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Haven Point #10
Coming Home for Christmas
Zeven jaar geleden was Elizabeth Hamilton ten einde raad, waardoor ze de weg naar haar liefdevolle echtgenoot en twee prachtige kinderen niet meer terug wist te vinden. Net toen ze had besloten dat ze beter tijdelijk uit hun leven kon vertrekken, kreeg ze een auto-ongeluk, waardoor haar geheugen in één klap verdween. Hoewel de herinneringen aan de klank van Cassies lach, Bridgers babygeur en Lukes aanraking langzaam weer bij haar terugkwamen, bleef ze geloven dat ze niet de beste moeder of echtgenote voor hen kon zijn.
Nu staat Luke ineens bij haar voor de deur en vraagt of ze met hem meekomt naar Haven Point om de scheidingspapieren te tekenen. Hij is ervan overtuigd dat zij hun gezin destijds in de steek heeft gelaten en wil het hoofdstuk afsluiten. Dat blijkt nog niet zo simpel, wat het wordt al snel duidelijk dat hun gevoelens voor elkaar net zo sterk zijn als vroeger. Lukt het hen, met een beetje kerstmagie, de afgelopen jaren achter zich te laten en samen opnieuw te beginnen?
Nu staat Luke ineens bij haar voor de deur en vraagt of ze met hem meekomt naar Haven Point om de scheidingspapieren te tekenen. Hij is ervan overtuigd dat zij hun gezin destijds in de steek heeft gelaten en wil het hoofdstuk afsluiten. Dat blijkt nog niet zo simpel, wat het wordt al snel duidelijk dat hun gevoelens voor elkaar net zo sterk zijn als vroeger. Lukt het hen, met een beetje kerstmagie, de afgelopen jaren achter zich te laten en samen opnieuw te beginnen?
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2019
1326 people are currently reading
2000 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
311 books3,836 followersI'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 507 reviews
February 24, 2024
I really enjoyed this sweet Christmas romance by RayAnne Thayne. Elizabeth left home years ago on a snowy night when her postpartum depression was at its worst. Her husband Luke believes she abandoned the family and never looked back, leaving the town suspicious he had killed her. Now, seven years later, she returns, and it’s clear neither Luke nor Elizabeth understand what the other has truly been through while they’ve been parted. This was a lovely, sweet Christmas romance. I loved how much the family was included, the wonderful Christmas messages, and the way disability and TBI were such an integral part of the story.
October 25, 2019
I read this sweet story in one afternoon it was a fast read. Full of love and forgiveness. I am slowing becoming a fan of Thayne's. This is my third book by her and she just has away of pulling you into the story and you get to watch it play out in the front row.
I can't wait for her next book.
I can't wait for her next book.
December 12, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https: www.avonnalovesgenrs.com
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS (The Women of Brambleberry House #5, Haven Point #10) by RaeAnne Thayne is her new Christmas contemporary romance set in the town of Haven Point Idaho. Even with the tie in to the two series, this book can be read as a standalone. There is character crossover, but the focus is on the second chance romance of the hero and heroine.
For seven years Luke has been a single father to his two young children. One night his wife was gone from their home and he has never known what happened to her. Because of her depression due to the accidental death of her parents and the severe postpartum depression she had after the birth of both of their children Luke has always fear she committed suicide, but some of the people in town believe he is responsible and foul play is involved. He has moved on for the sake of his children, but he is in an emotional as well as a legal limbo.
Elizabeth has been living in a nearby town under a different name. Seven years ago, she was trapped in a depression so deep she felt her family would be better off without her. When she realized running was not the answer, she was involved in a terrible accident which stole her memories and left her with a severe brain injury among many other physical difficulties. When she recovered as much as would ever be possible, she has been secretly visiting her family, but still believes with all of her problems, they are still better off without her.
Luke has found her and come to take her back to Haven Point to clear his name before the holidays.
When Luke discovers the full story of Elizabeth’s missing years, he begins to have feelings once again for this woman who survived so much. Elizabeth wants to reunite with her children more than anything, but she is afraid to hope that Luke will ever be able to forgive her. It is Christmas, the season for new beginnings, love and forgiveness.
I loved this book and it is my favorite Christmas book this season. This is one of those books that you just fall into the story and you never want to leave. It is very emotional and yes, you will need the tissues throughout, but you will never forget Luke and Elizabeth and their story. The children are an important part of the story and add a whole other layer of feels. This book gives you a huge dose of romance with no sex, just understanding, forgiveness and love. RaeAnne Thayne is an author I look for now when searching for a heartfelt romance that can take me on an emotional and rocky journey, but then fills my heart with love and happiness by the HEA.
I highly recommend this Christmas contemporary romance!
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS (The Women of Brambleberry House #5, Haven Point #10) by RaeAnne Thayne is her new Christmas contemporary romance set in the town of Haven Point Idaho. Even with the tie in to the two series, this book can be read as a standalone. There is character crossover, but the focus is on the second chance romance of the hero and heroine.
For seven years Luke has been a single father to his two young children. One night his wife was gone from their home and he has never known what happened to her. Because of her depression due to the accidental death of her parents and the severe postpartum depression she had after the birth of both of their children Luke has always fear she committed suicide, but some of the people in town believe he is responsible and foul play is involved. He has moved on for the sake of his children, but he is in an emotional as well as a legal limbo.
Elizabeth has been living in a nearby town under a different name. Seven years ago, she was trapped in a depression so deep she felt her family would be better off without her. When she realized running was not the answer, she was involved in a terrible accident which stole her memories and left her with a severe brain injury among many other physical difficulties. When she recovered as much as would ever be possible, she has been secretly visiting her family, but still believes with all of her problems, they are still better off without her.
Luke has found her and come to take her back to Haven Point to clear his name before the holidays.
When Luke discovers the full story of Elizabeth’s missing years, he begins to have feelings once again for this woman who survived so much. Elizabeth wants to reunite with her children more than anything, but she is afraid to hope that Luke will ever be able to forgive her. It is Christmas, the season for new beginnings, love and forgiveness.
I loved this book and it is my favorite Christmas book this season. This is one of those books that you just fall into the story and you never want to leave. It is very emotional and yes, you will need the tissues throughout, but you will never forget Luke and Elizabeth and their story. The children are an important part of the story and add a whole other layer of feels. This book gives you a huge dose of romance with no sex, just understanding, forgiveness and love. RaeAnne Thayne is an author I look for now when searching for a heartfelt romance that can take me on an emotional and rocky journey, but then fills my heart with love and happiness by the HEA.
I highly recommend this Christmas contemporary romance!
October 25, 2019
This is tenth in the Haven Point series and includes lots of characters from those other stories. Plus, this is the culmination of plot points that have threaded many of the other books as the disappearance of Luke's wife and the botched investigation has been key in many of their stories. I definitely recommend reading those others first as a result. Also, while I haven't read the Brambleberry house series at all, it appears that Elizabeth has been hanging out there for the last seven years so this is tagged as being the fifth in that series as well.
This story is heartbreaking and had a ton of potential. It's too bad that there's so much manipulation that warps the characters out of shape in the beginning and at the end. In the beginning, we have Luke so angry that he shuts down anything Elizabeth has to say by way of explanation. He tells himself that there can be no excuse good enough so he hangs onto his (silent) anger. We've seen for a long time now that he's a fundamentally kind and decent man, so it's good that Thayne makes that present and important even in this "angry" section. He still takes care of her, even though he's very hurt at this part. But I just couldn't see shutting down every possible chance to have answers to questions that would burn no matter how much he believes they can't possibly make a difference. This comes across as author manipulation because it goes against "anger" to shut down information. Anger would more typically lead one to seek more information, if only to give more fuel for the anger-fire to burn. This is particularly true in a guy who is fundamentally kind because he'd seek that much more justification for something so against his nature. I'm not sure what could cause someone to shut down Elizabeth's offer to answer questions, really. Indifference, maybe?
And we have a wonderful middle that had lots of feelz and more than a little healing and I always appreciate Thayne's handling of children (though the tight timeframe of this story robs their daughter Cassie of a true character arc). So my opinion was rising high and I had hopes that this would be another great four-star read in the series and by this author.
