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Sweetwater Springs #3
Snowfall on Cedar Trail (Sweetwater Springs, #3) / Then There Was You
From a USA Today bestselling author comes a heartwarming holiday romance between the a small-town florist and the handsome chief of police.
Christmas is always bustling for Halona Locklear's flower shop, but this year, she's determined to take some time out to give her young son an extra special holiday. So she should be thrilled when hunky police chief Alex Baker wants to be their not-so-secret Santa. But Halona can't get too close to Alex. He knows a truth she needs to keep hidden...for her boy's sake.
Though Alex always had a thing for Halona, he never dared to pursue his best friend's little sister. But he can't shake the feeling that the gorgeous single mom and her little boy could use some holiday cheer, even if Halona refuses to let down her guard. But when ghosts of Christmas past threaten, Alex and Halona must decide what matters more: protecting their secrets or opening their wary hearts to new possibilities.
Includes the bonus novel Then There Was You by Miranda Liasson!
Angel Falls is the perfect small town for falling in love. But that's the last thing on Dr. Sara Langdon's mind as she returns home. But when her first patient turns out to be her first-crush-turned-nemesis Colton Walker, Sara starts wondering if home really is where the heart is....
Christmas is always bustling for Halona Locklear's flower shop, but this year, she's determined to take some time out to give her young son an extra special holiday. So she should be thrilled when hunky police chief Alex Baker wants to be their not-so-secret Santa. But Halona can't get too close to Alex. He knows a truth she needs to keep hidden...for her boy's sake.
Though Alex always had a thing for Halona, he never dared to pursue his best friend's little sister. But he can't shake the feeling that the gorgeous single mom and her little boy could use some holiday cheer, even if Halona refuses to let down her guard. But when ghosts of Christmas past threaten, Alex and Halona must decide what matters more: protecting their secrets or opening their wary hearts to new possibilities.
Includes the bonus novel Then There Was You by Miranda Liasson!
Angel Falls is the perfect small town for falling in love. But that's the last thing on Dr. Sara Langdon's mind as she returns home. But when her first patient turns out to be her first-crush-turned-nemesis Colton Walker, Sara starts wondering if home really is where the heart is....
699 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 24, 2019
349 people are currently reading
2641 people want to read
About the author
Annie Rains
43 books1,493 followersAnnie Rains is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns on the coast of North Carolina. Raised in one of America's largest military communities, Annie often features heroes who fight for their countries, while also fighting for a place to call home and a good woman to love. When Annie isn't writing, she's spending time with her husband and 3 children, or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.
If you enjoyed the Hero's Welcome series, don't miss the short wedding story for Kat and Micah (Welcome to Forever). Get it here for FREE: https://www.instafreebie.com/free/aTSl1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
September 22, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
Why couldn’t he have a thing for someone uncomplicated like Emma? The only thing the beautiful café owner stirred for him, however, was his coffee.
I like to tell people I go so often because I’m secretly investigating her. Her coffee is too addictive to be legal.
Do you know Greta Merchant? Pushing eighty and walks with a cane even though she’s more physically fit than most twentysomethings… Well, she has a huge crush on Chief Baker… So a couple of months ago, Greta decided to go shoplifting… Don’t worry—Sophie was in on it. Alex had happened to come into the boutique looking for a gift for his grandmother’s birthday, and Greta and Sophie exchanged some conspiratorial whispers. Sophie knew Greta was going to be stuffing costume jewelry in her pockets. Then Sophie called Greta out on it loud enough for Alex to overhear… Being the dutiful chief of police Alex is, he headed over and spoke to Greta. He asked her to empty her pockets but she refused. She demanded that he frisk her instead. From the way Greta tells the story, it was the most action she’s had in decades.
My Review:
I have enjoyed all three books of Anne Rain’s Sweetwater Springs series, with a gentle and sweet small-town theme. Each of the books has been engaging, easy to follow, and entertaining; and while the characters carryover and the stories interconnect, each one has been strong enough to stand alone. Snowfall On Cedar Trail has a holiday-themed motif that features the blossoming romance during a tricky time between the stalwart and handsome Chief of Police, Alex, and his decades-long secret crush, Halona, the town florist and younger sister of his best friend. Their tale was sweetly written with a bit of peril, amusing humor, and unusual challenges to overcome.
Why couldn’t he have a thing for someone uncomplicated like Emma? The only thing the beautiful café owner stirred for him, however, was his coffee.
I like to tell people I go so often because I’m secretly investigating her. Her coffee is too addictive to be legal.
Do you know Greta Merchant? Pushing eighty and walks with a cane even though she’s more physically fit than most twentysomethings… Well, she has a huge crush on Chief Baker… So a couple of months ago, Greta decided to go shoplifting… Don’t worry—Sophie was in on it. Alex had happened to come into the boutique looking for a gift for his grandmother’s birthday, and Greta and Sophie exchanged some conspiratorial whispers. Sophie knew Greta was going to be stuffing costume jewelry in her pockets. Then Sophie called Greta out on it loud enough for Alex to overhear… Being the dutiful chief of police Alex is, he headed over and spoke to Greta. He asked her to empty her pockets but she refused. She demanded that he frisk her instead. From the way Greta tells the story, it was the most action she’s had in decades.
My Review:
I have enjoyed all three books of Anne Rain’s Sweetwater Springs series, with a gentle and sweet small-town theme. Each of the books has been engaging, easy to follow, and entertaining; and while the characters carryover and the stories interconnect, each one has been strong enough to stand alone. Snowfall On Cedar Trail has a holiday-themed motif that features the blossoming romance during a tricky time between the stalwart and handsome Chief of Police, Alex, and his decades-long secret crush, Halona, the town florist and younger sister of his best friend. Their tale was sweetly written with a bit of peril, amusing humor, and unusual challenges to overcome.
September 18, 2019
5 - "This might turn out to be the best Christmas ever." Stars!
I have been a huge fan of Annie’s since her original series Hero’s Welcome started hitting e-readers, and whilst still a firm favourite with this reader, I have to say that the Sweetwater Springs series has surpassed it now in regards to writing and story-telling excellence. Snowfall on Cedar Trail is single mother; Halona Locklear and town Sheriff; Alex Baker’s story, and wowza just be warned you’ll need tissues for this one.
After all these years, he was ready to investigate this thing between them. Going too fast would only push her away though… Best to take things slow and follow her lead.
This is a couple that have been through a lot of ups and downs in their lives and both of them are still dealing with a lot of that in various ways, Halona’s son Theo and his issues figure heavily into that too for both of them, because he is the one that essentially brings them together.
