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Paradise Pines #1

Spring Raine

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An uncharacteristic, last-minute decision to do something "wild and crazy" before entering the stressful world of forensic science sends Raine Presley to Cambria, California. Against a cloud of disapproval from her slightly manipulative, over-protective parents, she signs a seasonal lease at the beautiful Paradise Pines Lodge...and winds up over her head in life and love.

Declan Keller's just minding his own business—literally—when Raine drops into his world and turns it upside down. He's far too busy carving beautiful shapes out of chunks of wood to be babysitting a gal from Pasadena. Even so, his father’s promise to an old friend obligates him, despite a looming deadline that could make or break his career in the art world. He’s praying for anything but Raine when she comes along.

Neither Declan nor Raine is prepared for the seemingly divine influence of Paradise Pines—and Miss Angelina Love. A mysterious lady who may or may not own the lodge, Miss Angie possesses an amazing talent for mending ruffled feathers, spouting proverbs, and somehow bending even the most determined of hearts to the power of love.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 24, 2017

6 people are currently reading
14 people want to read

About the author

Delia Latham

65 books106 followers
Delia Latham is a born-and-bred California gal, currently living in a small Texas town with her husband Johnny. She’s a Christian wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—but above all, she treasures her role as princess daughter to the King of Kings.
A former newspaper Staff Writer and frequent contributor to her former hometown’s regional publication, Bakersfield Magazine, she has also freelanced projects to a public relations firm and various magazines; has compiled, edited, and designed cover art for various Kindness Incorporated projects; sold greeting card verse; and enjoyed the release of twenty-five novels and novellas.
She loves hearing from her readers, so drop in and say hello at any of the venues listed below—you’ll make her day!

Website: www.delialatham.net
Facebook Author Page: facebook.com/delialatham
Twitter: twitter.com/delialatham

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Karen R.
738 reviews93 followers
February 6, 2017
A heartfelt contemporary romance set on the beautiful Central Coast of California!
Taking a timeout before beginning a new career, Raine has no idea of what is in store for her when she arrives at Paradise Pines Lodge in lovely Cambria. Hoping for some peace and tranquility, her life will open up in ways she never dreamed of before.

I enjoyed the cast of characters, especially Miss Angie who adds a divine touch and sparkle to Raine's life, and her friend Shay. The mysterious way God works in Raine's heart and life made the story interesting, with a lot of spiritual depth. Butterflies were cleverly used as a metaphor in many ways, perfectly reflecting her spiritual renewal and newfound joy for life, as well as transformation in others'. Her relationship with Declan seemed realistic with a lot of emotional tension at times. I wasn't sure how it would end given the short time period. It kept me reading on to find out.

Reading the descriptions of the area with its unique sights brought back some special memories for me after spending time there long ago. The artistic communities, rolling hills and ocean nearby are a lovely setting for a novel. It made me want to go back to visit. The funny house of the 'Captain' made of recycled materials is indeed a real place too!

Recommend to readers who enjoy a clean contemporary romance with a lot of faith.

(An ARC was provided by the author. All opinions are my own.)
1,840 reviews24 followers
August 23, 2020
Finding out what God really has for you.

It is important to honor our father and mother, for sure. Sometimes God’s plan for a son or daughter can be much different than their parents’ plan or even their own. Lord, even though our plans may differ from yours, help us to learn what Your will is and do it. Thank you, Jesus! Very well done!
500 reviews11 followers
March 22, 2017
A touch of heaven on Earth! Do you believe that God works in mysterious ways? You will after reading this wonderful story by Delia Latham. "Divine appointments" at work in Raine's heart leave you wondering, but the frequent references to Scripture assure us that the hand of God does indeed show up where you might not expect it to. And Miss Angie, who will likely become a favorite of many, displays just enough "angelic" qualities to again leave you wondering, did that really just happen? Decide for yourself after you read this story. It's not to be missed. The author provided a copy of this book. The review is strictly my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Kristi.
634 reviews9 followers
February 15, 2017
Spring Raine is a quick and easy read. It is a combination of mystery, self-discovery, and romance. This book is one that readers will be thinking about long after they've read the last word.

There is quite the unique cast of characters in this book with Miss Angelina Love being the most unique of all. She had such a calming and graceful presence in the book that her scenes were always delightful to read. She always knew what to say and when to say it. Raine, the main character, is easy to relate to and even though I didn't care for him at first Dec turned out to be a nice guy.

The author had such a way with words in this book and her descriptions of places were so detailed. The way she described the butterfly garden and the elephant seals made me feel as if I were there. This added to the story and almost made the places extra characters in the book.