And then the late-stage pullback happened. No details, but it was an attack of negative motivation* that came literally out of nowhere. It doesn't help that the actions prompted by that weird retrenchment worked against everything to that point. And then it lead to the even more despicable trope of . I hate that with such a raging passion that I nearly dropped this two stars.
So this ends with a sad three stars that I never would have guessed it would after such a strong middle. I still enjoyed the emotional catharsis. But with an undercurrent of disappointment that it squandered so much good groundwork in the end.
A note about Chaste: The emotional arc and strong emotional history of the characters doesn't admit to physical intimacy, despite that they have been and still are married. I think Thayne does a fantastic job making that feel natural and with both yearning for their past intimacy but unable to reestablish it during the course of the story. Lots of weight there and rightfully so. So you have some great kisses and a story I'd characterize as very chaste.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
This story is heartbreaking and had a ton of potential. It's too bad that there's so much manipulation that warps the characters out of shape in the beginning and at the end. In the beginning, we have Luke so angry that he shuts down anything Elizabeth has to say by way of explanation. He tells himself that there can be no excuse good enough so he hangs onto his (silent) anger. We've seen for a long time now that he's a fundamentally kind and decent man, so it's good that Thayne makes that present and important even in this "angry" section. He still takes care of her, even though he's very hurt at this part. But I just couldn't see shutting down every possible chance to have answers to questions that would burn no matter how much he believes they can't possibly make a difference. This comes across as author manipulation because it goes against "anger" to shut down information. Anger would more typically lead one to seek more information, if only to give more fuel for the anger-fire to burn. This is particularly true in a guy who is fundamentally kind because he'd seek that much more justification for something so against his nature. I'm not sure what could cause someone to shut down Elizabeth's offer to answer questions, really. Indifference, maybe?
And we have a wonderful middle that had lots of feelz and more than a little healing and I always appreciate Thayne's handling of children (though the tight timeframe of this story robs their daughter Cassie of a true character arc). So my opinion was rising high and I had hopes that this would be another great four-star read in the series and by this author.
And then the late-stage pullback happened. No details, but it was an attack of negative motivation* that came literally out of nowhere. It doesn't help that the actions prompted by that weird retrenchment worked against everything to that point. And then it lead to the even more despicable trope of . I hate that with such a raging passion that I nearly dropped this two stars.
So this ends with a sad three stars that I never would have guessed it would after such a strong middle. I still enjoyed the emotional catharsis. But with an undercurrent of disappointment that it squandered so much good groundwork in the end.
A note about Chaste: The emotional arc and strong emotional history of the characters doesn't admit to physical intimacy, despite that they have been and still are married. I think Thayne does a fantastic job making that feel natural and with both yearning for their past intimacy but unable to reestablish it during the course of the story. Lots of weight there and rightfully so. So you have some great kisses and a story I'd characterize as very chaste.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
September 24, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.
Well, this book certainly packs an emotional punch so I'm warning you now when you sit down with COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne make sure you have the tissues close to hand.
For seven years Luke has raised his children alone wondering what really happened to his wife, whether she was gone forever, while some people suspected him of foul play. But thanks to a friend, Luke has found Elizabeth living a brand new life without them but he is taking her home so they can all move on. How could the woman he adored do this to them?
Seven years ago, caught in a tortured web of depression and grief, Elizabeth didn't know who she was or what was happening in her life. And when she remembered, she knew that she would destroy those she loved the most if she went back, so she left them behind. But always made sure to check in on them even when they didn't know it. But now she can no longer hide away and when she returns home, Elizabeth and everyone around her will have to deal with the past and grieve for everything they have lost. But is it too late to move on together?
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne confronts many sensitive topics is a such a gentle and kind way so hats off to the author for that. Elizabeth was so lost and I felt so sorry for everything that she went through as I got to know her more throughout the story. But my heart also broke for Luke, the man who loved her so much, whom she walked away from and I completely understood his anger, and I admired his sense of compassion in listening when she needed him to. The kids are amazing in this book and are really the stars of the show.
Compelling, emotional, and sure to touch your heart, COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne is a must-read this Christmas and another great addition to this series.
Well, this book certainly packs an emotional punch so I'm warning you now when you sit down with COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne make sure you have the tissues close to hand.
For seven years Luke has raised his children alone wondering what really happened to his wife, whether she was gone forever, while some people suspected him of foul play. But thanks to a friend, Luke has found Elizabeth living a brand new life without them but he is taking her home so they can all move on. How could the woman he adored do this to them?
Seven years ago, caught in a tortured web of depression and grief, Elizabeth didn't know who she was or what was happening in her life. And when she remembered, she knew that she would destroy those she loved the most if she went back, so she left them behind. But always made sure to check in on them even when they didn't know it. But now she can no longer hide away and when she returns home, Elizabeth and everyone around her will have to deal with the past and grieve for everything they have lost. But is it too late to move on together?
COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne confronts many sensitive topics is a such a gentle and kind way so hats off to the author for that. Elizabeth was so lost and I felt so sorry for everything that she went through as I got to know her more throughout the story. But my heart also broke for Luke, the man who loved her so much, whom she walked away from and I completely understood his anger, and I admired his sense of compassion in listening when she needed him to. The kids are amazing in this book and are really the stars of the show.
Compelling, emotional, and sure to touch your heart, COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by RaeAnne Thayne is a must-read this Christmas and another great addition to this series.
January 10, 2020
3.5
I’m extremely conflicted about Coming Home for Christmas. RaeAnne Thayne is a well known, much loved romance author and her writing is wonderful. I cared immensely for all of the characters, Elizabeth and Luke, and their children. Despite the fact that this is part of an ongoing series, there was enough backstory that I never felt lost or needed more information to comprehend what was going on with the main characters or those in the town.My concern with the book is the story line itself and its lack of credibility.
Elizabeth was suffering from post-partum depression, severely, to the point that she became suicidal and thought that she would harm her baby. Fleeing from her home, she eventually gets into an accident in which the driver was killed and Elizabeth was gravely injured, both physically and mentally. After a very long rehabilitation from which she never fully recovered, she made the decision that it would be better for her family if she stayed away from them. Meanwhile, Luke is going to be charged with her murder by the new hot-shot cop in town. The only way he can save himself is find answers about where Elizabeth is and why she stayed away. Okay, so when I write it all out it doesn’t soooo unbelievable. What do you think? I really loved the story and read it in a nanosecond so I’m going to say that I should recommend it with a the warning that parts may be a teeny-tiny bit contrived. That works.
I’m extremely conflicted about Coming Home for Christmas. RaeAnne Thayne is a well known, much loved romance author and her writing is wonderful. I cared immensely for all of the characters, Elizabeth and Luke, and their children. Despite the fact that this is part of an ongoing series, there was enough backstory that I never felt lost or needed more information to comprehend what was going on with the main characters or those in the town.My concern with the book is the story line itself and its lack of credibility.
Elizabeth was suffering from post-partum depression, severely, to the point that she became suicidal and thought that she would harm her baby. Fleeing from her home, she eventually gets into an accident in which the driver was killed and Elizabeth was gravely injured, both physically and mentally. After a very long rehabilitation from which she never fully recovered, she made the decision that it would be better for her family if she stayed away from them. Meanwhile, Luke is going to be charged with her murder by the new hot-shot cop in town. The only way he can save himself is find answers about where Elizabeth is and why she stayed away. Okay, so when I write it all out it doesn’t soooo unbelievable. What do you think? I really loved the story and read it in a nanosecond so I’m going to say that I should recommend it with a the warning that parts may be a teeny-tiny bit contrived. That works.
September 26, 2019
4.5/5
Yep it’s me again reading another Christmas book! It’s almost October now and the holiday season starts for me November first, so it’s not really that early for me. I realize I’m insane but that’s my logic and it works for me. Anyway, this is the tenth book in the Haven Point series and I’m a longtime fan. Although I didn’t start at the beginning, I think I jumped in at like book four or five because you can easily read these on their own. Each book centers around a different couple but is set in the same charming, small town and if Haven Point was a real place I would be living there in a heartbeat, it’s so quaint! All of that to say, don’t be intimidated by the fact that it’s so deep into the series because you can easily start here and you should because it’s my favorite book of them all so far!
