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Texas Lawmen #4
The Sheriff's Christmas Angels
Angels. Emma Cramer doesn't consider herself an angel by any stretch of the imagination. Temporarily stranded, broke and unable to pursue her dreams of working in the big city following her mother’s death, Emma’s life changes when she rescues a small child and a puppy who get trapped in a garage where Emma’s truck has finally breathed its last . The girl’s relieved and grateful grandmother believes Emma has been sent by angels because her family needs temporary help. She offers Emma a job, a good salary and a place to stay until after the holidays. It seems like a Christmas miracle for both of them.
Angels often appear when least expected, but when the most needed. Cynical sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton has heard that all his life, but he’s never been in the market for much else. He can take care of his daughter, his ranch and his family on his own without his meddling mother, but his long protected heart and desire for isolation is no match for a beautiful stranded stranger and a misfit puppy who make his daughter laugh and him feel alive again.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? Anything is possible with the magic of the Christmas season and faith in the Christmas angels.
Angels often appear when least expected, but when the most needed. Cynical sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton has heard that all his life, but he’s never been in the market for much else. He can take care of his daughter, his ranch and his family on his own without his meddling mother, but his long protected heart and desire for isolation is no match for a beautiful stranded stranger and a misfit puppy who make his daughter laugh and him feel alive again.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? Anything is possible with the magic of the Christmas season and faith in the Christmas angels.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2017
1460 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
About the author
Debra Holt
32 books337 followersBorn and raised in the Lone Star state of Texas, Debra grew up among horses, cowboys, wide open spaces, and real Texas Rangers. Pride in her state and ancestry knows no bounds and it is these heroes and heroines she loves to write about the most. She also draws upon a variety of life experiences including working with abused children, caring for baby animals at a major zoo, and planning high-end weddings (ah, romance!).
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's.
Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's.
Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
November 3, 2020
3 Meant To Be Angels Star
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review-FREE NOW!!!
How can you not love the idea of angels coming into our lives when we need it...
This has a sexy cowboy, sweet daughter, and pushy but amazing grandmother...She sees a woman who lands in town with a goofy dog as the answer for her grown son.
Things can only get better and do.
Beware the Ranger (Texas Lawmen, #1)
The Lawman's Apache Moon (Texas Lawmen, #2)
Along Came a Ranger (Texas Lawmen, #3)
The Sheriff's Christmas Angels (Texas Lawmen, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review-FREE NOW!!!
How can you not love the idea of angels coming into our lives when we need it...
This has a sexy cowboy, sweet daughter, and pushy but amazing grandmother...She sees a woman who lands in town with a goofy dog as the answer for her grown son.
Things can only get better and do.
Beware the Ranger (Texas Lawmen, #1) The Lawman's Apache Moon (Texas Lawmen, #2) Along Came a Ranger (Texas Lawmen, #3) The Sheriff's Christmas Angels (Texas Lawmen, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 18, 2018
3.75 *
This is a sweet, heartwarming, family-oriented book with relatable characters and romance. It was emotional as well as funny. The first 'who's sleeping in my bed?' meeting between Emma and Cole was hilarious. I can't erase the image of a stunned Cole in his white briefs on the floor staring at the sexy intruder in a flimsy nightwear who kicked him. Add to it, his parents descend on him wondering what was the commotion about then his mother introducies him to his new employee.
Loved the banter between Cole and Emma. Emma had enough of sass and tenderness to match Cole's surliness. Actually Cole already had plenty of sassy women in his life be it his mother, Mae, his adorable daughter Charlie, his childhood friend, Darcy --the waitress who becomes a close friend to Emma later on-- and as if that wasn't enough his mother brings home two more --Emma and the dog she rescued, Angel. And, not only his mother and daughter, his father and entire town is going gaga over Emma and praising her for taking on the task of keeping their surly sheriff in line.
“Ronnie White, I want you to meet Emma Cramer. She’s going to be working with Cole and Charlie for a while. I’m sure you and she will talk a few times. Just wanted you two ladies to lay eyes on each other. You both have the same tough job duties… keeping my son in line.”
“Your son, their boss, is right here.”
Mae cast a sweet smile in the speaker’s direction. “Yes, dear. I know you are. Shouldn’t you be catching bad guys or something? Don’t let us keep you.”
Emma had to purse her bottom lip to maintain control of the sudden urge to grin at the way Mae responded. It was the look on Cole’s face that was almost her undoing. Good for Mae. She really liked the woman more and more each second she was with her.
Yeah, Mae was a truly amazing woman - an awesome wife, mother and grandmother. I liked her meddling and subtle matchmaking where her son was concerned. Like the time Emma and Darcy were having a girls night out, she tries to tap into Cole's jealousy by telling him that she's happy Emma finally decided to go out, she'd been trying to get her to accept the numerous date invitations she'd been getting and even though Cole had set up walls where Emma was concerned, her ploy sort of worked. Mae had a perfect partner in Vernon. He was so sweet and romantic. Liked the surprise anniversary party he wanted Cole and Emma to plan for Mae. Considering it was their fiftieth anniversary and Cole was thirty-five and his brother younger, I assume Mae had a very late pregnancy. Nevertheless, the two of them are the two most liveliest parents of a hero/heroine I've ever come across in any book. And, I liked how both of them treated Emma like their daughter, even if it irked Cole.
Cole's cynicism stemmed from his wife having cheated on him with someone very close to him and left with that man when their daughter was six months old. Considering who that man was, it was a heartbreaking betrayal. It made him distrustful of women especially someone who gets close to his daughter and he can see his daughter is becoming a shadow of Emma, emulating her in possible way. He worried when Emma left after the agreed six month job period, his daughter's heart would be break. He however begins to see Emma was quite different from his ex-wife. Emma too, soon realized that Cole was a good guy and he had a lot on his plate.
Their transition from antagonists to friends I felt happened a bit too quick. Nevertheless, it brought on some lovely moments between them. The attraction between the two has been there from that very first unforgettable meeting and no matter how hard they talked themselves against it, they couldn't stop looking to spending time with each other or stealing kisses --my favorite one was when Cole is leaving for out of town and he deliberately sends Charlie to bring him his phone from his room so that he could sneak in a goodbye kiss from Emma. The family and town thank Emma seeing the change in Cole from a grumpy to a fun, playful guy, engaging in the various activities put up by the towns people unlike before where he'd only stand and watch as a lawman.
And, Emma, having been alone for the past ten years after the death of her mother when she was eighteen, does not want to leave the man she's fallen in love with, or the family who've warmly welcomed her into their lives or the town and its people she's grown fond of. She knows Cole feels something for her too. The only problem is due to other things cropping up, the talk he wanted the two of them to have never happens. Then, when at the anniversary party, he arranges for the two of them to go on a picnic the following day, that too, gets stalled with the arrival of the blast from his past.
I could feel the heartbreak Emma was going through watching Cole with his ex-wife and yet receives his text telling her he's working. I liked that she did not take any nonsense from the ex and gave it good to her, although part of me felt she should not have left, instead stayed and fought for Cole and Charlie. And, Cole should have included Emma in what was going on like his mother said. But, had that to happen then we would never have had the angst and the heartache the two went through. Sadly, even sweet Charlie had to go through the anguish. She was so certain the angel on the tree would give her the mommy she wanted -Emma. But, it seemed it wasn't going to happen.
I wasn't happy with the deal Cole finally made with his ex to get out of his life, considering he was a lawman. He should have used the dirt against her and left her to fend for herself. That, and the fact that there were quite a few typos and grammatical mistakes made me cut out one star on the rating. The mistakes especially the interchange of Emma and Charlie's names a couple of times had me confused for a long moment and takes away the pleasure of reading. Glad it wasn't a mix up between Cole and his dad especially when Emma is thinking about Cole or we'd be thinking she has her sights on both father and son.
Nevertheless, the book keeps you engaged right through and even though there was no sex scene, you could feel the passion between Cole and Emma every time they were together. I really thought they made an awesome pair. The epilogue in the end was long but sweet.
This is the first time I've read a book from this author and I will be looking out for other books from her. Looking forward to reading Darcy's story. I really liked her and hers and Emma's friendship. I see there's already a book on her brother Davis Mckenna - Along came a Texas Ranger.
