetly poignant story. Meredith feels safe with Hutch, and Ben worships him. Planning Christmas for these babies is good for the protagonists. CHRISTMAS AT TWILIGHT captures the season through the innocence of children, and the greatest gift of all -- love.

Betty Cox, Staff Reviewer
ReaderToReader.com
Profile Image for Kathleen.
769 reviews37 followers
November 3, 2014
5 +Stars...
Lori Wilde has truly brought us another wonderful Hero in Hutch. A man who would do anything to protect those he loves. And in Meredith, a woman who would do anything to protect her son and the little girl left in her care, who just happens to be Hutch’s niece. In pages of this story, Lori Wilde has written on of her best stories yet. I felt the love and joy, and anguish she put into every page. This story left me feeling glad, sad, and happy and at parts shuddering with intensity at what would happen next. But in the end, I was filled with love and hope and I sighed at the HEA of this wonderful story.

If you don’t have this book on your TBR shelf, I encourage you do to so. For to not read Christmas at Twilight would be like Santa not bringing you that one gift you really wanted for Christmas and was disappointed. And who wants to be disappointed at Christmas…..
Profile Image for Cheri.
507 reviews75 followers
November 11, 2017
This is the 2nd book in this series that I have read so far. I wanna live in Twilight! Romance, mystery, humor ,lil sex and so many heartfelt characters in this book. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Jo.
957 reviews242 followers
November 18, 2015

This book made me CRAVE a cookie….


description

A very sweet book, which addressed very serious topics, from PTSD to personality disorders. Recently someone that I know was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and I thought Lori Wilde did a very impressive job in writing the ups and downs that are associated with a personality disorders.

I loved Hutch, who was so very broken after the war, suffering from mild PTSD, losing his entire team, and losing a finger, and being unable to speak. He has such a good heart, and I was so glad to see him get his HEA. Especially after everything he has been through. This was a man who never really had a childhood, not with his mom suffering from BPD (borderline personality disorder), and then his sister. But he looked after them both, and always made sure he was there for his sister when she needed him.

I really liked Meredith, and after the abuse she suffered from her ex-husband, she was just as broken as Hutch. I liked that she had such a strong personality, and although I did sometimes get frustrated with her regarding her wariness and fear towards Hutch, it was very understandable that she would react to a man in the way she did.

Both of them had a lot of healing to do, and it was wonderful seeing them growing to care about each other. Meredith son Ben, and Hutch’s niece Kimmie was just too cute.

In a way I felt that the book was maybe too sweet at times, but when I think about all the tragedies and horror both of these characters has experienced, it made sense that they would know how rare love and happiness is, and that they would appreciate it the way they did.

A really lovely book, and I will definitely be reading more of this author.

Did I remember to mention how much I wanted a cookie while reading this book….?


description
Profile Image for Sharon Redfern.
714 reviews25 followers
October 6, 2014
At first glance, this book may seem to be to be another battered wife in peril saved by her new love and lives happily ever after. While some of this is true, there are many layers to this book. Meredith is on the run from her abusive ex and has landed in Twilight. She is renting a room from Ashley for herself and her son. When Ashley impulsively takes off with a strange man, Meredith is watching over Ashley's daughter Kimmee when a strange man shows up. The man turns out to be Ashley's brother, Hutch, recently discharged from Spec. Ops and is physically and emotionally wounded. Hutch has PTSD, can't speak, and lost part of his hand. He is hardly what one would expect to be the hero who will save Meredith. but Hutch turns out to be a hero in every sense of the word.

Hutch and Meredith have a lot in common. They don't trust easily, they have a lot of baggage and they care deeply for the children they are responsible for protecting. They also have a strong attraction to each other that neither is sure they are ready for. The pace of the story is fast with the dark elements weaving through. Ashley's continued disappearance and Meredith's fear of her ex are always in the background and whenever she and Hutch get to a positive point, those two issues seem to pull them apart. The ending of the book is full of action and resolves many threads in a way that feels appropriate and hopeful.