This follows Elizabeth and Luke and in previous books there’s been a mystery about her sudden disappearance seven years ago. She up and abandoned not only Luke, but also her young children and finally getting to hear about what lead up to her leaving was both fascinating and heartbreaking. This one was so much more emotional than previous books, it was still sweet and cute but there was so much depth. It tackled some really tough and sometimes heavy issues with grace, I totally teared up a few times. This is the ultimate holiday read, it’s full of compassion and kindness and is all about the true meaning of Christmas. This series is the equivalent of watching a sweet and tender Hallmark movie, I always finish one of these books feeling warm, happy and totally content.
Highly recommended by me, especially if you like sweet, clean romances with tons of heart and that will restore your own faith in humanity by the end. I’ll be reading these books as long as Thayne writes them and can’t wait to see what happens next!
Coming Home for Christmas in three words: Heartwarming, Gentle and Sweet
Yep it’s me again reading another Christmas book! It’s almost October now and the holiday season starts for me November first, so it’s not really that early for me. I realize I’m insane but that’s my logic and it works for me. Anyway, this is the tenth book in the Haven Point series and I’m a longtime fan. Although I didn’t start at the beginning, I think I jumped in at like book four or five because you can easily read these on their own. Each book centers around a different couple but is set in the same charming, small town and if Haven Point was a real place I would be living there in a heartbeat, it’s so quaint! All of that to say, don’t be intimidated by the fact that it’s so deep into the series because you can easily start here and you should because it’s my favorite book of them all so far!
This follows Elizabeth and Luke and in previous books there’s been a mystery about her sudden disappearance seven years ago. She up and abandoned not only Luke, but also her young children and finally getting to hear about what lead up to her leaving was both fascinating and heartbreaking. This one was so much more emotional than previous books, it was still sweet and cute but there was so much depth. It tackled some really tough and sometimes heavy issues with grace, I totally teared up a few times. This is the ultimate holiday read, it’s full of compassion and kindness and is all about the true meaning of Christmas. This series is the equivalent of watching a sweet and tender Hallmark movie, I always finish one of these books feeling warm, happy and totally content.
Highly recommended by me, especially if you like sweet, clean romances with tons of heart and that will restore your own faith in humanity by the end. I’ll be reading these books as long as Thayne writes them and can’t wait to see what happens next!
Coming Home for Christmas in three words: Heartwarming, Gentle and Sweet
December 7, 2019
WOW!! SIMPLY WOW!!
This book was something more than a romance. It had mystery and intrigue, pain and pathos, forgiveness and second chance love.
Elizabeth was lost.
She was lost for 7 years. One day she walked out of her home and never looked back. Luke her husband was to be arrested by the DA. His friend investigated, found that Elizabeth was living as Sonia in Oregon. But she was so different. Luke rushed to get her back home to clear charges against him. But would there be forgiveness after hearing the story.
My first book by author RaeAnne Thayne, the story was everything I loved about a romance and more. The author’s brilliant writing pulled me into the story one page at a time, longing to know what happened to both. Tears flooded my eyes when I realized I too was blaming the wrong person instead of fate and circumstances.
Strength was written in ever word and love was the underlying emotion of every sentence. The author’s command over the story showing me the scenes was evocative. I couldn’t help but read far, far into the night more that I intended.
Elizabeth and Luke both captured my heart with their honesty. Life showed them a different phase that they never signed up for. And it was tough for them to climb back and find each other. The author sure did a wonderful job showing me that.
I want to keep going on and on in praise of this book. But I would end it here.
I loved the book and it loved me back. One of my best midnight reads. Some books really can make me want to lose sleep. Reading this book felt more important than sleep.
This book was something more than a romance. It had mystery and intrigue, pain and pathos, forgiveness and second chance love.
Elizabeth was lost.
She was lost for 7 years. One day she walked out of her home and never looked back. Luke her husband was to be arrested by the DA. His friend investigated, found that Elizabeth was living as Sonia in Oregon. But she was so different. Luke rushed to get her back home to clear charges against him. But would there be forgiveness after hearing the story.
My first book by author RaeAnne Thayne, the story was everything I loved about a romance and more. The author’s brilliant writing pulled me into the story one page at a time, longing to know what happened to both. Tears flooded my eyes when I realized I too was blaming the wrong person instead of fate and circumstances.
Strength was written in ever word and love was the underlying emotion of every sentence. The author’s command over the story showing me the scenes was evocative. I couldn’t help but read far, far into the night more that I intended.
Elizabeth and Luke both captured my heart with their honesty. Life showed them a different phase that they never signed up for. And it was tough for them to climb back and find each other. The author sure did a wonderful job showing me that.
I want to keep going on and on in praise of this book. But I would end it here.
I loved the book and it loved me back. One of my best midnight reads. Some books really can make me want to lose sleep. Reading this book felt more important than sleep.
December 10, 2019
In this incredibly touching story by RaeAnne Thayne, Elizabeth Hamilton finds her way home again.
Elizabeth made the ultimate sacrifice. Wracked with postpartum depression, she felt her young daughter, but especially her infant son were better off with her leaving. This broke her heart, and that of her husband Luke. However, when Elizabeth left, she suffered a tragedy and had far more to cope with than ever could have been expected.
It is now seven years later, and Luke is furious, and wants her to come back home and sign divorce papers once and for all. Things were not cut and dried, not by a longshot. Elizabeth spends just enough time with Luke, Callie and Bridger to realize just how desperately she loves each and every one of them. But, is it too late?
It is now the Christmas season, and with all of the festivities, Luke and Elizabeth soon discover that their feelings never went away. Can they all heal at this precious time for the sake of themselves and their family? This is a tender story that hits on a very real, a very serious and what has been for some, a very life-altering condition.
With two of my daughters having given birth this year, this subject of postpartum depression is discussed. Ms. Thayne handled this subject with delicacy and grace. My hat is off to her.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Elizabeth made the ultimate sacrifice. Wracked with postpartum depression, she felt her young daughter, but especially her infant son were better off with her leaving. This broke her heart, and that of her husband Luke. However, when Elizabeth left, she suffered a tragedy and had far more to cope with than ever could have been expected.
It is now seven years later, and Luke is furious, and wants her to come back home and sign divorce papers once and for all. Things were not cut and dried, not by a longshot. Elizabeth spends just enough time with Luke, Callie and Bridger to realize just how desperately she loves each and every one of them. But, is it too late?
It is now the Christmas season, and with all of the festivities, Luke and Elizabeth soon discover that their feelings never went away. Can they all heal at this precious time for the sake of themselves and their family? This is a tender story that hits on a very real, a very serious and what has been for some, a very life-altering condition.
With two of my daughters having given birth this year, this subject of postpartum depression is discussed. Ms. Thayne handled this subject with delicacy and grace. My hat is off to her.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
July 1, 2019
I always expect an amazing book from this author, especially during the holidays. This book…it was so much more for me. It grabbed my heart from the very first pages and never let go, even after I finished. I won’t retell the story – you should read it for yourself as Ms. Thayne does a much better job than I ever could – but I can tell you some of the things I loved.
What happens to Elizabeth Hamilton is devastating. What starts as postpartum depression morphs into something so bad that it gutted me. Even with the unbelievable seven years she went missing, I loved how her character had to learn how to just ‘be’ again. She sacrificed a life with her family, thinking they were better off without her. And Luke, her husband, is so strong and although he is unbelievably angry with his formerly missing wife (and he has his reasons), he still has a heart of gold and listens to that heart when it tells him to listen, watch and help Elizabeth… It’s those cues and clues that can bring them together.
And the children…OMG, your heart will embrace them, break for them, and joyously burst, all in the same book. I loved how this family worked hard to come together again through their individual grief. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. I really was engaged from the start of the book, well past the end. Coming Home for Christmas is a special holiday read.
What happens to Elizabeth Hamilton is devastating. What starts as postpartum depression morphs into something so bad that it gutted me. Even with the unbelievable seven years she went missing, I loved how her character had to learn how to just ‘be’ again. She sacrificed a life with her family, thinking they were better off without her. And Luke, her husband, is so strong and although he is unbelievably angry with his formerly missing wife (and he has his reasons), he still has a heart of gold and listens to that heart when it tells him to listen, watch and help Elizabeth… It’s those cues and clues that can bring them together.
And the children…OMG, your heart will embrace them, break for them, and joyously burst, all in the same book. I loved how this family worked hard to come together again through their individual grief. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. I really was engaged from the start of the book, well past the end. Coming Home for Christmas is a special holiday read.
