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Valentine Valley #5
Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley
Return to Valentine Valley, where Christmas lights are twinkling and first love burns brighter the second time around...
When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.
Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.
When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.
Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.
368 pages, ebook
First published October 28, 2014
24 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Emma Cane
17 books421 followersEmma Cane grew up reading and soon discovered that she liked to write passionate stories of teenagers in space. Her love of “passionate stories” has never gone away, although today she concentrates on the heartwarming characters of Valentine Valley, her fictional small town in the Colorado Rockies.
Now that her three children are grown, Emma loves spending time crocheting and singing (although not necessarily at the same time), and hiking and snowshoeing alongside her husband Jim and their rambunctious dog Uma.
Emma also writes USA Today bestselling historical romances under the name Gayle Callen.
Now that her three children are grown, Emma loves spending time crocheting and singing (although not necessarily at the same time), and hiking and snowshoeing alongside her husband Jim and their rambunctious dog Uma.
Emma also writes USA Today bestselling historical romances under the name Gayle Callen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 20, 2015
4 'second chance at love' stars!
Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley is the 5th book in Emma Cane's Valentine Valley series. These are small town, contemporary romance stories with lots of heart and plenty of steam. This time it's Tony and Kate's turn to shine, and to get a second shot at love.
Blurb...
When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.My thoughts...
Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.
Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley is my first taste of Emma Cane's writing, and I truly enjoy the way she tells a story. The situation Tony and Kate find themselves in is completely unexpected, with their feelings for one another returning in a big way, and that makes for a poignant, romantic, sexy read! And while their happily ever after is a long time in coming and doesn't come easy, it's definitely wonderful!!!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books via Edelweiss.
December 28, 2015
26/12 - Sitting on three stars at the moment, but I think if I had read the previous books in the series it's likely it would be four.
My main complaint is that Tony and Kate got divorced for a reason and I'm unsure whether their problems are being/will be properly addressed to really allow for them to get back together. Sure, they still have the attraction, but as Kate said, that was never the problem to start with. It was a matter of not talking and never having time for each other and I don't know if I believe that Kate has changed enough to allow her to live the slower, Valentine Valley lifestyle and leave the faster-paced world of Vail and the law firm she worked so hard to get a place in. To be continued...
28/12 - Upon finishing this last night I'm still not sure if Kate's change of heart regarding her career was believable, one setback and suddenly the career she worked so hard and sacrificed her marriage for (the whole reason for this book!) is no longer what she wants. Kate and Tony weren't the most fantastic or memorable characters (individually, or as a couple), but they were enjoyable enough to keep me reading. I look forward to going back and reading the first book in the series.
My main complaint is that Tony and Kate got divorced for a reason and I'm unsure whether their problems are being/will be properly addressed to really allow for them to get back together. Sure, they still have the attraction, but as Kate said, that was never the problem to start with. It was a matter of not talking and never having time for each other and I don't know if I believe that Kate has changed enough to allow her to live the slower, Valentine Valley lifestyle and leave the faster-paced world of Vail and the law firm she worked so hard to get a place in. To be continued...
28/12 - Upon finishing this last night I'm still not sure if Kate's change of heart regarding her career was believable, one setback and suddenly the career she worked so hard and sacrificed her marriage for (the whole reason for this book!) is no longer what she wants. Kate and Tony weren't the most fantastic or memorable characters (individually, or as a couple), but they were enjoyable enough to keep me reading. I look forward to going back and reading the first book in the series.
December 24, 2014
A Christmas story with a small town setting and a second chance at love for divorced couple, Tony and Kate. I admired how well they worked together sharing custody of their now teenage son. And while I never fully connected with the heroine, I did enjoy the sexy hero:)
This is my first read by Emma Cane. I like her writing style and look forward to trying more in this series.
This is my first read by Emma Cane. I like her writing style and look forward to trying more in this series.
September 16, 2014
When Tony's ex wife, Kate, comes into town, he is blown away, Valentine is the last place he would ever expect her to be. Then when she starts to share everything that's on her mind, and the reason she is here, he still can't believe it. They have been divorced for nine years, and share a son. Tony has never been able to fully get over Kate, but having her choose her career over him was hard to swallow, when they stopped talking to each other, he knew it was a matter of time before they would grow to resent each other. So they ended it, and it was a mutual agreement, but there is a still a part of him that loves her. Kate always has been driven and goal oriented, and she worked hard to work for a big city law firm. But when she questions her bosses, that may put the health and welfare of the public at risk, they send her on a two month sabbatical. At first Kate has no idea what to do with herself, then she finds herself working at Tony's bar and grill. After years of conversing for their son, they develop a friendship of sorts, but then they decide to have a sexual relationship until she leaves, they have always been able to have a fire burn between them. But Kate will have to decide if the love she has always had for Tony will be enough, or should she return to her lonely big city life and lose the man she has only loved...again.