While there are a lot of bible verses included the book never seems to have a preachy feel. The bible verses fit into the story nicely and are just as much a natural part of the story as the physical locations and the characters thoughts and feelings.

This was my first book by this author and it won't be the last. I like her ability to tell a story that is entertaining and has a message to it. Pick up a copy of this book today. You will be glad you did.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
Profile Image for Sharon Dean.
312 reviews15 followers
February 8, 2017
Spring Raine
Paradise Pines - Book 1
By: Delia Latham

A bit of Heaven in the Pacific

Raine's story is forever engraved in my heart as I have related to her in many ways. Her story has touched depths of my heart that has been overcome by Gods grace just as Raine's has. Delia touches on a very emotional gripping subject that we can all relate to in some form. You see, Raine grew up in a home that instilled wonderful values and hard work ethics. Following a plan that allowed no room for anything to budge that plan out of place. Raine was so set with that but after her schooling, before going into the working world, she wanted time to relax and focus just on her. That meant taking a huge leap out of her comfort zone. One she did not know if she could do. Relating to that on a personal level, Raine's story holds a dear place in my heart as leaping out in faith is hard for us all. But Raine takes that leap and heads to Paradise Pines in Cambria just off the California coastline and sets herself free with full force. The courage, strength and determination she has, not only surprises her, but shows us a side of her that you feel as if Delia is telling parts of your story. There Raine meets Miss Angie, oh how you will fall in love with Miss Angie. She is a grandmother to all folks. That's just the way she is. Her motherly love and comfort wraps you in what feels like Angels wings. Peace, tranquility, an overlay of calm. Until Raine meets Declan Keller! Her world is then turned upside down, in so many ways. As she sees bits of things that questions whether that plan she is following is really her, really for her. I had a plan once that I thought I had to follow and the experiences Raine is handed throughout her stay at Paradise Pines, are very similar. She helped me to know that the decisions I made back then and continue to make have been all the right ones for me. Who's plan is greater? Join me and read Raine's story and travel to one of the most beautiful places this side of Heaven, meet the most magical loving people that wrap you in so much love and be ready to shed a few tears, laugh with heartwarming characters and be forever touched in heart and in soul.

An ARC was provided by the author. All opinions are my own.

2,021 reviews3 followers
February 18, 2017
Spring Raine by Delia Latham is a terrific book. The book is quick and easy to read with an excellent plot and cast of characters. I especially enjoyed Miss Angie. I loved the setting of small town in California. I received an ARC of the book from the author. Opinions stated are my own. I highly recommend this book, you can not go wrong with a book by this author.
Profile Image for Andrea.
713 reviews8 followers
May 21, 2017
This is the delightful story of Spring Raine Presley, she goes by Raine.
She has always followed her parents “Plan” for her life, finishing school early, Raine decides to take a much-needed season to herself before she begins her career. She leaves Pasadena for the small town of Cambria, to stay in the coveted Paradise Pines lodge that only hosts one guest per season. The gorgeous scenery is so well described by the author, it truly felt like paradise as I was reading.
Miss Angelina (Miss Angie) Love, caretaker of Paradise Pines is an angel on earth.
She shares many quotes from the Bible with the other characters but it never feels preachy, they are always just what the other person needed to hear.
Raine meets Declan Keller in a most unusual manner, I'll let you read that for yourself, and while she first finds him to be an ogre, they soon develop feelings for each other. As the story continues, Raine comes to be her own person, learning she has a passion for helping wayward teens that she didn't have before. She does all she can to help the pastor get a youth center up and running in the short time she will be in Cambria.
Readers will not be disappointed in this book. So many lovely truths are told, the hurts of keeping secrets and the healing that comes from releasing them are learned. A beautiful theme of butterflies is woven in throughout the book. It is truly a special story, not to be missed.

*I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. A review, positive or negative was not required.
**Edit I purchased a Kindle copy of this book on May 20, 2017
Profile Image for Diana Montgomery.
844 reviews10 followers
February 24, 2017
I loved this book by Delia Latham. Her books are always so magical and I love the presence of angels. Very romantic but done in a very clean way. I could see God working in the lives of the characters. I just loved the character of Raine!
Before Raine takes on a stressful job with forensic science she takes a wild trip to Cambria California. Paradise pines Lodge is such a magical place. All against her parents will for her. She thinks she got her way but her parents have something up their sleeves. I do believe she comes upon a angel in the woods. not all she meets their a mean man who is just so rude to her. Not her fault he chopped the ear off the bear! This is going to be a long stay if people around are like him. Declan has met his match in Raine. But Raine is holding on to something in her pass can it come between her and Declan?
Excellent story I laughed and I shed a few tears. Well written by Delia!
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,648 reviews15 followers
January 28, 2017
Spring Raine

