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Hope's Crossing #5
Sterk in de verleiding
Valt Charlotte terug in haar oude gewoontes, of kan ze Spencer dit keer wél weerstaan?
Als iemand weet wat verleiding is, is het Charlotte Caine wel, die in haar snoepwinkel, Sugar Rush, haar boterzachte zelfgemaakte fudge verkoopt. En dat terwijl ze een jarenlange strijd heeft gevoerd tegen overgewicht. Gelukkig heeft ze nu alles onder controle. Tot het lot haar opnieuw een verleiding voorschotelt, in de persoon van Spencer Gregory. De man die als tiener haar hart brak en toen Hope’s Crossing verliet, is terug – en hij is nog even knap en adembenemend als toen. Bovendien lijkt hij een ander mens: hij zet zich in voor de gemeenschap en is een enorm liefdevolle vader voor zijn dochter, Peyton.
Als iemand weet wat verleiding is, is het Charlotte Caine wel, die in haar snoepwinkel, Sugar Rush, haar boterzachte zelfgemaakte fudge verkoopt. En dat terwijl ze een jarenlange strijd heeft gevoerd tegen overgewicht. Gelukkig heeft ze nu alles onder controle. Tot het lot haar opnieuw een verleiding voorschotelt, in de persoon van Spencer Gregory. De man die als tiener haar hart brak en toen Hope’s Crossing verliet, is terug – en hij is nog even knap en adembenemend als toen. Bovendien lijkt hij een ander mens: hij zet zich in voor de gemeenschap en is een enorm liefdevolle vader voor zijn dochter, Peyton.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
661 people are currently reading
1792 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
311 books3,834 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 181 reviews
November 16, 2015
This is my third by the author and I have to say I'm impressed. This was a great deal of fun and I enjoyed it immensely. This despite picking it up in the middle of a series (which I hate doing). And yes, there were lots of characters I could tell were from different books, though Thayne at least took the effort to draw them complete enough for me not to feel too left out about it.
I have to say that Spencer Gregory was an incredibly engaging leading man. He's had a rough couple of years but hasn't let it make him jaded. He's enduring, but only just, and you can see both the tremendous strength and the fundamental kindness that has brought him that far. And this despite learning how he had hurt Charlotte years ago. Thayne had a really tough line to walk with this story, letting us see his carelessness in a way that didn't destroy him being a credibly nice guy, even then.
And I liked Charlotte, too, though I was wary to start. A character who loses a lot of weight can be tricky because you have to get the past trauma right even as she tries to move forward with being the same girl only lighter. There are so many unhealthy attitudes surrounding weight, and food, and people's assumptions regarding both. I feel that Thayne did an excellent job with it and appreciated that she used real numbers so I'd have more than just a vague idea of the trials and difficulties Charlotte had overcome. What I liked more than anything else, though, was how well it comes across that Charlotte is unfailingly kind and loyal and how she builds up everyone around her with her. This came forward best in her relationship with Spencer's daughter, Peyton. What I'm saying is that she was an integrated character and her issues with weight were only one aspect of who she is now. In all, I liked her quite a bit and was happy to spend time with her and Spencer.
Anyway, this was a fantastic romance and a solid 4.5 stars. I can't quite bump it to five due to some small but complicated niggles I don't feel I can adequately articulate. Nothing serious or I could probably elucidate at least a little.
A note about Steamy/Chaste: This wasn't steamy, really, but it wasn't quite chaste, either. There's a pretty hot make-out scene that skirts the edge close enough not to be the one but not so close as to make it to the other. All appropriate to the story and I wouldn't change a thing, but it makes it hard to tag with my usual designations.
I have to say that Spencer Gregory was an incredibly engaging leading man. He's had a rough couple of years but hasn't let it make him jaded. He's enduring, but only just, and you can see both the tremendous strength and the fundamental kindness that has brought him that far. And this despite learning how he had hurt Charlotte years ago. Thayne had a really tough line to walk with this story, letting us see his carelessness in a way that didn't destroy him being a credibly nice guy, even then.
And I liked Charlotte, too, though I was wary to start. A character who loses a lot of weight can be tricky because you have to get the past trauma right even as she tries to move forward with being the same girl only lighter. There are so many unhealthy attitudes surrounding weight, and food, and people's assumptions regarding both. I feel that Thayne did an excellent job with it and appreciated that she used real numbers so I'd have more than just a vague idea of the trials and difficulties Charlotte had overcome. What I liked more than anything else, though, was how well it comes across that Charlotte is unfailingly kind and loyal and how she builds up everyone around her with her. This came forward best in her relationship with Spencer's daughter, Peyton. What I'm saying is that she was an integrated character and her issues with weight were only one aspect of who she is now. In all, I liked her quite a bit and was happy to spend time with her and Spencer.
Anyway, this was a fantastic romance and a solid 4.5 stars. I can't quite bump it to five due to some small but complicated niggles I don't feel I can adequately articulate. Nothing serious or I could probably elucidate at least a little.
A note about Steamy/Chaste: This wasn't steamy, really, but it wasn't quite chaste, either. There's a pretty hot make-out scene that skirts the edge close enough not to be the one but not so close as to make it to the other. All appropriate to the story and I wouldn't change a thing, but it makes it hard to tag with my usual designations.
May 4, 2015
So far this was my least favorite entry in this series. I liked the premise of the story and the characters for the most part. The one drawback for me was constantly being reminded about and Charlotte always thinking about the fact that she used to be overweight. The way every single thought or action of Charlotte's seemed to dwell on this made her seem so much less the strong, confident woman she should have been having changed her lifestyle and accomplished so much. I totally get the feeling less self-esteem once you've been overweight, but I sort of felt bashed over the head with this throughout the entire book, which took away from the enjoyment of the story for me.
But this is just a minor bump in the road of a series that I have been thoroughly enjoying otherwise. Looking forward to delving into the next book!
But this is just a minor bump in the road of a series that I have been thoroughly enjoying otherwise. Looking forward to delving into the next book!
July 6, 2021
A solid 3 stars for this. The h was very leery of the H due to the past, but she was overall a very together person. He is trying to redeem himself and is very sincere.
November 3, 2016
I loved this largely because I identified with Charlotte so much. She's a sympathetic, kind and easy-to-love character and as someone who also lost 40+ pounds over the course of a year about 10 years ago, I saw a lot of myself in her. Seriously, a lot.
Her attitude towards food and exercise and how she changed her way of life wanting to be healthier resonated with me. Plus, she was shy and awkward as a teenager and experience bullying. She = me, pretty much.
However, I thought she was a little too naive about certain things too. Another small complaint would be that the ending was far too abrupt. At the very least, I needed an epilogue to maybe show me how they were both adjusting. But since the next book is Charlotte's brother's book, I'm guessing we'll see plenty more of them then. And really, both of these were pretty minor complaints in the grand scheme of things.
The story is just so sweet, and Spencer and Charlotte just fit. I also liked that they didn't gloss over the fact that Spence had been an asshole for that brief moment all those years ago. Too often, books like these will find a way to handwave it or explain it in some way that redeems the character. Spencer just admitted to having been an arrogant dick and seeing as how he'd been redeemed in so many other ways throughout the book, it was perfect.
The writing and all the descriptions of the scenery are so wonderfully evocative. They were enough to make me want to throw some clothes into a suitcase and go to Colorado. Which, admittedly, it doesn't take much for me to want to travel some place but it had an almost magical quality to it. It was intoxicating.
I can get a little tired of small-town romances, but for some reason, around the holidays and in the weeks leading up to them, I love nothing more than to lose myself in book after book like this one.
It definitely looks like I found a good series to start a new binge-reading session with.
Her attitude towards food and exercise and how she changed her way of life wanting to be healthier resonated with me. Plus, she was shy and awkward as a teenager and experience bullying. She = me, pretty much.
However, I thought she was a little too naive about certain things too. Another small complaint would be that the ending was far too abrupt. At the very least, I needed an epilogue to maybe show me how they were both adjusting. But since the next book is Charlotte's brother's book, I'm guessing we'll see plenty more of them then. And really, both of these were pretty minor complaints in the grand scheme of things.
The story is just so sweet, and Spencer and Charlotte just fit. I also liked that they didn't gloss over the fact that Spence had been an asshole for that brief moment all those years ago. Too often, books like these will find a way to handwave it or explain it in some way that redeems the character. Spencer just admitted to having been an arrogant dick and seeing as how he'd been redeemed in so many other ways throughout the book, it was perfect.