Sleigh Bells In Valentine Valley, is a heartwarming holiday romance that warms you from head to toe. This is a reconciliation story, which is always fun to have. It has been a while since I have read a story that the characters are a bit older, and have a teenage son. But I really enjoyed this from the first chapter and it starts right off with Kate entering Tony's bar and spilling out all of her problems to him. He is a bartender so it is part of his job description, but have his ex wife , where they barely speak until it concerns Ethan, is what really shocks Tony. This story was such fun and it does put the reader through a emotional ringer...that's for sure. You never know what is going to happen next with these two. At the beginning of the story, things are tense between them, but the longer Kate stays, the more comfortable and at ease they are with each other. I also liked seeing Ethan a major aspect of the story, normal teenage boy, wanting a smart phone, snowboarding with his friends, and doesn't share everything with his parents. It was a unique take on parenting in this one, and seeing the child a bit older. It was also fun seeing characters from previous books involved in the story line, and added a certain depth to the story that made it seem that much more real.
Overall I couldn't help but fall for the magic of Valentine Valley once again. A must read for lovers of contemporary romance, a tale of renewing, learning to love again, and a passion that never dies!! REMARKABLY WELL WRITTEN!!
Sleigh Bells In Valentine Valley, is a heartwarming holiday romance that warms you from head to toe. This is a reconciliation story, which is always fun to have. It has been a while since I have read a story that the characters are a bit older, and have a teenage son. But I really enjoyed this from the first chapter and it starts right off with Kate entering Tony's bar and spilling out all of her problems to him. He is a bartender so it is part of his job description, but have his ex wife , where they barely speak until it concerns Ethan, is what really shocks Tony. This story was such fun and it does put the reader through a emotional ringer...that's for sure. You never know what is going to happen next with these two. At the beginning of the story, things are tense between them, but the longer Kate stays, the more comfortable and at ease they are with each other. I also liked seeing Ethan a major aspect of the story, normal teenage boy, wanting a smart phone, snowboarding with his friends, and doesn't share everything with his parents. It was a unique take on parenting in this one, and seeing the child a bit older. It was also fun seeing characters from previous books involved in the story line, and added a certain depth to the story that made it seem that much more real.
Overall I couldn't help but fall for the magic of Valentine Valley once again. A must read for lovers of contemporary romance, a tale of renewing, learning to love again, and a passion that never dies!! REMARKABLY WELL WRITTEN!!
December 11, 2014
I love stories about second chances, especially when they are marriages that have gone wrong. It is easy to see that Tony and Kate need a second chance. Neither of them have really moved on from their divorce. They both are good parents, but they need something and that is obviously the other one.
They have been divorced nine years, so there's a lot of life that's gone on. The thing I liked the most was that it was Kate that was the part time parent. She wanted a high powered career as a lawyer, whereas Tony was more content with a town like Valentine Valley, which is where they both grew up and were childhood sweethearts.
I was expecting a lot more drama when it came down to K ate's sabbatical that brings her back home to Valentine Valley, and I was pleasantly surprised when it didn't come.
Tony was the character that I liked the most. He was grounded and really a good small town father. The kind of dad every kid deserves, one that is there for his child.
It takes a little bit longer to warm to Kate, but she is a good person, and I think she had her priorities crossed, and that was probably part of the reason her marriage to Tony didn't work out the first time round.
I enjoyed the way the two of them came together with ease, much like the friends they have always been.
There's a small amount of family drama, but is nothing earth shattering. Just day to day normal family stuff.
It is a beautiful holiday story, a sweet and easy read and one for the keeper shelves.
They have been divorced nine years, so there's a lot of life that's gone on. The thing I liked the most was that it was Kate that was the part time parent. She wanted a high powered career as a lawyer, whereas Tony was more content with a town like Valentine Valley, which is where they both grew up and were childhood sweethearts.
I was expecting a lot more drama when it came down to K ate's sabbatical that brings her back home to Valentine Valley, and I was pleasantly surprised when it didn't come.
Tony was the character that I liked the most. He was grounded and really a good small town father. The kind of dad every kid deserves, one that is there for his child.
It takes a little bit longer to warm to Kate, but she is a good person, and I think she had her priorities crossed, and that was probably part of the reason her marriage to Tony didn't work out the first time round.
I enjoyed the way the two of them came together with ease, much like the friends they have always been.
There's a small amount of family drama, but is nothing earth shattering. Just day to day normal family stuff.
It is a beautiful holiday story, a sweet and easy read and one for the keeper shelves.
