Crossing Hope

Cross Creek #4

by Kimberly Kincaid

Marley Rallston would rather be anywhere other than too-small-for-a-map-dot Millhaven, Virginia. But thanks to a heap of debt, what was supposed to be a quick trip to fulfill her mother’s dying wish has turned into an extended stay with the family she never knew she had and the father who never wanted her. To top it off, now she’s being forced to do community service with the town’s biggest bad boy, when all she wants to do is make enough cash to get out of Dodge? Life can’t get much worse.

The only thing Greyson Whittaker cares about is his family’s farm. He’ll do anything to keep Whittaker Hollow in the black, including live up to his rough, tough reputation by running the place by himself, no matter the cost. Mandatory community service with the daughter of their biggest rival is the last thing he wants or needs. But the more time Greyson and Marley spend together, the hotter their attraction burns, and the more the unlikely pair begins to realize that forbidden fruit just might taste the sweetest…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

321 pages, ebook

First published October 12, 2018

About the author

USA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.

Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crossing Hope is the fourth and final book in the Cross Creek series by Kimberly Kincaid. I have read two of the three previous books in this series and loved them. She paints such a beautiful picture of this small town tucked away in the Shenandoah Valley. It seriously makes me want to go there. And I have fallen in love with the Cross family. This time we get to read about the sister the Cross brothers didn’t even know they had, Marley, and the most unlikely man that she should fall for, Greyson.



Marley Rallston has been in Millhaven, Virginia for nine long months. It’s the last place she wants to be but it was her mother’s dying wish to connect with the father she didn’t even know existed and her three older brothers. Saddled with the medical bills from her mother’s illness, now she is stuck there until she gets out of debt. There is no way she wants anything to do with the man who seemingly didn’t want anything to do with her while she was growing up. So when she’s not at work, she hides in her room. But then, circumstances had her ending up in front of a judge, standing next to the town bad boy, and getting a sentence of community service, only she had to serve the community service along side the same man standing at her side.

Greyson Whittaker’s life is the farm he grew up on, Whittaker Hollow. He gives everything he has to the farm, it’s his life. Only the farm belongs to his father, not him. His father is a hard man and doesn’t get along with anyone. The town assumes, like father, like son. So Greyson figures he might as well live up to their expectations and pushes people away. He pushes before they can push him. He keeps everyone at arms length. But then a bad decision puts him in front of a judge standing next to a beautiful woman who is obviously a Cross. The Cross’s and the Whittakers have been rivals for as long as he can remember. Their farms always competing with one another to out do each other. The last thing he needs is to be stuck working with their sister, but the judge has a different opinion on that matter.

As Marley and Greyson work together, they soon realize that there is so much more to each other than they let others see. As time goes on, those protective walls are lowered and secrets are divulged. They begin to trust one another which soon turns to attraction. And that attraction becomes too strong to ignore. But Marley is leaving town as soon as her debt is paid. She refuses to accept that she can be a part of the Cross family, no matter how hard they try to make her feel so.

Little by little, the Cross brothers and their significant others whittle away at Marley’s barriers. I loved watching her soften to them. They run a farm stand and try to encourage Marley to take part in it, to include her in the farm’s business, to make her feel like she belongs, that she’s contributing.



Both Marley and Greyson tried to be so tough, to keep everyone at arm’s length. But it was obvious to me from the start that in reality, they were both just so vulnerable. In each other, they recognized their own vulnerabilities and I think gave each other courage.

“She had a heart like a hurricane, and if he wasn’t careful, he was going to be tempted to steal it.”



I enjoyed this book so much. For some reason, both of these characters really stole my heart. It was so amazing watching the Cross brothers wear Marley down with nothing but love. And love her they did. She was their little sister and there was nothing she could do about it.



I’m so glad I had the chance to get to know this family and I loved the way Kimberly wrapped everything up. It has been a joy getting to know this family in this series. Each one of the books in this series can be read as a stand alone. But don’t you want to meet each of the Cross brothers as well? I can’t wait to see what Kimberly Kincaid is going to do next.

For more about this book and so many more, come and join me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...

[Kimberly Kincaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

You guys! I'm so, so excited to being you back to Cross Creek one last time for Marley Rallston's HEA! With bad boy Greyson Whittkaer as her hero, it's a hard-fought love, but I think this sexy, small-town standalone will capture your heart...and make you reach for a cold drink!

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure what author Kimberly Kincaid had in mind for the half sister of the Cross brothers, but I’m thrilled to say that she nailed this romance big time. Star crossed lovers, two people who weren’t quite sure where they fit in with their families, a bit of law breaking and one slightly crazy judge made Crossing Hope an exciting, sexy, and outstanding romance not to mention a fantastic end to this series.

Marley Rallston wants nothing more than to get her mother’s hospital bills paid off so she can leave Cross Creek Ranch and get away from the man who donated the sperm that spawned her and her three older brothers who have tried to bring her into the family fold despite her reluctance and in spite of her reluctance to let them or her “father” get to know her. While prickly, I felt for Marley and her circumstances and believed since she appeared on the page back in the second book that there was a lot going on behind the hurt and angry young woman and we saw so many different sides of her in Crossing Hope. Most of all, I loved watching Marley blossom while letting her guard down and letting the people around her into her life.