First he had taken a dog under his wing, and now he was going to be mentoring a kid? How had this happened…
The romance in this one is sweet, with a slow burn and it fits in perfectly with the story being told, and the couple in question, both of them have responsibilities, and aren’t in a position to just drop everything and spend a weekend between the sheets. There is a bit of suspense running through this one as well in regards to Alex trying to solve a years old murder case, we also get to catch up with the rest of the Sweetwater Springs cast through its telling as well.
"Christmas will be here before I know it."
A great addition to the series, and a lovely seasonal story that you can absolutely read as a standalone if you are looking to start something to aid with getting the Christmas juices flowing!
"It was worth it."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
I have been a huge fan of Annie’s since her original series Hero’s Welcome started hitting e-readers, and whilst still a firm favourite with this reader, I have to say that the Sweetwater Springs series has surpassed it now in regards to writing and story-telling excellence. Snowfall on Cedar Trail is single mother; Halona Locklear and town Sheriff; Alex Baker’s story, and wowza just be warned you’ll need tissues for this one.
After all these years, he was ready to investigate this thing between them. Going too fast would only push her away though… Best to take things slow and follow her lead.
This is a couple that have been through a lot of ups and downs in their lives and both of them are still dealing with a lot of that in various ways, Halona’s son Theo and his issues figure heavily into that too for both of them, because he is the one that essentially brings them together.
First he had taken a dog under his wing, and now he was going to be mentoring a kid? How had this happened…
The romance in this one is sweet, with a slow burn and it fits in perfectly with the story being told, and the couple in question, both of them have responsibilities, and aren’t in a position to just drop everything and spend a weekend between the sheets. There is a bit of suspense running through this one as well in regards to Alex trying to solve a years old murder case, we also get to catch up with the rest of the Sweetwater Springs cast through its telling as well.
"Christmas will be here before I know it."
A great addition to the series, and a lovely seasonal story that you can absolutely read as a standalone if you are looking to start something to aid with getting the Christmas juices flowing!
"It was worth it."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
September 22, 2020
Halona, a single mom and florist, struggles to give her speechless son the support he needs. He used to speak, but following his father's death, he quit doing so. Halona finds herself making more trips to the principal's office than she would like. She enrolls him in the Mentor Match program where he is paired with the local police chief Alex Baker. The police chief wants nothing more than to solve the case involving his father's murder. Meanwhile Alex shows professional concern for another woman suffering at the hands of her husband. Snowfall on Cedar Trail offers a pleasant Christmas love story. This review applies only to this story, and not to the bonus story. I received a copy through GoodReads Giveaways. Although terms do not require reviews, they are appreciated.
October 4, 2019
Like ooey gooey chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven you can't have just one nibble of them. You can't have just one nibble of this book either. You'll want to consume it until it's done.
This sweet,small town romance will keep your attention the whole way through.
A sweet,vulnerable little boy,his florist mom,a handsome cop and a cold case mystery are some of the excitement you'll encounter in this book.
Centered around a fun,hometown experience this Christmas themed book is a sure winner in the Sweetwater Springs series that you will be sure to read all of!
A sweet added bonus is the addition of another full story for the price of one book.
Pub Date 24 Sep 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This sweet,small town romance will keep your attention the whole way through.
A sweet,vulnerable little boy,his florist mom,a handsome cop and a cold case mystery are some of the excitement you'll encounter in this book.
Centered around a fun,hometown experience this Christmas themed book is a sure winner in the Sweetwater Springs series that you will be sure to read all of!
A sweet added bonus is the addition of another full story for the price of one book.
Pub Date 24 Sep 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 14, 2019
Why am I always the one with unpopular opinions?
I likes both MC's a lot. And their romance although had no fireworks at all was sweet and very believable.
But sweet and believable doesn't excite me. I need more on my romances than that. It was just ok.
And the whole background story was strange. Case closed at the end super fast. Made little sense.
For more: https://www.glimpsesofmybooks.com/
I likes both MC's a lot. And their romance although had no fireworks at all was sweet and very believable.
But sweet and believable doesn't excite me. I need more on my romances than that. It was just ok.
And the whole background story was strange. Case closed at the end super fast. Made little sense.
For more: https://www.glimpsesofmybooks.com/
January 9, 2020
I believe SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is more of a 3.5 rating. I enjoyed a simple romance novel for a change. Most women will enjoy a feel-good novel!
December 25, 2019
If you want one more holiday books to try and squeeze in before the big day may I suggest Snowfall on Cedar Trail? This was cozy, sweet and adorable but had a darker side that I haven’t seen in this series before and I loved it! It gave me all the feels but there was a little mystery and intrigue too and it explored some heavy topics. This can definitely be read as a standalone if you wanna jump in here but you’ll probably want to go back and read the first two books once you finish because they’re all entertaining and fun
May 18, 2020
I'm so excited to have discovered Annie Rains and the Sweetwater Springs series! What a treat it was to read this book. I already miss the characters, so I grabbed the rest of the series on Amazon.
This was my first Annie Rains books and the first in this series for me to read too. So, with that said, you can read this book as a stand an alone book. I am a sucker for a cozy mystery, but I have never really read Romance books, and now I know who my go-to romance writer is. I usually deter from reading romance books but this was just lovely and yes, there is a mystery too!!
Annie Rains brings romance to the town of Sweetwater Springs with style. Chief of Police, Alex Baker. and Halona has been very good at locking their feelings up for one another until they weren't. Alex has always had a crush on Tuck's sister, Halona, but didn't want to hurt his friendship with Tuck by dating his sister, so he hid his feelings. Now is their time and I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold and develop.
Oh, but there is so much more going on than just their relationship. Halona's son Theo hasn't spoken a word since his father died last year. Halona has been doing everything she can to help and support him in the hopes to hear his voice once again. When a new mentor program opens she signs him up hoping it'll break him out of that shell he put himself in. Alex is the Chief of Police and just happens to be Theos new mentor.
He already has enough on his plate with him opening up his father's hit-and-run cold case once again. Alex has spent 11 years trying to find out who killed his father.
Thank you to NetGalley and for the Advanced Copy of this book!
#SnowfallOnCedarTrail #NetGalley @ReadForeverPub @GrandCentralPub
This was my first Annie Rains books and the first in this series for me to read too. So, with that said, you can read this book as a stand an alone book. I am a sucker for a cozy mystery, but I have never really read Romance books, and now I know who my go-to romance writer is. I usually deter from reading romance books but this was just lovely and yes, there is a mystery too!!
Annie Rains brings romance to the town of Sweetwater Springs with style. Chief of Police, Alex Baker. and Halona has been very good at locking their feelings up for one another until they weren't. Alex has always had a crush on Tuck's sister, Halona, but didn't want to hurt his friendship with Tuck by dating his sister, so he hid his feelings. Now is their time and I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold and develop.