This whole series has been excellent to read and this book continues in that vein.
Profile Image for Cynthia Gail.
Author 7 books125 followers
October 25, 2014
What more can you ask for? NY Times Bestselling author bringing a heart-warming story for the holidays!

Though their initial encounter starts off entirely on the wrong foot, the attraction between Hutch and Jane is palpable almost immediately. As with all her books, Ms. Wilde weaves a story full of rich characters, humor, intrigue, and page-turning events.

Christmas at Twilight is a wonderful story full of secrets, mystery, romance and more. Children that will make you laugh and touch your heart. (I just loved Kimmie and Ben) A small town with challenges of its own. Serious issues that Ms. Wilde addresses with compassion and sensitivity, showing that our world is not perfect, but love can conquer anything. And we all deserve the opportunity to overcome our past.

The perfect book to kick off the holidays! It's book #5 in the Twilight Texas series, but fully stands on its own if you haven't read books #1-4 yet.

*I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,593 reviews78 followers
October 21, 2014
4.5 Stars

Meredith Sommers or “Jane” is hiding secrets that could sneak up and destroy everything she is working hard to build. Hutch has returned home only to be attacked with pepper spray by Jane.

They come up with rules so they can live under the same roof and that care of Hutch’s niece as her mother ran off with a boyfriend. With Hutch’s injury’s he needs her help. As the time goes by the grow closer but Hutch can see the fear and secrets that Jane is trying hard to hide.

Can Jane count on Hutch to help her stay safe? Or will she run off in order to save the people she has grown to love?

This story pulls you right in and keeps you turning the pages. Hutch is sweet and funny but also very protective. Jane is strong and oh so afraid. It was great to read about them both as they healed throughout the story. There is some suspense in this story which makes it a total package.

Can’t wait for the next book Lori comes out with! Highly recommend this story.
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews45 followers
October 28, 2014
Delta Force Operator, “Hutch” Hutchinson returns home to find his sister is MIA and a young woman and her son is living in his house and they have a frightening secret and he vows to do whatever it takes to protect them in this riveting romantic holiday suspense. Spine tingling tension builds throughout the story as suspense builds in several different directions throughout and the conclusion to the story is exciting and believable though a bit sad. Twilight, Texas and its charismatic characters have certainly caught my attention and since I really enjoyed and I was completely caught up in this story from the very beginning, I am adding the other books to my TBR list.

4 ½ STARS

See my full review at:

http://www.thejeepdiva.com/review-chr...
Profile Image for Ann Lorz.
1,708 reviews22 followers
September 17, 2014
Once again Lori Wilde has written a book that has tugged at my heartstrings. You won't be able to not feel for Hutch and all he's been through. He's a very strong man who needs a very strong woman at his side. Jane is just that person. So much happens in this book that will make you feel. The perfect holiday story!
Profile Image for Susan.
4,808 reviews126 followers
February 28, 2015
Very good book, full of love, loss, hope and fear. Hutch is unwillingly headed home to Twilight because injuries he received during the war have made it impossible to stay in the army. He left the hospital, unable to speak and bearing guilty feelings over being the only one in his group to survive the attack. He's told that his inability to speak is psychological, not physical. He arrives home to find his sister is missing and the other woman in his house sprays him with pepper spray.

Meredith panicked when she saw Hutch. It wasn't a clear view and she thought he was her ex-husband. Meredith and her son have been on the run from him for five years. She has been in Twilight for two months, sharing the house with Hutch's sister Ashley. A week before Hutch's arrival, Ashley called Meredith to tell her she was going to Mexico with the new man she met, and asked Meredith to take care of her daughter Kimmie. Meredith is afraid that something has happened to Ashley when she doesn't return her calls.

Though their initial meeting is rough, Meredith and Hutch come to an agreement. Meredith and her son will stay in order to help Hutch care for his niece. Hutch will help her give the kids as normal a Christmas as they can manage. Meredith is wary around him at first, thanks to lessons learned from her violent ex. She lays down some ground rules, which include no touching. That's a little tough for Hutch, because he's really attracted to her, but something tells him he needs to be careful. Hutch is himself still dealing with his own issues. He is frustrated by his inability to speak and wonders if he'll ever get back to normal.