November 19, 2014
Ms. Cane is back with a sweet, engaging second chance romance brimming with small town charm.
Kate Fenelli is driven and career focused. She is a successful lawyer making her way in Vail, Colorado. One of the most important cases of her career is proving to be more challenging and when she uncovers dirt that she shouldn’t have, her firm places her on a sabbatical. She heads back home to Valentine Valley to sulk and figure out how to pick back up the pieces.
Tony De Luca is surprised to see his ex-wife stroll into his tavern. Kate was once the love of his life. They married young and had their son, Ethan. Kate’s focus has always been her career so he became the full time parent in their relationship and they split custody during the divorce.
I’m not a judgmental person but I initially found Kate to be slightly selfish. Just like the townsfolk, I became leery of her arrival in town. In a small town, people are not as forgiving when someone hurt one of their own. Despite the fact that Kate grew up there too, there’s a part of her that didn’t really connect. She slowly started to work her charm though and her broken friendships began to mend.
Tony is the kind of hero that women love. He is strong, dependable and hardworking. It is kind of sexy to see how a single Dad handles everyday life. Though he and Kate have been divorced for nine years, the feelings start to resurface as they spend more time together. Tony teaches Kate to let go and have fun.
The only problem I had with this book is that I wanted more of the holiday feel. The book starts off with Thanksgiving and going strong through Christmas but the holidays played a minuscule part of the story.
I’m happy to get a chance to revisit Valentine Valley again through Tony and Kate’s story. I look forward to coming back….maybe through Lyndsay.
Review also posted at http://smittenbybooks.com/blog/2014/1...
Kate Fenelli is driven and career focused. She is a successful lawyer making her way in Vail, Colorado. One of the most important cases of her career is proving to be more challenging and when she uncovers dirt that she shouldn’t have, her firm places her on a sabbatical. She heads back home to Valentine Valley to sulk and figure out how to pick back up the pieces.
Tony De Luca is surprised to see his ex-wife stroll into his tavern. Kate was once the love of his life. They married young and had their son, Ethan. Kate’s focus has always been her career so he became the full time parent in their relationship and they split custody during the divorce.
I’m not a judgmental person but I initially found Kate to be slightly selfish. Just like the townsfolk, I became leery of her arrival in town. In a small town, people are not as forgiving when someone hurt one of their own. Despite the fact that Kate grew up there too, there’s a part of her that didn’t really connect. She slowly started to work her charm though and her broken friendships began to mend.
Tony is the kind of hero that women love. He is strong, dependable and hardworking. It is kind of sexy to see how a single Dad handles everyday life. Though he and Kate have been divorced for nine years, the feelings start to resurface as they spend more time together. Tony teaches Kate to let go and have fun.
The only problem I had with this book is that I wanted more of the holiday feel. The book starts off with Thanksgiving and going strong through Christmas but the holidays played a minuscule part of the story.
I’m happy to get a chance to revisit Valentine Valley again through Tony and Kate’s story. I look forward to coming back….maybe through Lyndsay.
Review also posted at http://smittenbybooks.com/blog/2014/1...
October 23, 2014
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advance readers copy from Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I have to say that this was my first holiday book of the season and I enjoyed every second of this second chance romance. From the large cast of characters to the beautiful setting of Valentine Valley, it provided exactly what I was in the mood for to get the holiday season started. It is book #5 in the Valentine Valley series but can be read as a stand alone.
I absolutely adored the town of Valentine Valley. Coming from a small town myself I could relate to the happenings and strong sense of community. I could easily visualise the quaint storefronts decorated for Christmas and picture myself browsing through all of the unique shops. It felt like the town was just as much a character as Kate and Tony were.
The story of Kate and Tony was a treat to read as well. Being divorced for nine years with a teenage son provided me with a lot of doubt about how the story could possible end well but Cane did an amazing job at providing a story worth reading. She captured the turmoil and emotions of the two of them in an honest and believable manner. I was routing for them with the turn of each page.
If you are looking for a sweet and easy to read holiday story, look no farther. This book provides everything that a sucker for second chances and holiday charm is looking for. I enjoyed Valentine Valley so much that I now have to check out the other instalments of this series and read about the other members of the community.
I received an advance readers copy from Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I have to say that this was my first holiday book of the season and I enjoyed every second of this second chance romance. From the large cast of characters to the beautiful setting of Valentine Valley, it provided exactly what I was in the mood for to get the holiday season started. It is book #5 in the Valentine Valley series but can be read as a stand alone.
I absolutely adored the town of Valentine Valley. Coming from a small town myself I could relate to the happenings and strong sense of community. I could easily visualise the quaint storefronts decorated for Christmas and picture myself browsing through all of the unique shops. It felt like the town was just as much a character as Kate and Tony were.