Greyson Whittaker doesn’t have the best reputation in Millhaven; he’s known for his temper, his a$$holish behavior, and for being a rule breaker. I’ll admit I wasn’t sure how Ms. Kincaid would change my perception of Greyson, but as she slowly peeled away his layers it became clear that underneath his hard shell was a pretty fantastic man. It was easy to see his love for his family’s land, how much he enjoyed working their farm, and the pride he took in what they produced and how much his strained relationship with his father bothered him. I was surprised how easily he opened up to Marley and it became obvious that having someone to share his burdens changed his perception on his life.

I’m finding it hard to express how much I loved Marley and Greyson together and it wasn’t the whole “our family’s hate each other feud” that made their relationship so exciting, it was watching them share their problems, their dreams, and learning to trust one another with things they hadn’t shared with anyone else. Guys, seriously I’m sighing just thinking about the way they fell into their relationship and how important they became to one another. Not to mention how completely sexy these two are together and how they are not afraid to give each other exactly what they need both in an out of bed.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the rest of the Cross family, they were big and present in this book and to top it off Marley made great strides in accepting her brothers and cultivating a relationship with her father and I’d like to think that Greyson had a bit to do with that by helping her to see that while people die and sometimes go away, living your life closed off from everyone isn’t really living at all.

Crossing Hope was a joy to read, it was well thought out, well written, and most of all there was a sense of hope that both the Cross and Whittaker families will preserve the families’ legacies for years to come.

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ya know, I am just a big sucker for a great enemies-to-lovers book, and Crossing Hope is exactly that—a great enemies-to-lovers book. Since meeting Marley earlier in this fantastic Cross Creek series, I knew behind that mask was a smart, fun, snarky woman who just needed someone to work his way under her skin and bring her out. At that was one Greyson Whittaker.

Greyson, the town’s biggest bad boy falling for a Cross, err Rallston—the daughter that came back only to fulfill the dying wishes of her mother. But also the most beautiful, smart, sexy woman he’s ever laid eyes upon. And he’s not going to go down without a fight—that’s just not the Whittaker way.

But Marley does have a say in how this will all go down—she’s not planning to stay in Millhaven forever. She’s just there temporarily to get back on her feet and figure out what she’s going to do next. Well, she’s going to “do” Greyson, but she’s still leaving town. Nothing is going to stop her . . . except maybe her heart and her brothers and those damn cute animals . . .

I knew there was more to Greyson than his snarly, bad ass demeanor. He’s truly a big ol’ softie underneath all that grit and gruffness. Especially when it comes to animals, kids and Marley. I loved how Marley and Greyson formed a relationship—that they became friends because of their circumstances and lovers because they couldn’t deny their spark! I loved how Marley defended herself and her burgeoning romance with Greyson—that she saw through him to see the wonderful man inside, and the same for Greyson. He broke through Marley’s brave front to see the woman who wanted so much more than she was willing to admit. That’s what love does, right?

I’m so sad to see this series come to an end, but I’m thrilled with how it ended. That the Cross siblings found their way to love and become a family. It was a wonderful culmination of their stories! ~ Missy, 5 stars

[Reading In Pajamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

✦Release Launch, Review & Excerpt: CROSSING HOPE by Kimberly Kincaid https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aUA
Publication Date: October 15, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 5 Stars

I enjoyed reading this lovely installment in the Cross Creek series. Greyson and Marley were absolutely made for each other. At face value you would wonder about their mutual attraction, but I think they saw themselves in each other, and were immediately drawn in. However, I wished I had liked Marley sooner. She’s been there long enough to give something to those around her, to loosen up the barrier she had built – no matter her reasons. That being said…I loved Marley and Greyson as a couple and how they helped each other grow. I love the family, life in Millhaven and of course…the steamy romance. This is one of those stories that left me smiling long after the book was done. Now the only problem is waiting for the next one.

*Review copy provided by Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle $3.99 https://amzn.to/2pR4yvR

✦Cross Creek Series by Kimberly Kincaid✦
1. Crossing Hearts ➢ Review http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-7NT | Kindle http://amzn.to/2ii9DY4
2. Crossing the Line ➢ Kindle http://amzn.to/2udTvxG
3. Crossing Promises ➢ Review https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aD2 | Kindle http://amzn.to/2sbruKA
4. Crossing Hope ➢ Kindle https://amzn.to/2pR4yvR

#CrossCreekSeries #KimberlyKincaid #CrossingHope

[Chessela Helm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. Love it, love it, love it. This was the perfect ending. Taking two crusty characters with big hearts and big attitudes and letting them find each other is a beautiful thing to read. I'm sitting here with happy tears (and okay, maybe some sad tears because there probably won't be a sequel). If this book sounds at all your thing, then definitely read it. And don't worry about reading it out of order - I read book 2 before I read book 1 and it didn't take anything away from either book. So dive in with this one if you haven't started the series yet, and if you have, prepare for some serious Happily Ever Afters for Millhaven.