I recommend this to anyone who likes a sweet, small town, family-oriented, fun, emotional and angsty romance
This is a sweet, heartwarming, family-oriented book with relatable characters and romance. It was emotional as well as funny. The first 'who's sleeping in my bed?' meeting between Emma and Cole was hilarious. I can't erase the image of a stunned Cole in his white briefs on the floor staring at the sexy intruder in a flimsy nightwear who kicked him. Add to it, his parents descend on him wondering what was the commotion about then his mother introducies him to his new employee.
Loved the banter between Cole and Emma. Emma had enough of sass and tenderness to match Cole's surliness. Actually Cole already had plenty of sassy women in his life be it his mother, Mae, his adorable daughter Charlie, his childhood friend, Darcy --the waitress who becomes a close friend to Emma later on-- and as if that wasn't enough his mother brings home two more --Emma and the dog she rescued, Angel. And, not only his mother and daughter, his father and entire town is going gaga over Emma and praising her for taking on the task of keeping their surly sheriff in line.
“Ronnie White, I want you to meet Emma Cramer. She’s going to be working with Cole and Charlie for a while. I’m sure you and she will talk a few times. Just wanted you two ladies to lay eyes on each other. You both have the same tough job duties… keeping my son in line.”
“Your son, their boss, is right here.”
Mae cast a sweet smile in the speaker’s direction. “Yes, dear. I know you are. Shouldn’t you be catching bad guys or something? Don’t let us keep you.”
Emma had to purse her bottom lip to maintain control of the sudden urge to grin at the way Mae responded. It was the look on Cole’s face that was almost her undoing. Good for Mae. She really liked the woman more and more each second she was with her.
Yeah, Mae was a truly amazing woman - an awesome wife, mother and grandmother. I liked her meddling and subtle matchmaking where her son was concerned. Like the time Emma and Darcy were having a girls night out, she tries to tap into Cole's jealousy by telling him that she's happy Emma finally decided to go out, she'd been trying to get her to accept the numerous date invitations she'd been getting and even though Cole had set up walls where Emma was concerned, her ploy sort of worked. Mae had a perfect partner in Vernon. He was so sweet and romantic. Liked the surprise anniversary party he wanted Cole and Emma to plan for Mae. Considering it was their fiftieth anniversary and Cole was thirty-five and his brother younger, I assume Mae had a very late pregnancy. Nevertheless, the two of them are the two most liveliest parents of a hero/heroine I've ever come across in any book. And, I liked how both of them treated Emma like their daughter, even if it irked Cole.
Cole's cynicism stemmed from his wife having cheated on him with someone very close to him and left with that man when their daughter was six months old. Considering who that man was, it was a heartbreaking betrayal. It made him distrustful of women especially someone who gets close to his daughter and he can see his daughter is becoming a shadow of Emma, emulating her in possible way. He worried when Emma left after the agreed six month job period, his daughter's heart would be break. He however begins to see Emma was quite different from his ex-wife. Emma too, soon realized that Cole was a good guy and he had a lot on his plate.
Their transition from antagonists to friends I felt happened a bit too quick. Nevertheless, it brought on some lovely moments between them. The attraction between the two has been there from that very first unforgettable meeting and no matter how hard they talked themselves against it, they couldn't stop looking to spending time with each other or stealing kisses --my favorite one was when Cole is leaving for out of town and he deliberately sends Charlie to bring him his phone from his room so that he could sneak in a goodbye kiss from Emma. The family and town thank Emma seeing the change in Cole from a grumpy to a fun, playful guy, engaging in the various activities put up by the towns people unlike before where he'd only stand and watch as a lawman.
And, Emma, having been alone for the past ten years after the death of her mother when she was eighteen, does not want to leave the man she's fallen in love with, or the family who've warmly welcomed her into their lives or the town and its people she's grown fond of. She knows Cole feels something for her too. The only problem is due to other things cropping up, the talk he wanted the two of them to have never happens. Then, when at the anniversary party, he arranges for the two of them to go on a picnic the following day, that too, gets stalled with the arrival of the blast from his past.
I could feel the heartbreak Emma was going through watching Cole with his ex-wife and yet receives his text telling her he's working. I liked that she did not take any nonsense from the ex and gave it good to her, although part of me felt she should not have left, instead stayed and fought for Cole and Charlie. And, Cole should have included Emma in what was going on like his mother said. But, had that to happen then we would never have had the angst and the heartache the two went through. Sadly, even sweet Charlie had to go through the anguish. She was so certain the angel on the tree would give her the mommy she wanted -Emma. But, it seemed it wasn't going to happen.
I wasn't happy with the deal Cole finally made with his ex to get out of his life, considering he was a lawman. He should have used the dirt against her and left her to fend for herself. That, and the fact that there were quite a few typos and grammatical mistakes made me cut out one star on the rating. The mistakes especially the interchange of Emma and Charlie's names a couple of times had me confused for a long moment and takes away the pleasure of reading. Glad it wasn't a mix up between Cole and his dad especially when Emma is thinking about Cole or we'd be thinking she has her sights on both father and son.
Nevertheless, the book keeps you engaged right through and even though there was no sex scene, you could feel the passion between Cole and Emma every time they were together. I really thought they made an awesome pair. The epilogue in the end was long but sweet.
This is the first time I've read a book from this author and I will be looking out for other books from her. Looking forward to reading Darcy's story. I really liked her and hers and Emma's friendship. I see there's already a book on her brother Davis Mckenna - Along came a Texas Ranger.
I recommend this to anyone who likes a sweet, small town, family-oriented, fun, emotional and angsty romance
October 25, 2017
This is a really cute festive romance! Very little has gone well or right in Emma Cramer’s life but, after rescuing a young girl and puppy, she ends up working taking care of the child - and his father, Sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton. Cole definitely doesn’t really want her there but his mother offered Emma the job and makes him agree. This is the start of a magical Christmas read, with great characters and Emma’s delightful nature is enough to melt even the Sheriff’s frozen heart. The small town setting has more than its share of brilliant secondary characters and they are great at endeavouring to protect those they’ve adopted as their own.
This is a heart warming story with easy to relate to characters, plenty of twists and a dose of turmoil, too. The growth of the romance is believable and so sweet! This is a poignant, endearing story and a great festive read to escape into!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a heart warming story with easy to relate to characters, plenty of twists and a dose of turmoil, too. The growth of the romance is believable and so sweet! This is a poignant, endearing story and a great festive read to escape into!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
December 27, 2023
I'm going to give this 3 stars even though I skimmed a fair bit.
The story was nicely balanced and should have kept my interest more. I liked the characters.
But the writing was very lackluster and frankly, dull.
Emma helps Cole's mom and daughter rescue a puppy and things work out so Emma ends up helping Cole take care of his daughter and organize his office. The daughter takes to Emma like white on rice and really Emma is the perfect fit for their family... but then the daughter's horrible but gorgeous mother returns to town.
safety is fine. no details about their sexual histories other than his whirl wind marriage to the OW. He doesn't feel anything for the OW except distaste but she tries to make Emma believe otherwise. Honestly the most interesting part of the book was the fact that the OW had run off with his younger and now estranged brother, whom we never meet.
The story was nicely balanced and should have kept my interest more. I liked the characters.
But the writing was very lackluster and frankly, dull.
Emma helps Cole's mom and daughter rescue a puppy and things work out so Emma ends up helping Cole take care of his daughter and organize his office. The daughter takes to Emma like white on rice and really Emma is the perfect fit for their family... but then the daughter's horrible but gorgeous mother returns to town.
safety is fine. no details about their sexual histories other than his whirl wind marriage to the OW. He doesn't feel anything for the OW except distaste but she tries to make Emma believe otherwise. Honestly the most interesting part of the book was the fact that the OW had run off with his younger and now estranged brother, whom we never meet.
December 12, 2023
Emma's had a hard life. Raised in poverty by a single mom who died when Emma was 18, she's worked her way through college and is on her way to some job interviews when her truck starts malfunctioning. Looking for a garage, she finds a woman and her granddaughter trying to rescue a puppy. After Emma helps, the woman offers her a job taking care of the little girl and organizing the ranch's paperwork. Only problem--the little girl's father, Cole, is a grouch who is reluctant to hire Emma. Things change, no surprise there, but when Cole's ex comes back into his life, will Emma stick around? A cute Hallmark-type Christmas novel with a HEA ending.
