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Secrets of Cherry Lake #6
Her Secret Christmas Hero
Do you believe in love at first sight?
Allie McHale is spending this brutal Christmas Eve snowstorm in a barn in Marietta, Montana when suddenly she hears a horrible crash on the freeway near her ranch. She discovers a handsome lone survivor, a prisoner in handcuffs, and despite her apprehension about harboring a criminal, she rescues him anyway.
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
Allie McHale is spending this brutal Christmas Eve snowstorm in a barn in Marietta, Montana when suddenly she hears a horrible crash on the freeway near her ranch. She discovers a handsome lone survivor, a prisoner in handcuffs, and despite her apprehension about harboring a criminal, she rescues him anyway.
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
102 pages, ebook
First published October 20, 2015
478 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Mallory Kane
157 books138 followersBestselling romance author Mallory Kane has published over 40 romantic suspense titles between Harlequin Intrigue and Tule Publishing Group, and she has multiple independent projects spanning genres. Mallory loves romantic suspense with dangerous heroes and dauntless heroines, and she enjoys tossing in a bit of her medical knowledge for an extra dose of intrigue.
Mallory taught herself to read at age three, starting a lifelong love affair with books. Her mother, a librarian, loved and respected books and taught Mallory that they were a precious resource. Her father was a brilliant storyteller. His oral histories are chronicled in such places as the Veterans' History Project at the Library of Congress. He was always her biggest fan.
When she's not writing, Mallory enjoys designing one-of-a-kind jewelry using broken vintage pieces and creating collaged greeting cards. She lives in East Tennessee with her husband, Michael, and their cats. Mallory loves hearing from her readers. Connect with her at www.mallorykane.com, @mallorykane on Twitter, and AuthorMalloryKane on Facebook.
Mallory taught herself to read at age three, starting a lifelong love affair with books. Her mother, a librarian, loved and respected books and taught Mallory that they were a precious resource. Her father was a brilliant storyteller. His oral histories are chronicled in such places as the Veterans' History Project at the Library of Congress. He was always her biggest fan.
When she's not writing, Mallory enjoys designing one-of-a-kind jewelry using broken vintage pieces and creating collaged greeting cards. She lives in East Tennessee with her husband, Michael, and their cats. Mallory loves hearing from her readers. Connect with her at www.mallorykane.com, @mallorykane on Twitter, and AuthorMalloryKane on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 23, 2015
3 - ”I think the time to be careful is over.” Stars.
The synopsis of Her Secret Christmas Hero is what initially grabbed me with this one, I mean who isn’t going to be intrigued by a man in hand-cuffs, and not for kinky reasons either! It started well, the initial meeting between Allie and Jake is the stuff of Christmas nightmares, but once they made it back to the all-important barn, where pretty much the rest of this novella takes place things fizzled out for me.
”We’ll be fine.”
This novella had so much potential, and the authors writing style is easy to engage in, but everything that happened between these two was in the space of hours. Stuck in a barn together overnight (Christmas Eve) Allie goes from wary to wanting to falling for a guy who she has absolutely no background knowledge of apart from what he tells her.
I liked Jake, and I liked them together, I think the author would have made the story more believable (yeah, yeah, I know its fiction) if their blossoming relationship had grown whilst trapped in a snow storm together for a couple of days, rather than overnight, there is plenty enough going on in the novella that it could have been stretched out a bit to accommodate that, and still keep it novella length.
My first book by Mallory Kane, and I would definitely be happy to read more from hr in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The synopsis of Her Secret Christmas Hero is what initially grabbed me with this one, I mean who isn’t going to be intrigued by a man in hand-cuffs, and not for kinky reasons either! It started well, the initial meeting between Allie and Jake is the stuff of Christmas nightmares, but once they made it back to the all-important barn, where pretty much the rest of this novella takes place things fizzled out for me.
”We’ll be fine.”
This novella had so much potential, and the authors writing style is easy to engage in, but everything that happened between these two was in the space of hours. Stuck in a barn together overnight (Christmas Eve) Allie goes from wary to wanting to falling for a guy who she has absolutely no background knowledge of apart from what he tells her.
I liked Jake, and I liked them together, I think the author would have made the story more believable (yeah, yeah, I know its fiction) if their blossoming relationship had grown whilst trapped in a snow storm together for a couple of days, rather than overnight, there is plenty enough going on in the novella that it could have been stretched out a bit to accommodate that, and still keep it novella length.
My first book by Mallory Kane, and I would definitely be happy to read more from hr in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
December 14, 2017
Short Christmas story..
