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Rescue Haven #1
The Secret Christmas Child
His high school sweetheart returns with a baby...and a devastating secret.
Reese Markowski can't believe he's hiring his ex-girlfriend -- but to save his program for dogs and at-risk kids, the veteran needs Gabby Hanks. Single mum Gabby's fierce love for her infant daughter is undeniable, as is the child's effect on Reese's wounded heart. Their holiday reunion is a joyful surprise, but nothing prepares Reese for the truth about Gabby's baby...
Reese Markowski can't believe he's hiring his ex-girlfriend -- but to save his program for dogs and at-risk kids, the veteran needs Gabby Hanks. Single mum Gabby's fierce love for her infant daughter is undeniable, as is the child's effect on Reese's wounded heart. Their holiday reunion is a joyful surprise, but nothing prepares Reese for the truth about Gabby's baby...
Mass Market Paperback
First published November 19, 2019
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About the author
Lee Tobin McClain
169 books549 followersNew York Times bestselling author of emotional, heartwarming romances. Visit http://www.leetobinmcclain.com to join newsletter, get book release details, and find out more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 16, 2019
The Secret Christmas Child is book one in Lee Tobin McClain’s Rescue Haven series. Lee Tobin McClain is one of my favorite authors, and she did not fail me with this novel.
Reese Markowski is a veteran who runs, Rescue Haven, a program for at-risk kids and dogs. He feels that caring for and training dogs will give the boys purpose and keep them out of trouble. Reese can’t believe that his high school sweetheart, Gabby Hanks, will be working for him. He was tricked into the arrangement by Gabby’s grandmother.
Gabby Hanks, Reese’s ex-girlfriend, and her nine-month-old daughter, Izzy, are temporarily living with Gabby’s grandmother. Gabby is surprised that the job Nana has arranged for her is working with Reese. This job is perfect, though, because it allows her to be close to her elderly grandmother and Izzy while she works.
Though both Reese and Gabby have romantic feelings for each other, the past seems too much to overcome.
Ms. McClain has knocked it out of the park again. The characters are well-conceived and completely relatable. The dialogue is vivid. There are surprising plot twists. The author touches on potentially controversial issues. The Secret Christmas Child is a great read. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers who enjoy romance with a little suspense.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Reese Markowski is a veteran who runs, Rescue Haven, a program for at-risk kids and dogs. He feels that caring for and training dogs will give the boys purpose and keep them out of trouble. Reese can’t believe that his high school sweetheart, Gabby Hanks, will be working for him. He was tricked into the arrangement by Gabby’s grandmother.
Gabby Hanks, Reese’s ex-girlfriend, and her nine-month-old daughter, Izzy, are temporarily living with Gabby’s grandmother. Gabby is surprised that the job Nana has arranged for her is working with Reese. This job is perfect, though, because it allows her to be close to her elderly grandmother and Izzy while she works.
Though both Reese and Gabby have romantic feelings for each other, the past seems too much to overcome.
Ms. McClain has knocked it out of the park again. The characters are well-conceived and completely relatable. The dialogue is vivid. There are surprising plot twists. The author touches on potentially controversial issues. The Secret Christmas Child is a great read. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers who enjoy romance with a little suspense.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
November 18, 2019
Forgiveness, healing, redemption, grace and second chances are the themes of this emotional, moving holiday story. From the hurt and betrayal felt by the two main characters to the rowdy but loveable boys and the discarded dogs getting a second chance, there are a lot of tugs to the heart, and you'll want to have your tissues handy. For a fairly short read, the characters are complex, the setting picturesque and a little quirky, and the wholesome storyline is rich, captivating and poignant.
When single mother Gabby goes home to Bethlehem Springs to help the grandmother who raised her, she didn’t realize her estranged fifteen-year-old stepbrother Jacob would be part of the deal. She also never expected the job opportunity her Nana suggested would involve working with Reese, the boy who broke her heart after high school.