October 21, 2017
I adored this book! A Hallmark movie right on the pages of this one. Tons of emotion and great characters made this one very enjoyable. I didn't care for Cole at all in the beginning but Emma's sweet nature and huge heart worked it's magic on him and I ended up a big fan of the gruff sheriff. Definitely a book that will grab your heart. I highly recommend it to everyone.
December 12, 2019
This was such a good romance. It was very sweet and had a Christmas setting but can be ready at any time.
Cole liked his life as a rancher and interim Sheriff. He and his little girl were doing fine on their own. But Cole’s mother, Mae, didn’t agree and was always trying to play matchmaker. He was tired of his mother’s interference in his personal life, but he could use her help finding someone to get his office in order. She was delighted she could finally help him in some way.
In the meantime, Mae had been looking after the little girl, Charlie. One day Charlie ran into an old garage after hearing an animal whimpering. Mae went after her but couldn’t get through the small space. It was at this time that Emma came by and stopped to help. She rescued the puppy and child. After learning that Emma had just graduated from college and was looking for a job, Mae offered her a job with a great salary and a place to stay. Emma hadn't had an easy life so she couldn’t believe her luck at the offer.
Even though Mae did exactly what he had asked of her and hired someone to organize his paperwork, Cole was suspicious of his mother’s motives. Especially when he is attracted to the woman she hired. After his wife left him when their child was still a baby, he was turned off women. He doesn’t trust them and does not want a relationship.
Mae was the best. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and loved. Cole was a grump at first but turned into a great guy once he accepted that Emma wasn’t like his ex. Emma proved she was dependable by organizing the business records and caring for Charlie. Even though she had low self-esteem, she knew she was good at her job and loved all parts of it. Especially Charlie. But Charlie was the one everyone’s lives revolved around. As it should with a child. She was a sweet little girl with a cute puppy.
This story will pull you into the Christmas spirit and make you believe that miracles can happen.
I’m so glad I won this book from Library Thing. You’ve got to love a book that leaves you with a tear in your eye. This is a wonderful Christmas story and I definitely recommend it.
Cole liked his life as a rancher and interim Sheriff. He and his little girl were doing fine on their own. But Cole’s mother, Mae, didn’t agree and was always trying to play matchmaker. He was tired of his mother’s interference in his personal life, but he could use her help finding someone to get his office in order. She was delighted she could finally help him in some way.
In the meantime, Mae had been looking after the little girl, Charlie. One day Charlie ran into an old garage after hearing an animal whimpering. Mae went after her but couldn’t get through the small space. It was at this time that Emma came by and stopped to help. She rescued the puppy and child. After learning that Emma had just graduated from college and was looking for a job, Mae offered her a job with a great salary and a place to stay. Emma hadn't had an easy life so she couldn’t believe her luck at the offer.
Even though Mae did exactly what he had asked of her and hired someone to organize his paperwork, Cole was suspicious of his mother’s motives. Especially when he is attracted to the woman she hired. After his wife left him when their child was still a baby, he was turned off women. He doesn’t trust them and does not want a relationship.
Mae was the best. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and loved. Cole was a grump at first but turned into a great guy once he accepted that Emma wasn’t like his ex. Emma proved she was dependable by organizing the business records and caring for Charlie. Even though she had low self-esteem, she knew she was good at her job and loved all parts of it. Especially Charlie. But Charlie was the one everyone’s lives revolved around. As it should with a child. She was a sweet little girl with a cute puppy.
This story will pull you into the Christmas spirit and make you believe that miracles can happen.
I’m so glad I won this book from Library Thing. You’ve got to love a book that leaves you with a tear in your eye. This is a wonderful Christmas story and I definitely recommend it.
October 15, 2017
3.75 - 4 stars
I didn't think this would work for me, because at 35% I could not stand the hero. Then BOOM, all of a sudden I was engaged in the story. The heroine is a bit of a Mary Sue, but the story is uplifting enough I didn't care.
Full Review
I decided to give The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels a spin because it has a single father with a young daughter, and oh, yeah, there’s a puppy. I know, I know. The things that grab my attention. I also liked the small town setting. What’s not to like about everyone in town getting in everybody’s business?
Emma is headed to the big city for an interview when disaster strikes. Her old, less than reliable vehicle breaks down. Trapped in a small town with no money and no place to stay, she’s on the edge of despair. Then she saves a young girl who had chased after a puppy, and fortune suddenly turns its spotlight on her. When the girl’s grandmother offers her a job at her son’s ranch, with a room included, she can’t say no.
I have to admit that for the first 34% of the story, I found Cole to be a completely unlikable guy. What a jerk. Then suddenly he didn’t seem quite so bad, and before I knew what happened, I actually liked him. So a nod to the author for giving the guy a chip on his shoulder, and then showing how Emma slowly wore it away.
My other complaint, if you could call it that, is that Emma is a bit of a Mary Sue. Life just keeps kicking her in the teeth, and she just takes it. Cole is grump to her, and rude as can be, and she doesn’t fire back at him. The book is uplifting enough, and such feel good read, though, that I didn’t care. Maybe the current state of the world has me so down that the message of this story resonated for me.
This is my first book by the author, but it won’t be the last. It may be a little early for Christmas themes (at least for me!), but the holiday spirit was well incorporated into the story. Colt’s meddling mother constantly finds ways to throw the couple together, and his villainous ex shows up right as they are starting to make progress in their relationship. There is a frustrating lack of communication, from both Emma and Colt, but everything worked out to my satisfaction in the end.
I didn't think this would work for me, because at 35% I could not stand the hero. Then BOOM, all of a sudden I was engaged in the story. The heroine is a bit of a Mary Sue, but the story is uplifting enough I didn't care.
Full Review
I decided to give The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels a spin because it has a single father with a young daughter, and oh, yeah, there’s a puppy. I know, I know. The things that grab my attention. I also liked the small town setting. What’s not to like about everyone in town getting in everybody’s business?
Emma is headed to the big city for an interview when disaster strikes. Her old, less than reliable vehicle breaks down. Trapped in a small town with no money and no place to stay, she’s on the edge of despair. Then she saves a young girl who had chased after a puppy, and fortune suddenly turns its spotlight on her. When the girl’s grandmother offers her a job at her son’s ranch, with a room included, she can’t say no.
I have to admit that for the first 34% of the story, I found Cole to be a completely unlikable guy. What a jerk. Then suddenly he didn’t seem quite so bad, and before I knew what happened, I actually liked him. So a nod to the author for giving the guy a chip on his shoulder, and then showing how Emma slowly wore it away.
My other complaint, if you could call it that, is that Emma is a bit of a Mary Sue. Life just keeps kicking her in the teeth, and she just takes it. Cole is grump to her, and rude as can be, and she doesn’t fire back at him. The book is uplifting enough, and such feel good read, though, that I didn’t care. Maybe the current state of the world has me so down that the message of this story resonated for me.
This is my first book by the author, but it won’t be the last. It may be a little early for Christmas themes (at least for me!), but the holiday spirit was well incorporated into the story. Colt’s meddling mother constantly finds ways to throw the couple together, and his villainous ex shows up right as they are starting to make progress in their relationship. There is a frustrating lack of communication, from both Emma and Colt, but everything worked out to my satisfaction in the end.
November 5, 2020
Mae Dayton has been nagging her son Cole Drayton to find a woman ever since his ex Pamela took off when their daughter Charlie was just over six months old. She’s even tried to set him up with dates. Between running the family ranch and being a sheriff, Cole Dayton has little time for anything else.
Emma Cramer is on her way to Dallas for a couple of interviews when her truck breaks down so she makes a detour hoping to find a mechanic. She stops at a convenience store to get directions from the owner Jim Davies. There she meets Mae Drayton and helps rescue her granddaughter, Charlie, and a dog Charlie was trying to rescue by herself when she got stuck.
Mae and Emma get talking and when Emma tells Mae she was on her way to a job interview, Mae offers Emma a job to help her son the sheriff organize the ranch office, and also keep Charlie company. Besides, Mae could use some time off herself. The job isn’t long-term which is just as well seeing as Emma has plans in the city. Emma accepts the job hoping she’d be able to save up some money to fix her truck and be on her way.
When Cole learns what his mother has done behind his back he’s not pleased with her meddling but reluctantly accepts to have Emma working for him. But Cole is used to getting things done his way and Emma can be a bit strong-headed.
