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Outlaw Hartes #1
The Valentine Two-Step
Certainly he had been bewitched by women before, but for rancher -- and single father -- Matt Harte, this was the last straw! Because of his daughter's shenanigans, he'd gotten roped into planning the annual Valentine's Day dance. And his partner in crime? Why, beautiful big-city vet -- and recent Salt River transplant -- Ellie Webster. Who he couldn't take his eyes off. And not for lack of trying...
Ellie knew that Matt Harte didn't want her in his town, let alone on the intimate dance committee of two. But this was for her daughter's sake. It wasn't like she wanted to spend all that one-on-one time with the rugged rancher, imagining what it would be like to be his partner -- for real....
Ellie knew that Matt Harte didn't want her in his town, let alone on the intimate dance committee of two. But this was for her daughter's sake. It wasn't like she wanted to spend all that one-on-one time with the rugged rancher, imagining what it would be like to be his partner -- for real....
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
567 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
310 books3,855 followersI'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 5, 2025
This is a Cowboy Romantic Suspense, and this is the first book in the Outlaw Hartes series. I listened to the audiobook for this book, and I did like the narrator. I found the story to be ok, but I wanted more action and suspense. I also found the romance to be boring and done so much. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 18, 2011
This is the first book about the Harte siblings and the book starts with two nine-year old plotting how to become sisters and their parents married.
Ellie moved to town three-months ago, wanting to be her own boss finally by buying the vet practice in town along with her daughter Dylan but things have not been going that well since the traditional ranchers don't like that she sometimes even practices acupuncture. She is called to school, to be asked to chair the Valentine's Day committee to raise funds since she's been nominated by her daughter along with her daughter's best friend Lucy's father Matt Harte, a rancher who she thinks is crazy with the methods she uses.
Matt managed to further expand his ranch's operation after he took it over after his parents passed. He enjoys his life, his works keep him busy, he loves his daughter Lucy and he doesn't miss having female companionship(his wife ran out on him). He sometimes does feel guilty that his sister Cassie seems to do so much for him and he's appalled when his daughter nominates him for the committee but gives in.
Their daughter's keep on bringing them together and Ellie even comes to the rescue once demonstrating her skills and ending in a kiss they both are shocked about. The book was enjoyable, not high-octane passion but mellower, they both were wary(Ellie was raised in foster homes, Dylan's father was jerk).
The suspense element was fairly simple and obvious. A good read.
Rating 3.5
Ellie moved to town three-months ago, wanting to be her own boss finally by buying the vet practice in town along with her daughter Dylan but things have not been going that well since the traditional ranchers don't like that she sometimes even practices acupuncture. She is called to school, to be asked to chair the Valentine's Day committee to raise funds since she's been nominated by her daughter along with her daughter's best friend Lucy's father Matt Harte, a rancher who she thinks is crazy with the methods she uses.
Matt managed to further expand his ranch's operation after he took it over after his parents passed. He enjoys his life, his works keep him busy, he loves his daughter Lucy and he doesn't miss having female companionship(his wife ran out on him). He sometimes does feel guilty that his sister Cassie seems to do so much for him and he's appalled when his daughter nominates him for the committee but gives in.
Their daughter's keep on bringing them together and Ellie even comes to the rescue once demonstrating her skills and ending in a kiss they both are shocked about. The book was enjoyable, not high-octane passion but mellower, they both were wary(Ellie was raised in foster homes, Dylan's father was jerk).
The suspense element was fairly simple and obvious. A good read.
Rating 3.5
June 25, 2015
Very good "Parent Trap" type of story. Dylan Webster and Lucy Harte are fourth grade girls who have become best friends since Dylan and her mother moved to town. They are such good friends that they've decided that the next step is to become sisters. But to do that, they're going to have to find a way to get their parents together. So without their knowledge, Ellie and Matt get volunteered to co-chair the annual Valentine's Day school fundraiser.
To say they aren't pleased is an understatement. Matt is really busy as a rancher, and not much of a fan of Valentine's Day since his divorce. And to be paired with the big city vet from California, with the woo-woo vet techniques? No thanks - even if he can't keep his eyes off her. But Lucy has been a different kid since Dylan became her friend, one who smiles and laughs more and isn't so shy. When Lucy reminds him that it's also a way for them to spend time together, he can't tell her no.
Ellie isn't too thrilled either. Matt's made no secret of the fact that he doesn't think much of her as a vet, even though she's never treated one of his animals. His attitude is mirrored by other ranchers, making it hard for her to get her practice up and running. She hopes that working on this committee will help ease her way into the community.
I loved seeing Matt and Ellie get tossed together. The two girls are pretty good at creating opportunities, and Matt and Ellie start to soften a bit toward each other. When one of Matt's horses has a problem while Ellie is there, he agrees to let her look at the animal. After normal techniques don't help, he allows Ellie to break out her acupuncture needles and is stunned by the effect. Impressed by her passion for her work, he asks her to become the vet for his horses. Ellie is happy to have Matt's business as her practice hasn't been going so well. It isn't long before some of the other ranchers are following suit.