The story of Kate and Tony was a treat to read as well. Being divorced for nine years with a teenage son provided me with a lot of doubt about how the story could possible end well but Cane did an amazing job at providing a story worth reading. She captured the turmoil and emotions of the two of them in an honest and believable manner. I was routing for them with the turn of each page.
If you are looking for a sweet and easy to read holiday story, look no farther. This book provides everything that a sucker for second chances and holiday charm is looking for. I enjoyed Valentine Valley so much that I now have to check out the other instalments of this series and read about the other members of the community.
October 26, 2014
When Kate and Tony married, they were young and so in love. After a few years of her in law school and a new baby, the love isn't enough to keep them together and they divorced. Tony returned to Valentine Valley and opened a business and Kate went on to become a high powered attorney with a big name firm. Their son Ethan divides his time between them. Now Kate has come back to Valentine after being forced to take a two month sabbatical because of a disagreement with her firm's partners. After the initial awkwardness of explaining why she's home, she settles in to relax and finds that she doesn't like relaxing. She ends up working as a server in Tony's Tavern, mostly as a dare. She and Tony find themselves seeing the good side of each other and wondering if love is possible a second time around or just "ex-sex"
I liked that this couple hadn't had a terrible parting over cheating or something equally bad. They simply didn't communicate and realized they wanted different things. There is still friendship and lingering affection but they have never really talked about what went wrong and how they could have handled it differently. When they start sleeping together, it's hot but the issues are still there.
They grew up but did they mature in regards to their relationship? Ms. Cane does a great job portraying two people who need to examine their choices in life and decide if they did the right thing.
It's always fun in a series to see how previous main characters are doing after the end of their story and there is plenty of that in this book but not so much a new reader couldn't enjoy this story.
I liked that this couple hadn't had a terrible parting over cheating or something equally bad. They simply didn't communicate and realized they wanted different things. There is still friendship and lingering affection but they have never really talked about what went wrong and how they could have handled it differently. When they start sleeping together, it's hot but the issues are still there.
They grew up but did they mature in regards to their relationship? Ms. Cane does a great job portraying two people who need to examine their choices in life and decide if they did the right thing.
It's always fun in a series to see how previous main characters are doing after the end of their story and there is plenty of that in this book but not so much a new reader couldn't enjoy this story.
September 15, 2014
This is a wonderful story of second chances. I usually don't care that much for love once lost type of books but I did like how Ms. Cane handled this one. It shows how when you grow, your needs change. This is a wonderful series!
November 12, 2017
Return to Valentine Valley, where Christmas lights are twinkling and first love burns brighter the second time around . . .
When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.
Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.
I love stories about second chances, especially when they are marriages that have gone wrong. You root for them all through the book. 5 stars.
When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.
Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.
I love stories about second chances, especially when they are marriages that have gone wrong. You root for them all through the book. 5 stars.
December 25, 2021
Good grief. It took me four days to read this book because I kept forgetting about it. There was nothing wrong with it, it was really more of a it-wasn’t-my-kind-of-thing thing. I needed a murder mystery or a gay couple or just something to spice it up. I did enjoy the protagonists’ child. That boy was the most interesting character in the story. This just wasn’t for me. Then the end was so fast I was like wait what. No I have to be honest and say this isn’t normally my genre so take that with a grain of salt.
Ding, ding…
Ding, ding…
Read
September 8, 2018Such a great winter romance ♡
November 14, 2014
review to come
May 10, 2019
DNF'd at 65%. I made the mistake of checking out a bunch of Valentine Valley books all at once. They're oddly written. The issues aren't really issues. Tony feels like Kate worked towards her career because she didn't trust him to support their family? What? Why can't Kate just want to be a lawyer? The fact that this is treated like a big deal is ridiculous beyond belief. And honestly, beyond belief describes the books I've read so far from this author. There's literally no chemistry and no reason for two people to be attracted to one another but the author's gonna shove them together anyway. Neither character has much of a personality, but I felt sorrier for Kate in this book. But really, they have no chemistry, and the author describes sexual attraction and sex in the weirdest way possible.
December 30, 2019
This could easily be a 5 star rating, love this series. However I gave it 4 because the author places too much of the blame on Kate.
Kate got pregnant while in college to be a lawyer. She marries Tony and later they get divorced. This book she is back in town and they fall back in love.
It felt like Tony was too perfect, all blame was on Kate and her career. Their son Ethan character could have been more developed as well.
I do love the romance, sleigh rides and the characters and references from previous books
Kate got pregnant while in college to be a lawyer. She marries Tony and later they get divorced. This book she is back in town and they fall back in love.