[Cali Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heartwarming small town romance that finishes out the Cross Creek series has it all..... a long standing family feud, an unexpected hidden sibling, bravado covering up true feelings, loss, love, loyalty and passion.... all wrapped up in this highly entertaining opposites attract romance.

Marley Rallston is the smart, sexy, sassy long hidden daughter no one knew about that has come to Cross Creek on her mother's dying wish.... Greyson Whittaker is the sexy, smart, bad boy of this sleepy little town using a bad attitude the entire town expects to hide who he really is.... the only Whittaker left with a love the the land. Loved their witty banter, sizzling chemistry and desire to help the other heal. Loved this thrilling romance.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

From little girl lost to a grown woman found. Crossing Hope paves a pathway to healing two consistently broken hearts. Marley is forever searching for her happy ending, yet life keeps getting in her way. From a dying mother to an unknown father and a long lost family , she can't seem to catch a break. When a promise lands her in small town USA, her world gets even more complicated. Trouble comes in the form of bad boy Greyson Whittaker. He's everything she shouldn't want, but his kind of trouble makes her feel so good. He may look like trouble, but end up being misunderstood. She has much to learn about small town living. Can a country boy show her the way? Kincaid brings a ton of heart and humor to the table. Big City drama meets small town romance and becomes heartwarming entertainment.

[Ellen Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crossing Hope

What a terrific finish to the Cross Creek Series. I will admit that I was very curious how Kimberly Kincaid was going to have two characters that I found obnoxious in the earlier books, end up as the hero and heroine. She did such an amazing job of it, that they may truly be my favorite couple of the series now. You won't want to miss this book.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book I’ve been waiting for and it was so worth the wait. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars because it’s brilliant.

Kimberly Kincaid is back with last book in the Cross Creek series and for me she has left the best for last. I absolutely LOVED this book. If you want a read that is going to stay with you long after you close the last page, then this is it.

I’ve been desperate to get Marley, the heroine’s story ever since she popped up on the page in a storm of surprise and attitude and without a doubt she could not have gotten a better hero in Greyson and a storyline to match. Fire meet oil and watch the chemistry happen.

You will laugh, sigh, hurt, cheer, heat up and fall head over heels for the resident bad boy Greyson and the surly Cross Marley as they fight the attraction that sparks between them from the first unusual encounter to the inevitable fall that will leave you sighing and grinning from ear to ear.

I’m actually at a loss for what to write because I loved this book so hard that its hard to put it into words how quickly I fell for the pairing of Marley and Greyson. I love when you pick up a book thinking that you have an idea of the characters only to be knocked off your feet when you realise you really had no idea and they turn out to be ever better than you expected.

THAT is what happened with this book. As a long time fan of the series, I had my expectations, but they all blown away as I got to know Marley and Greyson and watch them take the biggest risk of all, falling in love.

Add in the fact that their families had bee feuding forever and that Marley has 3 older overprotective brothers (OMG when they find out about Greyson is priceless) and you get another unputdownable read from the always amazing Kimberly Kincaid.

Regardless if you have read the series, are new to it or are just picking this up, you will be sucked into a love story that is so beautifully written you won’t be able to stop yourself from falling in love with it. Especially the epilogue that left me in tears of happiness and that I may have read multiple times because I love it so much.

If you love small town romances, then look no further for your next read. This book is a must read.

[Jennifer Zorko · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sad to see the Cross Creek series come to an end, but I have to say, what an ending! Kimberly Kincaid takes the reader on an funny, heartfelt and amazing journey. I have loved each and every character that we have meet in Millhaven and on Cross Creek in particular, but I have to say, there is a very special place in my heart for Marley and Greyson. This is their amazing journey to HEA!

Marley Rallston came to Millhaven to meet the father that she did not know she had. Fulfilling the promise she made to her late mother to meet the man that helped give her life. Marley keeps her new found family at arms length, she figures if she keeps everyone at arms length she will not feel, if she doesn't feel, the she won't feel the pain of loss. But when Marley steps in and takes the responsibility for stealing canned goods to protect a young girl, she had no idea that her life would be turned upside down, and by none other than Cross Creek archenemy Greyson Whittaker.

Greyson Whittaker has always pushed first. He knows what everyone thinks of him and his family, he has heard time and time again that the apple does not all far from the tree. In Greyson's case, it is not very true, but he has a reputation of being prickly and cold, so why bother to change that. When he finds himself in front of the Judge for unpaid parking tickets, the last thing that he ever thought was that he would be punished with community service, and to be forced to perform that community service with Marley Rallston, another cherry on top of his stupid sundae.

But at Greyson and Marley are forced to work together taking care of stray animals, opening up to each other, learning to trust each other, a friendship builds to something more. But she is a Cross and he is a Whittaker, how will it ever work? When Marley learns some information about the family that she is starting to open up to, she gets scared and runs for the hills. It will take the Cross boys to bring Marley home where she belongs, and it will take the entire family to help her convince Greyson that her running days are over and that she is right where she belongs, in Millhaven and with him.