Emma Cramer is on her way to Dallas for a couple of interviews when her truck breaks down so she makes a detour hoping to find a mechanic. She stops at a convenience store to get directions from the owner Jim Davies. There she meets Mae Drayton and helps rescue her granddaughter, Charlie, and a dog Charlie was trying to rescue by herself when she got stuck.
Mae and Emma get talking and when Emma tells Mae she was on her way to a job interview, Mae offers Emma a job to help her son the sheriff organize the ranch office, and also keep Charlie company. Besides, Mae could use some time off herself. The job isn’t long-term which is just as well seeing as Emma has plans in the city. Emma accepts the job hoping she’d be able to save up some money to fix her truck and be on her way.
When Cole learns what his mother has done behind his back he’s not pleased with her meddling but reluctantly accepts to have Emma working for him. But Cole is used to getting things done his way and Emma can be a bit strong-headed.
October 22, 2017
I am in love with Tule Publishing! They have real books for reading. I grab every book I can. You can too! This is one of them. Emma has broken down in a small town and surprise, a puppy, little girl and Mae, the grandmother. Emma got them out and went home with them. Charlie has Mae and Vernon, grandparents and Cole, single Sheriff. Cole is pushed to keep the puppy and Emma. She will work on Cole's computer stack of papers. There is a secret between the family. Major Spoiler! It comes back to town and Emma misunderstands and leaves town. Major Spoiler! Charlie wants a permanent Mother. Spoiler! Cole goes on a tracking mission to find Emma. Will he find Emma and straighten her out? Will Charlie get her Angel wishes come true? Does the secret go away! I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a good book that anyone can read it! Give it a chance! Don't let it get away!
November 13, 2020
When Cole Drayton's wife left him and their baby girl for his brother he put his heart on ice, determined never to marry again, something his mum is none to happy about. When Emma Cramer enters the picture Cole's mum starts her matchmaking and despite all he says Cole finds himself drawn to the woman his little girl adores.
A sweet small town romance that I was really looking forward to, but overall there needed to be way more showing than telling.
Plus the sizzle and spark between Cole and Emma wasn't really there for me. The development of their relationship didn't have me smiling or sighing in delight.
Some OW drama when Cole's ex comes back into the picture but nothing major.
Freebie on amazon.
A sweet small town romance that I was really looking forward to, but overall there needed to be way more showing than telling.
Plus the sizzle and spark between Cole and Emma wasn't really there for me. The development of their relationship didn't have me smiling or sighing in delight.
Some OW drama when Cole's ex comes back into the picture but nothing major.
Freebie on amazon.
October 19, 2017
Very beautiful and poignant. The author set the mood in her dedication. It's a great holiday romance.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 25, 2020
Loved this book!
December 17, 2023
Didn’t finish because Emma became way less likable when interacting with Cole. I liked how the story started out. It wasnt just straight forward. It felt natural and real.
But it has dual povs which just leaves no mystery and nothing to discover or unravel. We know everyone’s back story pretty early on and why they are the way they are and their motives behind every word and action. It’s just all laid out easily right in front of us. So there’s not much keeping me going or leaving me wanting. Also it’s got the inner monolguing where they both detail how hot they find the other and how they are lusting after eachother but then berate themselves for their lustful thoughts each time. It’s unoriginal and it gets super repetitive, especially with both of them doing it.
But the final straw for me was the first night Emma Is taking care of Cole’s daughter as she is hired to do. So she cooks dinner and then is super annoyed that the guy isn’t home in time for dinner. We never see it mentioned that he even told her when he was planning on being home, or if there were any expectations of her taking care of him in any way etc. Her job was to take care of his daughter. Period. But she is all in a huff about Cole not being home in time for dinner. The guy is a freaking cop….like…yeah sorry he probably keeps crazy hours…and you’re his employee!!! You aren’t his wife. I could see her being disappointed for the daughter and feeling bad for her that he has to work late but she knows absolutely nothing about the father daughter relationship or the entire situation yet she just goes straight to pissed off on her first night there as an employee because he had to work late. But then he finally comes home and it’s confirmed that yes he was doing necessary cop things, you know, serve and protect, and she lays into him about how dare he miss dinner with his daughter and he’s missing precious memories with her and that he didn’t even let them know he’d be late. And I’m thinking lady wtf is wrong with you like you’re an employee, this is your first night there, why do you have all these expectations of someone you don’t even know? He doesn’t owe you a thing! But THEN he says, I did get in touch with you, I texted you twice and let you know I’d be late and was doing cop things and I was like oooohhh my gosh he even let her know!!! Awe she’s probably going to feel like the biggest idiot. But NO! She gets even more mad saying he should have CALLED! Apparently texting isn’t good enough for her! She says she doesn’t have time to sit and look at her phone for texts!! So she has time to take a phone call but not read a text??? The guy was out literally chasing down a criminal and dealing with a hostage situation but still manages to text his employee out of courtesy but she can’t be bothered to just look at a text?? No this lady is emotionally unhinged and unstable. No wonder men think women are crazy. I would if I was dealing with this lady, especially as my employee. She’s fine to be concerned about the time away from his kid but she knows way too little about anything to be making these accusations, especially on a night like that one. She’s acting like he went out drinking with his buddies or something. Get a grip lady! So I don’t really like her anymore and don’t want to keep going.
But it has dual povs which just leaves no mystery and nothing to discover or unravel. We know everyone’s back story pretty early on and why they are the way they are and their motives behind every word and action. It’s just all laid out easily right in front of us. So there’s not much keeping me going or leaving me wanting. Also it’s got the inner monolguing where they both detail how hot they find the other and how they are lusting after eachother but then berate themselves for their lustful thoughts each time. It’s unoriginal and it gets super repetitive, especially with both of them doing it.
But the final straw for me was the first night Emma Is taking care of Cole’s daughter as she is hired to do. So she cooks dinner and then is super annoyed that the guy isn’t home in time for dinner. We never see it mentioned that he even told her when he was planning on being home, or if there were any expectations of her taking care of him in any way etc. Her job was to take care of his daughter. Period. But she is all in a huff about Cole not being home in time for dinner. The guy is a freaking cop….like…yeah sorry he probably keeps crazy hours…and you’re his employee!!! You aren’t his wife. I could see her being disappointed for the daughter and feeling bad for her that he has to work late but she knows absolutely nothing about the father daughter relationship or the entire situation yet she just goes straight to pissed off on her first night there as an employee because he had to work late. But then he finally comes home and it’s confirmed that yes he was doing necessary cop things, you know, serve and protect, and she lays into him about how dare he miss dinner with his daughter and he’s missing precious memories with her and that he didn’t even let them know he’d be late. And I’m thinking lady wtf is wrong with you like you’re an employee, this is your first night there, why do you have all these expectations of someone you don’t even know? He doesn’t owe you a thing! But THEN he says, I did get in touch with you, I texted you twice and let you know I’d be late and was doing cop things and I was like oooohhh my gosh he even let her know!!! Awe she’s probably going to feel like the biggest idiot. But NO! She gets even more mad saying he should have CALLED! Apparently texting isn’t good enough for her! She says she doesn’t have time to sit and look at her phone for texts!! So she has time to take a phone call but not read a text??? The guy was out literally chasing down a criminal and dealing with a hostage situation but still manages to text his employee out of courtesy but she can’t be bothered to just look at a text?? No this lady is emotionally unhinged and unstable. No wonder men think women are crazy. I would if I was dealing with this lady, especially as my employee. She’s fine to be concerned about the time away from his kid but she knows way too little about anything to be making these accusations, especially on a night like that one. She’s acting like he went out drinking with his buddies or something. Get a grip lady! So I don’t really like her anymore and don’t want to keep going.
January 3, 2019
Angels. Emma Cramer doesn’t consider herself an angel by any stretch of the imagination. Temporarily stranded, broke and unable to pursue her dreams of working in the big city following her mother’s death, Emma’s life changes when she rescues a small child and a puppy who get trapped in a garage where Emma’s truck has finally breathed its last . The girl’s relieved and grateful grandmother believes Emma has been sent by angels because her family needs temporary help. She offers Emma a job, a good salary and a place to stay until after the holidays. It seems like a Christmas miracle for both of them. Angels often appear when least expected, but when the most needed. Cynical sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton has heard that all his life, but he’s never been in the market for much else. He can take care of his daughter, his ranch and his family on his own without his meddling mother, but his long protected heart and desire for isolation is no match for a beautiful stranded stranger and a misfit puppy who make his daughter laugh and him feel alive again. Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? Anything is possible with the magic of the Christmas season and faith in the Christmas angels.