It felt like Tony was too perfect, all blame was on Kate and her career. Their son Ethan character could have been more developed as well.
I do love the romance, sleigh rides and the characters and references from previous books
March 24, 2018
It has been 9 years since their divorce so why do Kate and Tony still feel a spark?
Maybe a 3.5 - not sure I buy into the ex-sex... However, I did enjoy the story of overcoming young love mistakes.
Maybe a 3.5 - not sure I buy into the ex-sex... However, I did enjoy the story of overcoming young love mistakes.
November 21, 2023
This a really good story for the characters to grow and learn that life can be a challenge but fun too. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. The characters have believable problems to solve.
June 6, 2017
A fun read
July 13, 2017
Sure to warm your heart and put you in the Christmas spirit!! This steamy little kept me captivated from start to finish!!
December 19, 2017
3.5 stars
Cute Christmas Romance
Cute Christmas Romance
December 7, 2018
Another boring one.
November 24, 2019
Great Christmas tale, planning on reading more titles and revisiting Valentine Valley.
November 13, 2020
Simple holiday fare, but just ok, might be because I haven’t read the previous books in the series.
December 1, 2022
Had this downloaded on old e-reader for years and finally read. So corny. As generic as a the most generic Hallmark movie. Predictable story of woman learns ambition= bad, boring ex-husband= good.
November 13, 2014
It isn’t often that people get a chance to ‘try again’ after a long separation. Emma Cane brings us a second chance at romance with two people who split to chase their dreams, knowing that staying together wouldn’t be good for them or their son.
Kate is an attorney, and when she left Tony to take a position in the city, she thought she was getting a chance at her dream. Now years later, she has been put on sabbatical by her firm after questioning some decisions and results. With two months of free time, a rarity, she decides to return to Valentine Valley to touch base with Tony and spend some time in a familiar and welcoming place.
Tony never wanted to split with Kate – he’s still in love with her, and he always held out some hope that someday she would change her mind. Now running a bar and grill, she and Tony come face to face as she explains her return. Slowly their connection is rediscovered, and they decide to have a relationship ‘with benefits’ for Kate’s time in the small town.
The interaction between the two shows their solid connection and desire for one another, but both of them are tentative: Kate still thinks that she wants to be in the city, and Tony is unwilling to risk his heart again. Their son, Ethan, is now a teen, and pretty typical for his age: quiet, involved in his own thing with his friends, and not always sharing his thoughts, acts or feelings with his parents. Their interactions are fun to watch, and feel very real. And the secondary characters and interactions bring a solid small-town sensibility to the story, these people know them both, and are familiar with Tony’s struggle after Kate left, so there is a sense of some caution before they start to show Kate what she is missing.
And this is all on Kate – she has to decide if her dream job really is more appealing, the stress, the loneliness of the city, and the fact that leaving now means she leaves the only man she had ever loved, again. A wonderful story full of possibility and potential and lots of the homespun Christmas spirit that is so fun to find and experience.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Kate is an attorney, and when she left Tony to take a position in the city, she thought she was getting a chance at her dream. Now years later, she has been put on sabbatical by her firm after questioning some decisions and results. With two months of free time, a rarity, she decides to return to Valentine Valley to touch base with Tony and spend some time in a familiar and welcoming place.
Tony never wanted to split with Kate – he’s still in love with her, and he always held out some hope that someday she would change her mind. Now running a bar and grill, she and Tony come face to face as she explains her return. Slowly their connection is rediscovered, and they decide to have a relationship ‘with benefits’ for Kate’s time in the small town.
The interaction between the two shows their solid connection and desire for one another, but both of them are tentative: Kate still thinks that she wants to be in the city, and Tony is unwilling to risk his heart again. Their son, Ethan, is now a teen, and pretty typical for his age: quiet, involved in his own thing with his friends, and not always sharing his thoughts, acts or feelings with his parents. Their interactions are fun to watch, and feel very real. And the secondary characters and interactions bring a solid small-town sensibility to the story, these people know them both, and are familiar with Tony’s struggle after Kate left, so there is a sense of some caution before they start to show Kate what she is missing.
And this is all on Kate – she has to decide if her dream job really is more appealing, the stress, the loneliness of the city, and the fact that leaving now means she leaves the only man she had ever loved, again. A wonderful story full of possibility and potential and lots of the homespun Christmas spirit that is so fun to find and experience.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
November 16, 2014
Originally posted on Smitten by Books Blog
Ms. Cane is back with a sweet, engaging second chance romance brimming with small town charm.
Kate Fenelli is driven and career focused. She is a successful lawyer making her way in Vail, Colorado. One of the most important cases of her career is proving to be more challenging and when she uncovers dirt that she shouldn’t have, her firm places her on a sabbatical. She heads back home to Valentine Valley to sulk and figure out how to pick back up the pieces.