The writing and all the descriptions of the scenery are so wonderfully evocative. They were enough to make me want to throw some clothes into a suitcase and go to Colorado. Which, admittedly, it doesn't take much for me to want to travel some place but it had an almost magical quality to it. It was intoxicating.
I can get a little tired of small-town romances, but for some reason, around the holidays and in the weeks leading up to them, I love nothing more than to lose myself in book after book like this one.
It definitely looks like I found a good series to start a new binge-reading session with.
August 19, 2014
Book five of the Hope's Crossing series is like a long awaited letter about a group of dear friends. This time around we're learning more about Charlotte Caine. Life as a teen-ager who had just lost her mother was very difficult, so she ate away her pain. Unfortunately, life as an obese teen was even harder. As she helped the town's "super jock", Spencer Gregory, with his homework, she fell for him in a big way, but he just saw a good friend.
Now Spencer has returned to Hope's Crossing from a stent in big league baseball, where he was a super star before he was injured, but he's returning with his own disgrace of public scandal involving drugs and his dead wife. His 12 year old daughter Payton, is non too happy about leaving her friends either.
Once again, Thayne develops serious issues within this love story. "Everybody who went through tough things had to take his own road back. Others could push and guide and help but nobody could chose another's journey for him." Issues of wounded warriors, eating disorders, and self-loathing are developed in extremely interesting ways within this story of community, friendships, hope, and all different forms of love. This series continues to impress me more and more with every book!
Now Spencer has returned to Hope's Crossing from a stent in big league baseball, where he was a super star before he was injured, but he's returning with his own disgrace of public scandal involving drugs and his dead wife. His 12 year old daughter Payton, is non too happy about leaving her friends either.
Once again, Thayne develops serious issues within this love story. "Everybody who went through tough things had to take his own road back. Others could push and guide and help but nobody could chose another's journey for him." Issues of wounded warriors, eating disorders, and self-loathing are developed in extremely interesting ways within this story of community, friendships, hope, and all different forms of love. This series continues to impress me more and more with every book!
October 17, 2015
Good small town reunion story. Charlotte is a lifelong resident of Hope's Crossing. She lost her mother at a young age and used food as comfort, leading her to become very overweight. Her high school years were miserable because of it, the only bright side being her crush on Spencer Gregory, the high school baseball star. Recently, she has taken control of her life, lost a lot of weight, and feels much better about herself. Then Spencer returns to town, throwing her life back into turmoil.
Spencer couldn't wait to leave Hope's Crossing when he was a teen. The son of an alcoholic mother, he spent his teen years working three jobs just to keep their lives together. When he was offered a baseball contract, he took it and never looked back. Now he is back, trying to put his life back together. His career ended with a shoulder injury, during which he got hooked on painkillers. He came through rehab stronger, but was then accused of dealing drugs and steroids to fellow teammates, lost his wife to a drug overdose, and is now the sole parent to his twelve year old daughter Peyton. With nothing left for him in the baseball world, he accepts the offer to run the new recreation center in Hope's Crossing. Peyton is angry about being taken away from her friends, and the people of Hope's Crossing aren't too sure they want Spencer running the center.
Charlotte is stunned to find out that Spencer is back in Hope's Crossing. She first met his daughter, before she knew who Peyton was, and recognized some similarities in their lives. But she's not too sure she wants anything to do with Spencer and his problems. Plus, she can't forget the way he broke her heart as a teenager. Though she is wary around him, the old feelings are still there, and she finds herself drawn back into his life. She fights it because she can't see anything between them ending well.
Charlotte is suspicious of his intentions at the beginning. She thinks he is only back in Hope's Crossing as a way to repair his reputation, but he slowly begins to show her that he wants more. I liked the way that Spencer wants to repair his relationship with Peyton, and how hurt he is by her attitude toward him. I thought he did a really good job of keeping his patience with her. He was very glad to be able to get Charlotte to help him connect with Peyton. Spencer remembers what a good friend Charlotte had been when they were in school, but now there is something more that he starts to feel for her. I liked the way he wants to show her that he's not the same jerk he was back in school.
When Spencer first came back to town, he was still feeling a bit lost. Without baseball he isn't sure who he really is. I liked the way he started to feel more a part of things while working at the center, and things really took off for him when Peyton suggested that he find a way to work with wounded veterans. That cause really appealed to him and he felt an enthusiasm he hadn't felt in years.
I loved the rekindling of the relationship between Spencer and Charlotte. I really liked that Spencer saw the woman inside Charlotte, not just the new and hot outside. I also liked the way that Charlotte was able to look past the scandal surrounding him, remember who he had been, and realize that there was more to the story than the public knew. It was really good to see how they each brought out the best in the other. I really liked how Charlotte was there for Spencer when Peyton had a health crisis, and was able to help both of them get through it. Spencer finally realized what his feelings for Charlotte were, but she still has issues with herself and can't believe that there's any chance of a future for them together. I loved the way Spencer got help from her friends and made his case in a really sweet and romantic way.
I really liked the part that Peyton played in bringing Spencer and Charlotte together. Spencer loves his daughter, but he is somewhat lost in knowing how to deal with her. There were times that Peyton was a real brat, and I felt sorry for Spencer. Charlotte recognizes a lot of the same things in Peyton that she went through herself, so she tries to help Peyton settle in. It was pretty easy to see the problem that was building for Peyton, and when it came I liked that Spencer was determined to do whatever he needed to. Charlotte's support was just what they both needed to become the father-daughter team that they were capable of.
The ending of the story was great. The veteran's center was really coming together quickly. It was also interesting to see Spencer's former teammates come out to support him, and show how much they respect him. There was an interesting twist involving one of those teammates, which led to a very satisfying revelation.
Spencer couldn't wait to leave Hope's Crossing when he was a teen. The son of an alcoholic mother, he spent his teen years working three jobs just to keep their lives together. When he was offered a baseball contract, he took it and never looked back. Now he is back, trying to put his life back together. His career ended with a shoulder injury, during which he got hooked on painkillers. He came through rehab stronger, but was then accused of dealing drugs and steroids to fellow teammates, lost his wife to a drug overdose, and is now the sole parent to his twelve year old daughter Peyton. With nothing left for him in the baseball world, he accepts the offer to run the new recreation center in Hope's Crossing. Peyton is angry about being taken away from her friends, and the people of Hope's Crossing aren't too sure they want Spencer running the center.
Charlotte is stunned to find out that Spencer is back in Hope's Crossing. She first met his daughter, before she knew who Peyton was, and recognized some similarities in their lives. But she's not too sure she wants anything to do with Spencer and his problems. Plus, she can't forget the way he broke her heart as a teenager. Though she is wary around him, the old feelings are still there, and she finds herself drawn back into his life. She fights it because she can't see anything between them ending well.
Charlotte is suspicious of his intentions at the beginning. She thinks he is only back in Hope's Crossing as a way to repair his reputation, but he slowly begins to show her that he wants more. I liked the way that Spencer wants to repair his relationship with Peyton, and how hurt he is by her attitude toward him. I thought he did a really good job of keeping his patience with her. He was very glad to be able to get Charlotte to help him connect with Peyton. Spencer remembers what a good friend Charlotte had been when they were in school, but now there is something more that he starts to feel for her. I liked the way he wants to show her that he's not the same jerk he was back in school.
When Spencer first came back to town, he was still feeling a bit lost. Without baseball he isn't sure who he really is. I liked the way he started to feel more a part of things while working at the center, and things really took off for him when Peyton suggested that he find a way to work with wounded veterans. That cause really appealed to him and he felt an enthusiasm he hadn't felt in years.
I loved the rekindling of the relationship between Spencer and Charlotte. I really liked that Spencer saw the woman inside Charlotte, not just the new and hot outside. I also liked the way that Charlotte was able to look past the scandal surrounding him, remember who he had been, and realize that there was more to the story than the public knew. It was really good to see how they each brought out the best in the other. I really liked how Charlotte was there for Spencer when Peyton had a health crisis, and was able to help both of them get through it. Spencer finally realized what his feelings for Charlotte were, but she still has issues with herself and can't believe that there's any chance of a future for them together. I loved the way Spencer got help from her friends and made his case in a really sweet and romantic way.
I really liked the part that Peyton played in bringing Spencer and Charlotte together. Spencer loves his daughter, but he is somewhat lost in knowing how to deal with her. There were times that Peyton was a real brat, and I felt sorry for Spencer. Charlotte recognizes a lot of the same things in Peyton that she went through herself, so she tries to help Peyton settle in. It was pretty easy to see the problem that was building for Peyton, and when it came I liked that Spencer was determined to do whatever he needed to. Charlotte's support was just what they both needed to become the father-daughter team that they were capable of.