I loved seeing the way that Hutch and Meredith connected so quickly. She's wary, but she quickly sees that there's a kind and gentle man behind the scars and frustration. Hutch also sees that there is something behind Meredith's wariness, but that it will take trust for her to confide in him. Once she does, Hutch is determined to protect her. The connection between them grows stronger as they work together to take care of the two children. It isn't all perfect, as Hutch has a setback that feeds her fears, but with help they overcome it. I liked seeing Hutch reconnect with his friends who are also vets, and how that sets him on the path to healing. A breakthrough on Christmas Day opens a new connection between Hutch and Meredith and things are really looking good for them.

But Meredith's past is still hanging over her, and Hutch is determined to make things right. Hutch's sister is also still missing, and their worry grows the longer she is gone. Her return and Meredith's past collide in a way that had me riveted for the last couple chapters. There are several twists during this point that had me wondering just how it was going to turn out. Meredith's strength of will really shines here, as does Hutch's. While it isn't an "all's well" ending, it is realistic and satisfying.

As always, the town of Twilight works its magic. Meredith has been made to feel welcome and a part of everything. I loved seeing how the ladies encouraged her to come to the cookie exchange, and how being there gave her more insight into who Hutch is. I also loved seeing the support that Hutch is given, as his friends are ready to help him as soon as he's ready to accept it.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,073 reviews93 followers
November 6, 2014

I love a good holiday/Christmas story and I gotta tell you that this is a GREAT book and I loved it.  Holiday books tend to be light and fluffy, this one is not.  It's intense.


Both characters are gong through some very heavy stuff.  Hutch is recuperating from being wounded while deployed and his throat injury complicates his life a great deal.  Let's throw Meredith in on top of that, this woman is running for her and her son's life from a truly crazy son of a bitch.  She settles in the lovely town of Twilight with her precious little boy and almost starts to feel like maybe she could make a life there.  She remains super cautious and ready to pack up and leave at any time, though.


Twilight is a typical small town with plenty of meddling folks who mean well.  Let's face it, Hutch and Meredith needed all the help they could get!  The challenges they needed to surpass were pretty epic.  While there was an extremely intense plot, the holiday aspect was well represented and I loved that too.


The children in this one were also fantastically written and were so cute.


Overall, an excellent Christmas read to add to your Holiday tbr list.  Even though this is book 5 in the series, you can read it as a stand alone.


decideforyourself

 
Purchase Christmas at Twilight:
❃ AMAZON // B&N  // KOBO //iTUNES  ❃
 

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This review was originally posted on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
November 22, 2014
Amanda‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

5 STARS

Review copy provided for an honest review


What an awesome story! Christmas at Twilight by Lori Wilde is a compelling story of healing and love between two people who were facing some real issues. Brian ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson has been discharged and reluctantly returns home to Twilight, Texas to find that his home has been rented to a mysterious woman and her child. He suffers from PTSD and hasn’t been able to talk since his injuries. To make matters worse, his sister with borderline personality disorder is missing, and has left her 4 year old daughter behind. Meredith Sommers using an the alias Jane Brown, is hiding from her sociopath ex-husband with her 4 year old son Ben, and has some very deep fears of being found again.
The two main characters were both well written and developed over the course of the story. I got emotionally involved when their backstories were revealed and my heart ached for them. I can’t imagine having to grow up with a parent and sibling with a mental disorder, or being a victim of domestic abuse. Lori Wilde has developed these characters with both having strengths and flaws to give their stories credibility and be believable. The story was engrossing and flowed well and had bits of fun and family along with mystery and suspense. The two young children were adorable and added much to the story, along with the help of the town wanting this ‘family’ to take part in the holiday activities. As much as there was to this story, I didn’t think the author short changed any of the issues and that it wasn’t rushed along either. When I finished I was in total awe of it and had one satisfied smile on my face.
Christmas at Twilight isn’t your typical warm and fuzzy holiday story but it is one helluva story for a contemporary romance. Ms. Wilde incorporates some heavy subjects of mental illness, domestic abuse, PTSD, and and the effects it has on a people who have to live with those conditions. She builds a romance between a man and woman in which they have to overcome personal obstacles in order to have a chance of a normal life. Having read the original series years ago it brought back good memories of the previous stories and the traditions of the Sweetheart fountain and the Kismet Cookies, which are definitely unique to Twilight. This story reminds me of Robyn Carr and her brilliant Virgin River series. If you like that series you will definitely enjoy this story. Christmas at Twilight can be read as a stand-alone story but I highly recommend checking out the others afterward. Lori Wilde hit this one out of the park and I have to congratulate her on a job well done.

