Winter Shift

by Christine Waters

For Sheriff Dana Finch, arresting Rachel Conroy on a snowy December night was just doing her job. The daughter of Bracken Ridge's wealthiest family was over the limit, and Dana doesn't bend the rules, not even when Rachel's tears nearly broke her resolve.

Just when Dana thinks she’s seen the last of her, fate throws them together at a secluded winter lodge. Trapped by the snow, Dana discovers that the woman behind the headlines is nothing like the one she put in handcuffs. In the quiet of the snowy woods, what starts as late-night conversations over wine and a shared charcuterie board becomes a connection Dana can no longer ignore.

But Dana has a life to get back a demanding re-election campaign and burying the wreckage of a failed marriage. As their time at the lodge runs out, she faces an impossible choice. Will she retreat into the safety of her carefully guarded life, or find the courage to claim the love she never believed she deserved?

321 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2026

About the author

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Reviews

[L E]

I really enjoyed this book. This story will especially resonate with readers who have struggled with being closeted because of religious expectations, family pressure, or cultural norms.

Dana’s journey felt honest and emotional. For her, Rachel becomes the person who gives her the courage to finally live openly, even knowing there may be consequences. That kind of relationship — the one that pushes you to be brave enough to be yourself — is something many people will recognize in their own lives.

One of my favorite characters was Lucy. I absolutely loved her quirky personality and the way the author wrote her. She’s the kind of friend everyone hopes to have — loyal, supportive, and there no matter what. Honestly, I think many of us can think of a “Lucy” in our own lives.

I also really appreciated how Dana’s father eventually came around. Those moments added a lot of heart to the story. If anything, I would have loved to see even more development there because it was such a meaningful part of Dana’s journey.

[Sandi]

how did you meet your girlfriend??

What a way to meet the woman you’ll fall in love with-arresting her! Rachel angry, hurt, drunk was speeding down a windy country road. Dana the town sheriff pulled her over. Dana was trying to bend the rules but Rachel was contentious and legally over the limit. So she arrested and cuffed her drove her to the station and Rachel spent the night in jail. As the universe often does they happen to might up a few days later at a two week yoga retreat. Now it really gets interesting..

This was an enjoyable book, great characters, cute story pulled you right in. First book I’ve read by this author will be checking out her other books.

[Taryn]

3.5

[Nat E]

I was having a good time until the “insta love”. Less than two weeks of knowing each other and super in love?
It started off strong but then it just fell a little flat.