Oh, but there is so much more going on than just their relationship. Halona's son Theo hasn't spoken a word since his father died last year. Halona has been doing everything she can to help and support him in the hopes to hear his voice once again. When a new mentor program opens she signs him up hoping it'll break him out of that shell he put himself in. Alex is the Chief of Police and just happens to be Theos new mentor.
He already has enough on his plate with him opening up his father's hit-and-run cold case once again. Alex has spent 11 years trying to find out who killed his father.
Thank you to NetGalley and for the Advanced Copy of this book!
#SnowfallOnCedarTrail #NetGalley @ReadForeverPub @GrandCentralPub
January 28, 2020
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Halona Locklear will do everything within her power to protect and nurture her seven-year-old son Theo. He hasn't spoken a single word since his father's death. Selective mutism is his diagnosis. Nonetheless, Theo is a responsive, delightful little boy and Halona works very hard with him.
Halona enrolls Theo in a Mentor Match program and his mentor is none other than the town's Chief of Police, Alex Baker. This is wonderful on one hand, as Theo has always responded to Alex whenever he came into Halona's store. This is a problem because Halona is very attracted to Alex, and apparently he feels the same.
Meanwhile, Alex's father was killed in a hit-and-run years ago, and Alex has decided to reopen his case. This brings grief to Halona because it might mean bringing about secrets about Halona's past. Secrets she would rather keep buried. The deeper Alex digs, the more danger is presented to not only himself, but to everyone around him, including Halona, the woman he cannot help but to feel very strongly towards. All the while, Alex and Theo begin spending time together, and thus Halona and Alex get that very same opportunity.
I so loved this story! Halona, Alex and Theo are remarkable together. The bonds of family, love and communication are blessings that really touched my heart. The other books in this series, Christmas on Mistletoe Lane and Springtime at Home Cottage were a delight as well. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, Starting Over at Blueberry Creek in February.
Many thanks to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Halona Locklear will do everything within her power to protect and nurture her seven-year-old son Theo. He hasn't spoken a single word since his father's death. Selective mutism is his diagnosis. Nonetheless, Theo is a responsive, delightful little boy and Halona works very hard with him.
Halona enrolls Theo in a Mentor Match program and his mentor is none other than the town's Chief of Police, Alex Baker. This is wonderful on one hand, as Theo has always responded to Alex whenever he came into Halona's store. This is a problem because Halona is very attracted to Alex, and apparently he feels the same.
Meanwhile, Alex's father was killed in a hit-and-run years ago, and Alex has decided to reopen his case. This brings grief to Halona because it might mean bringing about secrets about Halona's past. Secrets she would rather keep buried. The deeper Alex digs, the more danger is presented to not only himself, but to everyone around him, including Halona, the woman he cannot help but to feel very strongly towards. All the while, Alex and Theo begin spending time together, and thus Halona and Alex get that very same opportunity.
I so loved this story! Halona, Alex and Theo are remarkable together. The bonds of family, love and communication are blessings that really touched my heart. The other books in this series, Christmas on Mistletoe Lane and Springtime at Home Cottage were a delight as well. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, Starting Over at Blueberry Creek in February.
Many thanks to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 29, 2019
There's lot of things that the backcover doesn't tell about this book so I won't summarize the story this time because I don't want to spoil everything. But all these details made for quite an interesting book and explain why Halona and Alex never pursued a relationship before, despite their mutual attraction. This book is my favorite of the series so far because:
-At page 27, I was already in love with the hero. His protective (but never overbearing) attitude toward not only Halona but the people in town (he's the police chief) and his charisma was so sexy! Love the improvised visit he did to her flower shop
-I feel like the author took risks (winning ones) in this book. She cleverly found a way to offer us more than a Christmas love story, to remind us that the Holidays is not a happy time for everyone, but without losing the small-town and sweet vibe that I expect and want in a romance
-There's other original ideas like the Mentor Match and Halona's little boy's selective mutism
-There's a puppy
-Alex and Halona have undeniable chemistry, even the whole town can tell
In other words, this book have soul, struggles, sweetness and solutions. Oh and snow😉
-At page 27, I was already in love with the hero. His protective (but never overbearing) attitude toward not only Halona but the people in town (he's the police chief) and his charisma was so sexy! Love the improvised visit he did to her flower shop
-I feel like the author took risks (winning ones) in this book. She cleverly found a way to offer us more than a Christmas love story, to remind us that the Holidays is not a happy time for everyone, but without losing the small-town and sweet vibe that I expect and want in a romance
-There's other original ideas like the Mentor Match and Halona's little boy's selective mutism
-There's a puppy
-Alex and Halona have undeniable chemistry, even the whole town can tell
In other words, this book have soul, struggles, sweetness and solutions. Oh and snow😉
September 13, 2019
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review
It's the most magical time of the year... when the Christmas books start hitting my Kindle!
I have fallen in love with the residents of Sweetwater Springs over the previous books, and it was wonderful to return.
This installment is a wonderful single-mum-and-brother's-best-friend tale, yet it is so much more.
This story was a lot more emotional to me than the previous installments. We were introduced to our lovelies Alex and Halona in book 2, and it was great to see their story expanded. I was heartbroken, I was happy, I was frustrated and I was over the moon at times with this story.
And it has that wonderful, Christmas miracley kind of thing happening too which added to the tension of the story.
I loved getting back to this town and the core residents that I have come to adore, and I am looking forward to more where this came from.
It's the most magical time of the year... when the Christmas books start hitting my Kindle!
I have fallen in love with the residents of Sweetwater Springs over the previous books, and it was wonderful to return.
This installment is a wonderful single-mum-and-brother's-best-friend tale, yet it is so much more.
This story was a lot more emotional to me than the previous installments. We were introduced to our lovelies Alex and Halona in book 2, and it was great to see their story expanded. I was heartbroken, I was happy, I was frustrated and I was over the moon at times with this story.
And it has that wonderful, Christmas miracley kind of thing happening too which added to the tension of the story.
I loved getting back to this town and the core residents that I have come to adore, and I am looking forward to more where this came from.
December 19, 2019
I was under the impression that I had read a book from this series before so imagine my surprise when I learned that I have never even read this author before. I’ve been missing out!
This book was right up my alley. When the weather turns colder and the sun goes down earlier I find myself craving the comfort of a small-town romance with characters who feel very best version of real. This book and these characters firmly fall in that category.
Halona and Alex’s story touched on some very emotional and serious topics without weighing down the story and still offering that glimpse of hope that comes with falling in love. I think that Theo’s silent role in their story spoke loudest to me at times which created an interesting dynamic to the story as a whole.
This was just an overall enjoyable story and definitely has me wanting to go back and read the previous books in the series and looking forward to more in the future.
*I received a paperback ARC from Forever for an honest review
This book was right up my alley. When the weather turns colder and the sun goes down earlier I find myself craving the comfort of a small-town romance with characters who feel very best version of real. This book and these characters firmly fall in that category.