After Reese lost his arm fighting for his country, his own rehab lead him to open Rescue Haven, a place for troubled boys and rescue dogs. He really needs help since losing his assistant, but can he set aside his anger and hurt over Gabby's apparent betrayal with Reese's cousin no sooner than Reese enlisted and work side by side with her? If that's not enough of a challenge, his charity is about to lose its funding and he needs a plan to save it.
This is one of those books I wish would never end. I want to watch baby Izzy grow up with all of the Rescue Haven boys as her honorary big brothers, and I want to see Jacob and the other boys become strong, compassionate men and find out what they do with their lives. Fortunately, there's more to come from Rescue Haven, its boys and dogs, so we’ll have more opportunities to visit again, and I know without a doubt that it will feel like coming home. Don’t miss this wonderful premier book in an amazing, touching new series!
When single mother Gabby goes home to Bethlehem Springs to help the grandmother who raised her, she didn’t realize her estranged fifteen-year-old stepbrother Jacob would be part of the deal. She also never expected the job opportunity her Nana suggested would involve working with Reese, the boy who broke her heart after high school.
After Reese lost his arm fighting for his country, his own rehab lead him to open Rescue Haven, a place for troubled boys and rescue dogs. He really needs help since losing his assistant, but can he set aside his anger and hurt over Gabby's apparent betrayal with Reese's cousin no sooner than Reese enlisted and work side by side with her? If that's not enough of a challenge, his charity is about to lose its funding and he needs a plan to save it.
This is one of those books I wish would never end. I want to watch baby Izzy grow up with all of the Rescue Haven boys as her honorary big brothers, and I want to see Jacob and the other boys become strong, compassionate men and find out what they do with their lives. Fortunately, there's more to come from Rescue Haven, its boys and dogs, so we’ll have more opportunities to visit again, and I know without a doubt that it will feel like coming home. Don’t miss this wonderful premier book in an amazing, touching new series!
December 9, 2019
At first I wasn't completely drawn into this book but then closer to the end I was completely into the story. What a emotional rollercoaster. I must admit my eyes were wet in the ending chapters. To be honest this reader was reaching for the Kleenex box. If a book has the ability to grab me into the story to that extent than I feel it deserves five Stars.
This story is about two teenagers in high school that dated and planned a future together in the years to come. The boy graduated and entered the service. The girl promised to wait for him but then something terrible went wrong and everything changed from that point on.
Reese Markowski is that young boy who turned into a hero while in the service. He was wounded and had his right arm and hand amputated below the elbow. He went through his healing process and extensive physical therapy and was released from his service. He went back to his hometown, Bethlehem Springs in Ohio. There he set up a centre where he took in at risk boys during after school hours to help keep them out of trouble. Each boy was assigned to train a problem dog that had no where else to turn. Reese himself was a hurting man. His parents had died in a car wreck when he was very young and he was sent to live with his Aunt and Uncle who didn't really want him.
Gabby Hanks had dated Reese in high school. The couple had split up due to a misunderstanding while Reese was enlisted in the service. Gabby, who works in the other side of the state, returns home to be with her grandmother over the holidays. Nana, up in her mid eighties has been sick and is slow to recover. Gabby didn't return alone but came with a nine month old baby girl. She needed a job and Reese needed an assistant to help him run Rescue Haven. Reluctantly he hires Gabby to fill that role.
Jacob Hanks is Gabby's half brother. She hardly knows him because her mother sent her to live with Nana at a young age. Jacob is a troubled youth and his father sends him to spend time with Nana during the holidays. Reese takes him under his wing to try to help him stay out of trouble during Christmas break.
As I said earlier this book has lots of twist and turns. It all comes together and makes a beautiful story. All readers of Christian Fiction or Contemporary Romance should read this Christmas Love Inspired Romance. I hope you will put it in your want to read pile. It comes highly recommended by this reader.
I borrowed a paperback edition of this book. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed and shared here in this review are my own.
This story is about two teenagers in high school that dated and planned a future together in the years to come. The boy graduated and entered the service. The girl promised to wait for him but then something terrible went wrong and everything changed from that point on.