This was a cute holiday story that was perfect for the season. As I was reading it I felt like I was watching a Hallmark holiday movie (which I enjoy). Both characters were likable and the book flowed very well. It was a quick read that I enjoyed.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This was a cute holiday story that was perfect for the season. As I was reading it I felt like I was watching a Hallmark holiday movie (which I enjoy). Both characters were likable and the book flowed very well. It was a quick read that I enjoyed.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
December 8, 2018
Book four in Debra Holt’s Texas Lawman series, The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels is a sweet story of second chances for Sheriff Cole Drayton and his five year old daughter Charlie, while for Emma Cramer this story is about finding the family she never dreamed she’d have. It is loosely connected to the other three books in the series but also works well as a stand alone novel.
Both Emma and Cole have faced life’s hard knocks and taken more of a beating than most, but they are strong people and each has risen from difficult times to make something of their lives. Brought together by a chance meeting between Emma and Cole’s mother Mae, it doesn’t take them long to discover how perfect they are for each other, though of course life throws them a few curve balls along the way.
The story has a strong sense of family and community throughout, and of course with a little girl and an abandoned puppy thrown into the mix there is plenty to like. Add in the build up to Christmas in a house that hasn’t seen a proper one in years, and throw in the whimsy of angels of all sorts watching over Emma, Cole and Charlie as they become a real family and you have the makings of a very sweet Christmas story.
Both Emma and Cole have faced life’s hard knocks and taken more of a beating than most, but they are strong people and each has risen from difficult times to make something of their lives. Brought together by a chance meeting between Emma and Cole’s mother Mae, it doesn’t take them long to discover how perfect they are for each other, though of course life throws them a few curve balls along the way.
The story has a strong sense of family and community throughout, and of course with a little girl and an abandoned puppy thrown into the mix there is plenty to like. Add in the build up to Christmas in a house that hasn’t seen a proper one in years, and throw in the whimsy of angels of all sorts watching over Emma, Cole and Charlie as they become a real family and you have the makings of a very sweet Christmas story.
November 7, 2021
DNF a little too predictable. Super sweet typical falling for the nanny romance. The main characters went out of their way to avoid conflict in the relationship by not talking to each other, thus creating the main drama in the story. It was just so obvious and yet none of the not talking and trusting each other was addressed when they started making up.
I didn't think there was enough depth to the relationship, a lot of surface only interactions. Gave up right toward the end, 80% in, when I realised nothing of real depth was ever being addressed.
I didn't think there was enough depth to the relationship, a lot of surface only interactions. Gave up right toward the end, 80% in, when I realised nothing of real depth was ever being addressed.
November 4, 2017
Cute story, but the chemistry wasn't there...and Emma came across as way too sweet, passive and trusting. And the issues with Cole's ex-wife were just weird and out of place.
November 13, 2020
I liked it, a heartwarming tale. I'm a bit of a sucker for lawmen, and Christmas stories, oh and solo dads, so it was a trifecta. I also appreciate the change from explicit sex, yep bored with that.
November 6, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I loved Ms Holt’s dedication page for my own grandparents instilled a similar way of looking at life. People come into our lives for a reason and sometimes a season, because we need them or they need us – enjoy them, learn from them and perhaps give them what they need from you. And maybe, if we’re lucky they’ll stay for a lifetime. And after that wonderful thought my Gram would pause then hit with this zinger: And some do you a favor by letting the door hit them or the backside as they leave. I believe Cole has had a taste of all of those thoughts, and it’s left a bitter taste behind. Now it’s up to a stranger, a puppy and maybe some Christmas magic to turn his life around.
Emma hasn’t had an easy life, but she’s survived. By working her hands to the bone, studying until her brain was about to burst she’s finally finished college with a degree that can open doors and possibilities for her future. Now all she has to do is get to those interviews – and her nearly broken down much used truck certainly isn’t cooperating one little bit. At a stop for gas and direction to the nearest mechanic in this wide open county, Emma will meet her own angels in the form of a grandmother trying to get to her granddaughter… who has squirmed into a closed space to rescue a puppy. Soon Emma will find herself face to face with Mae, Charlie and a newly christened puppy, Angel. And somehow the puppy has become hers. She’s still not sure exactly how that unlikely event really happened. But it made sense at the time. Where Mae is concerned Emma is going to have that feeling of being caught in a soft, comforting whirlwind often. It’s how she found herself on this ranch, working on the paperwork and watching after Charlie – and sharing Angel. To say that the man of the house, Charlie’s dad, was not impressed or happy would be an understatement.
Cole is tired of his mother’s matchmaking efforts. Tired and angry. Yet he cannot really deny that she’s done exactly what he asked… found someone who can take the paperwork he’s overloaded with and put it into the right computer files. He doesn’t trust his adorable, strong-willed mother further than he could toss her so he’s on his guard against a woman who is sparking interest he doesn’t want to feel.
Cole is a hard man, and a first class jerk… at least at first. His life hasn’t been what he expected. One vicious, she witch of an ex-wife has proven to him that life is not good and trusting anyone beyond blood family is a mistake. He’s refusing to see the wisdom of his mother – if that she witch hadn’t come into his life for a season, then he wouldn’t have his adorable, much loved daughter. But he is stubborn and it will take one special woman to show him the error of his ways.
Of course life never runs smoothly. So when a vicious woman sets out to make trouble, Emma runs. Only this time Cole isn’t going to let his good woman get away. He’s not a lawman skilled in tracking for nothing.
I enjoyed The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels on so many levels. Emma and Cole both have wounds and issues, but together they make an amazing couple. One little girl and her puppy will steal your hearts. Oh, come on, we know Angel is really Charlie’s and always will be. Emma and Cole have some hard time to work through but the ending solid relationship will be well worth the anger and tears to get there.
If you’re looking for a solid story that offers some Christmas magic, likable characters and a feeling of watching a miracle unfold… then this is a story you’ll want to pickup to enjoy any time of the year, but especially at Christmas time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I loved Ms Holt’s dedication page for my own grandparents instilled a similar way of looking at life. People come into our lives for a reason and sometimes a season, because we need them or they need us – enjoy them, learn from them and perhaps give them what they need from you. And maybe, if we’re lucky they’ll stay for a lifetime. And after that wonderful thought my Gram would pause then hit with this zinger: And some do you a favor by letting the door hit them or the backside as they leave. I believe Cole has had a taste of all of those thoughts, and it’s left a bitter taste behind. Now it’s up to a stranger, a puppy and maybe some Christmas magic to turn his life around.
Emma hasn’t had an easy life, but she’s survived. By working her hands to the bone, studying until her brain was about to burst she’s finally finished college with a degree that can open doors and possibilities for her future. Now all she has to do is get to those interviews – and her nearly broken down much used truck certainly isn’t cooperating one little bit. At a stop for gas and direction to the nearest mechanic in this wide open county, Emma will meet her own angels in the form of a grandmother trying to get to her granddaughter… who has squirmed into a closed space to rescue a puppy. Soon Emma will find herself face to face with Mae, Charlie and a newly christened puppy, Angel. And somehow the puppy has become hers. She’s still not sure exactly how that unlikely event really happened. But it made sense at the time. Where Mae is concerned Emma is going to have that feeling of being caught in a soft, comforting whirlwind often. It’s how she found herself on this ranch, working on the paperwork and watching after Charlie – and sharing Angel. To say that the man of the house, Charlie’s dad, was not impressed or happy would be an understatement.
Cole is tired of his mother’s matchmaking efforts. Tired and angry. Yet he cannot really deny that she’s done exactly what he asked… found someone who can take the paperwork he’s overloaded with and put it into the right computer files. He doesn’t trust his adorable, strong-willed mother further than he could toss her so he’s on his guard against a woman who is sparking interest he doesn’t want to feel.
Cole is a hard man, and a first class jerk… at least at first. His life hasn’t been what he expected. One vicious, she witch of an ex-wife has proven to him that life is not good and trusting anyone beyond blood family is a mistake. He’s refusing to see the wisdom of his mother – if that she witch hadn’t come into his life for a season, then he wouldn’t have his adorable, much loved daughter. But he is stubborn and it will take one special woman to show him the error of his ways.