October 3, 2019
This is the tenth book in the Haven Point series, but the first I have read. I had no problems following this delightful story and it works well as a standalone Christmas story.
What would you do if you were afraid that you would hurt your children? If you were so depressed, that nothing seemed worth living for? I can't imagine that, but it doesn't mean that this is not something that happens to women suffering from postpartum depression. Add in a car accident that steals your memories and your looks and it takes years to remember the family you left behind. My heart went out to Elizabeth. As she began to remember her family, her guilt overwhelms her and she is afraid to make an overture to return to her family. Sneaking in and out of town to watch her children grow up is all she thinks she has. When Luke is on the verge of being arrested and charged for her murder, he follows up on the information he has regarding her whereabouts and brings her back to Haven Point. The only reason for this is to clear his name, get a divorce and move forward with his life, but the best laid plans go awry as he learns what caused her to flee as well as what happened after that. Elizabeth is a woman who loves her children and does not want to disrupt their lives. She is a bit of a shadow in their lives and as much as she is living relatively happily in her new life, she is very sad about what she has left behind. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. Bridger and Cassie were typical children. There was anger, mistrust, yet the love was there trying to come out. This family grabbed my heart and wanted them to come together as a family. Add in some Christmas magic and you know something good is going to happen. This story grabbed me right from the beginning and I was totally absorbed in the lives of the Hamiltons.
The seriousness of postpartum depression and chronic pain and disability was handled in a very realistic way. This is an issue that has been swept under the rug for years, yet is something that should be known about and discussed. As well, living with pain without medicating with addictive medications is also a timely and important issue. This was incorporated well into the story making it part of everyday, not an add on. I enjoyed this well-written and plotted story and will definitely be reading more books in this series. The publisher, HQN Books, provided me with an ebook upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I listened to the audiobook of Coming Home for Christmas narrated by Vanessa Johansson. She does a nice job with the narration and voices. The voices for the males were more female sounding that other books I have listened to, but I was able to identify them when they were speaking. This book felt like it was being read to me, with great expression and feeling. I really enjoyed this reading and it added to my enjoyment of this book. The publisher, Harlequin Audio, provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
What would you do if you were afraid that you would hurt your children? If you were so depressed, that nothing seemed worth living for? I can't imagine that, but it doesn't mean that this is not something that happens to women suffering from postpartum depression. Add in a car accident that steals your memories and your looks and it takes years to remember the family you left behind. My heart went out to Elizabeth. As she began to remember her family, her guilt overwhelms her and she is afraid to make an overture to return to her family. Sneaking in and out of town to watch her children grow up is all she thinks she has. When Luke is on the verge of being arrested and charged for her murder, he follows up on the information he has regarding her whereabouts and brings her back to Haven Point. The only reason for this is to clear his name, get a divorce and move forward with his life, but the best laid plans go awry as he learns what caused her to flee as well as what happened after that. Elizabeth is a woman who loves her children and does not want to disrupt their lives. She is a bit of a shadow in their lives and as much as she is living relatively happily in her new life, she is very sad about what she has left behind. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. Bridger and Cassie were typical children. There was anger, mistrust, yet the love was there trying to come out. This family grabbed my heart and wanted them to come together as a family. Add in some Christmas magic and you know something good is going to happen. This story grabbed me right from the beginning and I was totally absorbed in the lives of the Hamiltons.
The seriousness of postpartum depression and chronic pain and disability was handled in a very realistic way. This is an issue that has been swept under the rug for years, yet is something that should be known about and discussed. As well, living with pain without medicating with addictive medications is also a timely and important issue. This was incorporated well into the story making it part of everyday, not an add on. I enjoyed this well-written and plotted story and will definitely be reading more books in this series. The publisher, HQN Books, provided me with an ebook upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I listened to the audiobook of Coming Home for Christmas narrated by Vanessa Johansson. She does a nice job with the narration and voices. The voices for the males were more female sounding that other books I have listened to, but I was able to identify them when they were speaking. This book felt like it was being read to me, with great expression and feeling. I really enjoyed this reading and it added to my enjoyment of this book. The publisher, Harlequin Audio, provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
November 17, 2019
This is my first Christmas themed book of 2019 and I enjoyed reading this number 10 in the series. This is a Harlequin romance and of course I read it because I want a comfortable, simple story with a happy ending. It is a genre meant to make us feel good and tug at our heartstrings. In this respect, I enjoyed Coming home for Christmas . It is sweet and clean romance about a woman who abandons her family for a very good reason and now she has to make her way back into their hearts. I hate to be critical of a book because I did liked it but in the back of my mind while reading I kept cringing at the crazy plot. There is depression, post partum depression, a car accident, amnesia, plastic surgery, Russian mail order brides, murder charges, FBI agent, seizures ... and on and on. I like RaeAnne Thayne but she went a little crazy with this plot line.
January 6, 2022
Talk about a complicated and rough backstory ! Sounds almost too much to be belivable, but RaeAnne Thayne makes it work beautifully.
"What do you want, Luke?"
"I told you. I need you to come home. At this moment,the Lake Haven County district attorney's office is preparing to file charges against me related to your disappearance and apparent murder."
When she disappeared without a word to her husband and two little kids seven years ago, Elizabeth Hamilton was still grieving her parents and dealing with her second postpartum depression. But she was coming home to them when a car accident stole away her memories and left her with many disabilities. And when she finally remembered everything, Liz thought the best she could do for the people she love was to stay away.
All these years, Luke held on to hope but thought she had ended her life. Is it because he had a violent father that people in town started to whisper he probably killed his wife? When his brother-in-law finally discover that Elizabeth is alive and living in Oregon, Luke doesn't intend to go to her, beliving she chose to abandon him and their children. But if he doesn't want to go to jail for a crime he didn't commit, he have no other choice to bring her back to their hometown in Idaho. What happened to Liz? And is there a chance that they could be a family again?
Obviously, there's bitterness and hurtful words at first. But through the regrets and the heavy emotions, there's light, there's love and there's the power of these things that shine so bright.
So is it a marriage in crisis trope or second chance romance ? How about both😛.
"What do you want, Luke?"
"I told you. I need you to come home. At this moment,the Lake Haven County district attorney's office is preparing to file charges against me related to your disappearance and apparent murder."
When she disappeared without a word to her husband and two little kids seven years ago, Elizabeth Hamilton was still grieving her parents and dealing with her second postpartum depression. But she was coming home to them when a car accident stole away her memories and left her with many disabilities. And when she finally remembered everything, Liz thought the best she could do for the people she love was to stay away.
All these years, Luke held on to hope but thought she had ended her life. Is it because he had a violent father that people in town started to whisper he probably killed his wife? When his brother-in-law finally discover that Elizabeth is alive and living in Oregon, Luke doesn't intend to go to her, beliving she chose to abandon him and their children. But if he doesn't want to go to jail for a crime he didn't commit, he have no other choice to bring her back to their hometown in Idaho. What happened to Liz? And is there a chance that they could be a family again?
Obviously, there's bitterness and hurtful words at first. But through the regrets and the heavy emotions, there's light, there's love and there's the power of these things that shine so bright.
So is it a marriage in crisis trope or second chance romance ? How about both😛.
September 24, 2019
RaeAnne Thayne is an utter genius and this story performed a miracle on my heart. Coming Home for Christmas is Luke & Elizabeth Hamilton’s second chance story and it did something I thought could never happen from a romance story. The author was able to flip my feelings toward Elizabeth 180 degrees from ‘You can’t take her back’ to ‘I’m so glad that they are back together.’ We are first introduced to their story in The Cottages of Silver Beach and A Soldier’s Return, when Elizabeth went missing one night, and after 7 years of waiting and searching, she was found in a coastal town in Oregon. The story opens up with Luke finally confronting her, and orders her to return home to Haven Point, in order to clear his name of murder. It wasn’t an easy reunion, and she did go back with him, but it took a heartbreaking story to reveal why she left in the first place. I’m a hard critic to please and I believe the author created a believable and acceptable reason for leaving and being out of the picture. How Luke and his two children go from being on their own, to accepting Elizabeth back into their life wasn’t an easy transition, but it took a slow process to get over the hurt and anger, and begin healing with love, acceptance and forgiveness.