Between committee meetings, vet visits and their girls, Matt and Ellie find themselves spending a fair amount of time together. There's an attraction that keeps building between them, but both try to resist. Matt was burned in love by his ex-wife, a city girl who never settled into ranch life. She made his life miserable before running off, and he isn't too keen on opening himself up to another woman, especially one from the city. But there's something about Ellie that has her finding her way into his heart. Ellie works even harder at resisting Matt. She has worked a long time to develop the independence and ability to take care of herself. Long ago she saw her mother fall apart when her husband left her. She watched her mother spiral downward in her attempts to find a man to take care of her and swore she would never let that happen to her. Then, after she ended up in foster care, every time she would start to care for someone she'd lose them. Now she won't depend on anyone but herself.
Things start to get really complicated, as Ellie receives threats from someone who doesn't want her there. Matt wants to protect her, but Ellie is still afraid to lean on anyone. Their attraction is growing, as are the feelings underlying the attraction. As the threats and troubles for Ellie increase, Matt is torn between wanting to protect her and believing some of the things that happen are her fault. He says some really terrible things to her, which reminds her of why she doesn't get involved. When a new threat hits way too close to her personally, Matt tries to be there for her, finally recognizing his feelings for what they are, but it's Ellie's fears that have her pushing him further away. She has to be able to overcome them before she can have a chance at the life she would really like to have. Her fears and what they were doing to her and her relationship with Matt were really emotional to read about. Having her finally see it and want to do something about it was very satisfying.
The mystery of who had it in for Ellie really wasn't too hard to figure out. I was a bit surprised they hadn't suspected earlier. Each thing that happened was pretty creepy, but the last was definitely the worst. As scary as it was for Ellie, I loved seeing how everyone supported her. The resolution of it was especially well done.
To say they aren't pleased is an understatement. Matt is really busy as a rancher, and not much of a fan of Valentine's Day since his divorce. And to be paired with the big city vet from California, with the woo-woo vet techniques? No thanks - even if he can't keep his eyes off her. But Lucy has been a different kid since Dylan became her friend, one who smiles and laughs more and isn't so shy. When Lucy reminds him that it's also a way for them to spend time together, he can't tell her no.
Ellie isn't too thrilled either. Matt's made no secret of the fact that he doesn't think much of her as a vet, even though she's never treated one of his animals. His attitude is mirrored by other ranchers, making it hard for her to get her practice up and running. She hopes that working on this committee will help ease her way into the community.
I loved seeing Matt and Ellie get tossed together. The two girls are pretty good at creating opportunities, and Matt and Ellie start to soften a bit toward each other. When one of Matt's horses has a problem while Ellie is there, he agrees to let her look at the animal. After normal techniques don't help, he allows Ellie to break out her acupuncture needles and is stunned by the effect. Impressed by her passion for her work, he asks her to become the vet for his horses. Ellie is happy to have Matt's business as her practice hasn't been going so well. It isn't long before some of the other ranchers are following suit.
Between committee meetings, vet visits and their girls, Matt and Ellie find themselves spending a fair amount of time together. There's an attraction that keeps building between them, but both try to resist. Matt was burned in love by his ex-wife, a city girl who never settled into ranch life. She made his life miserable before running off, and he isn't too keen on opening himself up to another woman, especially one from the city. But there's something about Ellie that has her finding her way into his heart. Ellie works even harder at resisting Matt. She has worked a long time to develop the independence and ability to take care of herself. Long ago she saw her mother fall apart when her husband left her. She watched her mother spiral downward in her attempts to find a man to take care of her and swore she would never let that happen to her. Then, after she ended up in foster care, every time she would start to care for someone she'd lose them. Now she won't depend on anyone but herself.
Things start to get really complicated, as Ellie receives threats from someone who doesn't want her there. Matt wants to protect her, but Ellie is still afraid to lean on anyone. Their attraction is growing, as are the feelings underlying the attraction. As the threats and troubles for Ellie increase, Matt is torn between wanting to protect her and believing some of the things that happen are her fault. He says some really terrible things to her, which reminds her of why she doesn't get involved. When a new threat hits way too close to her personally, Matt tries to be there for her, finally recognizing his feelings for what they are, but it's Ellie's fears that have her pushing him further away. She has to be able to overcome them before she can have a chance at the life she would really like to have. Her fears and what they were doing to her and her relationship with Matt were really emotional to read about. Having her finally see it and want to do something about it was very satisfying.
The mystery of who had it in for Ellie really wasn't too hard to figure out. I was a bit surprised they hadn't suspected earlier. Each thing that happened was pretty creepy, but the last was definitely the worst. As scary as it was for Ellie, I loved seeing how everyone supported her. The resolution of it was especially well done.
June 13, 2018
Great book can't wait to read more books by this author loved this book
January 20, 2025
I had a nice experience, though it was a bit slow at times. The pace was steady, but it gave me the chance to truly enjoy the moments. I appreciated the calm atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind. Even though things weren’t fast-paced, the overall vibe was pleasant, and I left feeling content. Sometimes a slower, more relaxed experience can be exactly what you need.
October 7, 2021
Matt Harte's daughter is shy; Ellie Webster, large animal veterinarian, has a daughter, too, and she is a real go-getter. The two girls each want what they don't have: one a father, the other a mother. Together, they scheme to get their respective single parents together, not realizing that it might be more difficult than they think.
