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Sullivan's Crossing #4
The Best of Us
In Sullivan’s Crossing, #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr has created a place where good people, powerful emotions, great humor and a healthy dose of common sense are the key ingredients to a happy life. Sullivan’s Crossing brings out the best in people. It’s a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Dr. Leigh Culver loves practicing medicine in Timberlake, Colorado. It is a much-needed change of pace from her stressful life in Chicago. The only drawback is she misses her aunt Helen, the woman who raised her. But it’s time that Leigh has her independence, and she hopes the beauty of the Colorado wilderness will entice her aunt to visit often.
Helen Culver is an independent woman who lovingly raised her sister’s orphaned child. Now, with Leigh grown, it’s time for her to live life for herself. The retired teacher has become a successful mystery writer who loves to travel and intends to never experience winter again.
When Helen visits Leigh, she is surprised to find her niece still needs her, especially when it comes to sorting out her love life. But the biggest surprise comes when Leigh takes Helen out to Sullivan’s Crossing and Helen finds herself falling for the place and one special person. Helen and Leigh will each have to decide if they can open themselves up to love neither expected to find and seize the opportunity to live their best lives.
Dr. Leigh Culver loves practicing medicine in Timberlake, Colorado. It is a much-needed change of pace from her stressful life in Chicago. The only drawback is she misses her aunt Helen, the woman who raised her. But it’s time that Leigh has her independence, and she hopes the beauty of the Colorado wilderness will entice her aunt to visit often.
Helen Culver is an independent woman who lovingly raised her sister’s orphaned child. Now, with Leigh grown, it’s time for her to live life for herself. The retired teacher has become a successful mystery writer who loves to travel and intends to never experience winter again.
When Helen visits Leigh, she is surprised to find her niece still needs her, especially when it comes to sorting out her love life. But the biggest surprise comes when Leigh takes Helen out to Sullivan’s Crossing and Helen finds herself falling for the place and one special person. Helen and Leigh will each have to decide if they can open themselves up to love neither expected to find and seize the opportunity to live their best lives.
334 pages, Hardcover
First published January 8, 2019
4090 people are currently reading
10258 people want to read
About the author
Robyn Carr
161 books12.6k followers Robyn Carr is a RITA® Award-winning, eleven-time #1 New York Times bestselling author of over sixty novels, including the critically acclaimed Virgin River series and Sullivan's Crossing series. Robyn's new women's fiction novel, THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB, will be released in January 2024. The new hit Sullivan's Crossing TV series (season 1) inspired by Robyn's book series was released in the USA in the fall of 2023! Plus, season 5 of the worldwide fan-favorite Virgin River TV Series is now streaming on Netflix (July 2023) with two holiday episodes coming November 30, 2023. Both TV series have been renewed for another season!
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 932 reviews
January 13, 2019
I remember reading the Virgin River Series and I was hooked with this author. The Sullivan's Crossing series just keeps getting better. The characters are so authentic and you feel connected to their stories.
Leigh is the town doctor and she is enjoying the work that she does along with the people in the town. One of her favorites is Sully, who has been a central character in the previous books. Leigh's aunt, Helen, has decided to join her for the summer as it has been the two of them since she was a little girl and they are inseparable. She's excited to share her new surroundings. Rob is Sidney's brother, who we met in the 3rd book and he owns the town Pub. He is smitten with Leigh and the two develop a friendship that evolves to deeper feelings. Rob has raised two teenage boys and is a widower so he is clear of his expectations of the type of relationship that he wants, and Leigh finds his expectations perfect for both of them...…...until it doesn't. The two receive news that will change the dynamic of their relationship and unsure how they can find a solution.
Aunt Helen has made friends quickly including Sully. The two enjoy each other's company and soon want to see if a serious relationship is in their future. I loved this storyline because Sully was so loveable in the previous books and for him to fall for Helen was so wonderful. Their banter was hilarious and while it was inevitable that the two would have strong feelings for each other, the two characters maintained their independence while being respectful to each other.
The pace of the book is perfect as you enjoy the development of each character and can't help falling in love with them. I love this series and can visualize the setting thanks to the awesome narration of the story. I cannot wait for the next installment in the series!!
Leigh is the town doctor and she is enjoying the work that she does along with the people in the town. One of her favorites is Sully, who has been a central character in the previous books. Leigh's aunt, Helen, has decided to join her for the summer as it has been the two of them since she was a little girl and they are inseparable. She's excited to share her new surroundings. Rob is Sidney's brother, who we met in the 3rd book and he owns the town Pub. He is smitten with Leigh and the two develop a friendship that evolves to deeper feelings. Rob has raised two teenage boys and is a widower so he is clear of his expectations of the type of relationship that he wants, and Leigh finds his expectations perfect for both of them...…...until it doesn't. The two receive news that will change the dynamic of their relationship and unsure how they can find a solution.
Aunt Helen has made friends quickly including Sully. The two enjoy each other's company and soon want to see if a serious relationship is in their future. I loved this storyline because Sully was so loveable in the previous books and for him to fall for Helen was so wonderful. Their banter was hilarious and while it was inevitable that the two would have strong feelings for each other, the two characters maintained their independence while being respectful to each other.
The pace of the book is perfect as you enjoy the development of each character and can't help falling in love with them. I love this series and can visualize the setting thanks to the awesome narration of the story. I cannot wait for the next installment in the series!!
January 27, 2019
Leigh Culver is a 34-year old doctor who left a successful city career in search of a higher quality of life in Timberlake, Colorado running the town clinic. It’s been a year and she’s settled in, now a part of the community. When widower and pub owner Rob Shandon shows up with one of his injured teenage sons in tow, it’s the beginning of a relationship that neither had anticipated nor like any other experienced before. Leigh was raised by her aunt Helen, a retired teacher and best-selling author, who’s now come for an extended visit and is spending lots of time on the porch at Sullivan’s Crossing with Sully, the owner of the campsite and store.
No one writes small town fiction like Carr. I know when I begin one of her books it’s going to be so satisfying and this one is no exception. This story doesn’t have lots of drama or one big moment, more like lots of interesting, heartwarming and sometimes challenging moments and events chronicling the natural evolution of two relationships. Interwoven in their romances are real life events that help you (and the characters) learn so much about them. Leigh and Rob’s romance was just lovely and I enjoyed how they worked through issues, even when they faced a pretty huge hurdle. Helen’s relationship with Sully was quite a surprise and I loved having a senior romance featured so prominently and not as a minor secondary storyline. They had their own considerations, issues and obstacles.
Obviously I loved this story for all the reasons already outlined. The strong sense of community and the extended family members from previous stories helped make this an exceptional reading experience. The characters are well designed and authentic, people you can imagine knowing and wanting to have as friends. It was great being back at Sullivan’s Crossing.
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
No one writes small town fiction like Carr. I know when I begin one of her books it’s going to be so satisfying and this one is no exception. This story doesn’t have lots of drama or one big moment, more like lots of interesting, heartwarming and sometimes challenging moments and events chronicling the natural evolution of two relationships. Interwoven in their romances are real life events that help you (and the characters) learn so much about them. Leigh and Rob’s romance was just lovely and I enjoyed how they worked through issues, even when they faced a pretty huge hurdle. Helen’s relationship with Sully was quite a surprise and I loved having a senior romance featured so prominently and not as a minor secondary storyline. They had their own considerations, issues and obstacles.
Obviously I loved this story for all the reasons already outlined. The strong sense of community and the extended family members from previous stories helped make this an exceptional reading experience. The characters are well designed and authentic, people you can imagine knowing and wanting to have as friends. It was great being back at Sullivan’s Crossing.
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
February 10, 2019
★★★½
The Best of Us is the fourth installment in Robyn Carr's contemporary romance series titled Sullivan's Crossing. Being a Robyn Carr newbie, I didn't know I was reading this book out of order until after the fact which is a testament to this series along with Carr's writing. Although I can't speak for her other books, The Best of Us works perfectly as a standalone novel...but of course I will be playing catch up very, very soon.
Spoiler contains my spin on the book synopsis:
I found The Best of Us to be engaging, emotional, complex, sexy, fun and filled with gorgeous Colorado settings that become characters in their own right. I'm looking forward to the next book...and all the ones that came before. Check it out.