Raine decides to take a vacation before starting her new career. Her parents are very protective, her dad hires Declan to watch over her without her knowing. She has the lost of her sister to get over even though happened years ago. She goes to Cambria, California and she finds her true self there. I loved all the characters, really enjoyed Angie that owns the Inn where she stays at. I received an advanced copy of the book, enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Debbie Chatley.
568 reviews27 followers
March 19, 2017
Totally loved this book, I read it in one sitting. This was an amazing story of a young lady (Raine) who strikes out on her own to discover herself but little does she know what that entails. Up till this point Raine's life has been planned out for her including her schooling and her future career by her parents. And being the dutiful daughter, Raine has just followed the path laid out for her. However, not that she has completed her schooling early, she decides to enjoy an extended vacation on her own before beginning her fulltime job that is waiting for her, against her parent's wishes.

During this getaway Raine meets a lady who has the character of an angel or perhaps an angel for real, who can tell. This lady, Angelina, seems to know things about Raine that no earthly person should know and as Raine gets to know her, she realizes that Angelina seems to have such a peace about her. Moreover, Angelina is a walking Bible consistently quoting Bible verses. This is one thing I love about this book, the story is intermixed with many passages from the Bible showing how our lives are to be interspersed with God's Word.

During her stay at the inn run by Angelina, Raine encounters the neighbor (Declan) who seems surly on the first encounter but upon future encounters, Raine discovers that her heart is drawn towards Declan. Declan and her begin spending much time together and you as the reader can see how they are both drawn to one another. Yet there are some roadblocks in the way of their relationship. First of all, Raine is planning to go back home at the end of her vacation and everyone knows long distance relationships rarely work. Secondly, Declan has been hired by Raine's father to keep an eye on her without Raine's knowledge and the deeper their relationship grows, the more difficult it becomes for Declan to come clean but how is Raine going to react when this comes out. The relationship between Raine and Declan is a beautiful picture of how God sends people across our path just when needed.

Additionally a key element of this story is how God uses encounters with butterflies both in the art form and in live form to speak truth into Raine's life and to draw her to himself. During her time at this inn, Raine discovers that God wants a personal relationship with her. Up till now, she had religion but not a relationship. In fact, butterfly become such a big part of this story as Raine discovers her true calling in life and discovers joy in helping others. God uses the butterfly and others in her life to tell her that this is her time to fly. And during this journey with God, Raine finds healing for pain in her past.

Bottom line is that I would have given this book a 6 out 5 stars if I could. The storyline is intriguing and draws you into Raine's life and her search for who she is meant to me. And all along the journey the reader is encouraged in their walk with the Lord as you will see how God continually draws Raine to himself in love and gives her joy and peace in return. Highly recommend!!!!!
Profile Image for Anne Campbell.
Author 27 books48 followers
May 30, 2017
This is a Christian romance, and it's one I believe you all will enjoy.

Spring Raine--Raine to her friends. The moniker was splashed on her as maybe her parents' hippy days finale, because from the time she was born Raine was expected to be the perfect child on her way to a profitable perfect profession. In her first ever act of rebellion, she has decided to take a vacation between her last class of college and her perfect career.

Springtime at Paradise Pines is almost too good to be true. The proprietor of the lodge has an angelic personality, one that immediately sets Raine at ease. She has the entire upper floor, and the proprietor, Angela (aka Miss Angie) has the lower floor.

Raine loves the area so much that she immediately goes for a hike in the neighboring woods, laughing in joy at her few months of freedom in such a spectacular setting. She yells, "Thank You, Lord!" at the top of her lungs, earning her an immediate raking over the coals by a homeowner/wood carver who chastises her for trespassing on his property.

She goes back to the lodge and complains to Miss Angie about the unfriendly neighbor. Miss Angie concludes that the neighbor was probably just startled or interrupted at something, because he (Declan, aka Dec Keller) is the nicest of guys ever.

Meanwhile, Dec has been offered a ghost guard job for some rich guy's daughter. Just what he needs when he's trying to finish a bunch of carvings for a showing, but he could use the cash and takes the job. The teenager he thinks he's guarding turns out to be none other than...you guessed it...Raine.

This could get complicated. And does.

Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

I was given a free copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for LoRee Peery.
Author 36 books56 followers
March 8, 2017
This lovely story epitomizes the take away of a beautiful romance. Raine is a lighthearted, lovely young woman on her own for the first time. Woodcarver Declan Kellar’s world is rocked from the moment she stumbles into his woods. Paradise Pines Lodge is a magical coastal place, from Miss Angelina Love to butterflies. Shivers rained through me when Raine’s friend Shay said, “Tell Raine it’s time to fly.” Another memorable book by Ms. Latham.
Profile Image for Jean James.
Author 26 books8 followers
March 22, 2017
Fully enjoyable! This novel is a brilliant mix of discovery and romance—a great “book 1” for the author’s new Paradise Pines series.

There were countless stirring scenes and incidents that added to the drama of this novel. The main protagonists, Raine and Dec, are both deep, interesting characters full of surprises. Raine is facing the challenging aspect of changing the direction of her life, and Declan looms precariously in her future plans. I especially love the angelic atmosphere that surrounds Miss Angie and that weaves a touch of mystery throughout the entire book

This is a beautiful story set in delightful surroundings. There is enough inventiveness and thrill in it to satisfy the most zealous reader. I’m looking forward to the author’s next novel of this series.
90 reviews1 follower
December 14, 2020
Encouraging

Are you looking for a book that lifts your spirits, builds your faith, gives you hope and provides a relaxing get away! Better yet, while doing all this uplifting, this book is also very
written! Filled with Scripture without preaching, I highly recommend this book.
22 reviews
November 2, 2020
Incredible!

I love this new to me author. Admittedly I read book 2 first. Both books are stellar quality with a depth not usually found. So grateful! Full of insight into life challenges, with a bit of angelic help.
387 reviews
November 15, 2020
What a great read

This was one of the best books I have read! A young woman trying to " escape" the Plan her parents have mapped for her. Making her way to Paradise Pines for a season, she learns of God's plan for her with a little help from the innkeeper.
Profile Image for Michaela | Reading in the Heartland.
3,688 reviews68 followers
May 7, 2020
A lovely story with wonderful characters. There is a strong heavenly element with Miss Angie whom I’ve seen in other books. There is also a lot to do with butterflies and transformation.
Profile Image for poppy.
4,589 reviews28 followers
March 17, 2017
This was a great story it's the first book i have read by this author and it wont be the last.It is a great read with interesting characters and i liked it
Profile Image for Jerrye  Tellmeagreatstorylove.
819 reviews16 followers
May 17, 2017
Spring Raine by Delia Latham


Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

____________________________________________________________

Story Notes

Delia Latham's first book in the Paradise Pines series will be a delight to her readers looking for a good romance, an insight into the power of Godly relationships, and the joy that comes from discovering one's true calling in life.

Not having previously read a book by this author, I was curious to see her writing style and ability to create and complete a multi-level plot . There is always a bit of skepticism when I am presented with a new-to-me author, skepticism that thankfully gave way to enjoyment as I read further into Ms Latham's first Paradise Pines story. I was most happy to see that she made the most of the pages in her story, given it was shorter than the usual length of novels. She jumped right into the story, drawing me in with her lovely descriptions of the Paradise Pines lodge and its unusual owner - making me wish I could spend a vacation in the home of sweet Angelina Love. And her main character, Raine, was one I could relate to, both with parental expectations and discovering the path God has called me to walk. Although my parents were never in any way the extremists that Raine's parents seem to be, I knew growing up that I was expected to give my best efforts to my schooling and personal life. But Raine finds herself in need of what my parents encouraged but hers did not - a break to decide if her life was headed in the direction that would most glorify God. And her three month stay at Paradise Pines will certainly bring her the answers she desires most - how to honor the time and efforts her parents poured into her life and still do what God would have her do. Ms. Latham used Raine to tell a story that illustrates the importance of a close relationship with God that will lead to finding the path He has planned for you. How fun it was to walk along side Raine as she discovered the joy to be found all around her in the Creation of God as well as opening her eyes to seeing those around her who had lost hope of finding a place to belong. Raine meets two young teens who both seem in need of someone to care that they exist - meetings that spark a desire to establish a place for them and others who need a home and family to call their own. But Raine will have to make the choice of whether to return to the life waiting for her or stay in Cambria to run the new home, Chrysalis. And to all this wonderful drama Ms. Latham adds a sweet romance between Raine and Ms. Angelina's neighbor Declan Kellar. Declan is happy with his quiet existence, carving works of art from wood in preparation for a gallery showing. He has little time for the favor his father asks of him to keep an eye on a friend's "spoiled" daughter who is staying next door for the next three months, but he can't refuse his father's request. Little does he know that meeting Raine Presley will change his life in many ways, and all of them for the better. I loved that Ms. Latham had them become friends first before they moved on to romance. There was a real credibility that came through and helped me connect with them in a better way - from feeling joy at their first kiss to feeling the intense hurt they both felt when Raine breaks up with Declan after finding out her father hired him as he bodyguard. Ms. Latham's story was one I truly enjoyed and will most certainly re-read. I loved the way she described the incredible power of God that radiated from Angelina Love and depth of her relationship that would lead Raine to seek a real relationship with God herself. And one of her sub-characters Shay was one of the best I've read in some time; her overwhelmingly kind and loving personality reminding me of several friends God has brought into my life. How good it was to be reminded that God gives us just what and whom we need when we are seeking to serve Him with our lives. I will certainly be recommending this story to others and be purchasing a copy of this and the rest of the series in the near future.