Their plan, to have their parents plan the big Valentine's Day gathering designed to fundraise for the school library, goes slowly, but in the midst of their plans, someone is out to force Ellie to leave town and when her daughter is kidnapped, she knows that getting her daughter back is worth whatever the kidnapper demands--even if she refuses Matt's help, which he's happy to provide. Along with his love, which he doesn't dare to declare when he's certain that Ellie doesn't reciprocate. Or does she, but is too afraid to admit it?
But when Ellie's daughter proves she can take care of herself, other things also come to the fore--not just who the kidnapper was, but how Matt and Ellie feel about each other. If only they would say so...
Their plan, to have their parents plan the big Valentine's Day gathering designed to fundraise for the school library, goes slowly, but in the midst of their plans, someone is out to force Ellie to leave town and when her daughter is kidnapped, she knows that getting her daughter back is worth whatever the kidnapper demands--even if she refuses Matt's help, which he's happy to provide. Along with his love, which he doesn't dare to declare when he's certain that Ellie doesn't reciprocate. Or does she, but is too afraid to admit it?
But when Ellie's daughter proves she can take care of herself, other things also come to the fore--not just who the kidnapper was, but how Matt and Ellie feel about each other. If only they would say so...
May 31, 2019
Star Valley Winter is a fun, heartwarming book, and a pretty quick read too. However, I don't think it's RaeAnne Thayne's best. Mostly because it's terribly predictable.
Right from the prologue you realize that Lucy and Dylan (respectively, Matt's and Ellie's daughters) are going to do everything they can to get their parents together, so it' not difficult to guess how it the story will unfold. There's a bit of suspense added to the plot, but even there the list of possible suspects is small and, again, it's not hard to figure things out.
Also, it should be noted that this is a re-print from a 2002 book, originally called The Valentine Two-Step.
If you have read the original book, then it's pointless to buy this one. If you haven't read the older version and want to cuddle for a couple of hours with a nice romance book, then Star Valley Winter is a good option, as long as you don't expect a very original plot.
Right from the prologue you realize that Lucy and Dylan (respectively, Matt's and Ellie's daughters) are going to do everything they can to get their parents together, so it' not difficult to guess how it the story will unfold. There's a bit of suspense added to the plot, but even there the list of possible suspects is small and, again, it's not hard to figure things out.
Also, it should be noted that this is a re-print from a 2002 book, originally called The Valentine Two-Step.
If you have read the original book, then it's pointless to buy this one. If you haven't read the older version and want to cuddle for a couple of hours with a nice romance book, then Star Valley Winter is a good option, as long as you don't expect a very original plot.
October 14, 2019
Cute story, lots of twists and turns. Ellie and Matt are pulled together by their daughters to work on a school fundraising event. They seem to be at odds otherwise. Ellie is trying to establish her vet practice in town, and Matt doesn't appreciate her "alternate" medicine practices of acupuncture.
When a chance encounter leads Ellie to save one of his pregnant horses he gives her a chance. However, horses seem to keep getting sick around her. It seems like sabotage but she can't prove it. I liked the banter between Ellie and Matt and the story moved quickly.
When a chance encounter leads Ellie to save one of his pregnant horses he gives her a chance. However, horses seem to keep getting sick around her. It seems like sabotage but she can't prove it. I liked the banter between Ellie and Matt and the story moved quickly.
September 26, 2018
Much like I’ve been trying to find as many older works of Jill Shalvis, I’ve decided to do the same with RaeAnne Thayne. I always enjoy her stories and she has an extensive back library. This was my second dive into the author’s past. This was the oldest of her works I found that was readily available. I’ll admit, this one was at my online library and didn’t have any holds on it. That meant that when my other books I had checked out had holds or weren’t able to be renewed for another reason I just kept renewing this one…over and over and over. As much as I adore this author’s Hope’s Crossing and Haven Point books, I wasn’t chomping at the bit to read her older works. So, I had two days before this one is due back…again. Did I really want to just keep renewing the thing? It’s not too long of a book, I decided to try to squeeze it in to my reading schedule.
I am so glad I did. I loved this story. The chemistry between Ellie and Matt is off the charts amazing. Their prickly attitude toward one another is perfectly portrayed as two kids who have crushes and don’t want to admit it to anyone, even themselves. It was a lot of fun to read about their interactions.
There’s a bit of a mystery that occurs in this story. I don’t classify it as a mystery myself because I think to most readers certain things are obvious so it’s really not as much a mystery to the reader as it is to the characters. And there are some surprises along the way.
Ellie grew up knowing she could only trust herself. That it was almost dangerous to rely on anyone else. Her mother was a terrible role model for the little bit of time she was actually in her life. The father of her child is a flake. Everything Ellie has accomplished in her life has been done with absolutely no outside help or support. It’s not surprising she has so much trouble letting Matt in all the way.
For his part, Matt has been burned badly. The difference between Matt and Ellie is that Matt will react and speak out of anger and realize later he overreacted…and then apologize. Ellie doesn’t even see how brutal she can come across when she has her guard up so solidly against any sort of outside interference in her daily life. There are no apologies or compromises when it comes to Ellie. That means this couple has some struggles learning to cope with each other. Plus, they have their daughters (who are best friends) to worry about in the whole scenario.