Tony De Luca is surprised to see his ex-wife stroll into his tavern. Kate was once the love of his life. They married young and had their son, Ethan. Kate’s focus has always been her career so he became the full time parent in their relationship and they split custody during the divorce.
I’m not a judgmental person but I initially found Kate to be slightly selfish. Just like the townsfolk, I became leery of her arrival in town. In a small town, people are not as forgiving when someone hurt one of their own. Despite the fact that Kate grew up there too, there’s a part of her that didn’t really connect. She slowly started to work her charm though and her broken friendships began to mend.
Tony is the kind of hero that women love. He is strong, dependable and hardworking. It is kind of sexy to see how a single Dad handles everyday life. Though he and Kate have been divorced for nine years, the feelings start to resurface as they spend more time together. Tony teaches Kate to let go and have fun.
The only problem I had with this book is that I wanted more of the holiday feel. The book starts off with Thanksgiving and going strong through Christmas but the holidays played a minuscule part of the story.
I’m happy to get a chance to revisit Valentine Valley again through Tony and Kate’s story. I look forward to coming back….maybe through Lyndsay.
Reviewed by Samantha
Heat Level: Hot
Ms. Cane is back with a sweet, engaging second chance romance brimming with small town charm.
Kate Fenelli is driven and career focused. She is a successful lawyer making her way in Vail, Colorado. One of the most important cases of her career is proving to be more challenging and when she uncovers dirt that she shouldn’t have, her firm places her on a sabbatical. She heads back home to Valentine Valley to sulk and figure out how to pick back up the pieces.
Tony De Luca is surprised to see his ex-wife stroll into his tavern. Kate was once the love of his life. They married young and had their son, Ethan. Kate’s focus has always been her career so he became the full time parent in their relationship and they split custody during the divorce.
I’m not a judgmental person but I initially found Kate to be slightly selfish. Just like the townsfolk, I became leery of her arrival in town. In a small town, people are not as forgiving when someone hurt one of their own. Despite the fact that Kate grew up there too, there’s a part of her that didn’t really connect. She slowly started to work her charm though and her broken friendships began to mend.
Tony is the kind of hero that women love. He is strong, dependable and hardworking. It is kind of sexy to see how a single Dad handles everyday life. Though he and Kate have been divorced for nine years, the feelings start to resurface as they spend more time together. Tony teaches Kate to let go and have fun.
The only problem I had with this book is that I wanted more of the holiday feel. The book starts off with Thanksgiving and going strong through Christmas but the holidays played a minuscule part of the story.
I’m happy to get a chance to revisit Valentine Valley again through Tony and Kate’s story. I look forward to coming back….maybe through Lyndsay.
Reviewed by Samantha
Heat Level: Hot
April 23, 2016
I give this 3.5-4 stars. Sweet story.
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Spoiler
Note to Self;Colorado
Tony De Luca(tavern owner,bartender,divorced)+(ex-wife,lawyer)=(their son,13yo),
Monica Shaw(twin sis,30yo,florist,flower shop owner,activist,pal)+ Travis Beaumont(35yo,Secret Service agent,ex-Marine,divorced,bro,pal1),
Melissa Shaw(Missy,activist,twin sis,CNN reporter,30yo)+Royce Ames (lead advance secret service agent counter sniper team,pal1),Janet Shaw(mom,activist,doctor's receptionist)+Ben(dad),Dominic Shaw(Dom, bro,food broker),Gloria Valik(ranch secretary,Monica's aunt),Kelly Beaumont(31yo,younger sis,Marine,prosthetic leg),Mikayla Hunt(ex-wife,Presidential Protective Detail,Secret Service),Special Agent Nguyen(Secret Service),Emily Thalberg(Em,half sis0,bakery owner,pastry chef,pal)+Nate(rancher, bro),Whitney Winslow-Thalberg(lingerie chain owner,pal)+Josh(bro,ranch owner,leather artist)=Olivia(their baby), Brooke Thalberg(sis-in-law, riding school owner,pal)+Adam Desantis(ex-Marine,grandson,fiance),Heather Armstrong(catering co. owner,pal)+ Chris Sweet(Emily's bro0),Steph Sweet(teen,sis0,H.S. senior,bakery worker),Will Sweet(bro0),Theresa Sweet(cousin,sis2,inn hostess),Matt Sweet(cousin,bro2,landscaper,gay)+Ryan Garcia(Whitney's PA,gay),Daniel Sweet(bro0),Ashley Ludlow(lawyer,pal)+Jeremy Torres(President's son), President Alanna Torres(mother)+husband,Donna Ludlow(daughter-in-law),
Mrs.Ludlow(Connie,retired teacher,activist,widow),Mrs. Palmer(Renee, Adam's grandma,activist,widow),Mrs. Rosemary Thalberg(widow,activist, Emily's grandma-in-law),Mrs. Sweet(inn owner),Sandy Thalberg(mother-in-law),Karista(teen,sales associate,flower shop),Jessica Fitzjames (20's,reporter),Lisa(waitress,Deke's daughter), Deke Hutcheson (rancher,dad, veteran)+Brenda(rancher,activist),Scott Huang(Army veteran,prosthetic arm),Doc Ericson.