Of course life never runs smoothly. So when a vicious woman sets out to make trouble, Emma runs. Only this time Cole isn’t going to let his good woman get away. He’s not a lawman skilled in tracking for nothing.
I enjoyed The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels on so many levels. Emma and Cole both have wounds and issues, but together they make an amazing couple. One little girl and her puppy will steal your hearts. Oh, come on, we know Angel is really Charlie’s and always will be. Emma and Cole have some hard time to work through but the ending solid relationship will be well worth the anger and tears to get there.
If you’re looking for a solid story that offers some Christmas magic, likable characters and a feeling of watching a miracle unfold… then this is a story you’ll want to pickup to enjoy any time of the year, but especially at Christmas time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
December 25, 2021
Sweet Christmas romance
MY RATING
5 stars--WOW
4 stars--would read again
3 stars--was good
2 stars--didn't enjoy
1 star--didn't finish
Should I read books before this one: no
Cliffhanger: no
SUMMARY
Sheriff Cole and his mom, Mae, argue about him finding a wife, a mother for Charlie. He's so busy, helping Dad ranch and then being interim sheriff. He needs help with paperwork.
Emma graduated high school, buried her mom the next day. She's now 28. She's gotten a degree from a community school in office management and computers, while working 2-3 jobs. On her way to 2 interviews in Dallas, she takes a detour to visit her old hometown when her truck's Check Engine light comes on. Luckily there's a gas station. No mechanic. She uses the restroom, sees an older lady trying to get into a dilapidated building. Her granddaughter went in there after a puppy. Emma rescues both. Charlie wants to adopt the abandoned puppy, “She’s cold and hungry and has no mommy… just like me.” Grandma reminds Charlie of her dad's rule about pets, so Charlie begs Emma to take the puppy. Emma lets Charlie name the puppy. Angel. Mae learns about Emma's degree and interviews. Emma goes to a motel.
Mechanic is gone until Monday, and the engine is making noises. Motel has no vacancy. Mae finds her at the diner looking sad. Emma tells her what's happened. Mae, making clear it's not charity, offers her a job. “You’ll be getting my son’s business affairs in order using your computer skills. At the same time, you’ll be helping me out by being the younger person in my granddaughter’s life. She goes to her kinder class during the day so she’s out of your way while you have your office work. Of course, you’ll have a comfortable living arrangement on the ranch, a benefit plan, and your salary will be adequate.” The salary is generous; include the living expenses, and the offer is a no-brainer.
Mae takes her home, gets Angel set up in the mud room, then Emma in the nicest room she's ever stayed in. Mae and Vernon live in the other wing. Emma falls deep asleep.
Cole comes home for tonight, crawls into his bed without turning on lights. He reaches for his pillow, grabs a woman instead.
Mae and Vernon come in. Mae introduces them, says good night. Emma knew this was too good to be true.
EVALUATION
This is a nice story. The characters are 2D, there's more thinking than talking and doing, and the minor problem is predictable and easily resolved. However, it's a solid reminder that we are each other's angels, that love is worth fighting for.
RECOMMENDATION
Those wanting a conflict-free story
FAVORITE QUOTES
Special people came into one’s life when they least expected but needed them the most. The trick was to recognize them.
Family gathered around a dinner table, laughter, the ritual of bedtime, and then a nice porch with a rocker. What else could she want?
Every little girl has their own version of the fairytale in their minds. But little girls need to be taught that it’s okay to dream about a lovely fairytale world, but that isn’t reality. They need to take care of themselves. If they happen to come across a prince charming while they are doing that, then there’s their fairytale beginning… not an ending.
Angels come in all forms when they’re needed.
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS (SPOILERS)
Sex: kisses
Language: 0 f***, 1 Lord's name in vain, 0 s***
Violence: no
MY RATING
5 stars--WOW
4 stars--would read again
3 stars--was good
2 stars--didn't enjoy
1 star--didn't finish
Should I read books before this one: no
Cliffhanger: no
SUMMARY
Sheriff Cole and his mom, Mae, argue about him finding a wife, a mother for Charlie. He's so busy, helping Dad ranch and then being interim sheriff. He needs help with paperwork.
Emma graduated high school, buried her mom the next day. She's now 28. She's gotten a degree from a community school in office management and computers, while working 2-3 jobs. On her way to 2 interviews in Dallas, she takes a detour to visit her old hometown when her truck's Check Engine light comes on. Luckily there's a gas station. No mechanic. She uses the restroom, sees an older lady trying to get into a dilapidated building. Her granddaughter went in there after a puppy. Emma rescues both. Charlie wants to adopt the abandoned puppy, “She’s cold and hungry and has no mommy… just like me.” Grandma reminds Charlie of her dad's rule about pets, so Charlie begs Emma to take the puppy. Emma lets Charlie name the puppy. Angel. Mae learns about Emma's degree and interviews. Emma goes to a motel.
Mechanic is gone until Monday, and the engine is making noises. Motel has no vacancy. Mae finds her at the diner looking sad. Emma tells her what's happened. Mae, making clear it's not charity, offers her a job. “You’ll be getting my son’s business affairs in order using your computer skills. At the same time, you’ll be helping me out by being the younger person in my granddaughter’s life. She goes to her kinder class during the day so she’s out of your way while you have your office work. Of course, you’ll have a comfortable living arrangement on the ranch, a benefit plan, and your salary will be adequate.” The salary is generous; include the living expenses, and the offer is a no-brainer.
Mae takes her home, gets Angel set up in the mud room, then Emma in the nicest room she's ever stayed in. Mae and Vernon live in the other wing. Emma falls deep asleep.
Cole comes home for tonight, crawls into his bed without turning on lights. He reaches for his pillow, grabs a woman instead.
Mae and Vernon come in. Mae introduces them, says good night. Emma knew this was too good to be true.
EVALUATION
This is a nice story. The characters are 2D, there's more thinking than talking and doing, and the minor problem is predictable and easily resolved. However, it's a solid reminder that we are each other's angels, that love is worth fighting for.
RECOMMENDATION
Those wanting a conflict-free story
FAVORITE QUOTES
Special people came into one’s life when they least expected but needed them the most. The trick was to recognize them.
Family gathered around a dinner table, laughter, the ritual of bedtime, and then a nice porch with a rocker. What else could she want?
Every little girl has their own version of the fairytale in their minds. But little girls need to be taught that it’s okay to dream about a lovely fairytale world, but that isn’t reality. They need to take care of themselves. If they happen to come across a prince charming while they are doing that, then there’s their fairytale beginning… not an ending.
Angels come in all forms when they’re needed.
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS (SPOILERS)
Sex: kisses
Language: 0 f***, 1 Lord's name in vain, 0 s***
Violence: no
October 27, 2017
The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels by Debra Holt
Angels. Emma Cramer doesn’t consider herself an angel by any stretch of the imagination. Temporarily stranded, broke and unable to pursue her dreams of working in the big city following her mother’s death, Emma’s life changes when she rescues a small child and a puppy who get trapped in a garage where Emma’s truck has finally breathed its last . The girl’s relieved and grateful grandmother believes Emma has been sent by angels because her family needs temporary help. She offers Emma a job, a good salary and a place to stay until after the holidays. It seems like a Christmas miracle for both of them.
Angels often appear when least expected, but when the most needed. Cynical sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton has heard that all his life, but he’s never been in the market for much else. He can take care of his daughter, his ranch and his family on his own without his meddling mother, but his long protected heart and desire for isolation is no match for a beautiful stranded stranger and a misfit puppy who make his daughter laugh and him feel alive again.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? Anything is possible with the magic of the Christmas season and faith in the Christmas angels.
this is Emma Cramer and Cole Drayton's story.
The wind threatened to push the battered green pickup off the blacktop. Emma Cramer increased her grip on the steering wheel, her hands already cramped. Now and then she released long enough to wipe a sweaty palm along her jeans’ leg. The heater worked sporadically but was useless for the most part.
“Charlie needs a mother and you need a wife. It’s high time you realized that.” Cole Drayton slammed the milk carton back on the shelf and shut the refrigerator door none too gently. He let out an exasperated grunt in reply while trying to temper the words that wanted to fly from his mouth. They were words that would probably get his mother headed after him with a bar of lye soap in her hand.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? read this book to find out.