See my full review at https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
I am so glad I did. I loved this story. The chemistry between Ellie and Matt is off the charts amazing. Their prickly attitude toward one another is perfectly portrayed as two kids who have crushes and don’t want to admit it to anyone, even themselves. It was a lot of fun to read about their interactions.
There’s a bit of a mystery that occurs in this story. I don’t classify it as a mystery myself because I think to most readers certain things are obvious so it’s really not as much a mystery to the reader as it is to the characters. And there are some surprises along the way.
Ellie grew up knowing she could only trust herself. That it was almost dangerous to rely on anyone else. Her mother was a terrible role model for the little bit of time she was actually in her life. The father of her child is a flake. Everything Ellie has accomplished in her life has been done with absolutely no outside help or support. It’s not surprising she has so much trouble letting Matt in all the way.
For his part, Matt has been burned badly. The difference between Matt and Ellie is that Matt will react and speak out of anger and realize later he overreacted…and then apologize. Ellie doesn’t even see how brutal she can come across when she has her guard up so solidly against any sort of outside interference in her daily life. There are no apologies or compromises when it comes to Ellie. That means this couple has some struggles learning to cope with each other. Plus, they have their daughters (who are best friends) to worry about in the whole scenario.
See my full review at https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
January 22, 2025
Relatively short and (mostly) sweet!
Ellie and her daughter, Dylan, have recently moved to small town life from the big city. Ellie is a vet. A large animal vet…. She’s hoping to make a name for herself here, after taking over a vet practice from an old-time vet she’d met at a conference several years ago. For some reason, when he decided to retire, he contacted her….instead of his nephew…. And she jumped at the chance! But now that she’s here, she’s having a hard time getting and retaining customers, as she also practices acupuncture…. And that’s unheard of here in this old boys town…
Matte is a rancher. He’s a good looking guy with lots of cattle and horses. He has no plans of ever using Ellie as his vet…. He also has a sweet nine year old daughter named Lucy. His sister Cassie helps to take care of Lucy, and lives on the ranch. And his brother Jessie is the local sheriff.
Matte’s daughter, Lucy has become best friends with Dylan. And, since she has no Mom, and Dylan has no Dad, they decide that their parents should get together…so they can be sisters! And so, they both sign them up to be THE COMMITTEE for the schools Valentine’s Dance! Without telling them!! 😮
And what follows is sweet, crazy, a bit unexpected, somewhat horrifying at times, and downright beautiful at times too! 🫣😮😩❤️😊
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
From what I’ve read, I believe this is one of her earlier works that’s being re-published, and re-released TODAY, 1/21/25! So look 👀 for it now!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ARC of the audiobook!
#StarValleyWinter (Outlaw Harte’s Book #1) by #RaeAnnThayne and narrated beautifully by #CarlyRobins! And yay!! It’s Book #1 in a series!! 😊
As for me… You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads.
Insta: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
This is a review of the audiobook.
Ellie and her daughter, Dylan, have recently moved to small town life from the big city. Ellie is a vet. A large animal vet…. She’s hoping to make a name for herself here, after taking over a vet practice from an old-time vet she’d met at a conference several years ago. For some reason, when he decided to retire, he contacted her….instead of his nephew…. And she jumped at the chance! But now that she’s here, she’s having a hard time getting and retaining customers, as she also practices acupuncture…. And that’s unheard of here in this old boys town…
Matte is a rancher. He’s a good looking guy with lots of cattle and horses. He has no plans of ever using Ellie as his vet…. He also has a sweet nine year old daughter named Lucy. His sister Cassie helps to take care of Lucy, and lives on the ranch. And his brother Jessie is the local sheriff.
Matte’s daughter, Lucy has become best friends with Dylan. And, since she has no Mom, and Dylan has no Dad, they decide that their parents should get together…so they can be sisters! And so, they both sign them up to be THE COMMITTEE for the schools Valentine’s Dance! Without telling them!! 😮
And what follows is sweet, crazy, a bit unexpected, somewhat horrifying at times, and downright beautiful at times too! 🫣😮😩❤️😊
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
From what I’ve read, I believe this is one of her earlier works that’s being re-published, and re-released TODAY, 1/21/25! So look 👀 for it now!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ARC of the audiobook!
#StarValleyWinter (Outlaw Harte’s Book #1) by #RaeAnnThayne and narrated beautifully by #CarlyRobins! And yay!! It’s Book #1 in a series!! 😊
As for me… You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads.
Insta: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
This is a review of the audiobook.
January 20, 2025
This audiobook is a delightful romance with some suspense mixed into it.
Veterinarian and single mom Ellie Webster and her adorable daughter Dylan, have recently moved into town as Ellie takes over the former veterinarian’s practice. Being a woman and new, has not helped her business. Instead of working with big animals in the ranches, she’s been forced mostly treating domestic pets.
Wealthy rancher and single dad Matt Harte doesn’t trust women after his ex abandoned his daughter, Lucy, in favor of city life.
Nonetheless, the girls, Dylan and Lucy have become close friends. So much so that they do all they can to get their parents together and hopefully marry so the girls can become sisters.