2.5 stars
If you're looking for a light, low angst, sweet short story- this will fit the bill. The main characters were average, at best. The hero was not alpha (IMO) and the heroine was immature
- no cheating
- no ow/om drama whatsoever
-no violence
- safe
-very low steam - definitely needed more
- lackluster HFN ending
2.5 stars
If you're looking for a light, low angst, sweet short story- this will fit the bill. The main characters were average, at best. The hero was not alpha (IMO) and the heroine was immature
- no cheating
- no ow/om drama whatsoever
-no violence
- safe
-very low steam - definitely needed more
- lackluster HFN ending
November 8, 2015
Alexandra McHale is facing her first Christmas alone following the untimely death of her father some three months earlier. She lives on the family ranch where her beloved horse, McHale's Christmas Carol or CeCe as she is affectionately called, is due to give birth in about a week. The weather forecast is for storms with heavy snowfall so she's planning on sleeping in the barn with CeCe as the generator in the ranch is unreliable and she wants to ensure CeCe keeps warm despite the weather. As she makes her preparations for her Christmas Eve vigil she hears the horrifying sound of a vehicle hitting the guard rail on a dangerous bend in the road. Worried about the occupants she braves the weather to investigate, discovering a truck has side swiped the rail, taking many of the warning reflectors with it. She calls in the information to the Sheriff's department, places two reflector poles to try to alert drivers to the danger. Returning home to CeCe, tired from the long cross country trek, she then hears another crash, this time followed by the blaring of a vehicle's horn. That is the start of her Christmas adventure, one that will change her life. Read it yourself to see what and who she finds.
This is a well written chicklit with great characters, a lovely horse, danger from the weather and possible mobsters together with, of course, a romance with a potential HEA. It explores attitudes and feelings of 'mafia' family members who make different choices about their lives and is a great read.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
This is a well written chicklit with great characters, a lovely horse, danger from the weather and possible mobsters together with, of course, a romance with a potential HEA. It explores attitudes and feelings of 'mafia' family members who make different choices about their lives and is a great read.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
November 12, 2015
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
2.5 stars
Mallory Kane did a nice job of bringing Montana to life in “Her Secret Christmas Hero”. Unfortunately, she had a hard time keeping me involved and invested in the story.
Allie had me confused. I wasn’t really sure where she was coming from or where she was going. One minute she is holding a gun on Jacob, the next she is begging him to make love to her. She felt scattered, not well thought out and well, just confusing.
As for Jacob, he was a little more settled for me. He knew what his life was going to have in store for him once the snow storm passed. He didn’t expect to be saved by a woman with a big heart. He didn’t expect to be delivering a foal in a snow storm. He didn’t expect to fall in love. Walking away from her and making the decision to either testify or not against his father and brother were the hardest decisions he ever had to make in his life.
Maybe I am just used to strong female characters and Allie just didn’t come off that way to me. She actually depressed me. Granted, she had a rough time with just losing her father but I wasn’t drawn into that part of the story and that seemed to be the premise behind her. Well, that and her horse CeCe. Also, the timelines were confusing to me. At one point I thought it was 1 am on Christmas morning but then Christmas Star was born on Christmas Eve. Again, confused.
The story itself was cute and interesting. It would have been nice to have had a little bit more of a background on the town itself, its occupants and how they all fit together. I just felt cheated in some way of not knowing more about what really brought them to the places where they were at in life. I would love to read more from Mallory Kane to watch and see how she evolves.
There were times in this story that I became really involved and then others when I felt disconnected. But, as I said, the story was cute and had a really nice happily ever after.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Mallory Kane did a nice job of bringing Montana to life in “Her Secret Christmas Hero”. Unfortunately, she had a hard time keeping me involved and invested in the story.
Allie had me confused. I wasn’t really sure where she was coming from or where she was going. One minute she is holding a gun on Jacob, the next she is begging him to make love to her. She felt scattered, not well thought out and well, just confusing.
As for Jacob, he was a little more settled for me. He knew what his life was going to have in store for him once the snow storm passed. He didn’t expect to be saved by a woman with a big heart. He didn’t expect to be delivering a foal in a snow storm. He didn’t expect to fall in love. Walking away from her and making the decision to either testify or not against his father and brother were the hardest decisions he ever had to make in his life.
Maybe I am just used to strong female characters and Allie just didn’t come off that way to me. She actually depressed me. Granted, she had a rough time with just losing her father but I wasn’t drawn into that part of the story and that seemed to be the premise behind her. Well, that and her horse CeCe. Also, the timelines were confusing to me. At one point I thought it was 1 am on Christmas morning but then Christmas Star was born on Christmas Eve. Again, confused.
The story itself was cute and interesting. It would have been nice to have had a little bit more of a background on the town itself, its occupants and how they all fit together. I just felt cheated in some way of not knowing more about what really brought them to the places where they were at in life. I would love to read more from Mallory Kane to watch and see how she evolves.
There were times in this story that I became really involved and then others when I felt disconnected. But, as I said, the story was cute and had a really nice happily ever after.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
December 21, 2018
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane is a very short holiday story that takes place on a horse ranch, one of my favorite themes. Unfortunately, this novella is too short to give the broader feel of the setting I prefer.
Why was this novella in Dorine’s TBR? I collect free novellas when I find them, especially for new-to-me authors. Not that every author is gifted at writing novels and novellas equally, but this gives me an idea of whether I want to try longer books by the same author. It’s also a great way to stretch my reading into some of the TBR themes I wouldn’t normally choose.