The ending of the story was great. The veteran's center was really coming together quickly. It was also interesting to see Spencer's former teammates come out to support him, and show how much they respect him. There was an interesting twist involving one of those teammates, which led to a very satisfying revelation.
July 26, 2013
Review originally published at The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
Willowleaf Lane is the first book I've read in this series, which is set in the fictional Colorado town of Hope's Crossing. It's a warm, feel-good romance with several "issue" subplots. Hope's Crossing reminds me a little of both Creede and Ouray, Colorado: a small, charming resort town.
I admire Charlotte's determination; she was apparently heavily overweight several years before the novel begins, and has been steadily working on her weight and fitness because she realized she was courting diabetes and poor health. That can't be easy for someone who makes and sells candy for a living! Clearly, she has a strong will. Charlotte is also dedicated to her family, though we only see her father (owner of a diner) and her brother, a war veteran and amputee suffering from depression, alcoholism, and possibly PTSD. She's a good friend, loyal, helpful, and empathetic. No one is without flaws, of course, and Charlotte's main ones are that she lacks self-confidence when it comes to men (understandably, given her past) and she holds on too tightly to past hurts.
Both of those flaws can be blamed at least in part on the hero. Spencer Gregory is a home-town boy who made good as a star baseball player, then self-destructed rather spectacularly when he was implicated in a steroids scandal, followed by the death of his estranged wife. Back in their high school days, Spencer was Charlotte's friend and secret crush. . . the boy who shattered her confidence along with her heart. Now he's back in Hope's Crossing, trying to pick up the pieces of his life and forge some kind of relationship with his sullen daughter Peyton.
The pain Spencer caused Charlotte, which he was unaware of, is at the root of the tensions between them throughout the book, even as they're fighting a strong present-day attraction to each other. Their relationship is complicated by Peyton's problems. Charlotte empathizes with and befriends the girl, and Spencer needs her help in dealing with Peyton. Without giving away any spoilers, I'll just say that Peyton has her own issues, and it was obvious to me what those were well before any of the adults around her caught on.
One of the things I particularly liked about the book was Spencer's growth. It's clear from the start that despite the scandals that brought him down, he's basically a decent man, but he becomes a better one through the course of the story. It's also clear he's hiding something and/or protecting someone, possibly several someones, and that he may not have been as guilty as he appeared, which lends just a hint of mystery to the book. There's even a bit of a showdown toward the end -- nothing violent, but satisfying in how it clears up the questions of what really happened.
The secondary characters in Willowleaf Lane are almost universally likeable. Several of them clearly have back stories that were told in earlier books in the series, but I had no trouble starting with this novel instead of one of the earlier ones.
One aspect of Willowleaf Lane did make me uncomfortable: the whole issue of weight and sexual attractiveness. Apparently Charlotte didn't attract guys when she was heavy; now that she's lost the weight, she gets the sexy hero. It's a message that bothers me even though Thayne really tried to avoid tying the two things together. It's clear that Charlotte's concerns about her long-term health were her primary motivation for losing weight and becoming active, and for that, I applaud the author. At least she's not doing it just to get a guy, or to try to fit into unrealistic expectations of female "beauty." But I really wish that Spencer had come back to town in the middle of Charlotte's transformation, and been just as attracted to her -- and then supported her in working toward her goals. Having him show up only after she's already thin and fit sends a message that you can't be attractive and sexy and build a great relationship if you're overweight. As someone who struggles with both my weight and my body image, that really bothered me.
That one caveat aside, Willowleaf Lane is a good choice if you're looking for a gentle small-town romance with likeable characters and a community you can return to.
Willowleaf Lane is the first book I've read in this series, which is set in the fictional Colorado town of Hope's Crossing. It's a warm, feel-good romance with several "issue" subplots. Hope's Crossing reminds me a little of both Creede and Ouray, Colorado: a small, charming resort town.
I admire Charlotte's determination; she was apparently heavily overweight several years before the novel begins, and has been steadily working on her weight and fitness because she realized she was courting diabetes and poor health. That can't be easy for someone who makes and sells candy for a living! Clearly, she has a strong will. Charlotte is also dedicated to her family, though we only see her father (owner of a diner) and her brother, a war veteran and amputee suffering from depression, alcoholism, and possibly PTSD. She's a good friend, loyal, helpful, and empathetic. No one is without flaws, of course, and Charlotte's main ones are that she lacks self-confidence when it comes to men (understandably, given her past) and she holds on too tightly to past hurts.
Both of those flaws can be blamed at least in part on the hero. Spencer Gregory is a home-town boy who made good as a star baseball player, then self-destructed rather spectacularly when he was implicated in a steroids scandal, followed by the death of his estranged wife. Back in their high school days, Spencer was Charlotte's friend and secret crush. . . the boy who shattered her confidence along with her heart. Now he's back in Hope's Crossing, trying to pick up the pieces of his life and forge some kind of relationship with his sullen daughter Peyton.
The pain Spencer caused Charlotte, which he was unaware of, is at the root of the tensions between them throughout the book, even as they're fighting a strong present-day attraction to each other. Their relationship is complicated by Peyton's problems. Charlotte empathizes with and befriends the girl, and Spencer needs her help in dealing with Peyton. Without giving away any spoilers, I'll just say that Peyton has her own issues, and it was obvious to me what those were well before any of the adults around her caught on.
One of the things I particularly liked about the book was Spencer's growth. It's clear from the start that despite the scandals that brought him down, he's basically a decent man, but he becomes a better one through the course of the story. It's also clear he's hiding something and/or protecting someone, possibly several someones, and that he may not have been as guilty as he appeared, which lends just a hint of mystery to the book. There's even a bit of a showdown toward the end -- nothing violent, but satisfying in how it clears up the questions of what really happened.
The secondary characters in Willowleaf Lane are almost universally likeable. Several of them clearly have back stories that were told in earlier books in the series, but I had no trouble starting with this novel instead of one of the earlier ones.
One aspect of Willowleaf Lane did make me uncomfortable: the whole issue of weight and sexual attractiveness. Apparently Charlotte didn't attract guys when she was heavy; now that she's lost the weight, she gets the sexy hero. It's a message that bothers me even though Thayne really tried to avoid tying the two things together. It's clear that Charlotte's concerns about her long-term health were her primary motivation for losing weight and becoming active, and for that, I applaud the author. At least she's not doing it just to get a guy, or to try to fit into unrealistic expectations of female "beauty." But I really wish that Spencer had come back to town in the middle of Charlotte's transformation, and been just as attracted to her -- and then supported her in working toward her goals. Having him show up only after she's already thin and fit sends a message that you can't be attractive and sexy and build a great relationship if you're overweight. As someone who struggles with both my weight and my body image, that really bothered me.
That one caveat aside, Willowleaf Lane is a good choice if you're looking for a gentle small-town romance with likeable characters and a community you can return to.
June 6, 2013
Also posted at my personal blog, TBR MOUNTAIN RANGE.
In the fifth book of the HOPE'S CROSSING series, the reader meets two imperfect people who are perfect for one another. The trouble is that neither of them realizes it until it's almost too late. Small town fiction at its best, this is a series you'll adore for its ability to expose human frailties and then mend with love.
Candy store owner Charlotte "Charley" Caine has always been overweight but her recent lifestyle changes have resulted in a thinner and more confident Charley. Still, there are some things from her childhood and teenage years that she can't overcome or forget. Her love and hate for Spencer "Spence" Gregory is one of them.
The bad boy professional baseball pitcher has returned like the prodigal son to Hope's Crossing, even though news of all his misadventures have arrived before him. Accused of dealing drugs to his teammates and murdering his wife, Spence can't go anywhere without the rumor mill preceding him. What makes all of these accusations even worse is that he can't keep it from affecting his teenage daughter, Peyton.
Coming back to Spence's childhood hometown of Hope's Crossing is hopefully a good temporary place to ride out the storm of his recent past. But can the people of Hope's Crossing forgive him for hurting one of their own on his way out, or even consider overlooking the son of a drunk becoming more like his mother than they dreamed? Even Spence can't forget what his life was like as a teenager, working three jobs to put food on the table because his alcoholic mother couldn't work half the time. Coming back to his hometown helps Spence remember the kindness of those who assisted him through his negligent childhood, but can they forgive him for what they think he has done?
Charlotte's family looked after Spence during his teen years. He was friends with her brothers and her dad gave him a job in his café. Charlotte helped by tutoring Spence so he could keep up in school. Somehow she developed a crush on the troubled young man who dreamt of becoming a professional baseball player, but her affections weren't returned. When he left and never looked back, they all followed his career and Charley lived with a broken heart, knowing Spence would never be attracted to someone overweight when he could so easily get any woman he wanted as a sports superstar.