Their manipulations get their parents working together in the Valentine’s dance fundraiser for the local library .
As they get to know each other, feelings develop. But someone is sabotaging Ellie’s job as well putting doubts on the ranchers in her abilities as a vet. All this making Ellie not only doubt herself, and causing friction between Ellie and Matt, but also reconsidering going back to California.
Who is endangering the animals and why?
In the end will the culprit be found and Ellie and Matt find their HEA or will Ellie and Dylan end up leaving town forever?
This delightful audiobook had an engaging plot filled with family, adorable and a tad mischievious girls, suspense and of course romance.
The narrator, Carly Robins did an excellent not only with the voices, but also in bringing the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Veterinarian and single mom Ellie Webster and her adorable daughter Dylan, have recently moved into town as Ellie takes over the former veterinarian’s practice. Being a woman and new, has not helped her business. Instead of working with big animals in the ranches, she’s been forced mostly treating domestic pets.
Wealthy rancher and single dad Matt Harte doesn’t trust women after his ex abandoned his daughter, Lucy, in favor of city life.
Nonetheless, the girls, Dylan and Lucy have become close friends. So much so that they do all they can to get their parents together and hopefully marry so the girls can become sisters.
Their manipulations get their parents working together in the Valentine’s dance fundraiser for the local library .
As they get to know each other, feelings develop. But someone is sabotaging Ellie’s job as well putting doubts on the ranchers in her abilities as a vet. All this making Ellie not only doubt herself, and causing friction between Ellie and Matt, but also reconsidering going back to California.
Who is endangering the animals and why?
In the end will the culprit be found and Ellie and Matt find their HEA or will Ellie and Dylan end up leaving town forever?
This delightful audiobook had an engaging plot filled with family, adorable and a tad mischievious girls, suspense and of course romance.
The narrator, Carly Robins did an excellent not only with the voices, but also in bringing the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 19, 2025
This is the first book about the Harte siblings and the book starts with two nine-year old plotting how to become sisters and their parents married. Think Parent Trap. Dylan Webster and Lucy Harte are fourth grade girls who have become best friends since Dylan and her mother moved to town. They are such good friends that they've decided that the next step is to become sisters, to do that, they're going to have to find a way to get their parents together. So without parents knowledge, Ellie and Matt get volunteered to co-chair the annual Valentine's Day school fundraiser. This is not just a romance but a mystery as well since Ellie is getting threats and is trying to determine should she stay or go back to California. Meanwhile Matt is falling for the person he didn't want to but has a connection. The mystery of who had it in for Ellie really wasn't too hard to figure out. I was a bit surprised they hadn't suspected earlier. Each thing that happened was pretty creepy, but the last was definitely the worst. As scary as it was for Ellie, I loved seeing how everyone supported her. The resolution of it was especially well done. Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity.
March 2, 2025
Star Valley Winter is the first book in RaeAnne Thayne’s Outlaw Harte series. In this book eldest Harte brother Matt meets his match when his daughter Lucy and new town veterinarian Ellie Webster’s daughter Dylan team up to make each girl’s fondest dream come true, that of becoming sisters with Matt and Ellie as their parents. After all, the two girls share the same exact birthday, shouldn’t they be sisters and share in a family?
Their plan takes form as the girls volunteer their parents to head up the committee to hold the Valentine’s Day carnival to support the school’s library. When Matt and Ellie are first called by the girls’ teacher their initial reactions are to decline, but through conversation with the teacher, first Ellie and then Matt agree to the task.
But there is more at play in the valley this particular winter than the planning of a school carnival. Threatening notes on dead animals, an outbreak effecting only horses Ellie has cared for, and ultimately a demanding ransom all lead the reader to solve the mystery enveloped in a romance that brings together two people who have both suffered much loss and too many setbacks. This was a very enjoyable story and I do recommend it!
Their plan takes form as the girls volunteer their parents to head up the committee to hold the Valentine’s Day carnival to support the school’s library. When Matt and Ellie are first called by the girls’ teacher their initial reactions are to decline, but through conversation with the teacher, first Ellie and then Matt agree to the task.
But there is more at play in the valley this particular winter than the planning of a school carnival. Threatening notes on dead animals, an outbreak effecting only horses Ellie has cared for, and ultimately a demanding ransom all lead the reader to solve the mystery enveloped in a romance that brings together two people who have both suffered much loss and too many setbacks. This was a very enjoyable story and I do recommend it!
June 10, 2025
There’s something about a grumpy cowboy and a hopeful heroine that just works—and hearing it all unfold through the audiobook made the experience that much more delightful.
Matt Harte, a single father with a guarded heart, wants nothing to do with love—or the Valentine’s Day dance his daughter ropes him into planning. Ellie Webster, the town’s new vet, isn’t thrilled to be stuck on a committee of two with a man who clearly doesn’t want her there… but oh, the sparks! And in audio, those sparks crackle. The narration perfectly captures Matt’s slow-burning frustration and Ellie’s warmth and quiet determination.
The narrator gives each character a distinct voice, making it easy to fall headfirst into this small-town world. Matt’s emotional walls, Ellie’s soft strength, and Lucy’s teenage matchmaking schemes all come alive beautifully. You’ll find yourself smiling at the banter and sighing at the tender moments.