OMG! Let me start by saying that I love, love, love Marley and Greyson. The way that he stands up to his father to defend her and the way that she threatens her brother if they lay one finger on Greyson was absolutely amazing. The conversation between the Cross boys, Tobias and Marley had me in tears. The love that was between the Cross family, the love between Greyson and Marley was visible on every single page of this book. They are both so much alike it is almost scary. They both want so badly to belong, to be heard, but they are both equally scared of what will happen if they do. That they each trusted the other to be there, to catch them, to have them is a testament to the love that they had for on another.

Another amazing addition to the Cross Creek series. Highly recommended reading for anyone that loves a little small town romance.

[Nicole ReadingBetweenTheSheets · Rating 5 out of 5]

This final book in the Cross Creek series, Crossing Hope, is freaking phenomenal! Kimberly Kincaid has surpassed my extremely high expectations by leaps and bounds! (I may have been majorly anticipating this book since finishing book 3 in the series, Crossing Promises). Mrs. Kincaid has an amazing way of writing and making you visualize the story, not just having it spit out and told to you. Her flow and choice of words are so incredible and so colorful that she draws the picture for you to imagine! The characters are so well developed and blended! As much as I didn’t want this series to end, Kimberly has done such a wonderful job of wrapping this series up and putting a bow on it for her readers.

So Crossing Hope not only wraps up the Cross Creek series, it finally gives the only Cross sister….OH WAIT!!! Do NOT call her a “Cross”!!! She is a Rallston!!! So, yes, Marley Rallston gets her story and HEA! We learn right in the beginning of the book that Tobias’s only daughter (from a different mother than brothers Owen, Eli, and Hunter) secretly has a heart of gold. However, Marley also is very stubborn, very hard-headed, and very much wants to get the hell out of Millhaven, Virginia ASAP…she just needs to pay off a debt first.

Then there is the delicious (but ALSO stubborn and negative) Greyson Whittaker, from Whittaker Hollow (the biggest competition to the Cross’s as far as farming goes). He just doesn’t know how not to park in a no-parking zone, or how to be nice as a general rule. He blames his attitude on his reputation that precedes him, partially due to his father, Jeremiah Whittaker. Greyson may be a grouchy-ass-bad-boy, but holy crap…the man has some amazing insight and deep, honorable thoughts and ideas!

Wellllll…thanks to Judge Abernathy, these two opposing forces now are required to work hand-in-hand, performing community service, helping to repair the local animal shelter, and in the process, repairing themselves as well. The path they take and the trust they gain from one another grows throughout the story.

There are so many memorable lines and phrases in this book that I stopped and read them again because I loved them so much! Then there are a few scenes I LOVED (hopefully without spoilers) … *The jail *The courtroom *Breakfast with Cate *When Greyson busts Marley placing the groceries on the porch *Their first kiss “She wasn’t just hungry. She was starving.” *The Farmer’s Market, the emotions involving Tobias , Marley and Greyson’s talk, Greyson visiting the Cross tent *The Water tower *Marley and Tobias’s talks *The Peach Orchard *The visit by Sheriff Atlee in the field ;) *Marley’s come-to-Jesus meeting with her brothers *Marley’s jumping to conclusions and actions and the conversation of the men, Cate, Scarlett and Emerson and then the resolution *Greyson’s talk with his father *Greyson and Marley’s talk ***And last but not least…the epilogue!!! **Oh…and I cannot forget the explicit, juicy sex scenes!!!**

Honestly, this whole book was sensational, from the dedication and acknowledgements, to the epilogue. It is DEFINITELY a MUST-READ, and even though it is kind of a stand-alone…nah, you need to just read the first 3 (Crossing Hearts-Hunter, Crossing the Line-Eli, Crossing Promises-Owen) before indulging!

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! I do mean WOW!! I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!!! Kimberly Kincaid once again burns up the pages with Crossing Hope, the fourth book in her Cross Creek series. Marley never expected to still be in Millhaven at Cross Creek and definitely did not want to be part of the Cross family. Marley is a strong, take charge person who could take care of herself; she didn’t need anyone. Marley and Greyson being forced to work with together, taking caring of stray animals, gives them the opportunity to open up to each other, learn to trust each other, build a friendship, and maybe more. How would this ever work? She was a Cross and he a Whittaker, two highly competitive families that didn’t get along. Yet, when Marley learns some information about the family that she is starting to open up to, she gets scared and runs for the hills. It will take the Cross boys to bring Marley home where she belongs, and it will take the entire family to help her convince Greyson that her running days are over and that she is right where she belongs, in Millhaven and with him.

It is very difficult not to love Marley and Greyson. Greyson standing up to his father to defend her and Marley threatening her brother if they lay one finger on Greyson was absolutely amazing. The conversation between the Cross boys, Tobias and Marley had me in tears. The love that was between the Cross family, the love between Greyson and Marley was evident on every single page of this book. These two are so much alike it is almost scary; wanting so badly to belong, to be heard, scared of what will happen if they do. The fact they each trusted the other to be there, to catch them, to have them is a testament to the love that they had for one another.