Harry Lange hired Spence as the director for the new recreation center in Hope's Crossing. After his trouble with the drug dealing rumors and the murder accusations, as well as an injury, Spence needed something to do to get his mind off everything that had happened over the last couple years. He only looked at this new job as temporary and he could endure whatever the residents threw at him in Hope's Crossing just as well as anywhere else. But, are the residents prepared for Spencer Gregory? And the real question is, can Charlotte Caine forget her past crush when Spence is everywhere she goes?
WILLOWLEAF LANE was the perfect book to read over the Memorial Day weekend. With an underlying theme of helping veterans, it meant more to experience this book on this holiday weekend. Charlotte's relationship with her wounded veteran brother, Dylan, who is recovering from his injuries, is compassionate and heartrending. I hope we find out more about him in future stories. Peyton Gregory is a typical teenager dealing with some pretty horrific things so it's not surprising that she develops some issues that are poignant as well.
RaeAnne Thayne is a master at wreaking havoc on readers' emotions while balancing emotional upheaval with optimism. You can't experience her books without laughing or crying or both! WILLOWLEAF LANE delves into human imperfections and inadequacies and how society reacts to them. As always, hope prevails in this fifth book of the HOPE'S CROSSING series. RaeAnne Thayne has the uncanny ability to reach into your heart and tug on your soul with her words. For true human emotions depicted in a town worthy of forgiveness, HOPE'S CROSSING is an addictive series of hope.
Book and Review courtesy of Romance Junkies.
In the fifth book of the HOPE'S CROSSING series, the reader meets two imperfect people who are perfect for one another. The trouble is that neither of them realizes it until it's almost too late. Small town fiction at its best, this is a series you'll adore for its ability to expose human frailties and then mend with love.
Candy store owner Charlotte "Charley" Caine has always been overweight but her recent lifestyle changes have resulted in a thinner and more confident Charley. Still, there are some things from her childhood and teenage years that she can't overcome or forget. Her love and hate for Spencer "Spence" Gregory is one of them.
The bad boy professional baseball pitcher has returned like the prodigal son to Hope's Crossing, even though news of all his misadventures have arrived before him. Accused of dealing drugs to his teammates and murdering his wife, Spence can't go anywhere without the rumor mill preceding him. What makes all of these accusations even worse is that he can't keep it from affecting his teenage daughter, Peyton.
Coming back to Spence's childhood hometown of Hope's Crossing is hopefully a good temporary place to ride out the storm of his recent past. But can the people of Hope's Crossing forgive him for hurting one of their own on his way out, or even consider overlooking the son of a drunk becoming more like his mother than they dreamed? Even Spence can't forget what his life was like as a teenager, working three jobs to put food on the table because his alcoholic mother couldn't work half the time. Coming back to his hometown helps Spence remember the kindness of those who assisted him through his negligent childhood, but can they forgive him for what they think he has done?
Charlotte's family looked after Spence during his teen years. He was friends with her brothers and her dad gave him a job in his café. Charlotte helped by tutoring Spence so he could keep up in school. Somehow she developed a crush on the troubled young man who dreamt of becoming a professional baseball player, but her affections weren't returned. When he left and never looked back, they all followed his career and Charley lived with a broken heart, knowing Spence would never be attracted to someone overweight when he could so easily get any woman he wanted as a sports superstar.
Harry Lange hired Spence as the director for the new recreation center in Hope's Crossing. After his trouble with the drug dealing rumors and the murder accusations, as well as an injury, Spence needed something to do to get his mind off everything that had happened over the last couple years. He only looked at this new job as temporary and he could endure whatever the residents threw at him in Hope's Crossing just as well as anywhere else. But, are the residents prepared for Spencer Gregory? And the real question is, can Charlotte Caine forget her past crush when Spence is everywhere she goes?
WILLOWLEAF LANE was the perfect book to read over the Memorial Day weekend. With an underlying theme of helping veterans, it meant more to experience this book on this holiday weekend. Charlotte's relationship with her wounded veteran brother, Dylan, who is recovering from his injuries, is compassionate and heartrending. I hope we find out more about him in future stories. Peyton Gregory is a typical teenager dealing with some pretty horrific things so it's not surprising that she develops some issues that are poignant as well.
RaeAnne Thayne is a master at wreaking havoc on readers' emotions while balancing emotional upheaval with optimism. You can't experience her books without laughing or crying or both! WILLOWLEAF LANE delves into human imperfections and inadequacies and how society reacts to them. As always, hope prevails in this fifth book of the HOPE'S CROSSING series. RaeAnne Thayne has the uncanny ability to reach into your heart and tug on your soul with her words. For true human emotions depicted in a town worthy of forgiveness, HOPE'S CROSSING is an addictive series of hope.
Book and Review courtesy of Romance Junkies.
April 20, 2013
4 STARS
I just love the covers of Hope's Crossing books. It is surprising how much a cover makes me want to pick up the book even when it is a ebook.
Hope's Crossing is such a nice community coming together and helping each other when they can. I like the idea that Charlotte as she is running past houses she is thinking do they need help or what can I do for them. Great attitude.
The plot is that Spencer has come back to run the new community rec center after his professional baseball career is over with a injury and prescription abuse. Then he had two years of everyone thinking he got steroids for other team members. Also his wife suicide some wondered if he murdered her. He wants to get his life back.
Charlotte owns a candy store and makes her own fudge and other candy. In the past two years she has lost 80lbs. A young girl enters the shop. Peyton
does not want to live in Hope's Crossing. She misses her friends. She starts talking to Charlotte and tastes the different fudges. Peyton tells Charlotte that her mother had died and is living here with her father. Charlotte who's own mother died when she was around the same age gives her the candy she was going to buy as a welcome to town gift. Peyton is shocked that she just gave her the couple of pounds of fudge.
Peyton's dad comes into the store and Charlotte recognizes him. But Spencer is shocked when he finds out who she is. Spencer's mom used to work for Charlotte's dad café when she was sober. Charlotte would help him pass English. She is angry at Spencer and is rude to him.
Spencer wants to add on to the community rec. program. When Peyton suggest to do something for wounded vets and their family he jumps on the band wagon. It snowballs from there.
I got caught up in the story. Did not want it to end. (though I loved the ending). It dealt a little with eating disorders both the opposite of each other. With drugs addiction and wounded soldiers. I thought the issues were touched on just the right amount for the story. Made me think a little about each issue and it was good entertaining book at the same time. It also made me want some of the fudge.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it when I was finished by Netgalley.
publication: June 25th 2013 by Harlequin HQN 384 pages ISBN:0373777698
Description below taken off on Netgalley.
Sometimes going back is the best way to start over
Candy shop owner Charlotte Caine knows temptation. To reboot her life, shed weight and gain perspective, she's passing up sweet enticements left and right. But willpower doesn't come so easily when hell-raiser Spencer Gregory comes back to Hope's Crossing, bringing with him memories of broken promises and teen angst. A retired pro baseball player on the mend from injury-and a damaging scandal-he's interested in his own brand of reinvention.
Now everything about Spencer's new-and-improved lifestyle, from his mission to build a rehab facility for injured veterans to his clear devotion to his preteen daughter, Peyton, touches Charlotte's heart. Holding on to past hurt is her only protection against falling for him-again. But if she takes the risk, will she find in Spencer a hometown heartbreaker, or the hero she's always wanted?
About the author:
RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains, where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including three RITA Award nominations from the Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews magazine. RaeAnne loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at www.raeannethayne.com.
April 22, 2013
full review to come but once again RT hit it out of the park!! (pun fully intended!)
Sometimes going back is the best way to start over
Candy shop owner Charlotte Caine knows temptation. To reboot her life, shed weight and gain perspective, she's passing up sweet enticements left and right. But willpower doesn't come so easily when hell-raiser Spencer Gregory comes back to Hope's Crossing, bringing with him memories of broken promises and teen angst. A retired pro baseball player on the mend from injury-and a damaging scandal-he's interested in his own brand of reinvention.
Now everything about Spencer's new-and-improved lifestyle, from his mission to build a rehab facility for injured veterans to his clear devotion to his preteen daughter, Peyton, touches Charlotte's heart. Holding on to past hurt is her only protection against falling for him-again. But if she takes the risk, will she find in Spencer a hometown heartbreaker, or the hero she's always wanted?