Coming Home for Christmas is a story I will never forget and the highlight of this series for me. Feelings were never sugarcoated and a great deal of time was spent expressing the hurt and the scorn that the situation created when Elizabeth disappeared. Luke did his best to protect his children but he was living an insulated life and only going through the motions to get by day by day. Elizabeth had to accept her role in her family’s current situation and that was a hard pill to swallow. She had to learn to not sell herself short and have courage to move forward with strength and patience. The epilogue was a nice touch because it showed the progress the family made together and that it did have highs and lows, and that they were dealing with it as a family. I loved this story and my admiration for this author has greatly increased in awe of her writing talent.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Coming Home for Christmas is a story I will never forget and the highlight of this series for me. Feelings were never sugarcoated and a great deal of time was spent expressing the hurt and the scorn that the situation created when Elizabeth disappeared. Luke did his best to protect his children but he was living an insulated life and only going through the motions to get by day by day. Elizabeth had to accept her role in her family’s current situation and that was a hard pill to swallow. She had to learn to not sell herself short and have courage to move forward with strength and patience. The epilogue was a nice touch because it showed the progress the family made together and that it did have highs and lows, and that they were dealing with it as a family. I loved this story and my admiration for this author has greatly increased in awe of her writing talent.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
August 31, 2023
I tried to start this series by reading this book as an advanced copy just before publication time, and I couldn't get into the series. It seems like I picked the one place in the Haven Point series where it helps to have some of the knowledge from previous books. So I shelved this book and started the series at the beginning. Since 2019, I've absolutely enjoyed meandering my way thru this series, falling hard for the town of Haven Point and the people that live there throughout the process. And the dogs!! It seems like every character has a great dog, and I love that so much about RaeAnne Thayne.
The events in this installment began seven years ago, but they became known to me two books ago. Elizabeth Hamilton disappeared seven years ago and was never heard from again. Her husband Luke and their two children have had to live with whispers, accusations, and judgment from many of his neighbors in Haven Point since that time. Luke and the children actually thought Elizabeth was dead, because she how else could she stay away from her sweet babies for so long?
Well. She's back!
Listen, I didn't WANT to forgive Elizabeth for walking out on her family so long ago. I've had two books before this one to sit and stew over her actions and to think about the harm it caused Luke and the kids. But...BUT!...Mrs. Thayne is so good at what she does that I not only wanted to hear Elizabeth's reasons for staying away, but I wanted her to reunite with Luke and the kids too. I absolutely love the way Ms. Thayne let Elizabeth tell her own story and brought restoration to this family.
So, so good.
The events in this installment began seven years ago, but they became known to me two books ago. Elizabeth Hamilton disappeared seven years ago and was never heard from again. Her husband Luke and their two children have had to live with whispers, accusations, and judgment from many of his neighbors in Haven Point since that time. Luke and the children actually thought Elizabeth was dead, because she how else could she stay away from her sweet babies for so long?
Well. She's back!
Listen, I didn't WANT to forgive Elizabeth for walking out on her family so long ago. I've had two books before this one to sit and stew over her actions and to think about the harm it caused Luke and the kids. But...BUT!...Mrs. Thayne is so good at what she does that I not only wanted to hear Elizabeth's reasons for staying away, but I wanted her to reunite with Luke and the kids too. I absolutely love the way Ms. Thayne let Elizabeth tell her own story and brought restoration to this family.
So, so good.
December 10, 2019
With that synopsis I was expecting some angst, and was actually dreading it, it turns out there was none and that was even worst.
How can a couple just reunited after 7 years of no contact, just because loooovvvee
How can a couple just reunited after 7 years of no contact, just because loooovvvee
January 21, 2020
Very good second chance story that deals with some hard subjects. Seven years earlier, Elizabeth walked out into the night and disappeared, leaving her husband and children behind. Luke has dealt with being a single father as best he could, but it hasn't been easy. The whispers around town of why Elizabeth left and what happened to her have only gotten worse. To complicate matters, Luke is about to be arrested and charged with her murder, even though there is no proof that she is dead. On the contrary, Luke has recently discovered that Elizabeth is alive and well, living in a town several hours away, so he goes to get her to clear his name.
I ached for both Luke and Elizabeth. At the time of her disappearance, Elizabeth was struggling with a double dose of depression. First was the pain she felt after the deaths of her parents. Added to that was the severe postpartum depression that Elizabeth experienced after the birth of her second child. Terrified that she would physically harm the baby, and convinced that they would all be better off without her, she left home. Though it didn't take her long to realize she'd made a mistake and turn around to go back, fate intervened. Elizabeth was involved in an accident that left her in a coma with extensive physical and mental injuries, including a loss of memory. It was several years before her memory began to return, and each memory added to the guilt she felt. She wants to go back, but worries about if it's the right thing for her family.
Luke has never forgotten Elizabeth and grieved for her every day. He does his best with his kids, though he occasionally exhibits moments of frustration and guilt, such as when it comes to doing his daughter Cassie's hair. He frequently blames himself for not seeing the depth of Elizabeth's problems thanks to his preoccupation with getting his business up and running. He faces the rumors and innuendos stoically and keeps on living his life. When a friend with the FBI tracks down Elizabeth, Luke is furious that she's been so close without letting anyone know. Now all he wants is to clear his name, get divorce papers signed, and try to move on with his life.
The first encounter between Luke and Elizabeth is an emotional roller coaster. She is stunned to find him at her door, demanding her immediate return to Haven Point. Even though she had planned to return soon, she feels unprepared to face everything now. Luke is so furious that he refuses to listen to Elizabeth's attempts to explain, wanting only to get it over with. He does all he can to keep her at an emotional distance. Though Luke's anger is understandable, I ached for Elizabeth when he refused to let her see the children.
It was satisfying to see Luke present Elizabeth to the DA and clear his name of her murder. I also liked seeing Luke's shock as he listened to everything Elizabeth had been through. I loved how he lost his anger and became willing to let her back in their lives. It wasn't all unicorns and rainbows, though. While Luke is ready to allow her to see and spend time with the kids, he is determined not to let her back into his heart. He was devastated when she left the first time and didn't want to go through it again if he allows himself to love her again. Elizabeth never stopped loving Luke and the children, but she is still convinced that they are better off without her.
Because the people of the town need to know that Elizabeth is alive, she and Luke must make public appearances together. There are some very emotional (and sometimes funny) scenes as Elizabeth reconnects with her friends and neighbors. There are also some painful scenes when Elizabeth spends time with Cassie and Bridger. Though Bridger comes around pretty quickly, Elizabeth's attempts to rebuild trust with Cassie do not go as smoothly. There are also some fantastic family scenes. I especially enjoyed the snowball fight and the promise it showed.
As Luke and Elizabeth spend time together, it becomes clear that their feelings for each other are still there. I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other as they are now. Elizabeth has trouble believing that Luke could forgive her enough to allow her back in their lives. It wasn't easy, but with honesty and love, both Luke and Elizabeth were able to see that they belonged together. I loved their big moment at the end as they were finally able to open their hearts fully again. The epilogue was terrific and honestly portrayed their progress and the challenges they still face.
I ached for both Luke and Elizabeth. At the time of her disappearance, Elizabeth was struggling with a double dose of depression. First was the pain she felt after the deaths of her parents. Added to that was the severe postpartum depression that Elizabeth experienced after the birth of her second child. Terrified that she would physically harm the baby, and convinced that they would all be better off without her, she left home. Though it didn't take her long to realize she'd made a mistake and turn around to go back, fate intervened. Elizabeth was involved in an accident that left her in a coma with extensive physical and mental injuries, including a loss of memory. It was several years before her memory began to return, and each memory added to the guilt she felt. She wants to go back, but worries about if it's the right thing for her family.
Luke has never forgotten Elizabeth and grieved for her every day. He does his best with his kids, though he occasionally exhibits moments of frustration and guilt, such as when it comes to doing his daughter Cassie's hair. He frequently blames himself for not seeing the depth of Elizabeth's problems thanks to his preoccupation with getting his business up and running. He faces the rumors and innuendos stoically and keeps on living his life. When a friend with the FBI tracks down Elizabeth, Luke is furious that she's been so close without letting anyone know. Now all he wants is to clear his name, get divorce papers signed, and try to move on with his life.