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Spoiler
Note to Self;Colorado
Tony De Luca(tavern owner,bartender,divorced)+(ex-wife,lawyer)=(their son,13yo),
Monica Shaw(twin sis,30yo,florist,flower shop owner,activist,pal)+ Travis Beaumont(35yo,Secret Service agent,ex-Marine,divorced,bro,pal1),
Melissa Shaw(Missy,activist,twin sis,CNN reporter,30yo)+Royce Ames (lead advance secret service agent counter sniper team,pal1),Janet Shaw(mom,activist,doctor's receptionist)+Ben(dad),Dominic Shaw(Dom, bro,food broker),Gloria Valik(ranch secretary,Monica's aunt),Kelly Beaumont(31yo,younger sis,Marine,prosthetic leg),Mikayla Hunt(ex-wife,Presidential Protective Detail,Secret Service),Special Agent Nguyen(Secret Service),Emily Thalberg(Em,half sis0,bakery owner,pastry chef,pal)+Nate(rancher, bro),Whitney Winslow-Thalberg(lingerie chain owner,pal)+Josh(bro,ranch owner,leather artist)=Olivia(their baby), Brooke Thalberg(sis-in-law, riding school owner,pal)+Adam Desantis(ex-Marine,grandson,fiance),Heather Armstrong(catering co. owner,pal)+ Chris Sweet(Emily's bro0),Steph Sweet(teen,sis0,H.S. senior,bakery worker),Will Sweet(bro0),Theresa Sweet(cousin,sis2,inn hostess),Matt Sweet(cousin,bro2,landscaper,gay)+Ryan Garcia(Whitney's PA,gay),Daniel Sweet(bro0),Ashley Ludlow(lawyer,pal)+Jeremy Torres(President's son), President Alanna Torres(mother)+husband,Donna Ludlow(daughter-in-law),
Mrs.Ludlow(Connie,retired teacher,activist,widow),Mrs. Palmer(Renee, Adam's grandma,activist,widow),Mrs. Rosemary Thalberg(widow,activist, Emily's grandma-in-law),Mrs. Sweet(inn owner),Sandy Thalberg(mother-in-law),Karista(teen,sales associate,flower shop),Jessica Fitzjames (20's,reporter),Lisa(waitress,Deke's daughter), Deke Hutcheson (rancher,dad, veteran)+Brenda(rancher,activist),Scott Huang(Army veteran,prosthetic arm),Doc Ericson.
November 14, 2014
I love Christmas stories, small town settings and second chance romance. This book has it all. The setting is beautifully described, making the reader feel in Valentine Valley and see all the beautiful decorations, feel the snow flakes and the chilly wind. I think the author's way of describing the setting pulls you right in, even if you've never been to Colorado (I haven't, but I could very well imagine every detail).
I liked the hero more than I liked the heroine. It took me a long time to really connect with Kate, almost until the end of the book. I'm not a fan of workaholic heroines or those who put their job before everything else, so I didn't really like that Kate and Tony divorced because of Kate's job. On the other hand, I really liked Tony. He was a great father and a hard worker, and I loved that, in spite of the divorce, he was still nice and caring as far as Kate was concerned.
What didn't work for me, apart from failing to connect with Kate, was that sometimes the story seemed to drag a little. It took them way too long to get back together, and some parts were a little too descriptive while I just wanted them to be together and see them as a couple. I understand this might be a way to build up tension and make the reader root for the characters, though, but I would've liked for them to open up their hearts sooner in the book.
I loved the happy ending but I was sorry that the story ended once they finally admitted their feelings for each other. I would've loved to see how things worked out afterwards.
If you love second chance romance and stories set around Christmas, you should pick up this book. It is a very cute story and perfect to get in the right mood for Christmas.
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
I liked the hero more than I liked the heroine. It took me a long time to really connect with Kate, almost until the end of the book. I'm not a fan of workaholic heroines or those who put their job before everything else, so I didn't really like that Kate and Tony divorced because of Kate's job. On the other hand, I really liked Tony. He was a great father and a hard worker, and I loved that, in spite of the divorce, he was still nice and caring as far as Kate was concerned.