Welcome back home to Hope’s Crossing! I feel I’m going home every time I pick up another book in this series. I enjoy getting to know new friends and catching up with old ones. To say I am a fan of RaeAnne Thayne’s would be a resounding YES! I discovered her Cowboys of Cold Creek series first and I have loved everything I’ve read since then.
This 5th book in the Hope’s Crossing series features business owner Charlotte. She is a life-long resident of the town, the youngest in a house-full of boys and she lost her mom at a young and pivotal age for a girl. Our leading man is one we have not been introduced to in previous books, Spencer Gregory. He grew up in town and left to follow his dream of a baseball career and never looked back… until now.
Previous books have covered the lives of the McKnight family (as well as others), this book covers background for the Caine family and how Charlotte’s father took a young Spencer under his wing and provided a waitressing job for Spencer’s mom when a lot of employers would have written her off. We see the dynamic of Spence and his daughter and the typical teen angst that we all fear we’ll have to face at some point with our children. I like the perspective that Charlotte brings to the father/daughter relationship and she gives a maternal/friend influence to Spencer’s daughter, Peyton, when she needs it most. In a twist I didn’t see coming (there were a couple in this book that surprised me) a very sensitive and difficult teen problem is dealt with in an appropriately compassionate way. While the past friendship and one-sided crush between Charlotte and Spencer is covered in detail their current story blends well with the other parts of the book. It is treated more as a friendship that grows into love (even though there is definite chemistry between the two) - once Charlotte knows she can trust her heart to Spencer again.
The problems that Charlotte’s brother Dylan is having adjusting to life having lost an eye and part of his arm in an IED attack are another focus in this story. You root for Dylan to find the enthusiasm for life that he has been missing and help with Spence’s A Warrior’s Hope program but there’s no resolution in this book. (I was a little surprised by the lack of an epilogue in my review copy.) So I was extremely relieved to go out to RaeAnne Thayne’s website and see that there is a book 6 coming in November because there was nothing listed on Goodreads.com and I just about hyperventilated! LOL! Book 6 should be an interesting one… how is ReaAnne going to make me like Genevieve Beaumont?? I am skeptical! But if anyone can, I know she’s up to the job!! And Dylan better hold on because I have a feeling his family is tired of his antipathy for life and will help Gen light a fire under him!
Sometimes going back is the best way to start over
Candy shop owner Charlotte Caine knows temptation. To reboot her life, shed weight and gain perspective, she's passing up sweet enticements left and right. But willpower doesn't come so easily when hell-raiser Spencer Gregory comes back to Hope's Crossing, bringing with him memories of broken promises and teen angst. A retired pro baseball player on the mend from injury-and a damaging scandal-he's interested in his own brand of reinvention.
Now everything about Spencer's new-and-improved lifestyle, from his mission to build a rehab facility for injured veterans to his clear devotion to his preteen daughter, Peyton, touches Charlotte's heart. Holding on to past hurt is her only protection against falling for him-again. But if she takes the risk, will she find in Spencer a hometown heartbreaker, or the hero she's always wanted?
Welcome back home to Hope’s Crossing! I feel I’m going home every time I pick up another book in this series. I enjoy getting to know new friends and catching up with old ones. To say I am a fan of RaeAnne Thayne’s would be a resounding YES! I discovered her Cowboys of Cold Creek series first and I have loved everything I’ve read since then.
This 5th book in the Hope’s Crossing series features business owner Charlotte. She is a life-long resident of the town, the youngest in a house-full of boys and she lost her mom at a young and pivotal age for a girl. Our leading man is one we have not been introduced to in previous books, Spencer Gregory. He grew up in town and left to follow his dream of a baseball career and never looked back… until now.
Previous books have covered the lives of the McKnight family (as well as others), this book covers background for the Caine family and how Charlotte’s father took a young Spencer under his wing and provided a waitressing job for Spencer’s mom when a lot of employers would have written her off. We see the dynamic of Spence and his daughter and the typical teen angst that we all fear we’ll have to face at some point with our children. I like the perspective that Charlotte brings to the father/daughter relationship and she gives a maternal/friend influence to Spencer’s daughter, Peyton, when she needs it most. In a twist I didn’t see coming (there were a couple in this book that surprised me) a very sensitive and difficult teen problem is dealt with in an appropriately compassionate way. While the past friendship and one-sided crush between Charlotte and Spencer is covered in detail their current story blends well with the other parts of the book. It is treated more as a friendship that grows into love (even though there is definite chemistry between the two) - once Charlotte knows she can trust her heart to Spencer again.
The problems that Charlotte’s brother Dylan is having adjusting to life having lost an eye and part of his arm in an IED attack are another focus in this story. You root for Dylan to find the enthusiasm for life that he has been missing and help with Spence’s A Warrior’s Hope program but there’s no resolution in this book. (I was a little surprised by the lack of an epilogue in my review copy.) So I was extremely relieved to go out to RaeAnne Thayne’s website and see that there is a book 6 coming in November because there was nothing listed on Goodreads.com and I just about hyperventilated! LOL! Book 6 should be an interesting one… how is ReaAnne going to make me like Genevieve Beaumont?? I am skeptical! But if anyone can, I know she’s up to the job!! And Dylan better hold on because I have a feeling his family is tired of his antipathy for life and will help Gen light a fire under him!
October 21, 2016
I'm only halfway into this book, and at the beginning it had absolute potential. However, as I read further, I got annoyed. In every single book so far, a main character will say how Hope's Crossing has the best, most welcoming people, but then the MC will say or do something that's absolutely not welcoming. They are almost always judgemental of the people they come across. Some of them have redeeming qualities, but overall it's tiresome that all the characters basically have the same personalities, even with different issues presented with them.
I feel like the children in the books so far, have more distinguished personalities rather than the adults. The adults all seem to think alike, and the constant "oh my word", "drat", "blasted" within the characters thoughts just blends them together and it doesn't really feel like I'm reading a different characters story.
Another issue, is that as a reader, I find that I'm waiting far too long to find out what the MC's hang up is. In the case of Charlotte so far, she had promise. She seemed like a good character. But her grievances toward Spencer seem uncalled for and irrational. She had a big crush on him and he didn't notice her and thus broke her heart? -_- I'm sure I'll get to the real issue as I read further, but already she's coming to be super judgemental for no real reason other than that. It doesn't matter that she thinks of herself as a good person and Spencer makes her irrational, she doesn't make any moves to actually be civil towards him, she's just bitchy and only sympathetic sometimes. She never once thinks that there could be more to his story, she just assumes what she heard about him since he was gone, was fact.
However, Spencer is a pleasant surprise. I adore his character and his daughter. Even with his daughters attitude, it's so nice to see how much he's struggling just to make things work for them to have a new start.
Rest of review to come later.
Updated:
YESSSSSS thank Spencer for calling her out!!!!!! Charlotte ended up redeeming herself in the book and I was glad for it.
Anyway, I felt more intrigued with Petyon and her relationship with Spencer. I was so disappointed that there was no epilogue for this book. I really wished that the writer had the sense to tie loose ends in this book- Such as how Spencer and Peyton were getting along. I mean yeah, there's a scene or two where they're getting along and she's being sweet, but that's literally at the end. There's no background or how he told his daughter about his feelings for Charlotte or what Peyton thought of that. There's a shit ton of pages of Peyton's health but very few details on her recovery and more importantly NO details on if and how Peyton and Spencer's relationship improved. I mean it was such a big deal, and it was important to me, because there was so much distance between the two characters. And I was disappointed as hell to not be able to see them rebuild their relationship. Just having a glimpse was not satisfying at all.
Charlotte was okay, I guess. But Spencer and Peyton were the best things about this book, and its disappointing the writer didn't give those two specific characters the ending they deserved.
I feel like the children in the books so far, have more distinguished personalities rather than the adults. The adults all seem to think alike, and the constant "oh my word", "drat", "blasted" within the characters thoughts just blends them together and it doesn't really feel like I'm reading a different characters story.
Another issue, is that as a reader, I find that I'm waiting far too long to find out what the MC's hang up is. In the case of Charlotte so far, she had promise. She seemed like a good character. But her grievances toward Spencer seem uncalled for and irrational. She had a big crush on him and he didn't notice her and thus broke her heart? -_- I'm sure I'll get to the real issue as I read further, but already she's coming to be super judgemental for no real reason other than that. It doesn't matter that she thinks of herself as a good person and Spencer makes her irrational, she doesn't make any moves to actually be civil towards him, she's just bitchy and only sympathetic sometimes. She never once thinks that there could be more to his story, she just assumes what she heard about him since he was gone, was fact.
However, Spencer is a pleasant surprise. I adore his character and his daughter. Even with his daughters attitude, it's so nice to see how much he's struggling just to make things work for them to have a new start.