263 reviews
November 13, 2014
"Christmas at Twilight" is written by Lori Wilde, and it is the 5th book in her Twilight, Texas series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Meredith Sommers and Brian Hutchinson aka "Hutch".

Meredith Sommers and her young son, Ben have been on the run from her abusive and dangerous ex-husband for a couple of years now. She thought she found solace in Twilight, Texas, but she's uncertain. Is it possible she saw her ex-husband across the street?

Hutch is back in town - albeit, reluctantly. He is a Delta Force Operator, and due to an incident while on duty, he's unable to speak despite therapy. Hutch first met Meredith at his house while she was house sitting for Hutch's sister Ashley. Ashley, always spontaneously leaves to try and find true love. Unfortunately, Ashley leaves her daughter, Kimmie, behind. Meredith has no idea how long Ashley will be gone, so she watches over Kimmie and her son.

Meredith introduces herself to Hutch as Jane, but her name and her story just doesn't add up to Hutch. He may not be able to speak, but he knows there's something she's not telling him. One night, Meredith decides to open up to him. Hutch has grown to care for Meredith and Ben, so when he finds out the truth, he will do everything he can to protect them.

One of my favorite scenes was when Hutch found his voice. It was a breakthrough moment in the story. Hutch and Meredith's relationship grew stronger, and they understood each other. I loved their relationship with the kids. And I love how Ben and Kimmie were close -- they called each other "twins".

Without giving too much away, Lori wrote a truly beautiful story. It was captivating, heartwarming, suspenseful, and romantic. I've read so many books throughout the years, and honestly, "Christmas at Twilight" ranks up there as one of my favorites of all-time. It's safe to say this is my favorite story Lori has written. I've read several of her books, and I love the Twilight, Texas series, but she outdid herself. I'm in awe. I highly recommend this book! It's more than 5 stars!!
Profile Image for GraceMyBookSnack.
321 reviews26 followers
December 28, 2014
Review also posted on My Book Snack

Made my heart race all the way to the end!

I picked up Christmas at Twilight on a whim to satisfy my craving for a holiday read. I think the cover is adorable, and I’m also a sucker for reads where the hero is ex-military. WOW!!! New-to-me author Lori Wilde can surely write an engaging storyline filled with serious issues that twist your heart. I’m so glad I took a chance on this one.

The underlying tone of this story is very sad. I say that, because much of the subject matter center around how one deals with certain psychological disorders and how it affects family and friends. Yes, the emotions fly high and feelings get wrung tight. I appreciate that Ms. Wilde tells this story in a real and raw way while also providing a satisfying romance. The attraction and chemistry between Hutch and Meredith is pretty obvious right from the beginning, but they have to deal with so many obstacles. You know that feeling of wishing for a Christmas miracle to happen? I got all that and more. Ms. Wilde made my heart race all the way to the end of this story. I was left feeling hopeful for anyone in similar situations.