My favorite quote:
"When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love. - Marcus Aurelius"
The Best of Us is the fourth installment in Robyn Carr's contemporary romance series titled Sullivan's Crossing. Being a Robyn Carr newbie, I didn't know I was reading this book out of order until after the fact which is a testament to this series along with Carr's writing. Although I can't speak for her other books, The Best of Us works perfectly as a standalone novel...but of course I will be playing catch up very, very soon.
Spoiler contains my spin on the book synopsis:
I found The Best of Us to be engaging, emotional, complex, sexy, fun and filled with gorgeous Colorado settings that become characters in their own right. I'm looking forward to the next book...and all the ones that came before. Check it out.
My favorite quote:
"When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love. - Marcus Aurelius"
December 2, 2025
Sullivan finally get to find love as well as a few others during this heart-warming addition.
Carr created a tale of friends, family and love that will put a smile on your face and warm you better than a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream. Not only do we have Leigh’s and Rob’s fun and sweet with a slow progression that lent to a strong and genuine love story. But we also got to see the book’s name sake, Sullivan finally find the perfect woman for him.
If you love a strong, tender romance with genuine, heart-felt relationships (and I’m not just talking about love) then The Best of Us is a wonderful pick.
I received this ARC copy of The Best of Us from HARLEQUIN - MIRA (U.S. and Canada). This is my honest and voluntary review.
Carr created a tale of friends, family and love that will put a smile on your face and warm you better than a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream. Not only do we have Leigh’s and Rob’s fun and sweet with a slow progression that lent to a strong and genuine love story. But we also got to see the book’s name sake, Sullivan finally find the perfect woman for him.
If you love a strong, tender romance with genuine, heart-felt relationships (and I’m not just talking about love) then The Best of Us is a wonderful pick.
I received this ARC copy of The Best of Us from HARLEQUIN - MIRA (U.S. and Canada). This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 30, 2019
At thirty-four Dr. Leigh Culver has all but given up on marriage and children, and she’s been okay with that finding fulfillment as a doctor. Leigh didn’t expect to find herself wrapped up in an all-consuming kind of romance with Rob Shandon, the local pub-owner. No one has revved her up as much and they just can’t get enough of each other! But it’s more than just the physical, they click mentally, too. Leigh feels so much it scares her, so she’s determined to be sure before she rushes into anything.
Rob Shandon lost his wife nine years ago and had to go it alone with two young boys. He’s fine with casual dates here and there, until Leigh. He’s seen her around but when his oldest boy has a minor accident they collide and connect, and even though he still isn’t keen on anything serious like marriage he’s finding it harder to picture a future that doesn’t include Leigh. They squeeze in lusty meet-ups whenever they can because they’re so crazy for each other! Rob thinks he’s fine with keeping things the way they are until an unexpected turn of events has them thinking about more.
Leigh finds herself feeling vulnerable, and worried about the future which has her stalling at making any decision. Her Aunt Helen (basically her mom) finally had to show her some tough love to shake some sense into Leigh. I didn’t blame Leigh, since I know from personal experience So I can excuse her thinking. Plus, she didn’t dilly dally that long.
It always feels like coming home to family and friends I love when I crack open one of Robyn Carr’s books. I was pleased to get more of Sullivan’s Crossing in this installment since Sully finally had his own romance with Leigh’s aunt. Sullivan’s Crossing sounds like an amazing place if you love hiking and camping or just enjoy the outdoors. It’s a campground, general store, post office, and more, where The Continental Divide Trail and The Colorado Trail intersect. I love how Leigh’s Aunt Helen, a world traveler and mystery writer, succumbed not only to Sully’s charms, but to the charm and beauty of this magical place! The Best of Us is the fourth installment in the Sullivan’s Crossing series, and it’d work okay as a stand-alone, but you’d get more enjoyment starting from the beginning, which I don’t consider a hardship since I love this series!
A copy was kindly provided by MIRA via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rob Shandon lost his wife nine years ago and had to go it alone with two young boys. He’s fine with casual dates here and there, until Leigh. He’s seen her around but when his oldest boy has a minor accident they collide and connect, and even though he still isn’t keen on anything serious like marriage he’s finding it harder to picture a future that doesn’t include Leigh. They squeeze in lusty meet-ups whenever they can because they’re so crazy for each other! Rob thinks he’s fine with keeping things the way they are until an unexpected turn of events has them thinking about more.
Leigh finds herself feeling vulnerable, and worried about the future which has her stalling at making any decision. Her Aunt Helen (basically her mom) finally had to show her some tough love to shake some sense into Leigh. I didn’t blame Leigh, since I know from personal experience So I can excuse her thinking. Plus, she didn’t dilly dally that long.
It always feels like coming home to family and friends I love when I crack open one of Robyn Carr’s books. I was pleased to get more of Sullivan’s Crossing in this installment since Sully finally had his own romance with Leigh’s aunt. Sullivan’s Crossing sounds like an amazing place if you love hiking and camping or just enjoy the outdoors. It’s a campground, general store, post office, and more, where The Continental Divide Trail and The Colorado Trail intersect. I love how Leigh’s Aunt Helen, a world traveler and mystery writer, succumbed not only to Sully’s charms, but to the charm and beauty of this magical place! The Best of Us is the fourth installment in the Sullivan’s Crossing series, and it’d work okay as a stand-alone, but you’d get more enjoyment starting from the beginning, which I don’t consider a hardship since I love this series!
A copy was kindly provided by MIRA via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2019
This is the fourth in a series and while I’ve wholeheartedly enjoyed every book, this one is hands down my favorite so far. I’m not sure exactly what made me love it so much this time, maybe it was that the two main characters this time around were so lovable or maybe it was just that I’ve grown to love reuniting with the residents of Timberlake, but whatever it is, Carr has made me a huge fan of this series.
There is always a lot going on in Carr’s books but this one had two separate developing romances and I was fully invested in both. I don’t want to ruin things for anyone but Helen ends up in a relationship with one of my favorite reoccurring characters and I was so excited about this storyline. The characters truly make this series special as well as the authenticity with which Carr writes, I always feel like I’m reading about real people in ordinary relationships which is so refreshing and appreciated.
The Best of Us in three words: Touching, Satisfying and Warm.
There is always a lot going on in Carr’s books but this one had two separate developing romances and I was fully invested in both. I don’t want to ruin things for anyone but Helen ends up in a relationship with one of my favorite reoccurring characters and I was so excited about this storyline. The characters truly make this series special as well as the authenticity with which Carr writes, I always feel like I’m reading about real people in ordinary relationships which is so refreshing and appreciated.
The Best of Us in three words: Touching, Satisfying and Warm.
March 27, 2019
Typical RC small town romance. Three separate romances: the main couple (Dr. Leigh and town pub owner Rob); young romance (Rob's son and his girlfriend); and omg Sully! gets a girlfriend (Leigh's feisty Aunt Helen).
Lots of dialogue in this one...which caught my attention. The stories were all interesting, the romances were mostly on the sweet side (ok, maybe Leigh and Rob got a little 'hot'...). Nothing too angsty here, a little bit of drama...just what you'd expect at Sullivan's Crossing . Real people acting in mature, believable ways. I read this series for the 'feel good' writing/storytelling, and it delivered.
A solid 4 stars
Lots of dialogue in this one...which caught my attention. The stories were all interesting, the romances were mostly on the sweet side (ok, maybe Leigh and Rob got a little 'hot'...). Nothing too angsty here, a little bit of drama...just what you'd expect at Sullivan's Crossing . Real people acting in mature, believable ways. I read this series for the 'feel good' writing/storytelling, and it delivered.
A solid 4 stars
January 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the fourth book I have read in the Sullivan���s Crossing series. I have loved reading each and everyone of them. I am definitely looking for to reading The Country Guesthouse the fifth book to complete the series.
This is the fourth book I have read in the Sullivan���s Crossing series. I have loved reading each and everyone of them. I am definitely looking for to reading The Country Guesthouse the fifth book to complete the series.