Rest of review to come later.
Updated:
YESSSSSS thank Spencer for calling her out!!!!!! Charlotte ended up redeeming herself in the book and I was glad for it.
Anyway, I felt more intrigued with Petyon and her relationship with Spencer. I was so disappointed that there was no epilogue for this book. I really wished that the writer had the sense to tie loose ends in this book- Such as how Spencer and Peyton were getting along. I mean yeah, there's a scene or two where they're getting along and she's being sweet, but that's literally at the end. There's no background or how he told his daughter about his feelings for Charlotte or what Peyton thought of that. There's a shit ton of pages of Peyton's health but very few details on her recovery and more importantly NO details on if and how Peyton and Spencer's relationship improved. I mean it was such a big deal, and it was important to me, because there was so much distance between the two characters. And I was disappointed as hell to not be able to see them rebuild their relationship. Just having a glimpse was not satisfying at all.
Charlotte was okay, I guess. But Spencer and Peyton were the best things about this book, and its disappointing the writer didn't give those two specific characters the ending they deserved.
July 10, 2013
This is the second RaeAnn Thayne book I've read, and I really enjoyed it. Charlotte, the heroine, has conquered her over-eating problem, but retained her caring, compassionate nature. Some may think she's too sweet, but I like her just fine. I also had a sense that RaeAnne had a good understanding of eating issues and that added a sense of realism to the book.
Spencer could have been a difficult character to like. Too full of himself in high school and as a professional ball player, he'd done some damage to people in his life. What saves him is a genuine caring for his daughter and a passion to do something for the community. He's very human.
At the end of the book, I felt good having read it. If you like Susan Mallory, Robin Carr, etc., you'll enjoy this book!
Spencer could have been a difficult character to like. Too full of himself in high school and as a professional ball player, he'd done some damage to people in his life. What saves him is a genuine caring for his daughter and a passion to do something for the community. He's very human.
At the end of the book, I felt good having read it. If you like Susan Mallory, Robin Carr, etc., you'll enjoy this book!
September 4, 2020
Wow, lots of depth in this amazing novel. The characters have multi layers, including the hero’s young daughter. The romance is lovely. I always enjoy second romances and this one is excellent.
The pacing pulled me in from the start and kept me enmeshed until the last word. The narrator brings the characters to life and it is easy to recognize each of them.
If you enjoy clean and wholesome romance with engaging characters and a great plot then you will love Willowleaf Lane as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the next one in this series. Happy reading and listening!
The pacing pulled me in from the start and kept me enmeshed until the last word. The narrator brings the characters to life and it is easy to recognize each of them.
If you enjoy clean and wholesome romance with engaging characters and a great plot then you will love Willowleaf Lane as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the next one in this series. Happy reading and listening!
July 21, 2025
A solid 3.5. Love this author and the smaller town romance. I loved the depth of the characters, but I do feel it got a little tedious at times.
September 29, 2013
My Thoughts:
Sometimes going back is the best way to start over... Are you willing to chance getting your heart broken again? Charlotte is about to find out...
Another wonderful addition to the Hope's Crossing series. I couldn't wait to hear what was going on in this community. This series from the start captured my heart and I instantly knew that I would enjoy Ms Thayne's storytelling. I can honestly say that the main character was an inspiration to me and I can guess probably to a lot of young ladies and women. Her decision to begin the journey of losing weight and then continuing with healthy eating habits and exercise was a true inspiration I know this sounds funny, but every time Charlotte would exercise, I felt guilty and wanted to put the book down and exercise myself.. :) I do have to say that her dedication made me look at how I handle my own struggle with eating and keeping the weight off.
I like Spencer, he worked hard trying to keep his inner demons away, he blamed himself for his granny's death and his sister's trouble with the law. In his youth, as he was struggling with school, Charlotte tutored him, during this time their friendship blossomed. Trying to save face in front of a friend, Spencer made a "not so nice" comment about Charlotte... yep, you guessed it, she overheard it...
It devastated her and she still harbored those feeling of low self -esteem. But Spencer wants to right a wrong, will Charlotte open up her heart and put aside a young boy's comments and experience true love? Well I am not going to spoil this for you.. But I will say this one was just a bit spicy (which I liked) but not enough to be a turn off for those who want just sweet romance books. Enjoy... I can't wait to hear what's next for my friends in Hope's Crossing. I think Charlotte's brother is due a story.. and I think RaeAnne will pair him up with someone that can knock that chip off his shoulders.
I am so looking forward to Dylan's story- his will be troubled-but I look forward in learning another of life's lessons..
September 20, 2013
This book start with Charlotte met with Spencer, who have returned to run the new community recreation centre after his glamorous downfall from his career in professional baseball. Charlotte has a huge crush on him since her teenage. She was a huge person (I m so not going to use the word fat) and she lost 80 pounds in the past two years. She owns a candy store and make her own fudge. She get to know Spence’s daughter, Peyton who make known to her that she doesn’t like living in Hope’s Crossing and would rather be with her friends back home. She also told her than her mother has died and Charlotte who have lost her own mother is able to relate to her. Though it was their first meeting, they seems to be able to connect and soon, Charlotte seems to be playing the mediator role between Peyton and her father. However, Charlotte is wary with Spencer’s intention especially when he comes up with plan to help the wounded hero from war. But soon, Spencer successfully dispersed off her suspicion and she have agreed to help him in securing the approval from the town people. There are sparkles of attraction between them but Charlotte is adamant in not giving in to her feeling for fear of getting help. But Spencer is not willing to let her go without trying to make her see that he is not what she thought he is.
I like the story line very much. Very engaging and well developed. In fact, I was rather sad when I reached the last page of the book. Of all the scene, I like the ending scene of the book very much when Spencer recreate the prom night dance to make up for the dance that they missed. So romantic!! Overall, this is a sweet read for me and I enjoyed reading the book very much.
I like the story line very much. Very engaging and well developed. In fact, I was rather sad when I reached the last page of the book. Of all the scene, I like the ending scene of the book very much when Spencer recreate the prom night dance to make up for the dance that they missed. So romantic!! Overall, this is a sweet read for me and I enjoyed reading the book very much.
May 27, 2013
I like the story and the characters, but had trouble with the lack of an ending build up and an epilogue. The books felts as if some chapters were missing.
-------------------------------------------
My view
The book starts with the interaction between Charlotte and Spencer daughter (before she knew who the girl was). I enjoyed the way they interact together and how she identified with the girls issues when learning so little about her.
Just as Charlotte, if I had a second chance with a childhood crush I would take the opportunity. It took me a minute to warm up to Spencer, but he was likable enough to take over the story. He had a heart underneath his free spirit and really care for those around him.
Unfortunately, the book felt a little incomplete after it hit about the 75%. For me, the book is missing one or two chapters between the resolution. The last chapter felt rush and incomplete. Plus, and epilogue was needed in order to sort other topics cover previously in the book. Not going into details to prevent spoilers.
What I liked the most
I like that Charlotte felt compelled to take the chance with Spencer even when she thought she may not have a future with him.
I wanted more of
I wanted more chapters and an epilogue to round the story. Personally, I think some thinks were missing in comparison with other books in the series.
Who should read it
The story could be read as a stand-alone book or as part of the series since the two main characters are not part of the town’s first families.
Rate
3.5 out of 5
-------------------------------------------
My view
The book starts with the interaction between Charlotte and Spencer daughter (before she knew who the girl was). I enjoyed the way they interact together and how she identified with the girls issues when learning so little about her.
Just as Charlotte, if I had a second chance with a childhood crush I would take the opportunity. It took me a minute to warm up to Spencer, but he was likable enough to take over the story. He had a heart underneath his free spirit and really care for those around him.
Unfortunately, the book felt a little incomplete after it hit about the 75%. For me, the book is missing one or two chapters between the resolution. The last chapter felt rush and incomplete. Plus, and epilogue was needed in order to sort other topics cover previously in the book. Not going into details to prevent spoilers.
What I liked the most
I like that Charlotte felt compelled to take the chance with Spencer even when she thought she may not have a future with him.
I wanted more of
I wanted more chapters and an epilogue to round the story. Personally, I think some thinks were missing in comparison with other books in the series.
Who should read it
The story could be read as a stand-alone book or as part of the series since the two main characters are not part of the town’s first families.
Rate
3.5 out of 5
September 21, 2013
I absolutely loved this book. I requested it from Netgalley after being familiar with the author’s name, but having checked my Goodreads list, I haven’t read anything before. However, I am so glad I found this author.