I totally loved reading this book. Ms. Kincaid did a fantastic job creating her characters, making them realistic, keeping the story interesting, making me forget the world around me and not letting me go until I turned the last page, wanting more. Ms. Kincaid kept this reader mesmerized with the need to see how Marley and Greyson would find their happy ever after. I highly recommend this book to other readers.

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart

Review copy was received from Publicity team. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


I am really loving this Cross Creek series.    The first three books were about the Cross brothers, and the farm. They all work the farm with their father.  Some of them have other interests and this plays out over the series. Crossing Hope  brings many new changes, including a long unknown Cross sister.

Marley seems too abrasive to me initially, as did Greyson. It's interesting to get past that outer shell to the real people. They are forced to spend time together which results in them getting to know each other and even develop some understanding, And chemistry.  I like the way they slowly develop.

This world with lots of farming is comforting to me, even though I grew up in Iowa where there aren't as many fruit trees or other fruits and vegetables as in this story. The small town prejudices and bending of the rules is rather accurate.

In the end, I enjoyed Marley's questioning of the prejudice and status quo. She does a good job of looking at facts instead of emotions - for everyone except herself. Isn't that the way it always is?  But she figures it out and it brought some real tears when she faces reality. Thankfully, Marley is a strong enough person to pick herself up and go forward.

[Amber Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

**4.5 stars** I have been highly anticipating this book and I can tell you it was worth the wait! Greyson and Marley heat up the pages in this final book of the Cross Creek series.

Marley Rallston (Cross) and Greyson Whittaker are from rival families, but are forced to do community service together. Greyson Whittaker is the town’s bad-boy (or so everyone thinks) and has been hated by Marley’s father’s family (whom she has just recently found out about after her mother’s death) for years. Marley feels like the outsider in the Cross family and doesn’t allow herself to get too close to anyone. She’s got a mountain of debt though from her mom’s hospital bills and is just staying long enough to get them paid and then she’s leaving.

Greyson loves working on his family’s farm and couldn’t imagine doing anything else, even if he has to put up with his very bitter and ornery father. When he meets Marley, things don’t go smoothly in the beginning. Ooh...these two like to push each other’s buttons. But the more time they spend together doing community service, they begin to open up to each other and the walls start coming down. The attraction they’ve both been trying to fight is getting harder to do. Boy do the sparks fly between them!

I loved this book! Ms. Kincaid did such a great job of writing these two characters and redeeming Greyson (for the fans of the previous books 😉). We got to know Marley more and why she kept everyone at arm’s length.

Crossing Hope was all I hoped it would be! I hope you love it too!

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crossing Hope by Kimberly Kincaid is book four in her Cross Creek Series. Every book in this series, while connected - is about another couple and can easily be read as standalones. The previous books are Crossing Hearts - Owen and Emerson; Crossing the Line and Crossing Promises.

Marley Rallston is living with her half-siblings Owen, Hunter and Eli Cross and she rather wants to be everywhere than Millhaven, Virginia.
Greyson Whittaker is a single minded man. He cares about his family, his farm and not much else.
And when he's forced to community service together with Marley, his family's biggest rival daughter heisn't amused, he wants nothing to do with her. He doesn't want or need her, but for the sake of his family he'll do everything.

Crossing Hope is by far my favorite read in the series. Don't get me wrong, every book in this series is great, extremely well written and told, but Crossing Hope has this little bit special that made me love it so much. Marley is the outsider in her family, and both her and Greyson have a lot of issues and demons to work through. But that made them so lovable, they're people like you and me, the make mistakes, learn from them and at the end they get a hard earned and well deserved HEA. I could feel the characters emotions in the words, their struggle, their issues and their love for each other. Crossing Hope is a beautiful story and I recommend it.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Cross Creek #4, The Long lost daughter and the rival come together in this completely not Romeo and Juliet forbidden romance. Marley Ralston only came to Cross Creek to meet the father and brothers she never knew because it was her mother's dying wish. She avoids them whenever she can only really getting close to Scarlett, Cate and Emerson, her brother's significant others. She knows she's going to have to listen to his side of the story eventually but she' putting it off as long as possible. All she really wants to do is make enough money to pay off her mother's medical bills and then leave. Plans change when she gets arrested for shoplifting. Greyson Whittaker only loves one thing his farm, and it's not even technically his yet it's still in his father's name; his father who hates the farm. Greyson is having a fairly good day until he gets arrested for excessive parking tickets. Both Marley and Greyson go before the Judge who decides that is in their best interest to do community service.... together. Greyson and Marley are stuck working with the Milhaven Animal Shelter for the next 200 hours which must be completed in the next 90 days.

Greyson and Marley argue quite a bit in the beginning but as they spend more time together at the shelter the more they are willing to give into the attraction. They are willing to lend the sympathetic ear to each other and offer the advise everyone else is to scared to give. The more Marley works with Greyson the more she's willing to hear out of her family and she starts to open up more to Tobias. But Marley has some deep rooted fears she must overcome before Greyson and her can have their HEA. Judge Abernathy really knew what she was doing when she paired them off not only did the relationship between Marley and Greyson grow it opened them up to heal old wounds with their families. I loved Marley and Greyson, I was excited to find out Marley was getting her own book and it hit all the right spots. It's emotional with some great humor I loved all the characters this all in all was an awesome series. Overall, for this book it was such a good read and a wonderful way to end the series.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in the Cross Creek series. And a great way to cap off the series.