May 19, 2020
This was, without a doubt, my favorite book of the series thus far. While I enjoyed the main characters highlighted in this story, the secondary story was outstanding. Sully has been a terrific character from the first book. After all, it is his camping site, "Sullivan's Crossing," which lends its name to the series. However, he has always been an endearing and integral part to every story line. Sully and Helen's romance had me laughing out loud so many times. They were just adorable together and were, IMHO, the best parts of this book. Just loved them! And, I am thrilled Sully got a HEA. ;)
October 28, 2019
Three and a half stars.
Leigh Culver left her life in Chicago and settled into the town of Timberlake Colorado. Bring a doctor in Timberlake is much less stressful than her job in Chicago. After twelve months Leigh feels she is fitting in to the community. However she does muss her Aunt Helen. Aunt Helen raised her after her mother died, when Leigh was very young. She hopes Aunt Helen will visit and maybe stay a while. But Helen has other plans for her life. A retired teacher turned mystery writer Helen plans to travel and catch up with friends. When Helen does visit Sullivan’s Crossing she finds her life suddenly starting to change in ways she never expected.
This is book 4 in a series about Sullivan’s Crossing. I had not read any of the previous novels. It didn’t matter. I very quickly picked up who was who and what was going on. It’s a story about community, family and belonging. Some of the characters are very likeable, although I have to stay I never warmed particularly to Leigh. Incidents from her past were not convincing enough for me to accept her hesitations about developing the present relationship.
I found Leigh selfish and whiny a lot of the time. I did like Helen, Rob and his son Finn, Finn’s girlfriend Maia and Sully, the campground owner. At one stage I was right with Helen when she gave Leigh a good reality check. Though not without some heartbreaking serious moments, this was a good light read, even if at times Leigh did annoy me and I felt like telling her to wake up to herself. The ending seemed to be wrapped up fairly quickly. An enjoyable read but lacking that something to make it really special.
Leigh Culver left her life in Chicago and settled into the town of Timberlake Colorado. Bring a doctor in Timberlake is much less stressful than her job in Chicago. After twelve months Leigh feels she is fitting in to the community. However she does muss her Aunt Helen. Aunt Helen raised her after her mother died, when Leigh was very young. She hopes Aunt Helen will visit and maybe stay a while. But Helen has other plans for her life. A retired teacher turned mystery writer Helen plans to travel and catch up with friends. When Helen does visit Sullivan’s Crossing she finds her life suddenly starting to change in ways she never expected.
This is book 4 in a series about Sullivan’s Crossing. I had not read any of the previous novels. It didn’t matter. I very quickly picked up who was who and what was going on. It’s a story about community, family and belonging. Some of the characters are very likeable, although I have to stay I never warmed particularly to Leigh. Incidents from her past were not convincing enough for me to accept her hesitations about developing the present relationship.
I found Leigh selfish and whiny a lot of the time. I did like Helen, Rob and his son Finn, Finn’s girlfriend Maia and Sully, the campground owner. At one stage I was right with Helen when she gave Leigh a good reality check. Though not without some heartbreaking serious moments, this was a good light read, even if at times Leigh did annoy me and I felt like telling her to wake up to herself. The ending seemed to be wrapped up fairly quickly. An enjoyable read but lacking that something to make it really special.
January 9, 2019
I don't know why I read books by this author, when I just end up frustrated. The first book in this series was fine. The second & third were okay. But this one was awful.
Stock, cliched characters. A completely unoriginal story. And not just for the genre, but for this particular author..
This will be the last book I read from this author. I don't care if the series drags on for 10 more books. I'm so done here.
Stock, cliched characters. A completely unoriginal story. And not just for the genre, but for this particular author..
This will be the last book I read from this author. I don't care if the series drags on for 10 more books. I'm so done here.
January 14, 2019
Book four in the Sullivan Crossing Series is everything! Finally, our lovely Dr. Leigh Colver gets everything she wants, needs and deserves. I am always left with a warm and sweet smile after reading one of Robyn Carr’s books and this was like a cherry on a much wanted dessert.
I won't spoil anything for the reader, but what I will do is highlight the author a bit. She has written, an incredibly smart and kind heroine with an abundance of warmth. That's the kind of escapism I want to come home to at the end of a very long day.
The Best of Us gives me all the feelings I search for in a book and series.
Beautifully put together and a must for any bookshelf.
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I won't spoil anything for the reader, but what I will do is highlight the author a bit. She has written, an incredibly smart and kind heroine with an abundance of warmth. That's the kind of escapism I want to come home to at the end of a very long day.
The Best of Us gives me all the feelings I search for in a book and series.
Beautifully put together and a must for any bookshelf.
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November 27, 2022
I have to say you just can't beat a book by Carr. I always get pulled in from the very beginning and I can never put the book down. This series was so good. I can't wait to watch it on the big screen. I highly recommend this book.
January 5, 2019
I’ve only recently discovered Robyn Carr but she has written an impressive amount of novels in her career. I have seen her books randomly, usually at airport bookstores or in the supermarket book displays.
Like many of her fans, I love a good romance and often a well written romance is such a refreshing break from real life when you get home and dinner still needs to be made and the baby is crying and your husband is late from work. Those are the times that a good romance are especially welcoming which is why I think I see her books (as well as others) at the supermarket checkout stand or end-cap display.
People want to believe in romance and something thats different from the day to day. This last month I’ve been slowly but surely making my way though a lengthy, heavy novel (Fire and Blood) and to e honest, I desperately needed a break from the carnage that is Westerosi history!
I intentionally scheduled this book on my review calendar for this reason—I should have been done with Fire and Blood before Christmas so I could start this one and I knew I would need a break—something relaxing and romantic. I’m not done with Fire and Blood yet, but I took a break from the tedious history and welcomed in the new year with this wonderfully written novel about romance that would warm my heart.
I read the third book in this series back in April and while I thought it was a great read, there were clearly references to other plots and characters from other books in the series and I continued to see that in this book. It wasn’t awful or confusing, but it is noticeable and if you want to enjoy all the plot nuances then I would recommend starting with the first book in this series. They are quick reads so it shouldn’t take you too long if that’s your thing, but overall as a new reader to this series, I wasn’t completely lost, but I could tell I was missing out on other pieces of the larger story.
For example, Rob was introduced in the third book, so readers of the larger series will already know him and be familiar with him. Where as newer readers are meeting him for the first time. So that’s the kind of thing you might expect if you are new to the series. It’s not critical to read the others but be aware that there are things that you will enjoy more if you are familiar with the others.
This romance was so sweet and was everything that I would expect in a happily ever after. Rob was everything I would hope for in a love interest. He was sweet, a stand up guy, and knows who he is. I like that he wasn’t all moody and unsure of what he wanted. When he meets Leigh, it’s comical, endearing, and charming. I loved it!
I loved how the characters in the book helped Leigh work through her issues. There were times when I was annoyed with her but on the whole I felt that she was a solid heroine but for me Rob stole the show and my heart.
Carr is clearly a practiced and seasoned writer. It shows in her ability to discern what is important to the plot. She uses humor in her novels but it isn’t distracting. I can see why so many people love her books. You are getting what you are promised—-quality writing, well developed characters, a charming romance, and a happily ever after.
See my full review here
Like many of her fans, I love a good romance and often a well written romance is such a refreshing break from real life when you get home and dinner still needs to be made and the baby is crying and your husband is late from work. Those are the times that a good romance are especially welcoming which is why I think I see her books (as well as others) at the supermarket checkout stand or end-cap display.
People want to believe in romance and something thats different from the day to day. This last month I’ve been slowly but surely making my way though a lengthy, heavy novel (Fire and Blood) and to e honest, I desperately needed a break from the carnage that is Westerosi history!
I intentionally scheduled this book on my review calendar for this reason—I should have been done with Fire and Blood before Christmas so I could start this one and I knew I would need a break—something relaxing and romantic. I’m not done with Fire and Blood yet, but I took a break from the tedious history and welcomed in the new year with this wonderfully written novel about romance that would warm my heart.
I read the third book in this series back in April and while I thought it was a great read, there were clearly references to other plots and characters from other books in the series and I continued to see that in this book. It wasn’t awful or confusing, but it is noticeable and if you want to enjoy all the plot nuances then I would recommend starting with the first book in this series. They are quick reads so it shouldn’t take you too long if that’s your thing, but overall as a new reader to this series, I wasn’t completely lost, but I could tell I was missing out on other pieces of the larger story.