Halona and Alex’s story touched on some very emotional and serious topics without weighing down the story and still offering that glimpse of hope that comes with falling in love. I think that Theo’s silent role in their story spoke loudest to me at times which created an interesting dynamic to the story as a whole.
This was just an overall enjoyable story and definitely has me wanting to go back and read the previous books in the series and looking forward to more in the future.
*I received a paperback ARC from Forever for an honest review
September 21, 2019
4.5 stars
December 22, 2019
I loved the small, cozy town of Sweetwater Springs. I’d definitely like to read more of Annie Rains’ books.
December 6, 2019
Snowfall on Cedar Trail is the third book in the Sweetwater Springs series. I really loved book two in the series, but this newest addition didn’t quite live up to my expectations. The cover is adorable, the small town is delightful, and I enjoy most of the characters in this series. But this story just felt too long and too trope-filled for me.
The story started off nice and cozy and fun, and I liked the two main characters quite a bit to begin with. Halona Locklear is a single mother of traumatized young Theo and florist owner who is trying to get her life back together after the death of her ex-husband (it’s complicated). Alex Baker is chief of police and longtime family friend who is still trying to solve his father’s murder eleven years after his sudden and tragic death.
Unfortunately, after the first one hundred pages or so, the story begins to drag and the characters make choices that are just ridiculous, both in their personal lives and in their relationship. It also all came together in the end a bit too conveniently. The story wasn’t awful, by any means, but it could have benefited, in my opinion, by being a bit more condensed and having the characters make better, less cliched choices.
The story started off nice and cozy and fun, and I liked the two main characters quite a bit to begin with. Halona Locklear is a single mother of traumatized young Theo and florist owner who is trying to get her life back together after the death of her ex-husband (it’s complicated). Alex Baker is chief of police and longtime family friend who is still trying to solve his father’s murder eleven years after his sudden and tragic death.
Unfortunately, after the first one hundred pages or so, the story begins to drag and the characters make choices that are just ridiculous, both in their personal lives and in their relationship. It also all came together in the end a bit too conveniently. The story wasn’t awful, by any means, but it could have benefited, in my opinion, by being a bit more condensed and having the characters make better, less cliched choices.
September 18, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I was so looking forward to this one. This is why I love series so much, you get to know the characters and kinda figure out who's going to end up with who. Not only that we already knew that Theo wasn't talking so we had that to look forward too.
I really loved Halona and Alex together. They just worked. It might have taken them a bit to figure that out but they did. Alex worked harder on them not having a relationship then he did on them having one. The funny part is that they are such a good match and they worked so well they really didn't need to work on them. They just needed to be together.
I'm so glad that Alex was picked for Theo's mentor. The little boy needed someone other than family to work his feelings out with. Alex knowing how hard it was to lose a parent is a perfect choice.
There is much to really enjoy about Snowfall on Cedar Trail. It's a wonderful comfort read that made to happy. I was so glad about Alex and the cases he worked. I did feel that the ending seemed a little rushed. Most of the action happened behind the scene and that was okay I just wish it played out for a little longer. I don't want to let to much go because I want to read it and find it all out just like I did.
As a whole, this is a wonderful holiday story that you'll enjoy reading. If you haven't yet read this series you have plenty of time to do so before the holidays. If you start now you can read this one when it gets chillier out. I promise if you love small-town romances you love this series.
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ARC received for an honest review
I was so looking forward to this one. This is why I love series so much, you get to know the characters and kinda figure out who's going to end up with who. Not only that we already knew that Theo wasn't talking so we had that to look forward too.
I really loved Halona and Alex together. They just worked. It might have taken them a bit to figure that out but they did. Alex worked harder on them not having a relationship then he did on them having one. The funny part is that they are such a good match and they worked so well they really didn't need to work on them. They just needed to be together.
I'm so glad that Alex was picked for Theo's mentor. The little boy needed someone other than family to work his feelings out with. Alex knowing how hard it was to lose a parent is a perfect choice.
There is much to really enjoy about Snowfall on Cedar Trail. It's a wonderful comfort read that made to happy. I was so glad about Alex and the cases he worked. I did feel that the ending seemed a little rushed. Most of the action happened behind the scene and that was okay I just wish it played out for a little longer. I don't want to let to much go because I want to read it and find it all out just like I did.
As a whole, this is a wonderful holiday story that you'll enjoy reading. If you haven't yet read this series you have plenty of time to do so before the holidays. If you start now you can read this one when it gets chillier out. I promise if you love small-town romances you love this series.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for an honest review
November 11, 2019
Sarah contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Annie Rains & Read Forever for providing our copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains has me heading back to Sweetwater Springs & I can't wait. A while back I visited Sweetwater Springs (via Annie's book, Springtime at Hope Cottage) & I still want to live there. A small town, a fudge shop, a great cup of coffee, memorable residents & a place to start over. Anyone else up for that?
Not All Fluff, My Friends
This visit to Sweetwater Springs is a bit heavier. Single mom, a police officer trying to solve a mystery that is very personal to him & a boy affected by selective mutism. There’s a cast of some shady ass townspeople too. While I was initially thrown off by this, the more I think about it the story feels more raw & real this way.
Can Be Read as a Stand-Alone, but You'll Want to Dive Into The Series
One thing I love about Annie’s books is I get little tidbits about characters from the other books. Annie gives me info so I can check in on my old friends. Luckily, each book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains is another winner for me. Read this if you’re in the mood for a second chance, happily ever after story that is not as straightforward as it may seem. While you're at it, be sure to read An Alaskan Christmas for some extra holiday steam.
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Annie Rains & Read Forever for providing our copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains has me heading back to Sweetwater Springs & I can't wait. A while back I visited Sweetwater Springs (via Annie's book, Springtime at Hope Cottage) & I still want to live there. A small town, a fudge shop, a great cup of coffee, memorable residents & a place to start over. Anyone else up for that?
Not All Fluff, My Friends
This visit to Sweetwater Springs is a bit heavier. Single mom, a police officer trying to solve a mystery that is very personal to him & a boy affected by selective mutism. There’s a cast of some shady ass townspeople too. While I was initially thrown off by this, the more I think about it the story feels more raw & real this way.
Can Be Read as a Stand-Alone, but You'll Want to Dive Into The Series
One thing I love about Annie’s books is I get little tidbits about characters from the other books. Annie gives me info so I can check in on my old friends. Luckily, each book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains is another winner for me. Read this if you’re in the mood for a second chance, happily ever after story that is not as straightforward as it may seem. While you're at it, be sure to read An Alaskan Christmas for some extra holiday steam.