The first encounter between Luke and Elizabeth is an emotional roller coaster. She is stunned to find him at her door, demanding her immediate return to Haven Point. Even though she had planned to return soon, she feels unprepared to face everything now. Luke is so furious that he refuses to listen to Elizabeth's attempts to explain, wanting only to get it over with. He does all he can to keep her at an emotional distance. Though Luke's anger is understandable, I ached for Elizabeth when he refused to let her see the children.
It was satisfying to see Luke present Elizabeth to the DA and clear his name of her murder. I also liked seeing Luke's shock as he listened to everything Elizabeth had been through. I loved how he lost his anger and became willing to let her back in their lives. It wasn't all unicorns and rainbows, though. While Luke is ready to allow her to see and spend time with the kids, he is determined not to let her back into his heart. He was devastated when she left the first time and didn't want to go through it again if he allows himself to love her again. Elizabeth never stopped loving Luke and the children, but she is still convinced that they are better off without her.
Because the people of the town need to know that Elizabeth is alive, she and Luke must make public appearances together. There are some very emotional (and sometimes funny) scenes as Elizabeth reconnects with her friends and neighbors. There are also some painful scenes when Elizabeth spends time with Cassie and Bridger. Though Bridger comes around pretty quickly, Elizabeth's attempts to rebuild trust with Cassie do not go as smoothly. There are also some fantastic family scenes. I especially enjoyed the snowball fight and the promise it showed.
As Luke and Elizabeth spend time together, it becomes clear that their feelings for each other are still there. I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other as they are now. Elizabeth has trouble believing that Luke could forgive her enough to allow her back in their lives. It wasn't easy, but with honesty and love, both Luke and Elizabeth were able to see that they belonged together. I loved their big moment at the end as they were finally able to open their hearts fully again. The epilogue was terrific and honestly portrayed their progress and the challenges they still face.
December 20, 2019
Just not believable. Some spoilers below. Be warned.
I am sorry, the minute I got my memories back I would go home. I would have given it five stars if that had happened. Instead there were more years she wasn't taking care of her children. I understood why she left but honestly she would have gone back home sooner than later. She was mentally ill and I can see being scared by her thoughts. And then She was hurt and had amnesia and okay, I will go with that. After all it is fiction. But the rest was just not to my taste.
The book was written very well. I like this author. It is a seven year separation and the Father raised their kids. He was not nice to the heroine because he was angry but I would be too. He did come around and I liked the reconciliation part of it.
Just wish the heroine had sucked it up and gone home sooner. This guy was a true hero too.
Safe and no pornographic or any love scenes. I liked that for a change.
I am sorry, the minute I got my memories back I would go home. I would have given it five stars if that had happened. Instead there were more years she wasn't taking care of her children. I understood why she left but honestly she would have gone back home sooner than later. She was mentally ill and I can see being scared by her thoughts. And then She was hurt and had amnesia and okay, I will go with that. After all it is fiction. But the rest was just not to my taste.
The book was written very well. I like this author. It is a seven year separation and the Father raised their kids. He was not nice to the heroine because he was angry but I would be too. He did come around and I liked the reconciliation part of it.
Just wish the heroine had sucked it up and gone home sooner. This guy was a true hero too.
Safe and no pornographic or any love scenes. I liked that for a change.
September 24, 2019
3.75 stars rounded up
I have wanted to read Luke's story for quite a while, after it is 'introduced' in The Cottages on Silver Beach (it's his sister's book, but it was Luke and his missing wife that caught my attention).
This is one of occasions in which I WISHED the (already) novel-length book is slightly longer because I felt that the reunion progress between Luke and Elizabeth was not enough. Elizabeth has been presumed dead for YEARS. But the timeline of this book only happens for several weeks – during Christmas Season – as Luke and Elizabeth patch their relationship back, including Elizabeth forging new relationship with his children.
Although most of the reasons of what happened to Elizabeth was a daytime soap-ish far-fetched () BUT it started with postpartum depression, and I thought it was an important theme. It shows how horrible it is. I don't have kids (and I don't plan to have any) and I can't imagine how debilitating it is. I hope that all mothers suffering from postpartum depression can get the help they need.
I thought Elizabeth was a strong heroine – despite what happened to her, she was able to get back on her feet again. It took a long time for her, but she never really gave up. Meanwhile Luke was full of anger the first time – and some of the words he said were harsh.
However, I thought it was quite justified considering what he had to go through during Elizabeth’s disappearance. Including people mouthing him and his kids – that they’re the kids of a wife-murderer. But after Luke learned what happened to his wife all those years ago, he was willing to step back from his resentment, and gave Elizabeth a chance.
It was a sweet lovely “reunion” type story – and as always with RaeAnne Thayne, it falls into low-steam category with a couple of kisses and no sexual scenes.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I have wanted to read Luke's story for quite a while, after it is 'introduced' in The Cottages on Silver Beach (it's his sister's book, but it was Luke and his missing wife that caught my attention).
This is one of occasions in which I WISHED the (already) novel-length book is slightly longer because I felt that the reunion progress between Luke and Elizabeth was not enough. Elizabeth has been presumed dead for YEARS. But the timeline of this book only happens for several weeks – during Christmas Season – as Luke and Elizabeth patch their relationship back, including Elizabeth forging new relationship with his children.
Although most of the reasons of what happened to Elizabeth was a daytime soap-ish far-fetched () BUT it started with postpartum depression, and I thought it was an important theme. It shows how horrible it is. I don't have kids (and I don't plan to have any) and I can't imagine how debilitating it is. I hope that all mothers suffering from postpartum depression can get the help they need.
I thought Elizabeth was a strong heroine – despite what happened to her, she was able to get back on her feet again. It took a long time for her, but she never really gave up. Meanwhile Luke was full of anger the first time – and some of the words he said were harsh.
However, I thought it was quite justified considering what he had to go through during Elizabeth’s disappearance. Including people mouthing him and his kids – that they’re the kids of a wife-murderer. But after Luke learned what happened to his wife all those years ago, he was willing to step back from his resentment, and gave Elizabeth a chance.
It was a sweet lovely “reunion” type story – and as always with RaeAnne Thayne, it falls into low-steam category with a couple of kisses and no sexual scenes.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 25, 2019
Coming Home for Christmas is the tenth book in RaeAnne Thayne’s Haven Point series, and it’s a great addition to the series. As with each of the books in the series, this one works perfectly fine as a standalone novel. However, if you’ve been reading the series, you’ll get a wee bit more from this one as we finally get answers and an explanation about characters that have intrigued us previously.
Since we were introduced to their story in The Cottages on Silver Beach, I’ve been curious for the truth behind the Hamilton family. There were plenty of possibilities, and I was eager to see what the reality of the situation would be.
With Coming Home for Christmas, we got that truth. It did not disappoint, ensuring I was hooked throughout. As is often the case with RaeAnne Thayne, I completed this one in a single sitting as I did not want to put it down. It deals with a serious topic well, whilst offering a light story that is easy to follow. I felt a few things were a bit too easy towards the end, but as a whole it hooked me.
Without a doubt, fans of the Haven Point series need to give this one a read.
Since we were introduced to their story in The Cottages on Silver Beach, I’ve been curious for the truth behind the Hamilton family. There were plenty of possibilities, and I was eager to see what the reality of the situation would be.
With Coming Home for Christmas, we got that truth. It did not disappoint, ensuring I was hooked throughout. As is often the case with RaeAnne Thayne, I completed this one in a single sitting as I did not want to put it down. It deals with a serious topic well, whilst offering a light story that is easy to follow. I felt a few things were a bit too easy towards the end, but as a whole it hooked me.
Without a doubt, fans of the Haven Point series need to give this one a read.
September 8, 2019
One dark night Luke's wife Elizabeth stumbled out of her house lost in the fog of a deep dark depression. The night was cold and snowy, and she wasn't heard of again. What happened to her? Did she die? Has she chosen another life and family? Luke has always wondered as he has spent the seven intervening years being a wonderful Dad to his daughter Cassie and son Bridger.
When by some miracle she is found and returns to their lives it is with very mixed and varied feelings on all their parts. What has happened to Elizabeth in the meantime? Can they all find their way back to each other or is the divorce Luke plans the most effective way to deal.
Needless to say this story grabbed me and I read it every chance I had. It's sad and yet so very heart warming as well. Luke is a fantastic Dad and he has done such a great job of raising his two children. Elizabeth has been through a lot, yet is such a compassionate, loving person.