Marley Ralleston came to Millhaven because her mother's dying wish was for her to meet her father. She wants to come to town, meet him and then return back to Chicago. But the best laid plans for not work out her and she has to stay in her father's house Nor did she plan on getting thrown in jail along side the town and boy... and sworn enemy of her new found family, Greyson Whittaker. They are both given community service at the town animal shelter and not only does Marley fall in love with animals, she starts falling in love with town she want to hightail it from as soon as she can and also her growing attraction to Grayson .... It has all the potential for being the Hatfields and the McCoys...I

I loved this book and is one of the best enemy's to lovers books I have read lately. Marley pulled at my heartstrings because she lost her mom and she is fighting herself in trying to belong somewhere and learning to be part of a family and fit in. And Grayson is trying not to lose everything he has worked so hard for, his family farm.

Kimberly Kincaid had written another wonderful book about family bonds, loyalty, and love and the passion of two people who are such opposites find the love they have been waiting for.

[J Lundsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Millhaven's sexy bad boy teams up with his enemy's little sister sparks are sure to fly. Greyson knows he needs to stay away from Marley. He has more than enough on his plate and she is related to the Cross's so she's definitely off limits. But she's so beautiful  and sassy and amazing.  Marley knows she needs to stay away from Greyson. He's cocky and rude and irritating.  But he understands her in a way that no one else does and the more time they spend together, the more she trusts him.

I loved this SO much! Once I started reading I could not put it down. A sexy bad boy with a huge heart and a streak of vulnerability?  Greyson is amazing.  Marley is completely kick-ass but is hiding a world of hurt. Their chemistry is melt-your-Kindle hot. And we get to visit with all the Cross brothers. Perfection!

This is such a fantastic series and this was the perfect ending for it.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in Ms. Kincaid’s series Cross Creek. A series I have loved from the start.
This story belongs to Marley Rallston , and Greyson Whittaker. Marley is the the Cross’s brothers newly discovered sister and one that though she has been staying with them for a few months , still feels like an outsider. Greyson is not only the bad boy of the town, but also the son of the rival farm.
These two meet when they end up having to do community service.
I have to confess that the author did such a good job in previous books of portraying Greyson in such a negative way, that he took some time to grow on me. But once I got to “know” him, he truly touched my heart.
While I’ll let others give you a detail summary of the plot , I will go a different way. This is a story about home and the complexities of families. Paraphrasing the author, home is not a a place but a feeling. It’s about feeling safe and belonging to someone you know will always have your back. It’s also a story about trusting not only others but also yourself, about forgiveness, communication , hope and of course, love.
Kudos to the author for another wonderful story.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Marybeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

There has not been one single moment when I haven't loved this series! I am sad this is the last book but what great storytelling this has been. And I love all the characters! This last book is about Marley, the Cross brothers' half sister and their arch nemesis, Greyson Whitaker.
I just knew there was so much more to Greyson than met the eye. He is definitely not all he portrays himself to be to the Cross' or the town. I am so happy he and Marley cross paths and are able to get past their initial dislike phase (which of course really wasn't that at all). He turned out to be one of the best kept secrets. He is sweet, charming, flirty, funny and sexy. He and Marley, because she is a Cross by birth, should not start anything, but hours spent getting to know each other working at the animal shelter made that impossible. Marley has her own demons to slay and she needs to accept that she really is a Cross and that her bothers and their families all love her very much and want to be there for her. They are just perfect for each other. That is not to say that this is an easy relationship to navigate with all the mitigating circumstances but what a great ride it is! I love their story!!And I love the way this series wraps up! Just perfect!!!
I was so lucky to have won an ARC of this book from the author.

[FunUndertheCovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first read into the world of Kimberly Kincaid was quite impressive. I think a key phrase from this book that will stick with me is actually on old saying, "Life's what happens when you're busy making plans." Life changed in an instant for Marley Rallston and she ends up in a town where she doesn't want to be, with a job that she hates and a mountain of debt. Greyson Whitaker lives on the land that he loves, tending the farm he wants to own but works for the man he never aspired to be, his father. When the lives of Marley and Greyson become entangled in the most unorthodox way, they must learn to work together and possibly learn to love again! I was so intrigued by this story that I want to read the stories of the other members of this family.

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Kimberly Kincaid has out done herself with the Cross family. It's sad to say goodbye to this family but what a finale!! I could not wait to read Marley's story after her surprise arrival to the Cross family. Marley is only here for her mother's last wish, to meet her father. Not planning on staying until she meets bad boy, rival to the Cross family, Greyson. What a match they are!! Did not expect this match at all, but it was perfect!! Loved how protective the Cross brothers are over Marley.

This is book that will have you with many emotions and shedding a few happy tears at the end. Like I said it is sad to say good bye to the Cross family, but what a finale it was. I highly recommend this book along with the rest of the series!!