This is book five in the series. I did not feel as I was missing any prior information so definitely feel it could be read as a stand alone.
I enjoyed the writing of the author. The setting and location were a very enjoyable small town. This book seemed very similar to the writing of Debbie Macomber and her Cedar Cove series.
The town citizens lives revolve around one another and so with the additional reading of the other books there could be definitely more depth to the remaining characters in town you briefly got to know in this book.
I loved the Candy Shop and wonder if somewhere there is a similar place with excellent fudge. I do like a good fudge and various flavors. The love story is very clean and enjoyable. Charlotte is definitely someone you can identify with whether it be yourself or someone you know very well. I just wanted to many times just yell at her to get on with it, but as always they don’t listen.
Spencer is fighting a lot of baggage and also dealing with his daughter Peyton. She definitely adds to the story, as well as the love story. They are a great daddy/daughter duo and helped complete an excellent story.
I’m very excited to have found this author and the series and will definitely seek out the remaining books of the series.
This is book five in the series. I did not feel as I was missing any prior information so definitely feel it could be read as a stand alone.
I enjoyed the writing of the author. The setting and location were a very enjoyable small town. This book seemed very similar to the writing of Debbie Macomber and her Cedar Cove series.
The town citizens lives revolve around one another and so with the additional reading of the other books there could be definitely more depth to the remaining characters in town you briefly got to know in this book.
I loved the Candy Shop and wonder if somewhere there is a similar place with excellent fudge. I do like a good fudge and various flavors. The love story is very clean and enjoyable. Charlotte is definitely someone you can identify with whether it be yourself or someone you know very well. I just wanted to many times just yell at her to get on with it, but as always they don’t listen.
Spencer is fighting a lot of baggage and also dealing with his daughter Peyton. She definitely adds to the story, as well as the love story. They are a great daddy/daughter duo and helped complete an excellent story.
I’m very excited to have found this author and the series and will definitely seek out the remaining books of the series.
March 30, 2023
Maybe more of a 2.5 rating, but not my regular 3-star rating that I give most romances. While I liked the complexities of Spencer's character, I did not care for Charlotte. Too much emphasis was placed on her having lost a lot of weight. Any time food was mentioned there was a reminder that she needed to watch what she ate. There was drama when she got injured because she couldn't exercise and that was super important because she'd lost all of the weight. Then it needed to become a plot point with a character's eating disorder subplot (was it really necessary to throw in another food/weight related issue? Nope, not at all). Not to mention there's the underlying message that Spencer didn't really notice her when she was fat but now that she's skinny...yes, there's a lot of effort to make it not seem that way as he mentions she was always so nice and sweet and funny, but the message is still there. He didn't give her any real attention when she was fat and now that she's skinny, he's super attracted to her. When I picked up this book, I knew that an element of Charlotte's character would be her impressive weight loss. I just didn't expect to be constantly reminded of it. As someone who struggles with weight, it comes across a little insensitive and possibly preachy. It really turned me off of this book. The romance was typical Thayne where everything is lovely and everyone is so dear. It's a decent Hallmarky romance of second chances (if you get past all of the dieting talk).
March 12, 2019
This was hard for me because I REALLY liked parts of this and then absolutely hated the rest.
Based on description alone, I was wary of this one, but after seeing Charlotte in other books, I didn't want to just bypass it entirely, though that probably would have been for the best.
The problem with Charlotte's weight loss was that it informed her every thought and motivation. For most of the book it came across as "being fat is the end of the world!!!!" instead of being rooted in a disorder, as it's revealed to be towards the end of the book. If that had been mentioned earlier, it might have helped, though I'm not sure there's any saving an extreme contempt for fat people plot .
On the other hand, Spencer was a great. Honestly, one of my favorite heroes in a long time. It's a shame that this had to be the book he was stuck in. 2.5 stars.
Based on description alone, I was wary of this one, but after seeing Charlotte in other books, I didn't want to just bypass it entirely, though that probably would have been for the best.
The problem with Charlotte's weight loss was that it informed her every thought and motivation. For most of the book it came across as "being fat is the end of the world!!!!" instead of being rooted in a disorder, as it's revealed to be towards the end of the book. If that had been mentioned earlier, it might have helped, though I'm not sure there's any saving an extreme contempt for fat people plot .
On the other hand, Spencer was a great. Honestly, one of my favorite heroes in a long time. It's a shame that this had to be the book he was stuck in. 2.5 stars.
September 13, 2013
Sweet. Reminds me of Debra Macomber's Cedar Cove series, or Jill Shalvis' books set in that coastal town. Makes you want to move there so your life can be sorted out, too. Nice romance, almost no sex. I might read another one.
May 16, 2013
I'll post a review closer to the release date.
arc provided by Netgalley for an honest review
arc provided by Netgalley for an honest review
May 10, 2017
OMG, this book was SO GOOD! I've been reading the Hope's Crossing series in order the last couple weeks and I've loved each one, given 5 stars to each one except the 3rd one that got 4 stars, but I wish that I could give this book 6 stars! Books 1-4 felt like they were all one extended story and while this book still has all the same characters, Charlotte was a very secondary character in the first four books, I don't even think she was in the very first one, and Spence is a brand new character. This is the first book in the series that I feel like you could read without having to read any of the previous books.
Now none of that is a bad thing! It was kind of refreshing after the other books dealt with the after affects of the big accident in the first novel that was at the center of all the story lines. None of Spence or Charlotte's issues had to do with the accident so it was nice to have a change!
I really identified with Charlotte. She was dealing with a lot of the same feelings and issues that I have dealt with in my life. She was the fat, shy kid in high school and desperately in love with a boy who was her friend but nothing more than that. I have felt every single thing that Charlotte has ever felt. I was very endeared to her. Her success story, albeit fictional, gave me hope!
It's interesting how Ms. Thayne dealt with two different kind of eating disorders in the same novel (from two different characters). Compulsive eating and anorexia. It was interesting to see, basically a compare and contrast of the two disorders but how they affected each woman and how they each learned to deal with them and take control of their lives again.
In addition to all of that, there's Spence! Another great hero written by Ms. Thayne. He has a lot of depth and layers. I loved his character progression and how he recognized his feelings for Charlotte. Not that he instantly embraced all his feelings for Charlotte, but he definitely didn't try to deny them either. I was glad of that since that was a character arc in the previous book.
My only issue with this book is the weird "love scene." The previous books had no sex scenes, some heavy kissing but nothing more than that. I was shocked and surprised to read Charlotte and Spence go much farther than any of the other characters did. Still not an actual sex scene, but there was definite stimulation going on that I was not expecting.
I was really disappointed that there was no epilogue. Books 2-4 had epilogues where we got a little glimpse of happy ever after for each character. This book ended so abruptly, though happily, and with no epilogue, I still felt like I was being left hanging! I wanted more! Thankfully the next book is about Charlotte's brother so hopefully I will get more info on how it all worked out for Charlotte and Spence.
I just love Hope's Crossing SO much! I wish that it was a real place and I could go live there! The setting and the detail used to describe it has given me a clear picture of the sweet town. And then there's all the people who live there that I care so much about. I have to remind myself that it's all fiction! Don't miss out on these books!
Now none of that is a bad thing! It was kind of refreshing after the other books dealt with the after affects of the big accident in the first novel that was at the center of all the story lines. None of Spence or Charlotte's issues had to do with the accident so it was nice to have a change!
I really identified with Charlotte. She was dealing with a lot of the same feelings and issues that I have dealt with in my life. She was the fat, shy kid in high school and desperately in love with a boy who was her friend but nothing more than that. I have felt every single thing that Charlotte has ever felt. I was very endeared to her. Her success story, albeit fictional, gave me hope!
It's interesting how Ms. Thayne dealt with two different kind of eating disorders in the same novel (from two different characters). Compulsive eating and anorexia. It was interesting to see, basically a compare and contrast of the two disorders but how they affected each woman and how they each learned to deal with them and take control of their lives again.
In addition to all of that, there's Spence! Another great hero written by Ms. Thayne. He has a lot of depth and layers. I loved his character progression and how he recognized his feelings for Charlotte. Not that he instantly embraced all his feelings for Charlotte, but he definitely didn't try to deny them either. I was glad of that since that was a character arc in the previous book.
My only issue with this book is the weird "love scene." The previous books had no sex scenes, some heavy kissing but nothing more than that. I was shocked and surprised to read Charlotte and Spence go much farther than any of the other characters did. Still not an actual sex scene, but there was definite stimulation going on that I was not expecting.