Add in the background of Christmas, snow and goodwill and Coming Home for Christmas brings a whole new meaning to those words. A perfect Christmas read.
When by some miracle she is found and returns to their lives it is with very mixed and varied feelings on all their parts. What has happened to Elizabeth in the meantime? Can they all find their way back to each other or is the divorce Luke plans the most effective way to deal.
Needless to say this story grabbed me and I read it every chance I had. It's sad and yet so very heart warming as well. Luke is a fantastic Dad and he has done such a great job of raising his two children. Elizabeth has been through a lot, yet is such a compassionate, loving person.
Add in the background of Christmas, snow and goodwill and Coming Home for Christmas brings a whole new meaning to those words. A perfect Christmas read.
December 31, 2021
Luke's wife, Elizabeth, resurfaces after she went missing 7 years ago. What happened to her, and why was she gone for so long? Most importantly, why didn't she return after she'd regained her memory?
This is the second book I've read by this author, and I really enjoy her writing and story telling ability. Despite the fact that some of the memory loss stuff in this one reminded me of an overly dramatic soap opera, I really enjoyed it. In fact, it unexpectedly brought tears to my eyes several times and left me wanting to read more of the series. It read just fine as a standalone but since the peripheral characters caught my interest and I enjoy the writing style, I ordered the first in the series to find out more!
Lastly, even though it dealt with serious topics such as severe brain injury and postpartum depression, it was a nice holiday read, especially since it had a bit more depth than a typical light holiday romance. If you love "second chance at love" stories, then be sure to check it out.
Location: Cannon Beach, Oregon and Haven Point, Idaho
This is the second book I've read by this author, and I really enjoy her writing and story telling ability. Despite the fact that some of the memory loss stuff in this one reminded me of an overly dramatic soap opera, I really enjoyed it. In fact, it unexpectedly brought tears to my eyes several times and left me wanting to read more of the series. It read just fine as a standalone but since the peripheral characters caught my interest and I enjoy the writing style, I ordered the first in the series to find out more!
Lastly, even though it dealt with serious topics such as severe brain injury and postpartum depression, it was a nice holiday read, especially since it had a bit more depth than a typical light holiday romance. If you love "second chance at love" stories, then be sure to check it out.
Location: Cannon Beach, Oregon and Haven Point, Idaho
February 22, 2020
Do you like reading Holiday romance or Holiday books in general at any time of the year? I definitely do, I can read them any time of the year! Coming Home for Christmas is a holiday romance novel based in Haven Point, a small town in Idaho.
Luke Hamilton who lives in Haven Point with his two children, is looking for some jail time in the near future, under suspicions of his wife's murder, which he didn't commit. So he goes to get his wife who ran away from the house, as she was suffering from postpartum depression at the time, but when she didn't return home and stayed away, he presumed she was dead. That's why he is hostile towards her when he discovers that she has been alive all this time and didn't return home for seven long years.
Elizabeth has been through hell and back, with the accident and the reality is completely different from what Luke is imagining. Elizabeth can't get enough glances at her family from afar, she wants to see them and wants her life back but that doesn't seem likely to happen. When Luke comes to get her, she is shocked to learn that Luke is in trouble because of her disappearance and the truth is far from what everyone has been assuming about him. She is all ready to clear the misunderstanding and wants to help her family and protect them with everything she has.
This is a second chance romance, the kids were cute, the people in the town were colourful, some good, some grey, not everyone is perfect, the story had some drama and I liked all of that. But I found the story a bit fast-paced. It doesn't seem plausible to get over all the seven years of hurt in a week, but because the writing was good, it didn't feel out of place and the story flowed nicely. I just wished I had gotten some more time to see the characters adjusting well. I read this book in one sitting because it was such a page-turner, I couldn't stop.
*Thank you for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Luke Hamilton who lives in Haven Point with his two children, is looking for some jail time in the near future, under suspicions of his wife's murder, which he didn't commit. So he goes to get his wife who ran away from the house, as she was suffering from postpartum depression at the time, but when she didn't return home and stayed away, he presumed she was dead. That's why he is hostile towards her when he discovers that she has been alive all this time and didn't return home for seven long years.
Elizabeth has been through hell and back, with the accident and the reality is completely different from what Luke is imagining. Elizabeth can't get enough glances at her family from afar, she wants to see them and wants her life back but that doesn't seem likely to happen. When Luke comes to get her, she is shocked to learn that Luke is in trouble because of her disappearance and the truth is far from what everyone has been assuming about him. She is all ready to clear the misunderstanding and wants to help her family and protect them with everything she has.
This is a second chance romance, the kids were cute, the people in the town were colourful, some good, some grey, not everyone is perfect, the story had some drama and I liked all of that. But I found the story a bit fast-paced. It doesn't seem plausible to get over all the seven years of hurt in a week, but because the writing was good, it didn't feel out of place and the story flowed nicely. I just wished I had gotten some more time to see the characters adjusting well. I read this book in one sitting because it was such a page-turner, I couldn't stop.
*Thank you for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.*
October 2, 2019
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars--An HJ Top Pick!!
See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com
Coming Home for Christmas will have even the naysayers believing in second chances. Here, RaeAnne Thayne gifted us with a couple’s heart-wrenching past that led to one of the most convincing, heartwarming Christmas reunion stories I’ve ever read.
You all know by now that I’m a *huge* fan of RaeAnne Thayne’s work. What I love most about it is how relatable and real her cast of characters are…to the point that they are not just two-dimensional characters on a page. To me, they seem like real people. Elizabeth and Luke were definitely a heroine and hero who nearly leapt off the pages in their realness and with the gut-wrenching emotions they went through in this story. Because believe me, Thayne didn’t make things easy on them... Read More
See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com
Coming Home for Christmas will have even the naysayers believing in second chances. Here, RaeAnne Thayne gifted us with a couple’s heart-wrenching past that led to one of the most convincing, heartwarming Christmas reunion stories I’ve ever read.
You all know by now that I’m a *huge* fan of RaeAnne Thayne’s work. What I love most about it is how relatable and real her cast of characters are…to the point that they are not just two-dimensional characters on a page. To me, they seem like real people. Elizabeth and Luke were definitely a heroine and hero who nearly leapt off the pages in their realness and with the gut-wrenching emotions they went through in this story. Because believe me, Thayne didn’t make things easy on them... Read More
August 31, 2019
If you are looking for a somewhat angsty, Hallmark movie style Christmas romance that also does a great job of highlighting the seriousness of post-partum depression, then Coming Home for Christmas is definitely worth picking up! This is a second-chance romance involving a woman who left her husband and two small children and disappeared for seven years. Now her husband has tracked her down to prove he is innocent of her suspected murder. Why did she leave and where has she been all this time? I initially wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this premise (especially being a mom of two little ones myself) but give it time, because you will fall for this family and root for their healing and reconciliation (even if some of the plot points are kind of over-the-top in terms of believability).
What I love about this book is that it highlights mental health and post-partum depression in a way that is both serious and helpful. Many women experience some degree of of this after having a baby but it is too rarely talked about. In this case, Elizabeth (the main character) has a very severe form of it including suicidal ideation and thoughts of harming her baby. The narrative is clear that since medication alone did not help, she would probably have benefited from in-patient treatment and I love that this doesn't demonize her or her need for help in having good mental health. This is an important and under-discussed topic. The book also addresses disability and chronic illness in a way that is fantastic, celebrating the things that people experiencing these things bring to the table rather than perceiving them as burdens.
Ultimately, the rekindled romance is also very sweet and the progression of Elizabeth reconnecting with her children feels realistic. Sometimes these things happen to quickly when in reality, this is a trauma that would take time and therapy for a relationship to recover from. This book handles that incredibly well. Overall, I found this to be slightly dramatic for my taste, but mostly enjoyable and a book that handled important and sensitive topics very well. Obviously, content warnings for the things mentioned about including depression, suicidal ideation, thoughts of harming children, plus traumatic injury. I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
What I love about this book is that it highlights mental health and post-partum depression in a way that is both serious and helpful. Many women experience some degree of of this after having a baby but it is too rarely talked about. In this case, Elizabeth (the main character) has a very severe form of it including suicidal ideation and thoughts of harming her baby. The narrative is clear that since medication alone did not help, she would probably have benefited from in-patient treatment and I love that this doesn't demonize her or her need for help in having good mental health. This is an important and under-discussed topic. The book also addresses disability and chronic illness in a way that is fantastic, celebrating the things that people experiencing these things bring to the table rather than perceiving them as burdens.