If you're a fan of heartfelt cowboy romances with a dash of gruff charm and emotional depth, this audiobook is a cozy ride worth taking.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Matt Harte, a single father with a guarded heart, wants nothing to do with love—or the Valentine’s Day dance his daughter ropes him into planning. Ellie Webster, the town’s new vet, isn’t thrilled to be stuck on a committee of two with a man who clearly doesn’t want her there… but oh, the sparks! And in audio, those sparks crackle. The narration perfectly captures Matt’s slow-burning frustration and Ellie’s warmth and quiet determination.
The narrator gives each character a distinct voice, making it easy to fall headfirst into this small-town world. Matt’s emotional walls, Ellie’s soft strength, and Lucy’s teenage matchmaking schemes all come alive beautifully. You’ll find yourself smiling at the banter and sighing at the tender moments.
If you're a fan of heartfelt cowboy romances with a dash of gruff charm and emotional depth, this audiobook is a cozy ride worth taking.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 20, 2025
This was an easy listen. Opposites attract, precocious (or annoying and totally unrealistic and I love kids so wow) scheming kids, small town nosiness, subterfuge, and more. Matt and Ellie have some real trust issues. When she moves to town to take over a veterinary practice, she is not accepted and is quite worried about her business surviving. Just when she seems to be making some headway, things go all FUBAR. There are resolutions to everything and the HEA expected, but I did find that there was a lot of repetition and I felt the story could have been a lot less wordy and still had the same impact. Also, I found this somewhat formulaic and unsurprising. Additionally, this read (listened) like some of her other stories (I know this is a newly titled re-release, so not that one). Maybe it is because I listened to a few over the holiday season that this sounded repetitive, but still easy and enjoyable.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 4, 2025
Republished as Star Valley Winter, previously published as the Valentine Two-Step, is a hallmark vibe, small town romance.
I received this audiobook from NetGalley and I throughly enjoyed it. It was an audiobook I finished in one day. I thought the narration by Carly Robins was done well. I thought the flow of the audiobook was great and was easy to follow, even with multiple POVs.
It’s a light and airy read with warm cozy romance and a touch of spice. I found this storyline to be low stakes and a great relaxing easygoing story, there is a little suspense towards the end but it fits well with the overall vibe of the story.
Matt and Ellie are two broken hearts afraid of letting themselves become attached to the other. Matt comes around sooner about his feelings for Ellie and is left trying to get Ellie to understand he won’t be like the other guys, but is Ellie willing to take the leap?
Also - single parents and their kids are trying to set them up so they can be sisters… so cute!
4⭐️/1.5🌶️
I received this audiobook from NetGalley and I throughly enjoyed it. It was an audiobook I finished in one day. I thought the narration by Carly Robins was done well. I thought the flow of the audiobook was great and was easy to follow, even with multiple POVs.
It’s a light and airy read with warm cozy romance and a touch of spice. I found this storyline to be low stakes and a great relaxing easygoing story, there is a little suspense towards the end but it fits well with the overall vibe of the story.
Matt and Ellie are two broken hearts afraid of letting themselves become attached to the other. Matt comes around sooner about his feelings for Ellie and is left trying to get Ellie to understand he won’t be like the other guys, but is Ellie willing to take the leap?
Also - single parents and their kids are trying to set them up so they can be sisters… so cute!
4⭐️/1.5🌶️
January 24, 2025
Star Valley Winter by RaeAnne Thayne is the first in the Outlaw Hartes series. I listened to this as an audio book. The narrator Carly Robins did a great job. In the town of Salt River lives a rancher Matt Harte and his daughter Lucy. Ellie Webster is a big city veterinarian transplant from California with some unconventional methods for treating animals with her daughter Dylan. The two young girls hit it off and instead of being just best friends they want to become sisters. They decide to make their parents spend time together to hopefully fall in love and get married. They volunteer then to co chair on the Valentine’s Day dance. Matt being a busy rancher and Ellie trying to build her practice are not too happy about this. Thank you to the author, #NetGalley and #Harlequin Audio for this Arc book. I loved it and a looking forward to the next book in this series. This is my honest review.
January 20, 2025
4 stars. Honest ARC Review:
⭐️ Single dad
⭐️Contemporary Romance
⭐️Small town Romance
⭐️Western Romance
⭐️ Romantic Suspense
⭐️Holiday Romance
Dylan Webster and Lucy Harte are fourth grade girls who have become close friends. They girls believe that the next step would be to become sisters. They go about attempting to set up their single parents.
Both Matt Harte and Ellie Webster find themselves spending a lot of time together between vet visits and working on the Valentines fair. There is an attraction that builds between them but both try to resist. Each has a history that allows greater depth of character to be revealed.
The story becomes more complex as Ellie (and her practice ) is threatened.
Overall, the story is interesting, heartwarming and enjoyable to read.
Thank you for sharing this ARC with me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
⭐️ Single dad
⭐️Contemporary Romance
⭐️Small town Romance
⭐️Western Romance
⭐️ Romantic Suspense
⭐️Holiday Romance
Dylan Webster and Lucy Harte are fourth grade girls who have become close friends. They girls believe that the next step would be to become sisters. They go about attempting to set up their single parents.