September 15, 2019
What a lovely, feel-good, contemporary romance to kick off my 2019 holiday reading. This was my first novel by Annie Rains but it won't be the last. I enjoyed getting to know the members of the Sweetwater Springs community, especially police chief Alex, flower shop owner Halona, and her sweet, emotionally troubled young son, Theo. Best friend's younger sister/older brother is one of my favorite tropes and Rains gave me one that captured my heart. All three of these main characters are dealing with emotional issues that inhibit them in some way. I love the way Rains moves them forward throughout the book, letting their relationships evolve slowly and organically. The mystery behind the death of Alex's father, the former police chief, eleven years earlier adds an additional depth of emotion to the story. While this book stands well on its own and I never felt confused or lost while reading it, I do wish I had read the series in order. I have a feeling that doing so would have allowed me to know and understand these characters, and their motivations, even more deeply. I've downloaded both Christmas on Mistletoe Lane and Springtime at Hope Cottage and plan to immerse myself in those stories soon.
September 24, 2019
4.5 stars
Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains is a sweet and entertaining holiday read and I really enjoyed it.
From the first few pages my interest was captured, the characters are likable, relatable and I enjoyed getting to know them and watching them come together.
Overall Snowfall on Cedar Trail is a lovely holiday read and I highly recommend it.
Get Your Copy Here ~
AMZ http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailamz
B&N http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailbn
Apple Books https://apple.co/32gXl9O
Google http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailgoogle
Kobo http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailkobo
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the ARC.*
Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains is a sweet and entertaining holiday read and I really enjoyed it.
From the first few pages my interest was captured, the characters are likable, relatable and I enjoyed getting to know them and watching them come together.
Overall Snowfall on Cedar Trail is a lovely holiday read and I highly recommend it.
Get Your Copy Here ~
AMZ http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailamz
B&N http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailbn
Apple Books https://apple.co/32gXl9O
Google http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailgoogle
Kobo http://bit.ly/snowfalloncedartrailkobo
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the ARC.*
July 1, 2019
I knew I was in for a treat as soon as I opened the beautiful cover of this book. I loved Halona's character, she is strong but sensitive. It is Christmas in Sweetwater Springs and the town is gearing up for the holidays and a wedding. Almost all of the characters have secrets that could prove to ruin their lives if they let them. I loved seeing Halona, her little boy Theo, and Alex the local chief of police work through it all for an amazing ending. Love this authors descriptive writing style. Rains deftly weaves all the different characters stories together and kept me reading way past bedtime. Loved, loved this book. I voluntarily reviewed a copy I received from the author.
December 16, 2019
Thank you Forever Publishing for my review copy.
Ahhhhh, Sweetwater Springs...I love you. You are so warm and cozy and filled with delightful characters. Book three in the Sweetwater Springs series left me with my heart full and my need to continue this series just as great as before.
This story specifically had a little bit more umph to it. It had a young boy with some real live reactions to his fathers death and how a single mom is coping with said problems. It was well done.
The advantage....it's still a happily ever after and fit the bill for Christmas time reading.
4 cozy sweet stars.
I will continue to recommend this series for non steamy cozy romance.
Ahhhhh, Sweetwater Springs...I love you. You are so warm and cozy and filled with delightful characters. Book three in the Sweetwater Springs series left me with my heart full and my need to continue this series just as great as before.
This story specifically had a little bit more umph to it. It had a young boy with some real live reactions to his fathers death and how a single mom is coping with said problems. It was well done.
The advantage....it's still a happily ever after and fit the bill for Christmas time reading.
4 cozy sweet stars.
I will continue to recommend this series for non steamy cozy romance.
July 10, 2019
This was such a wonderful addition to the Sweetwater Springs series! I've been anxiously awaiting this book since I finished Springtime at Hope Cottage and it was definitely worth the wait! It was such an emotional story for me that I cried both happy and sad tears throughout this whole book especially near the end. Halona and Alex are such a great pair and when you add in sweet little Theo it just makes this the perfect family in my eyes. I finished this book with a smile on my face, contentment in my heart, and an excitement for Annie Rains next book in this fantastic series!
December 13, 2019
Enjoyed this Christmas story ! of Halona and Alex's story ! Theo tugged at my heartstrings and was hooked on following his progress .... and the joy of Christmas time. Enjoyed meeting up again with some of the other town folk of Springwater Springs. .... also Alex held my interest as following his role as Sheriff and a determined son bring resolve to unanswered questions and connection to Officer Chew !
I enjoyed the bonus novel: revisiting and renewing a visit to Angel Falls " Then There As You" by Miranda Liasson.
Both books deserving of a 5Star Rating !
This copy was provided by Publisher Forever ... and did not influence my review or rating of this book.
I enjoyed the bonus novel: revisiting and renewing a visit to Angel Falls " Then There As You" by Miranda Liasson.
Both books deserving of a 5Star Rating !
This copy was provided by Publisher Forever ... and did not influence my review or rating of this book.
September 29, 2019
My first holiday read much earlier than I’d anticipated! It was a sweet story, and I thought it was very enjoyable. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
RTC.
RTC.
November 30, 2019
Four stars: A memorable Christmas tale packed full of holiday cheer, but it is much more than holiday fluff as it takes on some tough stuff too.
Halona is hoping to have a happier holiday than last year. It has been a year since her husband died due to complications from football head injuries. In the last year, Halona’s son Theo hasn’t spoken a word. He has select mutism, meaning he doesn’t speak due to trauma. Halona wants nothing more than to hear her son speak again. So when an opportunity arises for Theo to be involved in the Mentor Match program, Halona jumps at the chance. Theo is matched with Chief of Police, Alex Baker. Chief Baker has had a crush on Halona since high school, but he never acted on it because Halona is the sister of his best friend. The more Halona and Alex Baker are around one another, the more the sparks fly, but is either one of them willing to risk their heart after so much hurt?
What I Liked:
*Snowfall on Cedar Trail turned out to be a surprising holiday treat. I like that this book was packed full of the holiday stuff like Christmas decorating, holiday parties, cookies, presents and good cheer, but it also takes on some sensitive topics like domestic abuse, chronic traumatic encephalopathy and post traumatic stress disorder. It thought this book had a nice balance between the serious stuff and the fluff.
*I enjoyed both the main characters: Halona and Alex. Halona is a newly widowed mother trying to balance life with caring for her traumatized son. She still struggles with the way her marriage ended and the death of her husband. Her husband was a star football player suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which made his behavior erratic. Despite what Halona has been through, she is a kind and caring person. I loved her big heart, especially when she extended an olive branch to someone who needed it. Alex on the outside might appear as a tough cop, but inside he has a heart of gold. Time and time again, he went over and above for the citizens of Sweetwater Springs, especially when it came to a victim of domestic abuse. I also loved how kind and caring he was toward Theo, Halona’s son suffering from PTSD.