Ultimately, the rekindled romance is also very sweet and the progression of Elizabeth reconnecting with her children feels realistic. Sometimes these things happen to quickly when in reality, this is a trauma that would take time and therapy for a relationship to recover from. This book handles that incredibly well. Overall, I found this to be slightly dramatic for my taste, but mostly enjoyable and a book that handled important and sensitive topics very well. Obviously, content warnings for the things mentioned about including depression, suicidal ideation, thoughts of harming children, plus traumatic injury. I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2019
I always expect an amazing book from this author, especially during the holidays. This book…it was so much more for me. It grabbed my heart from the very first pages and never let go, even after I finished. I won’t retell the story – you should read it for yourself as Ms. Thayne does a much better job than I ever could – but I can tell you some of the things I loved.
What happens to Elizabeth Hamilton is devastating. What starts as postpartum depression morphs into something so bad that it gutted me. Even with the unbelievable seven years she went missing, I loved how her character had to learn how to just ‘be’ again. She sacrificed a life with her family, thinking they were better off without her. And Luke, her husband, is so strong and although he is unbelievably angry with his formerly missing wife (and he has his reasons), he still has a heart of gold and listens to that heart when it tells him to listen, watch and help Elizabeth… It’s those cues and clues that can bring them together.
And the children…OMG, your heart will embrace them, break for them, and joyously burst, all in the same book. I loved how this family worked hard to come together again through their individual grief. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. I really was engaged from the start of the book, well past the end. Coming Home for Christmas is a special holiday read.
What happens to Elizabeth Hamilton is devastating. What starts as postpartum depression morphs into something so bad that it gutted me. Even with the unbelievable seven years she went missing, I loved how her character had to learn how to just ‘be’ again. She sacrificed a life with her family, thinking they were better off without her. And Luke, her husband, is so strong and although he is unbelievably angry with his formerly missing wife (and he has his reasons), he still has a heart of gold and listens to that heart when it tells him to listen, watch and help Elizabeth… It’s those cues and clues that can bring them together.
And the children…OMG, your heart will embrace them, break for them, and joyously burst, all in the same book. I loved how this family worked hard to come together again through their individual grief. Luke was an amazing father to his two young children, especially while his wife was “lost”, and the kids are truly characters. I really was engaged from the start of the book, well past the end. Coming Home for Christmas is a special holiday read.
September 24, 2019
Anticipation over, Luke and Elizabeth’s reunion, although tense and uncertain, was what I have been waiting for in this series. Since most of Haven Point, Idaho, believed Luke murdered Elizabeth, and with the district attorney about to charge him, Luke’s bringing her back was necessary, even though he didn’t want her there. Now he can get divorced, get cleared, and move on with his life and their two children, Cassie, almost 10 and Bridger, almost 8. Missing for seven years, Luke’s friend, FBI agent Elliot Bailey, found Elizabeth living in Oregon, even though she had a different name and life. As the story develops with Elizabeth temporarily living in the house she was in when she left, and with Luke and their children in their own home, the mystery of where she has been and why is revealed. I loved this book. The transformations of Luke, their children, and the whole town are affected by what happened to Elizabeth for such a long period of time. The strength of Elizabeth as she attempts to clear her name and Luke’s made my heart sing. I truly admire her and what she was able to overcome. This author writes with clarity, heart, and leaves no loose ends. My heart is full.
August 10, 2019
Each of the books in the Haven Point series can be read as a stand-alone, but when you read it as a series, you can truly connect with the characters. Coming Home for Christmas is Book #10 in this series and we finally get to find out what happened to Elizabeth Hamilton, Luke's wife.
Depression is a subject that is very difficult to cover in a novel, but RaeAnne Thayne handled it with compassion and sincerity. This was a true Christmas story, showing the love and hope for a family and the people in the town of Haven's Point. This may be my favorite of all of RaeAnne Thayne's books. I smiled and I cried. Actually, I cried a lot. And the characters... ohmigosh! I loved the characters! Luke's children, especially his son, will warm your heart. I read this book straight through and did not put it down.
This is a must-read for the holidays.
Disclosure: An Advance Reading Copy was provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
Depression is a subject that is very difficult to cover in a novel, but RaeAnne Thayne handled it with compassion and sincerity. This was a true Christmas story, showing the love and hope for a family and the people in the town of Haven's Point. This may be my favorite of all of RaeAnne Thayne's books. I smiled and I cried. Actually, I cried a lot. And the characters... ohmigosh! I loved the characters! Luke's children, especially his son, will warm your heart. I read this book straight through and did not put it down.
This is a must-read for the holidays.
Disclosure: An Advance Reading Copy was provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
December 12, 2019
Seven years ago, Elizabeth Sinclair Hamilton walked away from her family, and wasn't heard from again, until now. Her husband, Luke, never gave up hope that she was still alive, but now he is angry that she hasn't returned to her family and even more angry because the new district attorney is ready to press charges against him for her death. Determined to clear his name, he brings Elizabeth home to prove to the entire town, he did nothing to hurt his wife. But once she is back in town and he finds out what really happened to her, the anger starts to melt away. Will Luke and Elizabeth be able to rebuild the life they once had or is it lost forever?
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Usually, I'm not the kind of girl who reads Christmas stories. This one grabbed me right from the very start and wouldn't let me go until the very end. At first I thought this was going to be a romance novel, and it did have to deal with love, but more of love of family and all the things this season is about.
What would you do if one day your significant other just seemed to vanish from the face of the earth? Would you move on with your life after a while or would you never give up the search for them? The truth behind Elizabeth's story is hard to believe and I wonder if the author knows someone with a similar story. Trying to decide how the family dynamic is supposed to look after so long is something the Hamilton family will try to overcome this holiday season. Will Elizabeth be able to regain the trust of her family? Will her kids still want her in their life after her avoidance for so long?
This is a great family novel, I think many people will enjoy.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Usually, I'm not the kind of girl who reads Christmas stories. This one grabbed me right from the very start and wouldn't let me go until the very end. At first I thought this was going to be a romance novel, and it did have to deal with love, but more of love of family and all the things this season is about.
What would you do if one day your significant other just seemed to vanish from the face of the earth? Would you move on with your life after a while or would you never give up the search for them? The truth behind Elizabeth's story is hard to believe and I wonder if the author knows someone with a similar story. Trying to decide how the family dynamic is supposed to look after so long is something the Hamilton family will try to overcome this holiday season. Will Elizabeth be able to regain the trust of her family? Will her kids still want her in their life after her avoidance for so long?
This is a great family novel, I think many people will enjoy.
November 17, 2019
I listened to the audiobook version of this story recently having borrowed it from my local public library. 🎄My review🎄: Elizabeth Hamilton is a woman who left her husband and 2 children 7 years ago while suffering post-partum depression and grieving the loss of her parents. She is involved in a motor vehicle accident shortly thereafter which has left Elizabeth with physical and mental changes. Recovery is slow for Elizabeth who has built for herself a new life in a nearby town. She visits Haven Point to see how her family is doing but always from a distance.
When her husband Luke is threatened to be charged for her disappearance, he finds her and brings her back to town to confirm that she is indeed alive. Relationships with her children, husband, family and friends have felt this seven year absence and may be a challenge to heal.
I appreciate books that address real-life issues such as post-partum depression, physical and mental challenges. This author does so with empathy and kindness. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed her style, but felt this book to read a little slow for my taste. Perhaps this is because this book is well into the Haven Point series (book #10) and I’ve missed the experience of having met characters before.
When her husband Luke is threatened to be charged for her disappearance, he finds her and brings her back to town to confirm that she is indeed alive. Relationships with her children, husband, family and friends have felt this seven year absence and may be a challenge to heal.
I appreciate books that address real-life issues such as post-partum depression, physical and mental challenges. This author does so with empathy and kindness. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed her style, but felt this book to read a little slow for my taste. Perhaps this is because this book is well into the Haven Point series (book #10) and I’ve missed the experience of having met characters before.
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