I was really disappointed that there was no epilogue. Books 2-4 had epilogues where we got a little glimpse of happy ever after for each character. This book ended so abruptly, though happily, and with no epilogue, I still felt like I was being left hanging! I wanted more! Thankfully the next book is about Charlotte's brother so hopefully I will get more info on how it all worked out for Charlotte and Spence.
I just love Hope's Crossing SO much! I wish that it was a real place and I could go live there! The setting and the detail used to describe it has given me a clear picture of the sweet town. And then there's all the people who live there that I care so much about. I have to remind myself that it's all fiction! Don't miss out on these books!
October 31, 2017
soooo i read Sugar Pine Trail and thought it was cute and wanted to read the start of the series. turns out the Caine's started in the hope's crossing series and not the haven point series.
ok the entire hope's crossing series was like a hallmark movie with a lil nicholas sparks thrown in. cuz in hallmark there is not as much bad stuff going like folks dying and whatnot, nick sparks likes death or dismemberment or some awful tragedy.
i enjoyed the hope's crossing series for that hallmark feel.
they were cute. they are good lil romances. no graphic sex, a lil bit of violence. a lot of dogs, kids, and family members. and nothing was mysterious. oh she tried, but nope. she tried to be all nicholas sparks and throw in some twists but nope it was hallmark. you saw the "surprises" coming a mile away. i really liked the big family and small picturesque town aspect. so hallmark.
even though i read them all one after another, the stories and characters were sufficiently different that i could enjoy each one.
not so with the haven point series. they have all the same stuff yet the no hallmark feels. except for the first one in the series(Snow Angel Cove)and the last oneSugar Pine Trail). (both of which have Caine's in them- like everyone of the hope crossing series does.) i am almost done with that series and it sucks. it started out very good with adian caine but it went downhill form there. why? cuz every book was VERY similar to the first one. i am literally recognizing entire phrasing. (like i am positive she used some of the exact sentences in all the books!) the lead characters all remind me of the previous leads. and they are so very quick to judge. like how can you be attracted to a person and feel this "hunger" (she uses that word A LOT) when you think they are mean or nasty or uptight or something else very unpleasant? the situations are even similar (crutches for everyone!) also every book is i really NEED help but i don't want your help but i guess i'll take it and try to be grateful and oh now i am in love.
i am saddened by this since i really enjoyed hope's crossing and the first and last book in the haven point series. oh welll...
ok the entire hope's crossing series was like a hallmark movie with a lil nicholas sparks thrown in. cuz in hallmark there is not as much bad stuff going like folks dying and whatnot, nick sparks likes death or dismemberment or some awful tragedy.
i enjoyed the hope's crossing series for that hallmark feel.
they were cute. they are good lil romances. no graphic sex, a lil bit of violence. a lot of dogs, kids, and family members. and nothing was mysterious. oh she tried, but nope. she tried to be all nicholas sparks and throw in some twists but nope it was hallmark. you saw the "surprises" coming a mile away. i really liked the big family and small picturesque town aspect. so hallmark.
even though i read them all one after another, the stories and characters were sufficiently different that i could enjoy each one.
not so with the haven point series. they have all the same stuff yet the no hallmark feels. except for the first one in the series(Snow Angel Cove)and the last oneSugar Pine Trail). (both of which have Caine's in them- like everyone of the hope crossing series does.) i am almost done with that series and it sucks. it started out very good with adian caine but it went downhill form there. why? cuz every book was VERY similar to the first one. i am literally recognizing entire phrasing. (like i am positive she used some of the exact sentences in all the books!) the lead characters all remind me of the previous leads. and they are so very quick to judge. like how can you be attracted to a person and feel this "hunger" (she uses that word A LOT) when you think they are mean or nasty or uptight or something else very unpleasant? the situations are even similar (crutches for everyone!) also every book is i really NEED help but i don't want your help but i guess i'll take it and try to be grateful and oh now i am in love.
i am saddened by this since i really enjoyed hope's crossing and the first and last book in the haven point series. oh welll...
February 21, 2018
Charlotte Caine is a local candy store owner in Hope's Crossing . She is the youngest of seven children and the only girl. Her mother passed away several years ago and when she did Charlotte drowned her sorrow away by over eating. So she struggled for years with her weight. Her brother Dylan was injured during the war and that gave her the wakeup call that she needed. She started taking better care of herself and lost all the excess weight. She added excise and healthily eating to her life. She now has a new lease on life. Her dad Dermot owns the local café. Things are going good until one day Spencer Gregory walks in her shop. He is there to get his daughter Peyton who has also found her shop. Charlotte had a crush on Spencer when she was in high school and he broke her heart. Now that he is back ; it has brought up old feelings of good and bad. Will she be able to put the past in the past? How will she deal with Spencer after al the years? Spencer Gregory is an ex pro baseball player who has returned home to run a community rec center. He has a second chance . He was accused of doping and supplying dope to others including the drugs that killed his wife. Spencer's wife was a model and was obsessed with staying thin. Later on she got hooked on drugs to. This scandal ended Spencer's career in baseball. He and his daughter Peyton are now starting fresh in Hope's Crossing . At first spencer doesn't recognize Charlotte but he figures out who she is. Spencer decides to build a rehab center for injured veterans. Will he be successful in getting the center up and running? Will this town accept him after the scandal that he was involved in? Will Peyton adjust to being in Hopes' Crossing? What will happen between Charlotte and himself? I liked this sweet little romance. This book is part of the Hope Crossing series. I didn't the ones before this one but I was able to follow along. I want to read all of them. This books talks about drugs, eating disorders , vets and about forgiveness. I think the author handle the subjects very well. I really enjoyed the development of the rehab center. It is a very noble cause. The author also tackled eating disorders . Spoiler***** We saw two different ones and how each affected the people involved. I liked how Charlotte over came her past and moved on with her life. I read this one for book club.
December 8, 2020
Smokin’ Hot Spencer Gregory is back in Hope’s Crossing! Charlotte Caine has had a crush on him ever since her teens and has followed his professional baseball career until it was ended by injury and scandal. When she was a teen tutoring Spencer, she was fat and he didn’t really see her. Now Charlotte has lost eighty pounds and catches Spencer’s eye but she is not ready to forgive him for the horrible words she heard him say about his pity date. But when he kisses her, she forgets the past and kisses him back.
Their relationship grows as she works with him on setting up a veterans rehab program with the newly-built rec center. He tells her he loves her but she's afraid he'll leave for a coaching job and doesn't think she can take more heartbreak when he leaves. Spencer finally convinces her of his love when her friends help him. He tells her he's not going anywhere.
Their relationship grows as she works with him on setting up a veterans rehab program with the newly-built rec center. He tells her he loves her but she's afraid he'll leave for a coaching job and doesn't think she can take more heartbreak when he leaves. Spencer finally convinces her of his love when her friends help him. He tells her he's not going anywhere.
April 14, 2018
Very romantic. I almost gave this book five stars but it got a little maudlin at the end. Two weight issues were addressed. Charlotte decided to lose weight after her brother returned from service severely injured. Though she'd found peace or acceptance of her 300 lbs frame, she felt the weight reduction would improve her quality of life. The second issue dealt with the teen, Peyton purging her food. Of course she had to pass out before the adults in her life recognized the problem and provided treatment for the disease. Obesity is a serious problem and most obese persons have self perception problems. I guess with more stories as this maybe society will become more sensitized to the humaness of the obese. Ridicule does not help. It offends.
May 5, 2025
Sweet romance. the main snag for me was the constant reminders of Charlotte's weight as a child and how she now continues to count calories / eat teenier portions to maintain her current weight. the subplot about touched a bit on unrealistic beauty standards, but didn't go far enough, IMHO. the ultimate message was still then thinness = beauty. I wish we'd at least gotten Spencer saying that Charlotte was beautiful even when fat, or that Charlotte was still a bit heavy even with her healthier current lifestyle. there was a throwaway line during a sexy scene that she was still big, but since that was the only mention of it, it didn't feel believable.
the ending also felt rather abrupt.
the ending also felt rather abrupt.
September 3, 2019
Charlotte Caine has turned her life around, after being morbidly obese. Her brother, Dylan, came home from Afghanistan seriously wounded, and it gave Charlotte a wake up call about her health. Now almost down to her goal, eating right and exercising, she's ready for more. However, Spencer Gregory is back in town with a lot of baggage. A former ace pitcher, he's been brought down by charges of supplying drugs to players, and being a suspect in his wife's death. On top of that, his daughter, Peyton, absolutely does not want to be there.
All the familiar characters are here, and are also waiting for the birth of Claire's baby!
All the familiar characters are here, and are also waiting for the birth of Claire's baby!
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