[Anna Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marley is an independent woman who is used to aking care of herself and doesn't put up with any BS from anyone. I think many people can see themselves in her and will instantly connect with the kind of person she is and the struggles she deals with. Greyson is like her in many ways and doesn't let many people come close, but is drawn to Marley and her sassiness. He finds a way to make her open up and you can't help rooting for him and loving him once you find out what is beneath the surface. Their love is a slow burn that has you dancing in anticipation and when it finally happens, you don't want to stop reading and let go.

[Susan McClintock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in the Cross Creek series by Kimberly Kincaid, and she definitely goes out on a high note. This book centers on half sister Marley Rallston and arch rival Wesley Whittkaer. Marley and Westley end up in jail together on minor charges (she is taking the blame for shoplifting to protect a young girl, and he has six unpaid parking tickets). The eccentric judge sentences them to 200 hours of community service at the local animal shelter. Both Westley and Marley have serious daddy issues that have them pushing everyone away. Of course, working together let’s them develop a relationship beyond their initial attraction. I loved both characters and I loved the pacing of the romance. This also had a nice epilogue that ties up the past books. I was given an ARC of this book by the author for my honest review.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic meet-cute! Greyson and Marley must complete court-ordered community service, and in the midst of that craziness, they end up learning what it means to see under the facade to who someone really is. I'm glad these two figured out how to change so that they could get their well-deserved HEA. This was a great series, and I'm sad to see the end!

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Losing her mother to cancer was hard, but Marley Rallston has done her best to deal with the loss. Heading to Cross Creek to meet the father and brothers she never knew existed is something else that hasn't been easy, but she's doing the best she can to get to know them, even if she doesn't plan on sticking around. However, when she lands herself in trouble and is sentenced to two-hundred hours of community service with none other than Greyson Whittaker, she discovers that Greyson is nothing like everyone says he is. Will Greyson be able to convince Marley to stay in Cross Creek or will her fears send her running from their chance at happy ever after?

Sitting down to read a book by Ms. Kincaid is an absolute treat and this fourth book of her Cross Creek series was highly entertaining, fast-paced and a story I could not put down for even a second. Really, the main characters are incredible, as their romance is a forbidden one because there's always been competition between her family and his in that they see each other as rivals when it comes to their farms; the dialogue was an absolutely satisfying mix of intense moments due to the main characters back stories and everything these two go through on their journey to happy ever after and playful banter that had me loving this couple's growing relationship; and the plot was enthralling and had me reading quickly, determined to discover how long it would take these two to give into their off-the-charts chemistry.

The way this story started had me sympathizing with the heroine, as gaining the attention of the town gossip is something she doesn't need and I couldn't help but smile at her determination to keep people on side by what she does. However, it was from the moment she and Greyson come face-to-face for the first time where this story really comes alive, as Marley getting arrested was an altruistic thing for her to do and I could understand why she was so adamant that no one learn the truth of what happened for her to get arrested. Moreover, both the main characters kept surprising me throughout this story and I loved their growing relationship.

With the heroine, she's resilient, courageous, kind, caring, altruistic and I liked that she gave the hero a chance because he's not as much of a bad boy as he likes everyone to believe. Certainly, there's some things in his past that scream bad boy, but he's different with the heroine in the way he opens up to her and can be sweet when he wants to. However, I couldn't help but sympathize with the heroine when it comes to her past and wanting to keep her distance from her family for fear of losing them just like she lost her mother. Will the heroine's family or Greyson be able to convince Marley to stay? While the hero, he has quite the reputation, but constantly had me wondering what of his reputation is fact and what is fiction. Just because his father is a jerk does not mean the apple falls far from the three, no matter how much he wants people to believe he's exactly like his father. Will Marley see through Greyson's façade? I also liked how determined Greyson was to win Marley over and make her see that staying in Cross Creek could be a good thing.

Overall, Ms. Kincaid has delivered a wonderfully-written and marvellous read in this book, encompassing well-developed characters that have quite the chemistry; chemistry that eventually spills over onto the pages in hot sex scenes. As for the ending, it was charming and made me smile because Marley needed a way to get Greyson to speak to her and what a brilliant idea she comes up with. Yet, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as Marley has definitely found home in Cross Creek and Greyson. Really, her happiness is delightful. I would recommend Crossing Hope by Kimberly Kincaid, if you enjoy the forbidden lovers trope, the enemy to lovers trope or books by authors Avery Flynn, Robin Covington, Marina Adair and Catherine Bybee.

[Laundry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all need to be as excited about this book as I am. It legit checks ALL the boxes. Southern based? Check. Enemies to lovers? Check. Volunteer work at a local animal shelter? Check check! I absolutely adored the setting KK so beautifully described in Crossing Hope. I want to live on a farm and work at the store front with Marley. There's seriously so much to love here, folks.