Let me preface this review with the caveat that the holiday theme for our TBR Challenge is my least favorite. I love the idea of Christmas themed stories, but rarely find any that satisfy my craving. Choosing a shorter book for this challenge gets me through when I don’t have any time for reading. I should rephrase that. It’s probably better stated that my brain wants to play mind-numbing games on my Kindle, or watch mindless TV, more than reading when cold weather hits.
I don’t know why, but the idea of cozy reading by a fire, which is huge on my wish-list, never happens because my brain won’t allow it. Hence the reason why my huge TBR of Christmas themed books never get read. I keep thinking this year I’ll do it! Nope – I stall every time. I’m starting to think that maybe I don’t really like holiday themed stories as much as I think I do.
Her Secret Christmas Hero drew me in with its beautiful cover. Having heard of the author, I was curious about her style, so I downloaded the book without investigating further. At first, I thought this book was part of a series by the way it’s labeled on GoodReads as “Secrets of Cherry Lake #6”. After much research, I still don’t know why it’s listed that way as I can’t find any series link. Maybe it was part of an anthology at one time.
I don’t normally review books that fail the believability-factor for me, but I think the author’s talent is there, it just didn’t pass my grouchy pickiness in this book. I came down with a bad sinus infection when I should have been reading and writing this review. Having to continue my shopping and other holiday insanity while I’m sick put me into Miss Cranky Pants territory with no sign of relief. Trust me – a grouchy review is the least of my sins.
First of all, there were too many missing words or grammatical errors for such a small story. Note to publishers – if you’re going to give a book away free to entice new readership, and you make an effort to give it such a gorgeous cover, please take the time for a thorough edit. Truthfully, I set the book aside when I thought I was at 50%, because I couldn’t believe the innocent heroine would have insta-love or insta-lust with someone she knew was a criminal. Someone else may feel the attraction and believe the hot sex that happened quickly, but I couldn’t stop the “Danger Will Robinson” flashing lights from going off in my head.
A day later, I decided to give it another go, only to find out that the reason I was only at 50% was that there were so many excerpts in there for other books that it equaled the page count for the story. I was much further along than I had anticipated. But, by that time I was so annoyed at the heroine for being a goofball, and at the publisher for loading all those excerpts, that I couldn’t imagine reviewing this fairly. Then, I went back in and realized there was a free story in there by another author – not the load of excerpts that my sick self imagined. Oops. That was a nice surprise – she says sheepishly. 🙂
To summarize, Her Secret Christmas Hero had many good parts that I enjoyed. But, I can’t overlook missing words and too much sex because I fully expected the heroine to be pregnant if the hero went to jail. That wasn’t the end, but my mind had gone there, so the true end made no sense to me. If you like a bad-boy hero who really doesn’t want to be a bad boy, then this novella might be for you. I loved the mama horse and her baby – those scenes were really sweet.
There you have it – Miss Cranky Pants reviewed this novella because she has no time or patience to read another for the TBR Challenge. I promise the positive me will be back soon. 🙂
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of TheZestQuest.com. Digital copy obtained for free in an Amazon promotion.
Why was this novella in Dorine’s TBR? I collect free novellas when I find them, especially for new-to-me authors. Not that every author is gifted at writing novels and novellas equally, but this gives me an idea of whether I want to try longer books by the same author. It’s also a great way to stretch my reading into some of the TBR themes I wouldn’t normally choose.
Let me preface this review with the caveat that the holiday theme for our TBR Challenge is my least favorite. I love the idea of Christmas themed stories, but rarely find any that satisfy my craving. Choosing a shorter book for this challenge gets me through when I don’t have any time for reading. I should rephrase that. It’s probably better stated that my brain wants to play mind-numbing games on my Kindle, or watch mindless TV, more than reading when cold weather hits.
I don’t know why, but the idea of cozy reading by a fire, which is huge on my wish-list, never happens because my brain won’t allow it. Hence the reason why my huge TBR of Christmas themed books never get read. I keep thinking this year I’ll do it! Nope – I stall every time. I’m starting to think that maybe I don’t really like holiday themed stories as much as I think I do.
Her Secret Christmas Hero drew me in with its beautiful cover. Having heard of the author, I was curious about her style, so I downloaded the book without investigating further. At first, I thought this book was part of a series by the way it’s labeled on GoodReads as “Secrets of Cherry Lake #6”. After much research, I still don’t know why it’s listed that way as I can’t find any series link. Maybe it was part of an anthology at one time.
I don’t normally review books that fail the believability-factor for me, but I think the author’s talent is there, it just didn’t pass my grouchy pickiness in this book. I came down with a bad sinus infection when I should have been reading and writing this review. Having to continue my shopping and other holiday insanity while I’m sick put me into Miss Cranky Pants territory with no sign of relief. Trust me – a grouchy review is the least of my sins.