For example, Rob was introduced in the third book, so readers of the larger series will already know him and be familiar with him. Where as newer readers are meeting him for the first time. So that’s the kind of thing you might expect if you are new to the series. It’s not critical to read the others but be aware that there are things that you will enjoy more if you are familiar with the others.
This romance was so sweet and was everything that I would expect in a happily ever after. Rob was everything I would hope for in a love interest. He was sweet, a stand up guy, and knows who he is. I like that he wasn’t all moody and unsure of what he wanted. When he meets Leigh, it’s comical, endearing, and charming. I loved it!
I loved how the characters in the book helped Leigh work through her issues. There were times when I was annoyed with her but on the whole I felt that she was a solid heroine but for me Rob stole the show and my heart.
Carr is clearly a practiced and seasoned writer. It shows in her ability to discern what is important to the plot. She uses humor in her novels but it isn’t distracting. I can see why so many people love her books. You are getting what you are promised—-quality writing, well developed characters, a charming romance, and a happily ever after.
See my full review here
January 9, 2019
4.5 stars. The Best of Us is #4 in Robyn Carr's small town series of Sullivan's Crossing, Colorado. A new book in any of her series has always been a delight and this is just as much so in this case.
I liked especially the variety of age range in this book. Firstly we have I guess what might be the central couple of Leigh Culver - the local doctor and Rob Shandon the local pub owner. Leigh is thirty four, Rob is forty and has two teenage sons. Rob is the brother to Sid, we met her in a previous book when she fell for Dakota Jones.
It's not long before Leigh and Rob fall for each other, there is a fun first meeting and from then on its all on. But... do this couple have their act together? They both have previous experiences that make them cautious. When one is hot the other is cold on a permanent relationship. So will they ever be on the same page... and believe me they sure need to get there!
Helen is Leigh's aunt and she comes to stay with Leigh. In fact she brought Leigh up as Leigh lost her mother at the age of four. Helen is a retired teacher and a writer of mystery books - quite gory ones if her new reader can be believed! She finds that she loves sitting on Sully's porch out at the camp at Sullivan's Crossing, looking out at the wild life while she writes. And that's not all that she finds herself looking at.
The young people are represented by Finn (Rob's son) and his girlfriend Maia, both just finishing high school and preparing for college. They are a delight and full of tender, young love. There is a rather huge crisis that brings Finn stepping up very much to the plate and indicates what kind of man he is going to grow into.
This is very much a story of family, being there for each other, sorting through challenges and coming out the other side. Another charming developed story, with characters I couldn't help falling for. Sean and Finn looking right at you!
I liked especially the variety of age range in this book. Firstly we have I guess what might be the central couple of Leigh Culver - the local doctor and Rob Shandon the local pub owner. Leigh is thirty four, Rob is forty and has two teenage sons. Rob is the brother to Sid, we met her in a previous book when she fell for Dakota Jones.
It's not long before Leigh and Rob fall for each other, there is a fun first meeting and from then on its all on. But... do this couple have their act together? They both have previous experiences that make them cautious. When one is hot the other is cold on a permanent relationship. So will they ever be on the same page... and believe me they sure need to get there!
Helen is Leigh's aunt and she comes to stay with Leigh. In fact she brought Leigh up as Leigh lost her mother at the age of four. Helen is a retired teacher and a writer of mystery books - quite gory ones if her new reader can be believed! She finds that she loves sitting on Sully's porch out at the camp at Sullivan's Crossing, looking out at the wild life while she writes. And that's not all that she finds herself looking at.
The young people are represented by Finn (Rob's son) and his girlfriend Maia, both just finishing high school and preparing for college. They are a delight and full of tender, young love. There is a rather huge crisis that brings Finn stepping up very much to the plate and indicates what kind of man he is going to grow into.
This is very much a story of family, being there for each other, sorting through challenges and coming out the other side. Another charming developed story, with characters I couldn't help falling for. Sean and Finn looking right at you!
January 8, 2019
I love Sullivan's Crossing from the campground to the small community of Timberlake, Colorado where everyone knows your business. Whether you are a new fan or just picking up this story, The Best of Us, will work as a standalone. I do however recommend starting from the beginning. All the little connections from places to people are not to be missed. Soon you'll be packing your bags to visit this quaint little town with its majestic views.
In the last book we met Dr. Leigh Culver. She has moved to Timberlake and loves her new practice and slower pace of life offers after years spent in Chicago. Leigh comes with some emotional baggage. She has never quite gotten over her first love. She threw herself into medical school and her best friend is her beloved Aunt Helen who raised her. All that is about to change when Rob, the local pub owner and widowed father of teenage boys challenges her to explore love again.
Readers are treated to a second romance when Aunt Helen relocates to Timberlake for the summer and finds the perfect place to write on Sully's front porch. It delighted me to see Sully get his own romance after all everyone deserves love and companionship. This was a fun courtship and Carr made me laugh from talks of pajamas to long walks.
Drama came in the form of a surprise and while not my favorite plot but it was executed flawlessly. The story offered tender moments from Rob's sons to powerful growth and acknowledgement of the sacrifices parental figures make for the children they love. I am not at all sure if this was the last book, but I would gladly visit Sullivan's Crossing again. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
In the last book we met Dr. Leigh Culver. She has moved to Timberlake and loves her new practice and slower pace of life offers after years spent in Chicago. Leigh comes with some emotional baggage. She has never quite gotten over her first love. She threw herself into medical school and her best friend is her beloved Aunt Helen who raised her. All that is about to change when Rob, the local pub owner and widowed father of teenage boys challenges her to explore love again.
Readers are treated to a second romance when Aunt Helen relocates to Timberlake for the summer and finds the perfect place to write on Sully's front porch. It delighted me to see Sully get his own romance after all everyone deserves love and companionship. This was a fun courtship and Carr made me laugh from talks of pajamas to long walks.
Drama came in the form of a surprise and while not my favorite plot but it was executed flawlessly. The story offered tender moments from Rob's sons to powerful growth and acknowledgement of the sacrifices parental figures make for the children they love. I am not at all sure if this was the last book, but I would gladly visit Sullivan's Crossing again. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
December 7, 2018
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am a total Robyn Carr fan. I have been hooked on her books since I began reading them. The Virgin River series has always been my favorite, but I have to say that this series is rivaling it.
Leigh Culver leaves Chicago and a busy hospital behind for a tamer life in Colorado running a clinic. She has lived there approximately a year and knows a lot of the townspeople. Rob Shandon, a local pub owner, comes in as the clinic with his son, Sean who has sliced his hand on a broken piece of glass while emptying a dishwasher. Leigh stitches Sean up and near the end Rob almost passes out. Leigh soothes him and makes him feel better.
Since the death of his wife, Rob has been raising his two teenage sons while owning and operating the pub. He has family in the area that help him out, but the responsibility for their welfare falls on him.
Leigh was raised by her aunt after her mother died during a routine operation. She has known heartbreak and has not had a lasting relationship in years.
Leigh’s Aunt Helen finally comes out for a longer visit to see Leigh and spend some time with her. Here she runs into Sully, the owner of a campsite on the edge of a hiking trail. Helen is a mystery writer and she falls in love with writing on the front porch of Sully’s house.
This book centers on Leigh and Rob with a side of Helen and Sully with the rest of the cast of characters we have grown to love sprinkled in.
Throughout this book which is woven with issues that occur every day, there is romance, illness, problems, and family. We see couples fall in love, have babies and endure serious illnesses.
5 stars
I am a total Robyn Carr fan. I have been hooked on her books since I began reading them. The Virgin River series has always been my favorite, but I have to say that this series is rivaling it.
Leigh Culver leaves Chicago and a busy hospital behind for a tamer life in Colorado running a clinic. She has lived there approximately a year and knows a lot of the townspeople. Rob Shandon, a local pub owner, comes in as the clinic with his son, Sean who has sliced his hand on a broken piece of glass while emptying a dishwasher. Leigh stitches Sean up and near the end Rob almost passes out. Leigh soothes him and makes him feel better.
Since the death of his wife, Rob has been raising his two teenage sons while owning and operating the pub. He has family in the area that help him out, but the responsibility for their welfare falls on him.