The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels by Debra Holt is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Texas Lawmen
This series features three of the sexiest lawmen ever to wear a badge. Two of them wear the silver star of the elite Texas Rangers. One is a United States Federal Marshal. Besides having the law in common, they are good friends with their friendships having been forged over the years. They keep their bonds of friendship and have each other’s backs whenever needed. Dedicated to duty and their badges, their private lives are solitary ones until the day each of them meets their match in the opposite sex.
Debra's Books with Tule:
Beware the Ranger
Texas Lawmen
The Lawman’s Apache Moon
Texas Lawmen
Along Came A Ranger
Texas Lawmen
The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels
Texas Lawmen
Angels. Emma Cramer doesn’t consider herself an angel by any stretch of the imagination. Temporarily stranded, broke and unable to pursue her dreams of working in the big city following her mother’s death, Emma’s life changes when she rescues a small child and a puppy who get trapped in a garage where Emma’s truck has finally breathed its last . The girl’s relieved and grateful grandmother believes Emma has been sent by angels because her family needs temporary help. She offers Emma a job, a good salary and a place to stay until after the holidays. It seems like a Christmas miracle for both of them.
Angels often appear when least expected, but when the most needed. Cynical sheriff and rancher Cole Drayton has heard that all his life, but he’s never been in the market for much else. He can take care of his daughter, his ranch and his family on his own without his meddling mother, but his long protected heart and desire for isolation is no match for a beautiful stranded stranger and a misfit puppy who make his daughter laugh and him feel alive again.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? Anything is possible with the magic of the Christmas season and faith in the Christmas angels.
this is Emma Cramer and Cole Drayton's story.
The wind threatened to push the battered green pickup off the blacktop. Emma Cramer increased her grip on the steering wheel, her hands already cramped. Now and then she released long enough to wipe a sweaty palm along her jeans’ leg. The heater worked sporadically but was useless for the most part.
“Charlie needs a mother and you need a wife. It’s high time you realized that.” Cole Drayton slammed the milk carton back on the shelf and shut the refrigerator door none too gently. He let out an exasperated grunt in reply while trying to temper the words that wanted to fly from his mouth. They were words that would probably get his mother headed after him with a bar of lye soap in her hand.
Can unsuspecting hearts intersect at the moment when love and trust is needed most? read this book to find out.
The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels by Debra Holt is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Texas Lawmen
This series features three of the sexiest lawmen ever to wear a badge. Two of them wear the silver star of the elite Texas Rangers. One is a United States Federal Marshal. Besides having the law in common, they are good friends with their friendships having been forged over the years. They keep their bonds of friendship and have each other’s backs whenever needed. Dedicated to duty and their badges, their private lives are solitary ones until the day each of them meets their match in the opposite sex.
Debra's Books with Tule:
Beware the Ranger
Texas Lawmen
The Lawman’s Apache Moon
Texas Lawmen
Along Came A Ranger
Texas Lawmen
The Sheriff’s Christmas Angels
Texas Lawmen
December 12, 2017
From a heart wrenching and poignant start to the adorably funny meet cute, this story captured my mind from the very first pages, kept me entertained till the very satisfying ending.
I loved how the author had mixed the drama and humor in this smoothly flowing tale that was so well crafted it was a pleasure to read. Even in the direst moments of grief, pain, and disappointments the light of hope is shining through keeping the story upbeat and inspiring.
Because there is a lot in Emma Cramer life that could have brought the angst as the major emotion in her life. She has never had it easy, but that has made tough, resilient, and flexible person with a generous and kind heart, who is willing to help others, easily makes friends and is a delightful and likable person to be around with.
Cole Drayton has his reasons to be distant and cynical. The hurt and wounds from the past finally start to heal in the warm light from Emma's eyes. Over the months, as they work together and get to know each other, the attraction sparks fire, the feelings grow, and they find a way to communicate and bond with each other, building a unique relationship, where the chemistry is a tangible force in between them.
I loved the tight community bond, the family that pulls together and spent time with each other, supporting each other.
A delightful mix of humor, drama, romance, and Christmas, with a sweet kid, a puppy, meddling yet loving grandparents, trouble from the past, a lady in need of a new chance on life, and a sheriff in need of Christmas miracle to make him smile again... Get ready for all the feels and Christmassy emotions
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
I loved how the author had mixed the drama and humor in this smoothly flowing tale that was so well crafted it was a pleasure to read. Even in the direst moments of grief, pain, and disappointments the light of hope is shining through keeping the story upbeat and inspiring.
Because there is a lot in Emma Cramer life that could have brought the angst as the major emotion in her life. She has never had it easy, but that has made tough, resilient, and flexible person with a generous and kind heart, who is willing to help others, easily makes friends and is a delightful and likable person to be around with.
Cole Drayton has his reasons to be distant and cynical. The hurt and wounds from the past finally start to heal in the warm light from Emma's eyes. Over the months, as they work together and get to know each other, the attraction sparks fire, the feelings grow, and they find a way to communicate and bond with each other, building a unique relationship, where the chemistry is a tangible force in between them.
I loved the tight community bond, the family that pulls together and spent time with each other, supporting each other.
A delightful mix of humor, drama, romance, and Christmas, with a sweet kid, a puppy, meddling yet loving grandparents, trouble from the past, a lady in need of a new chance on life, and a sheriff in need of Christmas miracle to make him smile again... Get ready for all the feels and Christmassy emotions
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
December 27, 2023
Chisos County Sheriff and his angels -
Thank you, Debra Holt, for another amazing book in the Texan Lawmen series.
I usually like to include a passage or two from the book - from chapter 8:
'His mother had been right. Everyone around him was right. People sang the praises of Emma Cramer. None more than his daughter. Cole should be in a good mood. But he wasn't. The 'why' of the condition was Emma Cramer. He had put up a wall where she was concerned. Then he had a weak moment and that wall went right back up... even higher. And now he was on one side of it and everyone else was on the other side. At least that's how it felt.'
Chapter 9:
'Emma stood for several seconds with the spatula still in her hand where she had halted it when he kissed her. What was going on? Something had changed. He acknowledged it with his words and his kisses and the look he had given her as he went out the door. 'Was it possible?' The words kept futtering through her mind... something had changed and she couldn't explain it.'
Pamela - the runaway mother - shows up at the worst possible time and plans to throw a wrench on Cole and Emma's relationship. It almost worked had Charlie not told him she wanted Emma as her mother. That is her Christmas wish as she prayed to the angel on the top of the Christmas tree every night right up until Christmas morning.
I love happy endings. Enjoy and happy reading Texas Lawmen (4 book series).
Thank you, Debra Holt, for another amazing book in the Texan Lawmen series.
I usually like to include a passage or two from the book - from chapter 8:
'His mother had been right. Everyone around him was right. People sang the praises of Emma Cramer. None more than his daughter. Cole should be in a good mood. But he wasn't. The 'why' of the condition was Emma Cramer. He had put up a wall where she was concerned. Then he had a weak moment and that wall went right back up... even higher. And now he was on one side of it and everyone else was on the other side. At least that's how it felt.'
Chapter 9:
'Emma stood for several seconds with the spatula still in her hand where she had halted it when he kissed her. What was going on? Something had changed. He acknowledged it with his words and his kisses and the look he had given her as he went out the door. 'Was it possible?' The words kept futtering through her mind... something had changed and she couldn't explain it.'
Pamela - the runaway mother - shows up at the worst possible time and plans to throw a wrench on Cole and Emma's relationship. It almost worked had Charlie not told him she wanted Emma as her mother. That is her Christmas wish as she prayed to the angel on the top of the Christmas tree every night right up until Christmas morning.
I love happy endings. Enjoy and happy reading Texas Lawmen (4 book series).
October 19, 2017
Emma has been taking on the world since she was a little girl through the good and the bad. She’s done with college and is ready to be the person she dream she could always be, someone to make her mom proud of. When things take a turn she starts to wonder where all her plans might go. Cole trust no women well other then his daughter and mom, but well they don't count. He just wishes his mom would back off and let him raise his daughter he doesn't need anyone in his life. But it seems that might be changing and he needs to find a way to protect his heart and his family. Can he come out of this situation unscathed?
I have read all four books in this series and hands down I think this one is my favorite. I really loved Mae, Darcy and Charlie. I loved the big role Charlie played in the book and how her personality was strong even though she was small. I loved how the book just jumps out at you and you can truly picture yourself there in the small Texas town. I really enjoyed how the author kept it clean for all but one small part which really was so tasteful and played an important part in the book. I really enjoyed Emma and how she was super independent but still vulnerable. Really you could not go wrong with this book super fun read and gets you ready for the holidays.