*The romance is sweet. It is based on years of attraction, but neither ever acted on those feelings. I enjoyed watching the friendship strengthen as the two leaned on one another for support, and then it became so much more. Yes, there were stumbles and moments of stubbornness on both parts, but in the end they get it right.
*As I mentioned, this one takes on plenty of tough stuff. I liked learning more about selective mutism and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Both are topics that I know little about. I thought the author did a great job of incorporating these issues into the story. I also thought the way she handled the domestic abuse was excellent.
*Even though there are tough moments in the story, in between there are lots of lovely holiday moments that readers love this time of year.
*One of the highlights, and the most surprising parts of the book for me was near the end. The book seems to be building toward a climatic moment, and I was worried as to how it was going to evolve. Then the book took a surprising turn. I loved the way it worked out. The scene in the coffee shop was holiday magic!
*I appreciated that I was able to jump into this series without having read any of the other books in the series. I was never lost and it was easy to slip into the story as it was a stand alone.
*The book ends in a nice happy spot. I thought it was the perfect way to end the book.
And The Not So Much:
*I liked the romance, but there was one point where I thought Halona blew up and made a big deal over nothing. Her behavior was out of line, and I didn’t like it.
*I wasn’t a big fan of the the whole murder mystery side story. Just my opinion.
Snowfall on Cedar Trail was a complex holiday book. I liked that this was so much more than fluff. The other takes on some serious topics and balances them beautifully with the holiday cheer. This was an excellent read for the holiday season. If you want more than substance to your holiday reading, this is one to try.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Halona is hoping to have a happier holiday than last year. It has been a year since her husband died due to complications from football head injuries. In the last year, Halona’s son Theo hasn’t spoken a word. He has select mutism, meaning he doesn’t speak due to trauma. Halona wants nothing more than to hear her son speak again. So when an opportunity arises for Theo to be involved in the Mentor Match program, Halona jumps at the chance. Theo is matched with Chief of Police, Alex Baker. Chief Baker has had a crush on Halona since high school, but he never acted on it because Halona is the sister of his best friend. The more Halona and Alex Baker are around one another, the more the sparks fly, but is either one of them willing to risk their heart after so much hurt?
What I Liked:
*Snowfall on Cedar Trail turned out to be a surprising holiday treat. I like that this book was packed full of the holiday stuff like Christmas decorating, holiday parties, cookies, presents and good cheer, but it also takes on some sensitive topics like domestic abuse, chronic traumatic encephalopathy and post traumatic stress disorder. It thought this book had a nice balance between the serious stuff and the fluff.
*I enjoyed both the main characters: Halona and Alex. Halona is a newly widowed mother trying to balance life with caring for her traumatized son. She still struggles with the way her marriage ended and the death of her husband. Her husband was a star football player suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which made his behavior erratic. Despite what Halona has been through, she is a kind and caring person. I loved her big heart, especially when she extended an olive branch to someone who needed it. Alex on the outside might appear as a tough cop, but inside he has a heart of gold. Time and time again, he went over and above for the citizens of Sweetwater Springs, especially when it came to a victim of domestic abuse. I also loved how kind and caring he was toward Theo, Halona’s son suffering from PTSD.
*The romance is sweet. It is based on years of attraction, but neither ever acted on those feelings. I enjoyed watching the friendship strengthen as the two leaned on one another for support, and then it became so much more. Yes, there were stumbles and moments of stubbornness on both parts, but in the end they get it right.
*As I mentioned, this one takes on plenty of tough stuff. I liked learning more about selective mutism and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Both are topics that I know little about. I thought the author did a great job of incorporating these issues into the story. I also thought the way she handled the domestic abuse was excellent.
*Even though there are tough moments in the story, in between there are lots of lovely holiday moments that readers love this time of year.
*One of the highlights, and the most surprising parts of the book for me was near the end. The book seems to be building toward a climatic moment, and I was worried as to how it was going to evolve. Then the book took a surprising turn. I loved the way it worked out. The scene in the coffee shop was holiday magic!
*I appreciated that I was able to jump into this series without having read any of the other books in the series. I was never lost and it was easy to slip into the story as it was a stand alone.
*The book ends in a nice happy spot. I thought it was the perfect way to end the book.
And The Not So Much:
*I liked the romance, but there was one point where I thought Halona blew up and made a big deal over nothing. Her behavior was out of line, and I didn’t like it.
*I wasn’t a big fan of the the whole murder mystery side story. Just my opinion.
Snowfall on Cedar Trail was a complex holiday book. I liked that this was so much more than fluff. The other takes on some serious topics and balances them beautifully with the holiday cheer. This was an excellent read for the holiday season. If you want more than substance to your holiday reading, this is one to try.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
October 9, 2019
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 8, 2019
Last Christmas was tough for Halona Locklear and her seven-year-old son Theo, who hasn't spoken a word since his father's death. This year, Halona wants nothing more than to give him a good holiday and to hear his sweet voice again. Enrolling him in the Mentor Match program might help, but when Theo gets matched with Sweetwater Springs Chief of Police, Alex Baker, Halona realizes that the handsome hero might know secrets about her past that she is determined to keep buried.
Chief of Police, Alex Baker, re-opens his father's hit-and-run cold case every December, hoping to finally solve it. This year, his plate is full with being a Mentor Match to a young seven-year-old boy as well. His biggest obstacle, however, is fighting his attraction to the boy's mother, Halona. As Alex gets close to solving his father's cold case, he learns that those closest to him may be in danger -- including Halona. Alex has already lost one of the most important people in his life; he isn't about to lose her too, even if it means walking away to keep her safe.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is the third instalment in Annie Rains’ contemporary, adult SWEETWATER SPRINGS romance series focusing on the people of Sweetwater Springs, North Carolina. This is police chief Alex Baker, and widow, single mother and florist Halona Locklear’s story line. SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Halona and Alex) SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL follows the building romance between Sweetwater Springs’ police chief Alex Baker, and widow, single mother and florist Halona Locklear. Halona Locklear’s life changed the day her husband died but our heroine kept secrets from the people she loved including her young son Theo, whose selective mutism began the day his father passed away. Hoping to get Theo into the Mentor Match program, Halona discovers that her brother’s best friend, and the local police chief Alex Baker, has been assigned to ‘mentor’ her troubled young boy. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Alex and Halona, and the potential fall-out as Halona struggles with the past, and blames our hero for the things out of his control.
Meanwhile, Chief Alex Baker has yet to move forward since the hit and run death of his father, the former police chief, a man whose death eleven years earlier, is suspicious and, as yet, unsolved. Every Christmas, upon the anniversary of his father’s death, Alex reopens the investigation, and this year a new clue will come from an unlikely source.