Leigh was raised by her aunt after her mother died during a routine operation. She has known heartbreak and has not had a lasting relationship in years.
Leigh’s Aunt Helen finally comes out for a longer visit to see Leigh and spend some time with her. Here she runs into Sully, the owner of a campsite on the edge of a hiking trail. Helen is a mystery writer and she falls in love with writing on the front porch of Sully’s house.
This book centers on Leigh and Rob with a side of Helen and Sully with the rest of the cast of characters we have grown to love sprinkled in.
Throughout this book which is woven with issues that occur every day, there is romance, illness, problems, and family. We see couples fall in love, have babies and endure serious illnesses.
5 stars
June 22, 2019
RATING: 4 STARS
2019; Mira/HarperCollins Canada
(Review Not on Blog)
I really enjoyed the latest novel in the Sullivan's Crossing series! While I enjoyed Rob and Leigh's story...Sully and Helen's story was the one that warmed my heart. I have been wondering since book one if he would find someone or if there would even be a hint of a romance. I like Helen, who is also Leigh's aunt (and her guardian as a child), and love Sully so the two of them together are a great balance. Carr also does a great job with the relationship between Leigh and Helen. I cannot wait for the next book as we get to visit with all characters. I am a huge fan of Robyn Carr, and have read most of her contemporary romances set in small towns. I find them as a perfect escape from reality.
***I received an eARC from EDELWEISS and NETGALLEY***
2019; Mira/HarperCollins Canada
(Review Not on Blog)
I really enjoyed the latest novel in the Sullivan's Crossing series! While I enjoyed Rob and Leigh's story...Sully and Helen's story was the one that warmed my heart. I have been wondering since book one if he would find someone or if there would even be a hint of a romance. I like Helen, who is also Leigh's aunt (and her guardian as a child), and love Sully so the two of them together are a great balance. Carr also does a great job with the relationship between Leigh and Helen. I cannot wait for the next book as we get to visit with all characters. I am a huge fan of Robyn Carr, and have read most of her contemporary romances set in small towns. I find them as a perfect escape from reality.
***I received an eARC from EDELWEISS and NETGALLEY***
February 14, 2019
Reviewed for THC Reviews
The Best of Us is the latest release in Robyn Carr’s Sullivan’s Crossing series that’s jam-packed wall-to-wall with romance for everyone from the young to the young at heart. In it, we have family-practice/urgent care doctor Leigh, who is relatively new to Timberlake, paired with widower and local pub owner, Rob, who has two teenage sons. In addition, long-time resident Sully, owner of Sullivan’s Crossing campground and general store finds love in his golden years with Leigh’s aunt, while Rob’s oldest son shares a sweet teen romance with his girlfriend as well. It was all very enjoyable and heartwarming, but I have to admit that I went into reading it with a bit of trepidation. Robyn Carr is an author whose books I generally enjoy. I’ve given nearly all of her books I’ve read to date four stars or above, but over time, certain quirks of her writing style have started to grate a little, so those that I consider keepers have become fewer and farther between. However, despite my occasional misgivings, her books always tend to rate highly with her fans. There’s barely a one that doesn’t have above a four-star rating. That’s why, when I noticed this one had below four stars on GoodReads, I started to worry a little. If others found something significant enough to criticize, surely I would, too. But I kept reading and reading, and nothing was jumping out at me. It just seemed to be typical Robyn Carr fare that, in my estimation, was a little above the cut. Since I haven’t read any other reviews yet, the only thing I can speculate is that readers didn’t care for the way the heroine handled certain events later in the story, which I’ll address momentarily. But in all honesty, I wasn’t overly bothered by it, so The Best of Us has become one of those somewhat rare keepers I mentioned and my favorite book in the series so far.
Rob is a widower whose wife died suddenly and tragically from a heart infection many years ago when his boys were still quite young. He had dreams of being a restaurateur, but after becoming a single father in the blink of an eye, he needed to find something more flexible so that he could raise his boys. So he moved to the little town of Timberlake and bought a run-down pub, which he revitalized and turned into one of the most popular eating establishments in town. He loves his work but his business and being a hands-on father to his sons keep him very busy – too busy for relationships. That’s why in all these ensuing years, he’s only had a couple of casual dalliances with women. But when Rob meets Leigh, the new town doctor, after his son cuts his hand, that all changes. He’s incredibly attracted to her, and after only a couple of dates, they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Although he loved his wife deeply, Rob can’t recall ever feeling this way about anyone before, but because of their respective careers and responsibilities, he’s reluctant to progress their relationship beyond the friends with benefits level. However, an unexpected pregnancy changes everything. Rob is one of those rare forty-ish romance heroes, who thought he was nearly done raising a family and didn’t want to start a new one, but he’s surprised to find that he really wants this baby and refuses to let Leigh go through parenthood alone. He’s determined to be an involved father and to find a way to make it all work. Rob is an absolute sweetheart and my dream man. He’s even-tempered, an incredible father, and someone who takes all of his responsibilities seriously. Basically he’s a superhero in my estimation and exactly the kind of man any woman would want to have around.
Leigh’s mother died when she was very young, so she was raised by an aunt who never married. It was always the two of them against the world, and they’ve always lived together, rarely spending any time apart, until Leigh moved from Chicago to Timberlake to run the family clinic and urgent care center in town. Now her aunt is planning on selling their house in Chicago, then stopping over in Colorado while deciding where she wants to hang her hat more permanently, which has Leigh excited. Then she discovers Rob, who excites her in more ways than one. Their relationship is like a whirlwind, but their chemistry is undeniable. However, in part because of how she grew up, she’s a very independent woman who’s as content with the status quo as Rob is until she realizes she’s carrying a little bundle of joy. She never really thought she’d have kids. After all, her aunt never had any of her own and has lived a happy life. But from the moment she realizes she’s pregnant, she can’t conceive of not having the baby. Despite that, though, she’s reluctant to marry Rob, partly because of her independent streak and party because of a past bad experience with an ex-fiancé who basically left her heart-broken at the altar. She thinks that she and Aunt Helen can raise the baby just fine on their own, and Rob can be involved or not, depending on what he wants, never really taking anyone else’s feelings into account. This is where I’ll bet some readers had issues with Leigh, and I’ll admit that she came close to tweaking my buttons, too, especially since she had such an incredible guy on the hook. But I felt that the author explained her motivations well enough that I was able to forgive her lapse in judgment. Leigh also realizes just how selfish she’s been and makes appropriate apologies to both Rob and Helen, leaving me feeling that she’d learned from the experience and wouldn’t repeat it. So although Leigh wasn’t perfect, I did come away feeling that I understood her.
The second romance in the book revolves around Sully and Helen. From the beginning, Sully and the Sullivan’s Crossing campground has been the focal point around which the series revolves. Everyone – both locals and those passing through – love Sully, but he’s a little set in his ways. He’s been single since divorcing Maggie’s mother decades ago, and generally seems to like it that way. He has tons of people coming and going from Sullivan’s Crossing, so he’s never lonely. Then Helen shows up, and he lights up like a firefly. I’ve never seen Sully so excited about someone, and it’s really cute to read about this older man finding new love late in life. Helen is a successful mystery author, who takes up residence on Sully’s porch to write her next novel, surrounded by the beauty of the Colorado Rockies. Although they seemingly have little in common, they find plenty to talk about, developing a comfortable companionship that soon blossoms into love. The only downside is that Helen hates winters, which is why she decided to leave Chicago, so they have to see if it’s all enough to keep her there more permanently.
The last romance involves Rob’s oldest son, Finn, a high-school senior. It took him a while to work up the courage to ask out Maia, one of his classmates, because she’s a pretty popular girl. But now that they’ve been together for a few months, they’re making plans for their futures and feeling sad that they might not see each other much once they go off to college. Then their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Maia experiences a major health crisis. However, through it all, Finn is right there by her side, keeping vigil. Maia is a very brave girl, while Finn is a sweet, sensitive boy who’s very much like his father. He’s a strong rock for Maia to lean on, but also very kind and considerate in every way. If the way Finn treats Maia is any indication, Rob did a fabulous job raising this kid.