Both Matt Harte and Ellie Webster find themselves spending a lot of time together between vet visits and working on the Valentines fair. There is an attraction that builds between them but both try to resist. Each has a history that allows greater depth of character to be revealed.
The story becomes more complex as Ellie (and her practice ) is threatened.
Overall, the story is interesting, heartwarming and enjoyable to read.
Thank you for sharing this ARC with me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
January 21, 2025
2.5⭐️
This is the first book in the Outlaw Hartes series. I love small town romances and high hope for this book. I will start by saying the narration was great! The narrator did a wonderful job bringing the characters to life. I also enjoyed the daughters scheming to get their parents together. I thought it was cute and a sweet touch to the story. I also enjoyed the animals and the small town setting! The romance aspect of the story definitely left me wanting more. I know Matt had past trauma from his previous relationship, but I don’t see that as an excuse to be mean. As far as I’m concerned, he was very toxic. I couldn’t root for an HEA for Matt and Ellie because I felt like Ellie deserved more! The HEA was cute, but even at the end Matt was a covert jerk. Sadly, my dislike of Matt ruined my overall opinion of the book.
This is the first book in the Outlaw Hartes series. I love small town romances and high hope for this book. I will start by saying the narration was great! The narrator did a wonderful job bringing the characters to life. I also enjoyed the daughters scheming to get their parents together. I thought it was cute and a sweet touch to the story. I also enjoyed the animals and the small town setting! The romance aspect of the story definitely left me wanting more. I know Matt had past trauma from his previous relationship, but I don’t see that as an excuse to be mean. As far as I’m concerned, he was very toxic. I couldn’t root for an HEA for Matt and Ellie because I felt like Ellie deserved more! The HEA was cute, but even at the end Matt was a covert jerk. Sadly, my dislike of Matt ruined my overall opinion of the book.
January 23, 2025
The audiobook of Star Valley Winter just came out. It is wonderful.
Two wounded souls overcome their fears to make a future together. Of course, the overcoming fears part comes at the end after they have faced danger and near ruin together with one or the other resisting all the way.
Matt and Ellie each have a darling daughter that wants what the other has - a mom or a dad. They set out to bring their parents together.
Matt and Ellie are attracted to each other from the beginning but certain views each holds get in the way.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the chance to listen to this lovely story.
content note: Some RaeAnne Thayne books contain intimacy outside of marriage.
Two wounded souls overcome their fears to make a future together. Of course, the overcoming fears part comes at the end after they have faced danger and near ruin together with one or the other resisting all the way.
Matt and Ellie each have a darling daughter that wants what the other has - a mom or a dad. They set out to bring their parents together.
Matt and Ellie are attracted to each other from the beginning but certain views each holds get in the way.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the chance to listen to this lovely story.
content note: Some RaeAnne Thayne books contain intimacy outside of marriage.
February 27, 2019
I listened to this book on Audible — narration at 1.5 speed — narration was good so it did not distract from the book. The voice actually reminded me of an actor that I never did figure out who! Lol!
I enjoyed this book — the characters, setting and plot were real and believable. I kinda felt like there were some holes that coulda been filled — “three weeks later” happened a couple of times — and the ending wrapped up quick, but overall, it was worth the read to me.
I see that it’s book one in a series. And actually book 3 is included with this recording. Book 2 has had a name change. I’m off to listen to book 3 I guess! :-)
I enjoyed this book — the characters, setting and plot were real and believable. I kinda felt like there were some holes that coulda been filled — “three weeks later” happened a couple of times — and the ending wrapped up quick, but overall, it was worth the read to me.
I see that it’s book one in a series. And actually book 3 is included with this recording. Book 2 has had a name change. I’m off to listen to book 3 I guess! :-)
January 22, 2025
🎧Audiobook Review🎧
Thank you NetGalley and harlequin for the audiobook ARC.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely love Carly Robins as a narrator so I was excited that it was her I got to listen to! She does a great job narrating and her voice is so easy to listen too. She really embodies the characters.
I am already a huge RaeAnne Thayne fan! So I was super excited to get to listen to this! The story line and plot was fantastic!!!! I love a small town romance it’s truly my weakness. The story was adorable I loved the main character Ellie loved her so much actually! This story reminded me a little of the parent trap which is also a fav of mine!
Would recommend this book for sure!
Thank you NetGalley and harlequin for the audiobook ARC.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely love Carly Robins as a narrator so I was excited that it was her I got to listen to! She does a great job narrating and her voice is so easy to listen too. She really embodies the characters.
I am already a huge RaeAnne Thayne fan! So I was super excited to get to listen to this! The story line and plot was fantastic!!!! I love a small town romance it’s truly my weakness. The story was adorable I loved the main character Ellie loved her so much actually! This story reminded me a little of the parent trap which is also a fav of mine!
Would recommend this book for sure!
January 20, 2025
Matt has avoided romance since his wife left him, but his daughter plots to set him up with Ellie, a veterinarian new to town. Despite their initial reluctance, sparks fly between Matt and Ellie as they plan the local Valentine’s Day dance.