First of all, there were too many missing words or grammatical errors for such a small story. Note to publishers – if you’re going to give a book away free to entice new readership, and you make an effort to give it such a gorgeous cover, please take the time for a thorough edit. Truthfully, I set the book aside when I thought I was at 50%, because I couldn’t believe the innocent heroine would have insta-love or insta-lust with someone she knew was a criminal. Someone else may feel the attraction and believe the hot sex that happened quickly, but I couldn’t stop the “Danger Will Robinson” flashing lights from going off in my head.
A day later, I decided to give it another go, only to find out that the reason I was only at 50% was that there were so many excerpts in there for other books that it equaled the page count for the story. I was much further along than I had anticipated. But, by that time I was so annoyed at the heroine for being a goofball, and at the publisher for loading all those excerpts, that I couldn’t imagine reviewing this fairly. Then, I went back in and realized there was a free story in there by another author – not the load of excerpts that my sick self imagined. Oops. That was a nice surprise – she says sheepishly. 🙂
To summarize, Her Secret Christmas Hero had many good parts that I enjoyed. But, I can’t overlook missing words and too much sex because I fully expected the heroine to be pregnant if the hero went to jail. That wasn’t the end, but my mind had gone there, so the true end made no sense to me. If you like a bad-boy hero who really doesn’t want to be a bad boy, then this novella might be for you. I loved the mama horse and her baby – those scenes were really sweet.
There you have it – Miss Cranky Pants reviewed this novella because she has no time or patience to read another for the TBR Challenge. I promise the positive me will be back soon. 🙂
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of TheZestQuest.com. Digital copy obtained for free in an Amazon promotion.
January 15, 2016
Contemporary Romance/Short Story
What a disappointment!
I know I should begin by saying "with all due respect," but I can't. The truth is, Ms. Kane needs a dictionary. She obviously hasn't a clue what a hero is. Since it's clear she doesn't own a dictionary, I've helped her out.
Distinguished courage? Brave deeds? Noble qualities? Other than shoveling snow, the only deed Jake performs is in the sack, two or three times in the middle of a frigid snowstorm in a barn. Did I mention that they just met?
Allie, for her part, is even worse, at least Jake is even tempered. Allie acts like a petulant child. Her description, not mine, but I agree wholeheartedly.
How is this romantic? This is nothing more than hooking up. With a criminal no less. And with no protection. Allie is an idiot.
Take it from me, this will spoil your holiday mood, don't bother! Two stars only because I finished it, and I finished it only because it was an ARC provided by Netgalley.
The novel has no bad words that I recall, there were 2-3 intimate scenes that pop up so suddenly they seem even more out of place.
What a disappointment!
I know I should begin by saying "with all due respect," but I can't. The truth is, Ms. Kane needs a dictionary. She obviously hasn't a clue what a hero is. Since it's clear she doesn't own a dictionary, I've helped her out.
1. a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities.
2. a person who, in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal.
Distinguished courage? Brave deeds? Noble qualities? Other than shoveling snow, the only deed Jake performs is in the sack, two or three times in the middle of a frigid snowstorm in a barn. Did I mention that they just met?
Allie, for her part, is even worse, at least Jake is even tempered. Allie acts like a petulant child. Her description, not mine, but I agree wholeheartedly.
How is this romantic? This is nothing more than hooking up. With a criminal no less. And with no protection. Allie is an idiot.
Take it from me, this will spoil your holiday mood, don't bother! Two stars only because I finished it, and I finished it only because it was an ARC provided by Netgalley.
The novel has no bad words that I recall, there were 2-3 intimate scenes that pop up so suddenly they seem even more out of place.
Read
March 11, 2017Eh, not as interesting reading The Secret Son (Secrets of Cherry Lake Book 2) by Joan Kilby, Her Secret Protector (Secrets of Cherry Lake Book 4) by Roxanne Snopek & The Christmas Secret (Secrets of Cherry Lake Book 7 but now called Marvells of Montana Book 2) by Jeannie Watt. It was nice and sweet. Very very short romance. The father's stroke felt a bit of a cop out.
This is a voluntary review via netgalley my thoughts are my own!
This is a voluntary review via netgalley my thoughts are my own!
January 24, 2018
Jacob Reeves became Her Secret Christmas Hero when she rescued him from the backseat of a police cruiser that had crashed in the mountains on a curve close to her farm. Allie McHale heard the crash from her farm about half a mile from the dangerous curve in a snowstorm. She found the driver dead and the prisoner trapped in the back seat of the upside down car hanging from his seat belt with his hands swollen from the cuffs being too tight.
They made it back to her barn where she planned to spend Christmas Eve with her mare CeCe because she was about to fold. The colt was not coming feet first and Jake managed to turn it enough to get the feet out first and save the colt. After hearing his story Allie trusted him, welcomed his help and found a connection that she needed after the recent death of her father. Jake just seemed to understand what she needed emotionally and helped her until he was picked up by the FBI to be taken to testify.
Three months later Allie looked out her front window to a tall stranger walking up to talk to CeCe and the new colt Christmas Star. Guess who?