Overall, The Best of Us was a very enjoyable read. There are lots of sighting of past Sullivan's Crossing characters as well, Maggie (What We Find) is involved in Maia’s care, while Cal helps Sully come into the 21st century to keep in better touch with Helen while she traveling. Connie and Sierra (Any Day Now) welcome a new addition, and Sid and Dakota (The Family Gathering) make life moves while helping to look out for Rob’s boys and his business when he can’t be around. Having multiple romances this time around made for three times the fun. I was so wrapped up in everything that was going on, that I barely even noticed those writing quirks I mentioned earlier that usually irritate me. I adored Rob, who’s a prince among men, I understood Leigh’s issues, I loved the other two romances for the young ‘uns and the older ones, and what Rob’s boys did toward the end to make Leigh feel more at home was so utterly endearing, I got a little misty-eyed. There just wasn’t anything that I disliked this time around, so I can say without a doubt that this is my favorite in the series so far even if it wasn’t for other readers. I have no idea who the next book might be about – although that’s nothing new for this series – but I look forward to finding out around this time next year.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Best of Us is the latest release in Robyn Carr’s Sullivan’s Crossing series that’s jam-packed wall-to-wall with romance for everyone from the young to the young at heart. In it, we have family-practice/urgent care doctor Leigh, who is relatively new to Timberlake, paired with widower and local pub owner, Rob, who has two teenage sons. In addition, long-time resident Sully, owner of Sullivan’s Crossing campground and general store finds love in his golden years with Leigh’s aunt, while Rob’s oldest son shares a sweet teen romance with his girlfriend as well. It was all very enjoyable and heartwarming, but I have to admit that I went into reading it with a bit of trepidation. Robyn Carr is an author whose books I generally enjoy. I’ve given nearly all of her books I’ve read to date four stars or above, but over time, certain quirks of her writing style have started to grate a little, so those that I consider keepers have become fewer and farther between. However, despite my occasional misgivings, her books always tend to rate highly with her fans. There’s barely a one that doesn’t have above a four-star rating. That’s why, when I noticed this one had below four stars on GoodReads, I started to worry a little. If others found something significant enough to criticize, surely I would, too. But I kept reading and reading, and nothing was jumping out at me. It just seemed to be typical Robyn Carr fare that, in my estimation, was a little above the cut. Since I haven’t read any other reviews yet, the only thing I can speculate is that readers didn’t care for the way the heroine handled certain events later in the story, which I’ll address momentarily. But in all honesty, I wasn’t overly bothered by it, so The Best of Us has become one of those somewhat rare keepers I mentioned and my favorite book in the series so far.
Rob is a widower whose wife died suddenly and tragically from a heart infection many years ago when his boys were still quite young. He had dreams of being a restaurateur, but after becoming a single father in the blink of an eye, he needed to find something more flexible so that he could raise his boys. So he moved to the little town of Timberlake and bought a run-down pub, which he revitalized and turned into one of the most popular eating establishments in town. He loves his work but his business and being a hands-on father to his sons keep him very busy – too busy for relationships. That’s why in all these ensuing years, he’s only had a couple of casual dalliances with women. But when Rob meets Leigh, the new town doctor, after his son cuts his hand, that all changes. He’s incredibly attracted to her, and after only a couple of dates, they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Although he loved his wife deeply, Rob can’t recall ever feeling this way about anyone before, but because of their respective careers and responsibilities, he’s reluctant to progress their relationship beyond the friends with benefits level. However, an unexpected pregnancy changes everything. Rob is one of those rare forty-ish romance heroes, who thought he was nearly done raising a family and didn’t want to start a new one, but he’s surprised to find that he really wants this baby and refuses to let Leigh go through parenthood alone. He’s determined to be an involved father and to find a way to make it all work. Rob is an absolute sweetheart and my dream man. He’s even-tempered, an incredible father, and someone who takes all of his responsibilities seriously. Basically he’s a superhero in my estimation and exactly the kind of man any woman would want to have around.
Leigh’s mother died when she was very young, so she was raised by an aunt who never married. It was always the two of them against the world, and they’ve always lived together, rarely spending any time apart, until Leigh moved from Chicago to Timberlake to run the family clinic and urgent care center in town. Now her aunt is planning on selling their house in Chicago, then stopping over in Colorado while deciding where she wants to hang her hat more permanently, which has Leigh excited. Then she discovers Rob, who excites her in more ways than one. Their relationship is like a whirlwind, but their chemistry is undeniable. However, in part because of how she grew up, she’s a very independent woman who’s as content with the status quo as Rob is until she realizes she’s carrying a little bundle of joy. She never really thought she’d have kids. After all, her aunt never had any of her own and has lived a happy life. But from the moment she realizes she’s pregnant, she can’t conceive of not having the baby. Despite that, though, she’s reluctant to marry Rob, partly because of her independent streak and party because of a past bad experience with an ex-fiancé who basically left her heart-broken at the altar. She thinks that she and Aunt Helen can raise the baby just fine on their own, and Rob can be involved or not, depending on what he wants, never really taking anyone else’s feelings into account. This is where I’ll bet some readers had issues with Leigh, and I’ll admit that she came close to tweaking my buttons, too, especially since she had such an incredible guy on the hook. But I felt that the author explained her motivations well enough that I was able to forgive her lapse in judgment. Leigh also realizes just how selfish she’s been and makes appropriate apologies to both Rob and Helen, leaving me feeling that she’d learned from the experience and wouldn’t repeat it. So although Leigh wasn’t perfect, I did come away feeling that I understood her.
The second romance in the book revolves around Sully and Helen. From the beginning, Sully and the Sullivan’s Crossing campground has been the focal point around which the series revolves. Everyone – both locals and those passing through – love Sully, but he’s a little set in his ways. He’s been single since divorcing Maggie’s mother decades ago, and generally seems to like it that way. He has tons of people coming and going from Sullivan’s Crossing, so he’s never lonely. Then Helen shows up, and he lights up like a firefly. I’ve never seen Sully so excited about someone, and it’s really cute to read about this older man finding new love late in life. Helen is a successful mystery author, who takes up residence on Sully’s porch to write her next novel, surrounded by the beauty of the Colorado Rockies. Although they seemingly have little in common, they find plenty to talk about, developing a comfortable companionship that soon blossoms into love. The only downside is that Helen hates winters, which is why she decided to leave Chicago, so they have to see if it’s all enough to keep her there more permanently.
The last romance involves Rob’s oldest son, Finn, a high-school senior. It took him a while to work up the courage to ask out Maia, one of his classmates, because she’s a pretty popular girl. But now that they’ve been together for a few months, they’re making plans for their futures and feeling sad that they might not see each other much once they go off to college. Then their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Maia experiences a major health crisis. However, through it all, Finn is right there by her side, keeping vigil. Maia is a very brave girl, while Finn is a sweet, sensitive boy who’s very much like his father. He’s a strong rock for Maia to lean on, but also very kind and considerate in every way. If the way Finn treats Maia is any indication, Rob did a fabulous job raising this kid.
Overall, The Best of Us was a very enjoyable read. There are lots of sighting of past Sullivan's Crossing characters as well, Maggie (What We Find) is involved in Maia’s care, while Cal helps Sully come into the 21st century to keep in better touch with Helen while she traveling. Connie and Sierra (Any Day Now) welcome a new addition, and Sid and Dakota (The Family Gathering) make life moves while helping to look out for Rob’s boys and his business when he can’t be around. Having multiple romances this time around made for three times the fun. I was so wrapped up in everything that was going on, that I barely even noticed those writing quirks I mentioned earlier that usually irritate me. I adored Rob, who’s a prince among men, I understood Leigh’s issues, I loved the other two romances for the young ‘uns and the older ones, and what Rob’s boys did toward the end to make Leigh feel more at home was so utterly endearing, I got a little misty-eyed. There just wasn’t anything that I disliked this time around, so I can say without a doubt that this is my favorite in the series so far even if it wasn’t for other readers. I have no idea who the next book might be about – although that’s nothing new for this series – but I look forward to finding out around this time next year.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2023
First book of 2019!
The Best of Us, fourth book of the Sullivan's Crossing series, takes place in a small town called Timberlake, Colorado. It's the perfect place for Dr. Leigh Culver, who recently moved from Chicago looking for a more relaxing lifestyle. She's selfish, judgemental, and has a lot to learn if she's going to open her heart for local pub owner, Rob. Rob's son, Finn, is in his first serious relationship during his last year of high school. Leigh's Aunt Helen is a retired teacher and author, who raised Leigh after her mother died when she was young. When Helen comes to visit Leigh she strikes up an unexpected relationship. This quick read is a character-driven, feel-good story about friendship, family, and romance.