Story Line: Crossing Hope is book 4 in the Cross Creek series, however, you do not need to read books 1-3 to understand what's going on. Marley is the long lost half sister to the boys from books 1-3. Her brothers are referenced and make appearances, but not to worry. You won't be confused for a single second if this is the first book in the series you're reading. Scouts honor. Marley and Greyson have an uber cute and funny meetcute at the local grocery store. They end up in front of the local judge - who is also super funny, and sentenced to community service - together. Where is their community service? At the local animal shelter. LOVE IT. I'm a huge animal lover so when I read this detail, I all but jumped up and did a happy dance. I'm sure my family is grateful I didn't ACTUALLY dance because I look like Elaine from Seinfeld. Or maybe Kramer. Anyways. These two are at each other's throats until one day - they're not. And YEAH. I'll get to that steaminess in a bit. But I loved their story. Greyson and Marley are so dang adorable together. They come from rivaling families with enough family drama to fuel an army, yet they overcome so much to get their HEA. It was so stinking sweet.

Interaction: I think I loved Marley so much for a few reasons. Number 1? Her sass. You guys know me, I love me some sassy heroines. And she takes the cake. She is feisty, determined and 100% independent. Any attitude she fields from Greyson, she dishes is right back in his face. And instead of making him more angry? It just eggs him on and makes for some funny and witty conversations. I think their work on the animal shelter was my favorite. They really got to know each other while spending their oh so romantic court ordered time together. Even though they were forced to be there together, it ended up being something they both enjoyed and put their hearts into. It was amazing. Side note - more judges should do this!

Laundry: Okay, I said I would get to this part later. It is now later. What is it about laundry with a country boy? I knew Greyson would be steamy. I mean, come on. His description alone was enough for me to add him to my laminated book boyfriend list. But when the gloves came off, under that gorgeous sky? OH man. How can a hot and heavy kiss be almost as naughty as the real deal? SERIOUSLY. Even the stuff that leads up to the deliciousness was amazing.

Depth: There is much more to Greyson and Marley than what meets the eye. First of all, they both have daddy drama. Just for totally different reasons. I don't want to give too much away, but come on. Poor Marley didn't even know about her dad for the longest time. So of course she has a giant chip on her shoulder. And she recently lost her mom. So freaking devastating. I kid you not, I ached for her. My mom and I don't have the best relationship. I'm definitely not the golden child, but if anything happened to her? I would be an absolute wreck. Which just goes to show how dang strong Marley really is. She has the permanently remove that chip before she can truly move forward. And lets thank our lucky stars that too hot for his own good Greyson is up for the challenge. This HEA was definitely one of my favorites.

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first encounter with the Cross Creek series and Oh my! I just didn't know until now what an amazing series i'd been missing out on!!!

Crossing Hope is the story of Marley Rollaston the estranged half sister of the Cross brothers who arrived in the smalltown of Millhaven to find her father after she promised to keep her mother's dying wish of finding him. Feeling like she doesn't fit in and not part of the family she tries to keep her feelings in check and not get close to anyone until she meets Greyson Whittaker the son of the owner of a rival ranch and local bad boy after being arrested for something she didn't really do. They get to know each other while doing community service together at the local animal shelter and attraction and sparks start to fly between them.

I was really taken by surprise at how good this book was and the backstory behind Marley and Greyson was a little heart wrenching. They are both basically good people that are misunderstood and have never been given the chance to show or be who they both really are. One has always felt neglected all their life by a father that didn't want them and the other lived with a father that was never happy unless he was putting them down. They both have emotional scars that only start to heal once they both realise that they are loved and finally know the truth about the past.

This book was such a roller coaster of emotions. Kimberly Kincaid writes characters from the heart that reach out and touch you deep inside. Her storytelling is just so unbelievably good that you get swept right on along into the story. The narrative and descriptions of Millhaven were absolutely dreamy and seemed like heaven on earth. The whole story was just so touching and wonderful to read. After reading this book I will be going back to read some of the other books in this series for sure.
A brilliant 5 Star read!

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read & loved every book in the Cross Creek series, but Crossing Hope was my absolute FAVORITE, though it did signal the end of this amazing series. Kimberly Kincaid with of her extremely talent & addictive powers penned an EPIC ending with Marley's story, which I have been DYING for! See Marley Rallston would rather be anywhere than Millhaven, Virginia, living in the house of a father that she believed never wanted her. But with a promise to her mother, and her bills being too many, she's stuck working to pay them off there in order to get the hell out of dodge, especially since she refuses any sort of help from said father other than staying at his house. On a day where she finally went out to the grocery store, things went sideways ending in her being arrested, and this is when she meets the small town's resident bad boy Greyson Whittaker, who is also at the small jail. They are assigned community service together, which isn't easy at first, but the more time they spend together, Marley's demons are being revealed, not to mention Greyson's as well. Sparks start shooting everywhere, but there's a small problem, the Cross' & the Whittakers are enemies. So yeah, now it became an edge of my seat story, as the drama that would be ensuing when they are caught, would be crazy. Somehow through all of this, Marley really starts to come out of her shell, and actually asks the questions that she thought she didn't want to know. Though there was plenty of angst, the humor in this story had me rolling in laughter, as it came out in spades. A cast of secondaries, with some adding a ton more depth like their families, others adding the extremely hilarious moments with their cameos, and to round out this cast perfectly was the cuteness factor of the furry friends. While I was sad to say goodbye, I'm so glad this was the story to wrap it up! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!