What didn't work for me, apart from failing to connect with Kate, was that sometimes the story seemed to drag a little. It took them way too long to get back together, and some parts were a little too descriptive while I just wanted them to be together and see them as a couple. I understand this might be a way to build up tension and make the reader root for the characters, though, but I would've liked for them to open up their hearts sooner in the book.
I loved the happy ending but I was sorry that the story ended once they finally admitted their feelings for each other. I would've loved to see how things worked out afterwards.
If you love second chance romance and stories set around Christmas, you should pick up this book. It is a very cute story and perfect to get in the right mood for Christmas.
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
June 13, 2024
"Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley" by Emma Cane is a delightful and heartwarming novel that captures the magic of the holiday season and the charm of small-town romance. Set in the picturesque Valentine Valley, this novel is a perfect blend of sweet romance, festive cheer, and community spirit.
Cane's storytelling is enchanting, transporting readers to a snowy wonderland where Christmas traditions and love intertwine. The chemistry between the main characters, including the spirited veterinarian and the handsome rancher, is palpable and endearing, making their journey towards love both captivating and satisfying.
The small-town setting adds an extra layer of warmth and nostalgia to the story, with quirky and lovable secondary characters who contribute to the novel's cozy atmosphere. The sense of community and the holiday festivities make Valentine Valley feel like a place readers would love to visit and never want to leave.
Cane's prose is engaging and heartfelt, with moments of humor and tenderness that tug at the heartstrings. The novel's themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances resonate deeply, making "Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley" a perfect read for anyone looking to escape into a festive and uplifting story.
Overall, "Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley" is a charming and joyful novel that captures the essence of the holiday spirit and the power of love. Emma Cane has crafted a heartwarming tale that will leave readers smiling and feeling festive. This book earns its five stars for its enchanting romance, delightful setting, and its celebration of the magic of Christmas in a small-town community.
Cane's storytelling is enchanting, transporting readers to a snowy wonderland where Christmas traditions and love intertwine. The chemistry between the main characters, including the spirited veterinarian and the handsome rancher, is palpable and endearing, making their journey towards love both captivating and satisfying.
The small-town setting adds an extra layer of warmth and nostalgia to the story, with quirky and lovable secondary characters who contribute to the novel's cozy atmosphere. The sense of community and the holiday festivities make Valentine Valley feel like a place readers would love to visit and never want to leave.
Cane's prose is engaging and heartfelt, with moments of humor and tenderness that tug at the heartstrings. The novel's themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances resonate deeply, making "Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley" a perfect read for anyone looking to escape into a festive and uplifting story.
Overall, "Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley" is a charming and joyful novel that captures the essence of the holiday spirit and the power of love. Emma Cane has crafted a heartwarming tale that will leave readers smiling and feeling festive. This book earns its five stars for its enchanting romance, delightful setting, and its celebration of the magic of Christmas in a small-town community.
August 9, 2016
What a wonderful story of little town living, the first love, second chances, and Christmas miracles.
This story has so many outstanding aspects to it, it was a joy to read every minute.
The Valentine Valley with its lovely inhabitants, the Widow's, the families, the circle of friends, it is a tight knit group, that lives and love, and support each other. The whole concept of 'it takes a village' is truly lived with this community, and they made me smile, what a joy!
Tony and Kate were each others first love, and after spending some time together again, those old feelings started to burn anew. I liked that they had the chance to talk about the old times, heal old hurts and misunderstandings. It was a delight to watch their relationship form again, in a new and more open platform. It was adorable, passionate, charming, and captivating, but also a bit painful to go through the old history to make it right again. I wanted to see them happily together again, as a family.
This story shoots right to your heart, and takes a hold, it made me smile, laugh, and tear up, and have a long, happy sigh at the end. A perfect read over the holidays
~ Five spoons!
This story has so many outstanding aspects to it, it was a joy to read every minute.
The Valentine Valley with its lovely inhabitants, the Widow's, the families, the circle of friends, it is a tight knit group, that lives and love, and support each other. The whole concept of 'it takes a village' is truly lived with this community, and they made me smile, what a joy!
Tony and Kate were each others first love, and after spending some time together again, those old feelings started to burn anew. I liked that they had the chance to talk about the old times, heal old hurts and misunderstandings. It was a delight to watch their relationship form again, in a new and more open platform. It was adorable, passionate, charming, and captivating, but also a bit painful to go through the old history to make it right again. I wanted to see them happily together again, as a family.
This story shoots right to your heart, and takes a hold, it made me smile, laugh, and tear up, and have a long, happy sigh at the end. A perfect read over the holidays
~ Five spoons!
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