They made it back to her barn where she planned to spend Christmas Eve with her mare CeCe because she was about to fold. The colt was not coming feet first and Jake managed to turn it enough to get the feet out first and save the colt. After hearing his story Allie trusted him, welcomed his help and found a connection that she needed after the recent death of her father. Jake just seemed to understand what she needed emotionally and helped her until he was picked up by the FBI to be taken to testify.
Three months later Allie looked out her front window to a tall stranger walking up to talk to CeCe and the new colt Christmas Star. Guess who?
October 23, 2015
My actual rating on this one would be more 3.5 stars. It's a sweet story with some very interesting characters but it's short and feels very rushed! However, for a little holiday relaxation when you're short on time, this is the perfect read and I would definitely recommend it.
Allie McHale is alone on the family farm. Ready to settle in and ride out the snowstorm in the barn with her beloved horse. When she hears a terrible crash on the road, she fights her way out there only to discover the driver dead and the passenger handcuffed and trapped. She knows that no matter what he's done, she can't leave him out there alone. One crazy night with a stranger and her whole world is changed!!
Allie McHale is alone on the family farm. Ready to settle in and ride out the snowstorm in the barn with her beloved horse. When she hears a terrible crash on the road, she fights her way out there only to discover the driver dead and the passenger handcuffed and trapped. She knows that no matter what he's done, she can't leave him out there alone. One crazy night with a stranger and her whole world is changed!!
November 2, 2015
3.5 stars
Her Secret Christmas Hero was a sweet, heartwarming read.
I enjoyed watching Allie and Jake open up and connect.
This was a quick good feel read that's perfect for the upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to Tule Publishing via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Her Secret Christmas Hero was a sweet, heartwarming read.
I enjoyed watching Allie and Jake open up and connect.
This was a quick good feel read that's perfect for the upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to Tule Publishing via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Read
December 4, 2017The cover for this is simply gorgeous, but regrettably the story itself wasn't as good as the illustration.
The set-up simply didn't ring true to me. I'm not going into details, but to be honest, Allie was an idiot and Jake - the supposed 'hero' - did nothing heroic at all and the two of them ended up sleeping together. There was too much mention of sexual 'feelings' and 'excitement' and 'center' and 'harassment' and 'come-on' and instead of a nice, believable development of a relationship over time, this headed straight into 'insta-lust' between two total strangers, which is not what I really want in a Christmas story.
The set-up simply didn't ring true to me. I'm not going into details, but to be honest, Allie was an idiot and Jake - the supposed 'hero' - did nothing heroic at all and the two of them ended up sleeping together. There was too much mention of sexual 'feelings' and 'excitement' and 'center' and 'harassment' and 'come-on' and instead of a nice, believable development of a relationship over time, this headed straight into 'insta-lust' between two total strangers, which is not what I really want in a Christmas story.
December 4, 2017
3.5 stars
Getting myself in the mood with an early Christmas romance!
Getting myself in the mood with an early Christmas romance!
December 31, 2017
ANOTHER PERFECT READ FOR THE CHRISTMAS SEASON, SWEET ROMANCE, LOVED IT. ;D
December 9, 2017
A short story, but really nice
October 23, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane is the sixth book in the multi-authored Secrets of Cherry Lake series. This was a book I wasn't expecting because I thought the series had already ended, but it appears that Christmas has come to the small town of Cherry Lake and since I quite enjoyed the first five books, I'm more than happy to see this series continue. Allie McHale and Jake Reeves are two new characters and while one may wish that they had met under more pleasant circumstances, their love story proves miracles do happen and those that occur over the Christmas season tend to be most memorable.
The dilemma that Jake faces--whether or not to become state's witness against his father and brother--was such an original aspect in this story. You can't help but ask yourself what you would do in his shoes. After all, family is still family, even if they happen to be involved in criminal activities. Meeting Allie becomes a turning point for him, but I liked that he didn't make any rash decisions concerning a future together. She inspires him, but he's also very realistic about his situation with the authorities, so when it comes to believing that the normal life he's dreamed of is a possibility is difficult for him to grab with both hands.
Allie was such a great heroine, facing challenges in her life with her father having recently passed, yet remaining steadfast and hopeful. Her genuine affection for her mare CeCe made her an even more lovable lead character. She's wary of Jake when she initially discovers he's a criminal, and she continues to be careful of him in the beginning, but I loved that she wasn't narrow-minded and saw that there was more to him. Her Secret Christmas Hero was a wonderful addition to the series and I'm hoping it'll be the beginning of a Cherry Lake Christmas spin-off series, though it can be read as a standalone too. Five stars! ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane is the sixth book in the multi-authored Secrets of Cherry Lake series. This was a book I wasn't expecting because I thought the series had already ended, but it appears that Christmas has come to the small town of Cherry Lake and since I quite enjoyed the first five books, I'm more than happy to see this series continue. Allie McHale and Jake Reeves are two new characters and while one may wish that they had met under more pleasant circumstances, their love story proves miracles do happen and those that occur over the Christmas season tend to be most memorable.