The relationship between Alex and Halona is a friends to lovers romance. Alex has been attracted to his best friend’s sister for as along as he can remember but when Halona fell in love with the local football star, Alex watched from the sidelines losing all hope for his own happily ever after. All $ex scenes are implied and fade to black.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, most of whom we have met in previous instalments. We are introduced to Halona’s son Theo; Alex’s grandmother; as well as struggling couple Sharlene and Tony Anderson.
SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is a story of second chances; a sweet romance between two people who have lost someone special in their lives but whose pasts will intercept in the present and future. The premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is charming and sweet
Copy supplied by the publisher
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 8, 2019
Last Christmas was tough for Halona Locklear and her seven-year-old son Theo, who hasn't spoken a word since his father's death. This year, Halona wants nothing more than to give him a good holiday and to hear his sweet voice again. Enrolling him in the Mentor Match program might help, but when Theo gets matched with Sweetwater Springs Chief of Police, Alex Baker, Halona realizes that the handsome hero might know secrets about her past that she is determined to keep buried.
Chief of Police, Alex Baker, re-opens his father's hit-and-run cold case every December, hoping to finally solve it. This year, his plate is full with being a Mentor Match to a young seven-year-old boy as well. His biggest obstacle, however, is fighting his attraction to the boy's mother, Halona. As Alex gets close to solving his father's cold case, he learns that those closest to him may be in danger -- including Halona. Alex has already lost one of the most important people in his life; he isn't about to lose her too, even if it means walking away to keep her safe.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is the third instalment in Annie Rains’ contemporary, adult SWEETWATER SPRINGS romance series focusing on the people of Sweetwater Springs, North Carolina. This is police chief Alex Baker, and widow, single mother and florist Halona Locklear’s story line. SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Halona and Alex) SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL follows the building romance between Sweetwater Springs’ police chief Alex Baker, and widow, single mother and florist Halona Locklear. Halona Locklear’s life changed the day her husband died but our heroine kept secrets from the people she loved including her young son Theo, whose selective mutism began the day his father passed away. Hoping to get Theo into the Mentor Match program, Halona discovers that her brother’s best friend, and the local police chief Alex Baker, has been assigned to ‘mentor’ her troubled young boy. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Alex and Halona, and the potential fall-out as Halona struggles with the past, and blames our hero for the things out of his control.
Meanwhile, Chief Alex Baker has yet to move forward since the hit and run death of his father, the former police chief, a man whose death eleven years earlier, is suspicious and, as yet, unsolved. Every Christmas, upon the anniversary of his father’s death, Alex reopens the investigation, and this year a new clue will come from an unlikely source.
The relationship between Alex and Halona is a friends to lovers romance. Alex has been attracted to his best friend’s sister for as along as he can remember but when Halona fell in love with the local football star, Alex watched from the sidelines losing all hope for his own happily ever after. All $ex scenes are implied and fade to black.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, most of whom we have met in previous instalments. We are introduced to Halona’s son Theo; Alex’s grandmother; as well as struggling couple Sharlene and Tony Anderson.
SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is a story of second chances; a sweet romance between two people who have lost someone special in their lives but whose pasts will intercept in the present and future. The premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is charming and sweet
Copy supplied by the publisher
www.thereadingcafe.com
October 11, 2019
Halona has lived in Sweetwater Springs for years – and now with her young son reeling (and not talking) after the death of his father, she feels more protective than ever of him. Vowing to swear off men, dating and above all the attraction that she’s had for years to the town’s police chief and older brother’s best friend Alex, she’s not too happy that he and Theo get on so well. And perhaps she’s still angry with Alex for arresting her then ex-husband for abuse, when she’s never told anyone the whole story of their relationship. But Theo lights up every time Alex appears, and has even uttered his first word in a couple of years. Yes, it was just one word, but Halona is hoping that whatever Theo is hiding behind with not speaking will come to light.
Alex has known about Halona forever, as the little sister of his best friend, he’s always been protective. Like he is with most of the town, to some’s dismay as he’s taking formerly accepted acts (the spiking of the punch at town events) into a more serious light, and everyone is thinking that he’s lost the ‘touch’ of his humanity. To be honest, this is a small town who cares for it’s residents and people in trouble, and most of the ‘bad acts’ with a few learned of in earlier books, are harmless, or the perpetrators are being rehabilitated. Adding to the stress of the upcoming holidays is Alex’s single long cold case – the hit and run driver who killed his father when he was young. He’s got suspects, no evidence, and a worry that one of the women in the community is too afraid to speak up about her home situation.
So we have a woman full of love and heart and a man too worried for everyone else to let small things slide. Halona and Alex are perfect for one another, and Theo adores him: as does most of Haona’s family. But they know not to push, and no one fully understands Halona’s anger with Alex over the arrest of Theo’s father. It will take a secret shared with Alex by Theo to open the doors and quickly slam them shut, an abused community member finally recognizing the help being offered, and her own courage to allow Alex to solve the cold case of his father’s murder and allow Halona and Alex the closure on old issues they needed to have the conversation that will spark their relationship from “what might have been” to full -on commitment and happily ever after. This series is lovely, with Rains taking solemn and serious issues and presenting them with a new twist, to show that hope, sharing and very often, time, will allow people to move forward to a new and happier life. Inclusion of town residents, recipes and events show the little town as one full of second chances and caring, and a wonderful place to spend time in as you read.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Alex has known about Halona forever, as the little sister of his best friend, he’s always been protective. Like he is with most of the town, to some’s dismay as he’s taking formerly accepted acts (the spiking of the punch at town events) into a more serious light, and everyone is thinking that he’s lost the ‘touch’ of his humanity. To be honest, this is a small town who cares for it’s residents and people in trouble, and most of the ‘bad acts’ with a few learned of in earlier books, are harmless, or the perpetrators are being rehabilitated. Adding to the stress of the upcoming holidays is Alex’s single long cold case – the hit and run driver who killed his father when he was young. He’s got suspects, no evidence, and a worry that one of the women in the community is too afraid to speak up about her home situation.
So we have a woman full of love and heart and a man too worried for everyone else to let small things slide. Halona and Alex are perfect for one another, and Theo adores him: as does most of Haona’s family. But they know not to push, and no one fully understands Halona’s anger with Alex over the arrest of Theo’s father. It will take a secret shared with Alex by Theo to open the doors and quickly slam them shut, an abused community member finally recognizing the help being offered, and her own courage to allow Alex to solve the cold case of his father’s murder and allow Halona and Alex the closure on old issues they needed to have the conversation that will spark their relationship from “what might have been” to full -on commitment and happily ever after. This series is lovely, with Rains taking solemn and serious issues and presenting them with a new twist, to show that hope, sharing and very often, time, will allow people to move forward to a new and happier life. Inclusion of town residents, recipes and events show the little town as one full of second chances and caring, and a wonderful place to spend time in as you read.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
September 28, 2019
Annie Rains writes a heartwarming story for police chief Alex Baker and single mom Halona Locklear. Snowfall on Cedar Trial is a captivating friends to lovers romance which takes place during the holiday season.