This is my first time reading a Twilight, Texas novel. What a charming town! In Christmas at Twilight, I got a brief lowdown of what’s been happening with the previous couples without it going into too much of their individual stories. I loved the ladies in The Cookie Club, the kismet cookies, and being introduced to the Sweetheart Legend. I had so much fun being transported to this town briefly that I now want to read the other books in this series.
Profile Image for Paula Ratcliffe.
1,423 reviews73 followers
September 19, 2014
I got this book for a fair and honest review through NetGalley. With that being said I loved this story which follows Brian "Hutch" Hutchinson who has been healing in a hospital after being a solider in the war. Having his finger cut off and damage to his throat he has found himself unable to speak. He ends up being discharged from the hospital and the military and no where to go but home.



Meredith Sommers is living in Twilight working at a spa as a masseuse. She is hiding under an alias of Jane and is hoping this time she can stay longer than other homes she's lived in. When she finds her roomate Ashley has run off with a new man, Jane is worried that Ashley is in trouble. Jane is taking care of her son Ben plus Ashley's daughter Kimmie until Ashley shows up or Ashley's broth arrives.



When Brian arrives in Twilight he is met with pepper spray and a crazy woman trying to protect herself. Little does she know Ashley's brother is in town and can't communicate to his niece or Jane his problems without the help of a board to write what he wants to say. But where is Ashley and what happened to her?

I loved watching Hutch and Jane figure out their relationship and that sometimes PTSD isn't as bad as it is made out to be as both Hutch and Jane suffer from it. Jane from her ex-husband and Hutch from what he has seen at war. The two both have issues they have to work through but also find they can lean on each other when they need too.

I had never read this series and now am regretting not checking out this great series full of promising characters and brightness in these stories! Such a big fan of Ms. Wilde's keep up the great stories!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Gale.
1,970 reviews22 followers
November 3, 2014
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas at Twilight by Lori Wilde is one of the best “feel-good” holiday books that I have read. It has a very heartwarming story that is deep, touching, with a touch of sadness that raises the bar for HEA’s – at least in my opinion.

This isn’t a quick holiday story; it is a very in-depth, family story that grabbed me from the very beginning. Jane/Meredith and Hutch both have things in their pasts that bring in that sadness that I stated above. They have an auspicious meeting – pretty funny, in fact, if it doesn’t happen to you, personally! – but when they realize working together they make a great team ? The absolute best!

I think Christmas at Twilight has a different slant than Ms. Wilde’s other Twilight books. I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters and most especially, the children. They are adorable! Jane/Meredith and Hutch have such depth to them that you really feel that they are real people and are dealing with problems that anyone might have in this world, today.

I highly recommend this book. Get ready for a roller coaster ride that will take you to some deep places, some high places, and to that wonderful HEA that we all crave. Lori Wilde has done it again!
Profile Image for Gayle.
89 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2014
MEMORABLE CHRISTMAS IN TWILIGHT
Everything in Twilight, Texas is ready for Christmas, except a Delta Force Operator and a lady with a dark secret. They just happen to both want to occupy the same house.
Lori Wilde always creates a great read, but this one is full of intrigue, romance, and dark secrets. One theme of this novel is right out of the headlines – domestic abuse. Can the Delta Force Operative protect Meredith and her son (the abused)? As they explore their new feelings for one another, can it overcome the obstacles in their path to a happy ever after?
As you read the story you will also discover the emotions that often plague soldiers after their difficult assignments. Lori Wilde writes with an understanding of the social issues in her story, but also with great compassion for her characters.
Not only will this story be a wonderful read, but it will leave you with a warm feeling as you move toward the holidays. Read the book and consider starting your own “Cookie Club” or other endeavors to unite your neighborhood or community.
I was provided a copy of this book to review. It is definitely one of the best holiday books that I have read. It is a MUST for the holidays……….works great as a gift for ones who love to read.
Profile Image for Dani C. (Polly's Place).
546 reviews251 followers
December 21, 2014
As a fan of Ms. Wilde’s books I knew I would love her latest book Christmas at Twilight. A small town romance that happens over Christmas is a book that you couldn’t keep me away from! Then when I started reading… wow it was heavy.