There are a lot of characters, many mentioned in the first chapter. It felt like an overwhelming info-dump. I almost gave up reading when I was almost a quarter into the book because I wasn't enjoying the writing style at all, however, something happens and that's it - hooked till the end (and even shed some tears).
Sullivan's Crossing, the campground owned by Sully, is a charming place. Sully, a 72-year-old, is my favourite character. He's smart, gentle, kind, and funny. I haven't read any of the other books in the series (and had no idea it was part of a series when I requested the ARC on Netgalley), but I would like to read more stories by Carr if they take place at Sullivan's Crossing.
There were many little things that made this story feel very dated:
1. Referring to salad and diet coke as "girl food"
2. "doesn't look like he could've been the kind of kid to get picked on" because the kid was good-looking.
3. Why in the world would a 34-year-old woman bring her Aunt on a first date?
4. What's the problem with an unmarried pregnant woman?
I recommend this one to adult readers who enjoy a sweet romance story.
Setting: 3/5
Plot: 1.5/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Writing: 2.5/5
Message: 2.5/5
Overall: 2.4 It was O.K.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for the complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
*Quotes taken from an ARC copy and subject to change*
The Best of Us, fourth book of the Sullivan's Crossing series, takes place in a small town called Timberlake, Colorado. It's the perfect place for Dr. Leigh Culver, who recently moved from Chicago looking for a more relaxing lifestyle. She's selfish, judgemental, and has a lot to learn if she's going to open her heart for local pub owner, Rob. Rob's son, Finn, is in his first serious relationship during his last year of high school. Leigh's Aunt Helen is a retired teacher and author, who raised Leigh after her mother died when she was young. When Helen comes to visit Leigh she strikes up an unexpected relationship. This quick read is a character-driven, feel-good story about friendship, family, and romance.
There are a lot of characters, many mentioned in the first chapter. It felt like an overwhelming info-dump. I almost gave up reading when I was almost a quarter into the book because I wasn't enjoying the writing style at all, however, something happens and that's it - hooked till the end (and even shed some tears).
Sullivan's Crossing, the campground owned by Sully, is a charming place. Sully, a 72-year-old, is my favourite character. He's smart, gentle, kind, and funny. I haven't read any of the other books in the series (and had no idea it was part of a series when I requested the ARC on Netgalley), but I would like to read more stories by Carr if they take place at Sullivan's Crossing.
There were many little things that made this story feel very dated:
1. Referring to salad and diet coke as "girl food"
2. "doesn't look like he could've been the kind of kid to get picked on" because the kid was good-looking.
3. Why in the world would a 34-year-old woman bring her Aunt on a first date?
4. What's the problem with an unmarried pregnant woman?
I recommend this one to adult readers who enjoy a sweet romance story.
Setting: 3/5
Plot: 1.5/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Writing: 2.5/5
Message: 2.5/5
Overall: 2.4 It was O.K.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for the complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
*Quotes taken from an ARC copy and subject to change*
May 7, 2020
Series: Sullivan's Crossing, Book 4
Dr. Leigh Culve (34) loves practicing medicine in Timberlake, Colorado and she has nicely settled in. She only misses her aunt Helen, the woman who raised her, and who she left behind in Chicago. Helen Culver (62) is now retired teacher who has become a sucessful mystery writer and enjoys her independence and freedom. When Helen comes to visit Leigh, she finds herself falling for the place and one very special person. Leigh's love life hasn't been happy one but now she start to feel strong attraction towards Rob Shandon (40), a widower, the fater of Finn and Sean and a local pub owner.
This was quick read and I liked this story, however, I was often irritated with Leigh’s behavior. There are three romantic couples, plus couples from previous books, and they each wanted and deserved their attention but in the end the focus was all over the place. It wasn't bad story but could have been much better!
February 5, 2019
The moment I finished THE BEST OF US I wasn’t sure why I had such mixed feelings, but as I sat there and thought about it I realized what it was… I struggled with our main character. I’ve come to expect a more relatable main character who keeps me invested and was disappointed when I actually found myself more irritated with Leigh’s behavior. By the end, it didn’t matter if she redeemed herself or not, I found her selfish and annoying and I wish I didn’t feel this way because I truly loved Rob. I loved his kids. And I would love to see more of their blended family. Sure enough though, the secondary characters were just what I needed to pull me through. Hello beloved Jones' family!! However, there are a few new romances here that I felt didn’t get enough attention so let’s hope those get addressed in the next book!
I also felt there were pieces to the story that could have been left out all together. In my opinion, they didn’t really added anything to the book and left me wondering why it was brought up and where it was going only to find out it went nowhere. Overall, this wasn’t my favorite of the series, but it was still a quick and enjoyable read. Just like its predecessors, it revolves around family, friends, and love.
I also felt there were pieces to the story that could have been left out all together. In my opinion, they didn’t really added anything to the book and left me wondering why it was brought up and where it was going only to find out it went nowhere. Overall, this wasn’t my favorite of the series, but it was still a quick and enjoyable read. Just like its predecessors, it revolves around family, friends, and love.
April 14, 2019
Not Robyn Carr's best, but still a delightful return to Sullivan's Crossing. Even Sully gets some this time. Though, there must be something in the water considering how fast people get pregnant around there.
I liked this book and this author. But this one just seemed a little tame and gentle.
I liked this book and this author. But this one just seemed a little tame and gentle.
February 7, 2019
I’m not sure why, but I kinda feel like Robyn Carr books are my guilty pleasure. Like “eating a full-sized Snickers bar for lunch” kind of guilty pleasure. Yes, her series tend to be formulaic. Yes, these towns and people she creates are an unrealistic utopia. But dang it, the books are fun, well written, have the most excellently written dialogue, and they make me happy sigh.
Maybe a more realistic analogy is that they’re my catnip...
At any rate, I LOVED my return visit to Sullivan’s Crossing. Even Sully himself, the cranky and oft-crotchety old man who owns Sullivan’s Crossing, finds himself a lady friend this time!
A year ago, Dr. Leigh Culver left her hometown of Chicago for a quieter, slower pace of life in the mountain town of Timberlake, Colorado. As the town’s doctor, that doesn’t mean life is boring though. And when she catches the eye of bar owner, Rob Shandon, life gets exciting, real quick!
Rob Shandon lost his wife nine years ago. With two sons, ages eight and six, he didn’t have time to wallow or feel sorry for himself. In need of a way to raise his boys and earn a living, he bought the only bar in Timberlake and made a life for himself and his boys. He’s had neither time, or the energy, for a serious relationship. But when his son Finn gets injured and requires medical care, Dr. Culver all the sudden piques his interest.
The thing I love most about Ms. Carr’s romances is that the characters are relatable, and their situations so realistic. Throw in the side characters, and what is going on in their lives, and you’ve got a full book with lots of things going on. Leigh and Rob are falling in love and trying to figure out how their lives can merge. Finn’s young love with his girlfriend hits a rough patch that cuts too close to home for Rob. Leigh’s aunt Helen, who raised her from the time she was four, finally finds love herself.
I can’t think of any other author who consistently makes me laugh so frequently when reading their books. Could I get a cavity with how saccharine sweet everything and everyone is? Probably. After reading over 30 Robyn Carr books was I able to guess some of the storylines? You betcha! Do I even care? Not a single bit. These are feel-good stories, down to the bone, and I love them.
Maybe a more realistic analogy is that they’re my catnip...
At any rate, I LOVED my return visit to Sullivan’s Crossing. Even Sully himself, the cranky and oft-crotchety old man who owns Sullivan’s Crossing, finds himself a lady friend this time!
A year ago, Dr. Leigh Culver left her hometown of Chicago for a quieter, slower pace of life in the mountain town of Timberlake, Colorado. As the town’s doctor, that doesn’t mean life is boring though. And when she catches the eye of bar owner, Rob Shandon, life gets exciting, real quick!