The dilemma that Jake faces--whether or not to become state's witness against his father and brother--was such an original aspect in this story. You can't help but ask yourself what you would do in his shoes. After all, family is still family, even if they happen to be involved in criminal activities. Meeting Allie becomes a turning point for him, but I liked that he didn't make any rash decisions concerning a future together. She inspires him, but he's also very realistic about his situation with the authorities, so when it comes to believing that the normal life he's dreamed of is a possibility is difficult for him to grab with both hands.
Allie was such a great heroine, facing challenges in her life with her father having recently passed, yet remaining steadfast and hopeful. Her genuine affection for her mare CeCe made her an even more lovable lead character. She's wary of Jake when she initially discovers he's a criminal, and she continues to be careful of him in the beginning, but I loved that she wasn't narrow-minded and saw that there was more to him. Her Secret Christmas Hero was a wonderful addition to the series and I'm hoping it'll be the beginning of a Cherry Lake Christmas spin-off series, though it can be read as a standalone too. Five stars! ♥
October 29, 2015
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane packs a lot of emotion into a novella in a believable way. Despite a very short period of time spent together, Jake and Allie come together in a magical way that made me believe in love at first sight.
The characters and their stories are unique, especially Jake's, and I felt like I got to know them really well in a short time. I really felt for both of these characters and what they are going through in this point of their lives. Allie is still struggling with the sudden death of her father and running the ranch, Jake comes from a crime family and is set to testify for the state against his family. Through a twist of fate they come together at this time in their lives, just when they are feeling the most alone. For me they just felt so good together. But is it a Christmas miracle they found each other or will they lose each other just as quickly?
I liked all the details that Mallory Kane manages to write into Her Secret Christmas hero, from the snow storm to the snow globes, to Allie's mare and her "baby horse", to the barn setting. This really helped bring the novella to life.
The pace of the story is perfect for this magical Christmas novella! Events happen over a very short period, and whether or not this happens in real life, it worked very well in this book for Allie and Jake.
A novella that will make you feel happy and hopeful, I'd recommend Her Secret Christmas Hero to any romance reader!
The characters and their stories are unique, especially Jake's, and I felt like I got to know them really well in a short time. I really felt for both of these characters and what they are going through in this point of their lives. Allie is still struggling with the sudden death of her father and running the ranch, Jake comes from a crime family and is set to testify for the state against his family. Through a twist of fate they come together at this time in their lives, just when they are feeling the most alone. For me they just felt so good together. But is it a Christmas miracle they found each other or will they lose each other just as quickly?
I liked all the details that Mallory Kane manages to write into Her Secret Christmas hero, from the snow storm to the snow globes, to Allie's mare and her "baby horse", to the barn setting. This really helped bring the novella to life.
The pace of the story is perfect for this magical Christmas novella! Events happen over a very short period, and whether or not this happens in real life, it worked very well in this book for Allie and Jake.
A novella that will make you feel happy and hopeful, I'd recommend Her Secret Christmas Hero to any romance reader!
January 3, 2017
This book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review. My review is below.
It's a return to the pit of Cherry Lake in this first book of this Christmas series. Allie is all alone after the death of her father. Her ranch hands are off holidaying and she is waiting for her favorite mare to give birth. Jacob is wishing he knew what to do after he greed to turn states evidence against his crime family. Unfortunately for Jacob, that decision didn't get him any real leeway and he is headed to Salt Lake City in handcuffs with a deputy who isn't exactly professional but who seems real in a way neither Jacob nor Allie feel.
This is an insta-love story where Allie saves Jacob and then they have sex and deliver a foal. Yeah, that's pretty much it. In between all that, Jacob agonizes over what he is going to do and Allie gives him a snow globe for Christmas that was meant for her father. The emotion is superficial; the story would be forgettable except that Jacob's experience with the law is even less realistic than Lacey's (from Three Nights Before Christmas).
The story wraps up in too neat a bow and it feels like nothing is really resolved except they get to continue boinking. Here's hoping that the next Cherry Lake book isn't rotten too.
It's a return to the pit of Cherry Lake in this first book of this Christmas series. Allie is all alone after the death of her father. Her ranch hands are off holidaying and she is waiting for her favorite mare to give birth. Jacob is wishing he knew what to do after he greed to turn states evidence against his crime family. Unfortunately for Jacob, that decision didn't get him any real leeway and he is headed to Salt Lake City in handcuffs with a deputy who isn't exactly professional but who seems real in a way neither Jacob nor Allie feel.
This is an insta-love story where Allie saves Jacob and then they have sex and deliver a foal. Yeah, that's pretty much it. In between all that, Jacob agonizes over what he is going to do and Allie gives him a snow globe for Christmas that was meant for her father. The emotion is superficial; the story would be forgettable except that Jacob's experience with the law is even less realistic than Lacey's (from Three Nights Before Christmas).