This small-town romance has a suspense subplot and a hint of spice. It’s an insta-lust story between two single parents who’ve been burned by love. They have no interest in romance, but their daughters have different ideas! I enjoyed the audiobook narration.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This small-town romance has a suspense subplot and a hint of spice. It’s an insta-lust story between two single parents who’ve been burned by love. They have no interest in romance, but their daughters have different ideas! I enjoyed the audiobook narration.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
February 1, 2025
Star Valley Winter
by RaeAnne Thayne
Narrated by Carly Robins
I received an ARC of this audiobook through Netgalley.
Matt and Ellie’s love story was a bit cozy and a bit of a tug-of-war, and a lot of will they/won’t they.
The narration, setting, characters, and plot are all stellar! I prefer my romances with a little less back and forth. However, this book built a solid foundation for a happily ever after.
I like it enough to recommend it.
And, I am completely blown away by Carly Robins. I thought this book had dual narration. Carly is phenomenal!
by RaeAnne Thayne
Narrated by Carly Robins
I received an ARC of this audiobook through Netgalley.
Matt and Ellie’s love story was a bit cozy and a bit of a tug-of-war, and a lot of will they/won’t they.
The narration, setting, characters, and plot are all stellar! I prefer my romances with a little less back and forth. However, this book built a solid foundation for a happily ever after.
I like it enough to recommend it.
And, I am completely blown away by Carly Robins. I thought this book had dual narration. Carly is phenomenal!
Read
January 24, 2025Rancher Matt Harte has a massive chip on his shoulder – for reasons that soon become clear. Ellie Webster is the new veterinarian and is having a tough time being accepted by the small, close knit community of Salt River. She wants to keep her practice solo and just needs a foot in the door with the area ranches to make a go of it.
Adding to the story are the daughters of Matt and Ellie. They gave the book a Parent Trap vibe. The story has a bit of mystery, a lot of romance and emotional drama.
Star Valley Winter is a re-release of an older book. I noticed a difference in Thayne’s writing style. The romance is more open door than her books in recent years. Not a criticism, just an observation. I prefer the recent books that I feel are more Women’s Fiction.
Narration: Carly Robins delivers a fine performance that kept me listening to one more chapter. The seven plus hours flew by.
Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my opinion.
Adding to the story are the daughters of Matt and Ellie. They gave the book a Parent Trap vibe. The story has a bit of mystery, a lot of romance and emotional drama.
Star Valley Winter is a re-release of an older book. I noticed a difference in Thayne’s writing style. The romance is more open door than her books in recent years. Not a criticism, just an observation. I prefer the recent books that I feel are more Women’s Fiction.
Narration: Carly Robins delivers a fine performance that kept me listening to one more chapter. The seven plus hours flew by.
Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my opinion.
January 25, 2025
This appears to be an Audiobook release of Star Valley Winter which was originally released in 2002. The narrator was great.
A cute story about 2 nine year old, who want to make it so that their parents fall in love and get married so that they can be sisters. They just have to figure out how to bring together a vet and a rancher in order to do that. The story was very predictable but a cute story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc audiobook.
A cute story about 2 nine year old, who want to make it so that their parents fall in love and get married so that they can be sisters. They just have to figure out how to bring together a vet and a rancher in order to do that. The story was very predictable but a cute story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc audiobook.
January 26, 2025
Star Valley Winter is the first in a new series by RaeAnne Thayne. I was given the chance to listen to the AudioBook. The narrator did a fantastic job of bringing the book to life for me.
The story was such an easy book to listen to while driving. The characters were wonderfully written. I am going to look for more books to read as well as audiobooks by this author.
Thank you NetGalley and RaeAnne Thayne for the audiobook Star Valley Winter. This is my persoanl review.
The story was such an easy book to listen to while driving. The characters were wonderfully written. I am going to look for more books to read as well as audiobooks by this author.
Thank you NetGalley and RaeAnne Thayne for the audiobook Star Valley Winter. This is my persoanl review.
January 28, 2025
( 3.5 / 5 )
This book was extremely cute and wholesome, however, it lacked connection. I found it hard to really immerse myself into this story and completely fall in love with the characters.
The plot moved too fast, in my opinion. However, I enjoyed the storyline of a Rancher x Veterinarian.
All in all, it fit into the vibes of a Harlequin romance novel, so I truly am not upset by it.
Cute read!
This book was extremely cute and wholesome, however, it lacked connection. I found it hard to really immerse myself into this story and completely fall in love with the characters.
The plot moved too fast, in my opinion. However, I enjoyed the storyline of a Rancher x Veterinarian.
All in all, it fit into the vibes of a Harlequin romance novel, so I truly am not upset by it.
Cute read!
February 6, 2025
This is a sweet romance. Matt has been burned badly and does not trust easily. In fact, he gives women no chance to hurt him. He raises his daughter on his ranch. A new vet rolled into town and Ellie is a beauty. And he starts to question himself.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a review of the audiobook.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a review of the audiobook.
February 14, 2025
I was able to enjoy this book through an audio version. The narrator did a wonderful job. The story is a quick one to listen to and easy to get involved in. It is an early book by RaeAnne Thayne and has the happy ever after ending you expect in her early stories. The characters in this book are easy to like especially the two little coniving nine year old daughters. An easy read or listen to that is definitely enjoyable. I now want to get my hands on the rest of the series.
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