We have two damaged character that have personal issues galore and yet must hold things together for two young children. Add in a bit of suspense and you have a book that brings you to tears as it holds your heart strings.

This story was a little to heart wrenching for me especially since it happens over the Christmas holidays. Now I know that in real life bad stuff does happen over what should be a happy time of year. I just don’t want to read about it during my relaxing time. It ends up stressing me out and I don’t enjoy my escape to Twilight, Texas as much as I wanted to.

Christmas at Twilight is the sixth book in the wonderful Twilight, Texas series. This series is one of the ones you could read out of order but I wouldn’t recommend it. I think that you would get the most enjoyment when you read it in the order it as published in. I know I have!
Profile Image for Gail.
1,545 reviews
November 10, 2014
Jane is an alias for Meredith Sommers. She is hiding out from her ex-husband who is a cop and abusive. She has a 4 year old son Ben. She is sharing a house with Ashley who also has a 4 year old daughter Kimmie. Ashley takes off on a date and leaves Kimmie with Jane who than decides to run off with this guy and leaves Kimmie with Jane. Hutch who actually owns the house they are living in and is Ashley's half brother comes back from the war but can't talk (they say he should be able to talk but something is stopping him) Jane ends up pepper spraying him because he is some strange guy coming out of the house. Ashley never said she had a brother. So since Ashley has disappeared and Kimmie doesn't really know her uncle they decide to both stay in the house so they can help each other out with the kids. So the adventure begins. There is never a dull moment. The book will keep you guessing until the very end. It will make you laugh and cry. It has romance and suspense. I loved every minute of it. It is an awesome story for the Christmas season!
739 reviews1 follower
November 4, 2014
This story is one of my favorites in Lori Wilde’s Twilight, Texas Series. It has such heart. It isn’t a fluff story with just romance. There are some hard issues for the hero and heroine such as PTSD, domestic abuse, mental illness and a bad guy who is just plain evil. You may wonder why you would want to read such a story but life is messy and has issues in it that we all have to deal with. Through it all there is hope, peace, joy and love when all is said and done. Going through the bad stuff with your best friend and best love by your side makes the journey easier.

Hutch and Jane/Meredith find that there is healing together for themselves and the two children in their care. Grab a copy of this book and find yourself getting to know the wonderful people of Twilight, Texas and the two people who get a second chance at love.

This book can easily be read as a standalone but reading the entire Twilight Texas Series makes it so much more enjoyable.

I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
60 reviews
October 30, 2014
Just finished Christmas at Twilight by Lori Wilde. While I have read all of her books, this is my favorite. It grabbed my attention and wouldn't let it go. When I had to put it down because work interrupted (darn work!), I couldn't wait to start reading from where I left off.
Brian Hutchinson is the soldier who is coming home every day. He's the one who sits next to us on the plane, bus, or in a restaurant. We don't know their story of where they have been or where they are going but Ms. Wilde managed to take that unknown soldier and turn him into the every returning soldier.
Meredith Sloane is a survivor. How Ms. Wilde commanded a story with evil as extreme domestic violence and make it compelling is beyond my imagination. It showcases the extreme measures that people go to and yet she still makes it an enjoyable read. I highly recommend this book.
Now excuse me while I start rereading the story.

Profile Image for Margaret.
319 reviews
November 3, 2014
I have always loved the way this author writes. She brings real live experiences into her books. And this one is no different then the rest.
Hutch is a military man who lost his ability to speak due to an accident in his military line of work. When he returns home he realizes that it was he best thing that has ever happened to him. He gained a wife and children.
Meredith has been on the run from her abusives ex husband for as long as she could remember. When she meets Hutch she doesn't want anything to do with him. However she realizes that by helping him regain his voice she ha fallen in love.
During the book Meredith and Hutch come tougher in support to each other's issues. In th end they realized that their past is what brought the, together and they wouldn't have it any govern way.
Please read this book. It brings to light abuse and PTSD. It also shows that anyone can fall in love as long as you open yourself up to it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews

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