I have read all four books in this series and hands down I think this one is my favorite. I really loved Mae, Darcy and Charlie. I loved the big role Charlie played in the book and how her personality was strong even though she was small. I loved how the book just jumps out at you and you can truly picture yourself there in the small Texas town. I really enjoyed how the author kept it clean for all but one small part which really was so tasteful and played an important part in the book. I really enjoyed Emma and how she was super independent but still vulnerable. Really you could not go wrong with this book super fun read and gets you ready for the holidays.
December 21, 2021
This was a sweet, wholesome and heartwarming story about people who didn’t know they needed each other and were brought together by circumstance.
Emma is finding her way in life. No family, no friends, but a degree to get her started to the good life she can only dream of. Her car gives her no choice but to stop in this small town. The people are friendly and when she meets Mae her life changes instantly.
Cole is a single dad, acting Sheriff and rancher. He has no time for anything, but his little girl. His ex wife left them when their little girl was a baby and he has not looked at another woman with the thought of a relationship ever since. His Mom helps him when she can, but is pushing for him to get help. He is reluctant until Mae shows up with Emma.
The way these two meet is funny. Cole is very reluctant at first, but Emma quickly wins him over. She is amazing with Charlie and his little girl is happy. This is only short term, but thoughts of her staying forever quickly go into action for everyone.
This book is full of hope and wishes on angles for things they all have been longing for. The characters are great and the storyline is good with a few twists along the way to keep it interesting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emma is finding her way in life. No family, no friends, but a degree to get her started to the good life she can only dream of. Her car gives her no choice but to stop in this small town. The people are friendly and when she meets Mae her life changes instantly.
Cole is a single dad, acting Sheriff and rancher. He has no time for anything, but his little girl. His ex wife left them when their little girl was a baby and he has not looked at another woman with the thought of a relationship ever since. His Mom helps him when she can, but is pushing for him to get help. He is reluctant until Mae shows up with Emma.
The way these two meet is funny. Cole is very reluctant at first, but Emma quickly wins him over. She is amazing with Charlie and his little girl is happy. This is only short term, but thoughts of her staying forever quickly go into action for everyone.
This book is full of hope and wishes on angles for things they all have been longing for. The characters are great and the storyline is good with a few twists along the way to keep it interesting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 8, 2017
True to form , Ms Holt gives us another engaging story in her Texas Lawmen series.
This one is the story about Sheriff and rancher, Cole Drayson and Emma Cramer, a young woman trying to overcome the obstacles life has given her, and find a job in a large city. One that will allow her to use her recently acquired degree.
Both Emma and Cole have had losses and disappointments in life. Cole’s ex left him and his sweet daughter when the child was only a year old, and never looked back. His opinion of women is quite low and feels they always have an ulterior motive. Emma gets involved with his family when she rescues both his daughter and a stray dog.
In this story, Ms Holt reminds that even though life is full of ups and downs, there is always hope, second chances in life and love, and that maybe , we should believe in miracles and angels. Taking chances in life might hurt us , but those chances might also bring a new beginning and love.
A sweet story about the spirit of Christmas filled with a well developed plot and characters.
One that will be enjoyed by all.
I was gifted this copy by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This one is the story about Sheriff and rancher, Cole Drayson and Emma Cramer, a young woman trying to overcome the obstacles life has given her, and find a job in a large city. One that will allow her to use her recently acquired degree.
Both Emma and Cole have had losses and disappointments in life. Cole’s ex left him and his sweet daughter when the child was only a year old, and never looked back. His opinion of women is quite low and feels they always have an ulterior motive. Emma gets involved with his family when she rescues both his daughter and a stray dog.
In this story, Ms Holt reminds that even though life is full of ups and downs, there is always hope, second chances in life and love, and that maybe , we should believe in miracles and angels. Taking chances in life might hurt us , but those chances might also bring a new beginning and love.
A sweet story about the spirit of Christmas filled with a well developed plot and characters.
One that will be enjoyed by all.
I was gifted this copy by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
October 11, 2017
This is an excellent book that darn near brought me to tears. It contains wonderfully written characters, very relatable and true emotions, and a lovely story line.
The Sheriff's Christmas Angels relates the story of a woman needing love, security, and family as she comes to embraced by a family which needs her as well.
Cole Crayton has been raising his daughter, Charlie, alone since his wife left them when she was six months old. He has been fortunate to have the love and support of his parents in this. Cole has shut off his heart to love or relationships to prevent ever experiencing heartbreak again. His life is full of work to the dismay of his mother, Mae, who sees how his working absence is hurting his five year old daughter.
On a fluke, chance evening, Mae meets Emma who is trying to get to Austin for job interviews. A broken down truck, a puppy, and a job offer from Mae changes the course of her intentions and, ultimately, of her life. As she brings love and care to Charlie, Cole finds himself drawn to Emma. Events and miscommunications drive Emma away from the family and home she had hoped for her entire life.
The Sheriff's Christmas Angels relates the story of a woman needing love, security, and family as she comes to embraced by a family which needs her as well.
Cole Crayton has been raising his daughter, Charlie, alone since his wife left them when she was six months old. He has been fortunate to have the love and support of his parents in this. Cole has shut off his heart to love or relationships to prevent ever experiencing heartbreak again. His life is full of work to the dismay of his mother, Mae, who sees how his working absence is hurting his five year old daughter.
On a fluke, chance evening, Mae meets Emma who is trying to get to Austin for job interviews. A broken down truck, a puppy, and a job offer from Mae changes the course of her intentions and, ultimately, of her life. As she brings love and care to Charlie, Cole finds himself drawn to Emma. Events and miscommunications drive Emma away from the family and home she had hoped for her entire life.
February 3, 2018
This is romantic, captivating and sweet. Thanks to Cole's matchmaking mama, he and Emma meet in a most unusual way. Cole is angry that his mother, and his daughter, interfered with his peace of mind, but the longer that he's around Emma, the harder he finds it to resist her. Emma has been working for her degree for ten years and she finally has an opportunity to get a job relevant to her degree. Unfortunately her truck won't make it all the way. She comes across Cole's mom, Mae and daughter, Charlie and helps them. When Mae discovers Emma's circumstances, she immediately offers her a job. After Cole gives in and let's Emma stay, he can't help but be drawn to her sweet, strong and caring nature. Emma is drawn to the whole family, something she never had, but Cole has earned special consideration because she can't help but notice how, hurt, angry and lonely he is. I started reading this a few hours before bedtime, but I couldn't go to sleep until I finished it. It's a book that belongs on your TBR list, even if it's not Christmas time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from LibraryThing. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from LibraryThing. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
October 27, 2017
Acting Sheriff Cole Drayton swore off women after his wife left him and their 6 month old daughter for his brother. He also overworked himself so as not to dwell on it, with the help of his parents he made a life with daughter Charlie.
His mother tries to fix him up many times, baldly stating Charlie needed a mom.
Enter Emma Cramer..a Christmas Angel for Mae and Charlie Drayton. Mae could not get Charlie to come out of a dangerous garage that she followed a stray pup into. After getting both out, Emma agreed to keep the pup in order not to upset Charlie and went on her way. But her truck broke down, leaving her stranded in town long enough to reconnect with Mae and for Mae to offer her a job.
Having had a hard life, Emma is more than up to the challenges she faced overcoming Cole's objections and the three formed a family type unit until Cole's ex shows up.
Will they get past the damage she causes, or will the loving Christmas plans be ruined?
Grab it and find out how this sweet tale evolves.
I requested and was granted an ARC from NetGalley.
His mother tries to fix him up many times, baldly stating Charlie needed a mom.
Enter Emma Cramer..a Christmas Angel for Mae and Charlie Drayton. Mae could not get Charlie to come out of a dangerous garage that she followed a stray pup into. After getting both out, Emma agreed to keep the pup in order not to upset Charlie and went on her way. But her truck broke down, leaving her stranded in town long enough to reconnect with Mae and for Mae to offer her a job.
Having had a hard life, Emma is more than up to the challenges she faced overcoming Cole's objections and the three formed a family type unit until Cole's ex shows up.
Will they get past the damage she causes, or will the loving Christmas plans be ruined?
Grab it and find out how this sweet tale evolves.
I requested and was granted an ARC from NetGalley.
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