The story wraps up in too neat a bow and it feels like nothing is really resolved except they get to continue boinking. Here's hoping that the next Cherry Lake book isn't rotten too.
December 12, 2015
3.5 stars This is a very quick read with the majority of the events taking place over one night. Allie McHale is getting ready to see out the coming blizzard in the barn with her very pregnant mare CeCe. It is Christmas Eve and she is just settling in when she hears a car crash on the nearby highway.
It is a patrol car and the only survivor is a man in handcuffs, Jake Reeves. Of the Reeves crime family.
Forced to rescue him and take him back to the barn to see out the storm, Allie is torn by suspicion and attraction. Quite a lot happens overnight and Jake is just the man to help out with the mare. But once morning comes, he will have to go and there is a good chance he wont ever come back.
Overall this was a sweet story with some sensual scenes. The short format made it a little hard to get to know this couple but they came across as people you could like. The only thing that really bothered me, and I NEVER thought I would say this, was where are the condoms? Strangers in the night and all that.
I received this arc from Netgalley for review. Honestly.
It is a patrol car and the only survivor is a man in handcuffs, Jake Reeves. Of the Reeves crime family.
Forced to rescue him and take him back to the barn to see out the storm, Allie is torn by suspicion and attraction. Quite a lot happens overnight and Jake is just the man to help out with the mare. But once morning comes, he will have to go and there is a good chance he wont ever come back.
Overall this was a sweet story with some sensual scenes. The short format made it a little hard to get to know this couple but they came across as people you could like. The only thing that really bothered me, and I NEVER thought I would say this, was where are the condoms? Strangers in the night and all that.
I received this arc from Netgalley for review. Honestly.
October 27, 2015
I was so excited to return to Cherry Lake, and what better than to celebrate Christmas in this wonderful town. Love at first sight, two opposites find them selves together in a barn delivering a foal on Christmas Eve.
Allie is planning on spending Christmas Eve alone in her barn with her horse that is ready to deliver, when she hears a loud crash. What she finds is a car accident that involves a prisoner, whom she rescues. As the night progresses, they find a mutual attraction and feel like they have known each other forever. Is this a temporary love, or will it be forever.
I so enjoyed this sweet romance, finding magic and love at Christmas, will leave a smile on your face. I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
Allie is planning on spending Christmas Eve alone in her barn with her horse that is ready to deliver, when she hears a loud crash. What she finds is a car accident that involves a prisoner, whom she rescues. As the night progresses, they find a mutual attraction and feel like they have known each other forever. Is this a temporary love, or will it be forever.
I so enjoyed this sweet romance, finding magic and love at Christmas, will leave a smile on your face. I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
October 21, 2015
Allie McHale is alone on her farm, on her own after her fathers death she is planning on spending this Christmas Eve night in the barn, even though its cold and the snow is coming down she wants to be with her horse which is pregnant and could have its 'baby horse' as Allie calls it, this very night.
This is such a good read, its short but sweet and held me captivated from the first page to the last.
I recommend it to adult readers of Western Romance, hope it touches your heart to.
This is such a good read, its short but sweet and held me captivated from the first page to the last.
I recommend it to adult readers of Western Romance, hope it touches your heart to.
October 23, 2015
Read/review for Tule and author for a honest opinion
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane. A very enjoyable, touching story. I loved the character development in this story. A storyline of saving you can say. I've enjoyed every one of the books in this sectrets of cherry lake series.
Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane. A very enjoyable, touching story. I loved the character development in this story. A storyline of saving you can say. I've enjoyed every one of the books in this sectrets of cherry lake series.
November 6, 2015
Cute story, but a WTF lack of any mention of condoms, birth control or safe sex.
April 20, 2018
This was a good book. I couldn't sleep the other night and pretty soon I didn't want to sleep. It took me two nights of reading before sleep and I polished this one off pretty quickly. There is a heat rating! Four stars! I received this book in exchange for an honest review which I'm posting here:
Description as found in Good Reads: Allie McHale is spending this brutal Christmas Eve snowstorm in a barn in Marietta, Montana when suddenly she hears a horrible crash on the freeway near her ranch. She discovers a handsome lone survivor, a prisoner in handcuffs, and despite her apprehension about harboring a criminal, she rescues him anyway.
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
Description as found in Good Reads: Allie McHale is spending this brutal Christmas Eve snowstorm in a barn in Marietta, Montana when suddenly she hears a horrible crash on the freeway near her ranch. She discovers a handsome lone survivor, a prisoner in handcuffs, and despite her apprehension about harboring a criminal, she rescues him anyway.
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
December 17, 2017
My Review on: Her Secret Christmas Hero by Mallory Kane
I downloaded this for free and can safely say for myself; I’ll not be downloading anymore of the Secrets of Cherry Lake books. This book was short and the story was not much at all to shout about. I understand it was a romance, but I was more into the welfare of the horses then I was in Allie and Jake. The repeat of history from one chapter into another bugged me also. The buff (Buff; I class as chapter filler to bulk the chapter) was awful and not needed, will maybe it was otherwise it could have only been three chapters.