Rob Shandon lost his wife nine years ago. With two sons, ages eight and six, he didn’t have time to wallow or feel sorry for himself. In need of a way to raise his boys and earn a living, he bought the only bar in Timberlake and made a life for himself and his boys. He’s had neither time, or the energy, for a serious relationship. But when his son Finn gets injured and requires medical care, Dr. Culver all the sudden piques his interest.
The thing I love most about Ms. Carr’s romances is that the characters are relatable, and their situations so realistic. Throw in the side characters, and what is going on in their lives, and you’ve got a full book with lots of things going on. Leigh and Rob are falling in love and trying to figure out how their lives can merge. Finn’s young love with his girlfriend hits a rough patch that cuts too close to home for Rob. Leigh’s aunt Helen, who raised her from the time she was four, finally finds love herself.
I can’t think of any other author who consistently makes me laugh so frequently when reading their books. Could I get a cavity with how saccharine sweet everything and everyone is? Probably. After reading over 30 Robyn Carr books was I able to guess some of the storylines? You betcha! Do I even care? Not a single bit. These are feel-good stories, down to the bone, and I love them.
February 6, 2019
Reviewed for www.buriedunderromance.com
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I decided to read THE BEST OF US by Robyn Carr, the fourth novel in her Sullivan’s Crossing series. I have never read one of her books before, but I had heard good things about her. I also liked the description of the book, but in the end, did I like the book? I’m not sure.
I liked Timberlake, CO, the small fictional mountain town that served as the setting for the book. As a life-long Colorado resident, I know many small towns that could have been Timberlake. It seemed very real, as did the campground run by Sully, one of the book’s most colorful characters. I did not like that the author did not really seem familiar with Colorado geography. Some of the places that the characters went for different services did not seem logical. Debating between going out for dinner in Aurora or Colorado Springs? Really? Very distracting for any locals that may be reading.
I liked the hero, Rob Shandon, who owned the local pub. He was a widower with two teenagers, and he was kind, thoughtful and caring. I didn’t particularly like the heroine, Leigh Culver, who I felt was a bit selfish and immature. I’ll give her credit for being a doctor, but at age 34 she is still allowing a failed high school romance to control her life. I also really didn’t like a certain plot twist that, well, let’s just say shouldn’t have happened to a 34 year-old doctor.
I liked the secondary romance between Helen and Sully. I also liked the secondary romance of Maia and Finn, but I didn’t like that Maia seemed to drop of the planet about half-way through the book after I was very invested in her story.
If I add up the likes and dislikes, it appears to be a toss-up so I will give THE BEST OF US three stars. I’ll give this author another chance with her next book, but if it’s in this same series, I’m hoping she studies a Colorado map before it’s published!
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and the views expressed are my honest opinions.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I decided to read THE BEST OF US by Robyn Carr, the fourth novel in her Sullivan’s Crossing series. I have never read one of her books before, but I had heard good things about her. I also liked the description of the book, but in the end, did I like the book? I’m not sure.
I liked Timberlake, CO, the small fictional mountain town that served as the setting for the book. As a life-long Colorado resident, I know many small towns that could have been Timberlake. It seemed very real, as did the campground run by Sully, one of the book’s most colorful characters. I did not like that the author did not really seem familiar with Colorado geography. Some of the places that the characters went for different services did not seem logical. Debating between going out for dinner in Aurora or Colorado Springs? Really? Very distracting for any locals that may be reading.
I liked the hero, Rob Shandon, who owned the local pub. He was a widower with two teenagers, and he was kind, thoughtful and caring. I didn’t particularly like the heroine, Leigh Culver, who I felt was a bit selfish and immature. I’ll give her credit for being a doctor, but at age 34 she is still allowing a failed high school romance to control her life. I also really didn’t like a certain plot twist that, well, let’s just say shouldn’t have happened to a 34 year-old doctor.
I liked the secondary romance between Helen and Sully. I also liked the secondary romance of Maia and Finn, but I didn’t like that Maia seemed to drop of the planet about half-way through the book after I was very invested in her story.
If I add up the likes and dislikes, it appears to be a toss-up so I will give THE BEST OF US three stars. I’ll give this author another chance with her next book, but if it’s in this same series, I’m hoping she studies a Colorado map before it’s published!
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and the views expressed are my honest opinions.
January 9, 2019
After reading and enjoying Any Day Now and The Family Gathering, books two and three in the Sullivan’s Crossing series, I was more than willing to dive into the fourth book in the series. In all honesty, I really need to go back and read What We Find – this has nothing to do with a lack of understanding, but simply because I want to know all the details – yet the pull of The Best of Us was too strong to ignore.
In all honesty, I did not enjoy The Best of Us quite as much as I enjoyed my two prior Robyn Carr books in the series. However, it was still a great read and an easy four-star rating. It was both sweet and emotion filled, and I was addicted throughout. Once I started reading, I found it to be an extremely difficult book to put down. It had me hooked in all the best ways, leaving me happy to devour the book.
With this one, our main romance is the sweet read. The way the relationship blooms between the two characters, the way they interact, is all kinds of adorable. I was sucked into their story, and even when the drama started I found the things happening were more cuteness than angst. There were some heavy emotions in their story, but the majority of the heavy emotions were found in the side stories we were told throughout. In addition to the main romance, we have two other blooming love stories. One of which deals with a heavy topic, will have you dealing with all kinds of emotions.
It’s certainly a book that hooks you on numerous levels, one that will leave you happy to read more Robyn Carr.
In all honesty, I did not enjoy The Best of Us quite as much as I enjoyed my two prior Robyn Carr books in the series. However, it was still a great read and an easy four-star rating. It was both sweet and emotion filled, and I was addicted throughout. Once I started reading, I found it to be an extremely difficult book to put down. It had me hooked in all the best ways, leaving me happy to devour the book.
With this one, our main romance is the sweet read. The way the relationship blooms between the two characters, the way they interact, is all kinds of adorable. I was sucked into their story, and even when the drama started I found the things happening were more cuteness than angst. There were some heavy emotions in their story, but the majority of the heavy emotions were found in the side stories we were told throughout. In addition to the main romance, we have two other blooming love stories. One of which deals with a heavy topic, will have you dealing with all kinds of emotions.
It’s certainly a book that hooks you on numerous levels, one that will leave you happy to read more Robyn Carr.
May 25, 2023
Leigh is a physician running a clinic and meets Rob, who runs the local pub. They are drawn to one another. I loved Rob. He's such a good dad and person but I had some issues with Leigh. Her aunt comes to visit and strikes up a friendship with Sully. They were wonderful together. I enjoyed this book and definitely look forward to the next one.
May 14, 2021
So much fun..... love this series!
May 25, 2023
Read this as a buddy read, so putting my comments in from that chat.
Up to Chapter 7
I think I'll wait and read to chapter 14 tomorrow and then weds again I won't be reading. Going to aim to finish thursday. I don't want to rush this but its hard to stop!!
Up to chapter 14
Finished
Up to Chapter 7
I think I'll wait and read to chapter 14 tomorrow and then weds again I won't be reading. Going to aim to finish thursday. I don't want to rush this but its hard to stop!!
Up to chapter 14
Finished
November 24, 2019
I did not enjoy this book. Rob takes time to tell Leigh he just wants a FWB situation. She glibly accepts that because for some mysterious, unshown reason the sex is magical. The she wounds up pregnant through an expired IUV (that we’re never told is removed and has no impact on the baby) and suddenly Rob is all “I love you, marry me”. Leigh is naturally hesitant because just two days ago he only wanted some convenient coochie, and the rest of book spends its time showing that Leigh is the crazy one because she didn’t immediately leap at the sonogram song of love.
This book is rushed and really highlights how poorly Robyn Carr develops relationships. It’s all insta everything with no real foundation. Also, alllll her familiar tropes are present with no new twists or expansion. This book was saccharine, seemed written for a contract, redundant, and fell flat.
Here ends my Robyn Carr rabbit hole. I listened to six books in a row.
This book is rushed and really highlights how poorly Robyn Carr develops relationships. It’s all insta everything with no real foundation. Also, alllll her familiar tropes are present with no new twists or expansion. This book was saccharine, seemed written for a contract, redundant, and fell flat.
Here ends my Robyn Carr rabbit hole. I listened to six books in a row.
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