I received this E-book free of charge from Pelican Book Group via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation from either company for this review.
Profile Image for Renette.
21 reviews4 followers
February 17, 2017
Spring rain by Daniel Latham

Breathtaking

Delia Latham writes a beautiful story full of breathtaking moments.

Spring Rain is about finding oneself, independence, change, and beauty. Rain takes a step of faith and embarks on an extended vacation of her own before jumping into her career in forensics.

The mountain retreat on the coast is full of breathtaking scenes.
Miss Latham captures so vividly you cannot only picture them but fill them in your soul.

Dec is an aspiring artist who shows Rain places of beauty not only in nature but in her heart.

Ms. love is the caretaker of the lodge where Rain stays and will keep you laughing and guessing with her charm.

I now want to visit a butterfly garden.

I give this story by Delia Latham five breathtaking stars.
Author 7 books7 followers
March 20, 2017
A captivating story - I couldn’t put it down. The romantic location and genuine characters made me want to pack my bags and join them in Cambria!

It was easy to fall in love with the hero and heroine, Raine and Declan. Their growth throughout the book added a depth to the love story that went beyond the fluff you get in so many romances these days. Though there was plenty of wooing and romancing to satisfy a love story junkie like me! The ups and downs, humor and sadness, were perfectly paced, and the description of the butterflies was breathtaking. Miss Angie was an extra bonus, and probably my favorite character in the book.

It was a wonderful read and much needed escape after a stressful week! Definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Sally.
314 reviews6 followers
March 28, 2017
Ever since I saw this book was coming, I wanted to read it. I was not disappointed. Delia Latham has a way with words that draws you into the story and the characters’ lives. Paradise Pines Lodge is a great place to be. I didn’t want to leave.

Raine is vacationing with Miss Angie in her upstairs apartment and has a run-in with Declan, a neighbor. Miss Angie senses things. How can she know what she knows? Declan is asked to watch over Raine without her knowing, but after showing off his town to her, can he keep his heart to himself? Can he convince her to stay after her vacation is up? Or will she return to her parents and the job that’s waiting for her?

Raine is shown in many ways that God is thinking about her. Do you see those signs in your own life? It’s the little things. A touch of a butterfly. A group of trees. The way sunlight glints through the clouds. Spring Raine fills you with hope and God’s love.

But what happens when she finds her calling in Paradise Pines? Will she stay and disappoint her parents? Or leave her calling behind? How can we know what God wants us to do? Spring Raine-God will lead the way.


I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Profile Image for Becky.
847 reviews18 followers
April 11, 2017
If you are looking for a light-hearted, mindless read, then Spring Raine is the book for you. Raine has come to Cambria, California, to have a vacation before she starts a parental-approved job as a forensic scientist. Her father is not all that pleased with the fact that she's out of his "range" and is afraid she'll mess up her life, so he hires a "ghost guard" to watch out for her. Declan Keller is the neighbor to the inn where Raine is staying, so he's in a perfect position to be the guard her. . . .

This is my first Delia Latham book, and she does follow the formula fairly well. She just threw in an undercover angel to spice it up a bit. Among the overabundance of butterflies, dreams, and unusual happenings, Delia has created a predictable narrative that in places is over-the-top silly. Like I said, this is light-hearted and mindless. I always feel bad when I have to give a bad review, but I wish this had been a better book. Two stars.

I want to thank White Rose Publications for allowing me to read and review this book.
Profile Image for Becky Burciaga.
1,531 reviews19 followers
March 8, 2018
A truly uplifting and inspiring story with which to reaffirm God's presence in everything we do...from the choices we make, to the lives we lead. Through a story telling ability that only comes as a gift from God, the author has easily drawn the reader into the energy that is Declan and Raine's lives,.

The secondary characters were unforgettable themselves...each brought his or her own unique vibrancy to a story already full of light and energy.

This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
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