The lack of story, fast moving feeling and shortness of the book let the whole thing down for me. I understand for some people this is ok, but for me it was not. Sorry to be hard, but I’ve rated it 2 stars, more then I did with Fifty Shades Trilogy because the writing was fine, it was the lack of the above.
I downloaded this for free and can safely say for myself; I’ll not be downloading anymore of the Secrets of Cherry Lake books. This book was short and the story was not much at all to shout about. I understand it was a romance, but I was more into the welfare of the horses then I was in Allie and Jake. The repeat of history from one chapter into another bugged me also. The buff (Buff; I class as chapter filler to bulk the chapter) was awful and not needed, will maybe it was otherwise it could have only been three chapters.
The lack of story, fast moving feeling and shortness of the book let the whole thing down for me. I understand for some people this is ok, but for me it was not. Sorry to be hard, but I’ve rated it 2 stars, more then I did with Fifty Shades Trilogy because the writing was fine, it was the lack of the above.
December 12, 2017
Allie McHale is spending this brutal Christmas Eve snowstorm in a barn in Marietta, Montana when suddenly she hears a horrible crash on the freeway near her ranch. She discovers a handsome lone survivor, a prisoner in handcuffs, and despite her apprehension about harboring a criminal, she rescues him anyway.
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
Jacob Reeves, on his way to Seattle to testify against his organized crime family, is miraculously saved by the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on, who has every reason not to trust him, but getting through a freezing Christmas Eve forces them to work together to survive.
During the long night, their chemistry is off the charts and Jake realizes that Allie could be the love of his life. But as soon as the storm is over, he’ll be gone. Is Jake destined to break both of their hearts, or will a Christmas tragedy end in a miracle?
January 4, 2018
If you're looking for a quick read with a happy ending, then this book might fit the bill. If you're looking for believable characters, this book might not.
What would you do if you rescued a handcuffed criminal from an overturned vehicle? If you're like Allie, you fully believe his story and within a day or so of meeting him, practically beg him to make love to you. They are snowbound and the phones/internet along with the power is mostly out in her neck of the woods. She doesn't have much experience with experienced men yet she has no hesitation when it comes to being attracted to this one. Jake could be feeding her a pack of lies, but she believes in the spirit of Christmas and follows her heart quicker than her mind. Time will tell if her Christmas is merry and bright or tarnished and lost its magic.
What would you do if you rescued a handcuffed criminal from an overturned vehicle? If you're like Allie, you fully believe his story and within a day or so of meeting him, practically beg him to make love to you. They are snowbound and the phones/internet along with the power is mostly out in her neck of the woods. She doesn't have much experience with experienced men yet she has no hesitation when it comes to being attracted to this one. Jake could be feeding her a pack of lies, but she believes in the spirit of Christmas and follows her heart quicker than her mind. Time will tell if her Christmas is merry and bright or tarnished and lost its magic.
December 14, 2017
Her Secret Christmas Hero (Cherry Lake Christmas)
This book has two stories. The first story "Her Secret Christmas Hero" - the Christmas love story of Allie and Jacob. Allie is the own of a horse farm and just lost her father. Jacob is on his way to testify for the FBI against his father when the car he is in is in an accident. Allie save him, will love at Christmas time save them or will Jacob be lost. Great love story. The second "Montana Secrets". The love story of Nate and Pansy. Nate must chose to be with Pansy or marry Mary and save his and her family farm. This is the first of the Cheery Lake series. Great story.
This book has two stories. The first story "Her Secret Christmas Hero" - the Christmas love story of Allie and Jacob. Allie is the own of a horse farm and just lost her father. Jacob is on his way to testify for the FBI against his father when the car he is in is in an accident. Allie save him, will love at Christmas time save them or will Jacob be lost. Great love story. The second "Montana Secrets". The love story of Nate and Pansy. Nate must chose to be with Pansy or marry Mary and save his and her family farm. This is the first of the Cheery Lake series. Great story.
December 5, 2020
Allie is waiting for her horse to give birth and a snowstorm is brewing so Allie moves into the barn. While moving things into the barn, Allie hears a horrific crash. Knowing the curve of the road is sharp and that many accidents have happened there, Allie heads to the crash where she discovers an upside down police car. The officer is dead but his passenger is still alive. Allie gets him out and manages to get him to the barn before the storm gets brutal. After they get the swelling down in his hands and he gets his thirst quenched, Jacob thanks Allie for saving his life. As the storm builds, so do emotions and they fall in love. A cozy Christmas love story.
January 3, 2019
This was a charming, feel good Christmas romance. The plot is set on Christmas Eve and involved Allie McHale, who was still struggling after the sudden death of her beloved dad, when into her life crashes Jake Reese, who is being transported to give evidence against his crime family! It was simple, sexy and heart warming. My ebook version also had the addition of another nice short story, Montana Secrets. Perfect for those of us who don't want gruelling, involving reading during the busy Christmas festivities.
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