Alex Baker has been attracted to his best friend’s sister for ages. He makes excuses to run into her at the local coffee spot or at her florist shop. Alex has been preoccupied with solving his father’s murder—it haunts him during this time of the year. He’s a complex character-he’s kind to his friends, looks in on the elderly, and takes time to visit friends in the hospital. I wondered why he couldn’t take a leap of faith and ask Halona out. Alex takes his job seriously and does what he thinks is right. He sees situations in black and white—no grey—and this plays a huge part of the storyline.
Halona Locklear is a single mom who works full time at her florist shop. Ms. Rains was spot on describing Halona’s work- home life balance and as a full time working mom-I could relate to her. Halona’s concern for her son Theo set the tone for the novel. Her complicated relationship with her ex-husband plus her son’s inability to communicate verbally since his death added to the depth of the storyline.
Alex joins the Mentor Match community service project to spiff up his image and is thrilled to have been paired with Halona’s son Theo. I liked that Alex and Theo got along so well; Alex truly enjoyed their time together, Theo had a friend and a role model and Alex and Halona were able to spend time together.
Annie Rains blends friendships, family and work issues, a strong sense of community values and adds a bit of mystery in this novel. I liked that Alex and Halona shared a past and they had a HUGE misunderstanding to work through. This plot choice intrigued me; I loved reading how the characters reacted to the challenges they faced during their journey. Loved that the relationship took time to grow—it was perfectly paced.
I adored catching up with Kaitlyn, Mitch, Josie, and Tuck and meeting Brenna, Grandmother Baker and the adorable Mr. Chew. I am enjoying this series so much-each book has great characters, relatable situations and a small town values. The conclusion is perfect for this couple—hard won but, very rewarding!
Are you looking for an amazing friends to lovers Christmas romance? Snowfall on Cedar Trail has all the feels—it’s a captivating, feel good novel that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! Grab a mug of hot chocolate, your favorite corgi to snuggle with and settle in for a fabulous read!
Alex Baker has been attracted to his best friend’s sister for ages. He makes excuses to run into her at the local coffee spot or at her florist shop. Alex has been preoccupied with solving his father’s murder—it haunts him during this time of the year. He’s a complex character-he’s kind to his friends, looks in on the elderly, and takes time to visit friends in the hospital. I wondered why he couldn’t take a leap of faith and ask Halona out. Alex takes his job seriously and does what he thinks is right. He sees situations in black and white—no grey—and this plays a huge part of the storyline.
Halona Locklear is a single mom who works full time at her florist shop. Ms. Rains was spot on describing Halona’s work- home life balance and as a full time working mom-I could relate to her. Halona’s concern for her son Theo set the tone for the novel. Her complicated relationship with her ex-husband plus her son’s inability to communicate verbally since his death added to the depth of the storyline.
Alex joins the Mentor Match community service project to spiff up his image and is thrilled to have been paired with Halona’s son Theo. I liked that Alex and Theo got along so well; Alex truly enjoyed their time together, Theo had a friend and a role model and Alex and Halona were able to spend time together.
Annie Rains blends friendships, family and work issues, a strong sense of community values and adds a bit of mystery in this novel. I liked that Alex and Halona shared a past and they had a HUGE misunderstanding to work through. This plot choice intrigued me; I loved reading how the characters reacted to the challenges they faced during their journey. Loved that the relationship took time to grow—it was perfectly paced.
I adored catching up with Kaitlyn, Mitch, Josie, and Tuck and meeting Brenna, Grandmother Baker and the adorable Mr. Chew. I am enjoying this series so much-each book has great characters, relatable situations and a small town values. The conclusion is perfect for this couple—hard won but, very rewarding!
Are you looking for an amazing friends to lovers Christmas romance? Snowfall on Cedar Trail has all the feels—it’s a captivating, feel good novel that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! Grab a mug of hot chocolate, your favorite corgi to snuggle with and settle in for a fabulous read!
November 6, 2019
Thank you Read Forever & Annie Rains for our gifted review copy.
❄️
A while back I visited Annie Rains & Sweetwater Springs (via her book, Springtime at Hope Cottage) & I still want to live there. A small town, a fudge shop, a great cup of coffee, memorable residents & a place to start over. Anyone else up for that?
😍
This visit to Sweetwater Springs is a bit heavier. Single mom, a police officer trying to solve a mystery that is very personal to him & a boy affected by selective mutism.
📖
There’s a cast of some shady ass townspeople too. While I was initially thrown off by this, the more I think about it the story feels more raw & real this way.
💗
One thing I love about Annie’s books is I get little tidbits about characters from the other books. Annie gives me info so I can check in on my old friends, but each book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
🙌🏻
SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is another winner for me. Read this if you’re in the mood for a second chance, happily ever after story that is not as straight as it may seem.
❄️
I’m going back and reading the first in this series, CHRISTMAS ON MISTLETOE LANE. I bought it last year after seeing the ridiculously cute cover with the dog.
❄️
A while back I visited Annie Rains & Sweetwater Springs (via her book, Springtime at Hope Cottage) & I still want to live there. A small town, a fudge shop, a great cup of coffee, memorable residents & a place to start over. Anyone else up for that?
😍
This visit to Sweetwater Springs is a bit heavier. Single mom, a police officer trying to solve a mystery that is very personal to him & a boy affected by selective mutism.
📖
There’s a cast of some shady ass townspeople too. While I was initially thrown off by this, the more I think about it the story feels more raw & real this way.
💗
One thing I love about Annie’s books is I get little tidbits about characters from the other books. Annie gives me info so I can check in on my old friends, but each book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
🙌🏻
SNOWFALL ON CEDAR TRAIL is another winner for me. Read this if you’re in the mood for a second chance, happily ever after story that is not as straight as it may seem.
❄️
I’m going back and reading the first in this series, CHRISTMAS ON MISTLETOE LANE. I bought it last year after seeing the ridiculously cute cover with the dog.
September 24, 2019
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Halona and Alex’s story. Halona’s son who is seven has not spoken a word since his fathers’ death. She tries to get him to talk as all she wishes for is to hear his sweet voice again. She enrolled him in a mentoring program, and he got matched with Alex. Alex is the chief of police and has his own issues. They both have secrets but are drawn to each other. But are the secrets that they both hold going to be the thing that ruins them?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Halona and Alex’s story. Halona’s son who is seven has not spoken a word since his fathers’ death. She tries to get him to talk as all she wishes for is to hear his sweet voice again. She enrolled him in a mentoring program, and he got matched with Alex. Alex is the chief of police and has his own issues. They both have secrets but are drawn to each other. But are the secrets that they both hold going to be the thing that ruins them?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
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