Reese Markowski is that young boy who turned into a hero while in the service. He was wounded and had his right arm and hand amputated below the elbow. He went through his healing process and extensive physical therapy and was released from his service. He went back to his hometown, Bethlehem Springs in Ohio. There he set up a centre where he took in at risk boys during after school hours to help keep them out of trouble. Each boy was assigned to train a problem dog that had no where else to turn. Reese himself was a hurting man. His parents had died in a car wreck when he was very young and he was sent to live with his Aunt and Uncle who didn't really want him.
Gabby Hanks had dated Reese in high school. The couple had split up due to a misunderstanding while Reese was enlisted in the service. Gabby, who works in the other side of the state, returns home to be with her grandmother over the holidays. Nana, up in her mid eighties has been sick and is slow to recover. Gabby didn't return alone but came with a nine month old baby girl. She needed a job and Reese needed an assistant to help him run Rescue Haven. Reluctantly he hires Gabby to fill that role.
Jacob Hanks is Gabby's half brother. She hardly knows him because her mother sent her to live with Nana at a young age. Jacob is a troubled youth and his father sends him to spend time with Nana during the holidays. Reese takes him under his wing to try to help him stay out of trouble during Christmas break.
As I said earlier this book has lots of twist and turns. It all comes together and makes a beautiful story. All readers of Christian Fiction or Contemporary Romance should read this Christmas Love Inspired Romance. I hope you will put it in your want to read pile. It comes highly recommended by this reader.
I borrowed a paperback edition of this book. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed and shared here in this review are my own.
November 21, 2019
If you're looking for a second chance romance with loveable characters, this is the book for you. Gabby and Reese were high school sweethearts that were town apart by cruel circumstances. When they finally reconnect they are little more broken, but still in love. My heart broke for both of them and I was instantly hooked as they tried to find their way back to each other (I was rooting for them the whole time). I also loved the rescue dogs helping troubled teens heal and find their way in this world. This book was such a heartwarming and inspirational Christmas romance read that I reccomend to romance readers everywhere!
This book does contain some difficult topics that may trigger some readers so I'm including a TW for rape, drunk driving, wounded vet, and loss of a child. Even though these are difficult topics, I felt they were well written by the author.
Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin for a gifted egalley in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
This book does contain some difficult topics that may trigger some readers so I'm including a TW for rape, drunk driving, wounded vet, and loss of a child. Even though these are difficult topics, I felt they were well written by the author.
Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin for a gifted egalley in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
December 4, 2019
Help! My heart has been skewered. I'm in desperate need of resuscitation. Another gander at that sweet epilogue should do the trick. Be back in a jiff...
Phew! Much better. Still a bit achy but I'll live to read another book. :-) And I think I can muster up a raspy Squeeeeeppp!!! because this is a new series by Lee Tobin McClain and there are dogs. Lots of dogs which is sending me into a frenzied tailspin (ha-- get the pun there?) of bibliophile delight!
Warning: a very clever, heart-rending plot twist packs an emotional wallop! This is the kind of romantical masterpiece a reader has to feel her way through. Intense and gratifying and tear-inducing.
There's a great holiday tie-in complete with a Christmas pageant (with dogs!!!) Add in a group of rambunctious kids and you get the perfect kind of seasonal chaos worthy of the best holiday cheer.
A great cast of secondary characters including Biff the good-natured canine oaf, and the community Scrooge (a hearty bah humbug to you Mr. Romano!) along with Gabby's Nana bring additional zest to the story. McClain has built a lovely community with so much potential and, I think, a few key players who will be featured in their own happily-ever-after stories.
I'm already anticipating the next book in the Rescue Haven series but I have no clue when to expect it and that makes kinda sad. :-(
Phew! Much better. Still a bit achy but I'll live to read another book. :-) And I think I can muster up a raspy Squeeeeeppp!!! because this is a new series by Lee Tobin McClain and there are dogs. Lots of dogs which is sending me into a frenzied tailspin (ha-- get the pun there?) of bibliophile delight!
Warning: a very clever, heart-rending plot twist packs an emotional wallop! This is the kind of romantical masterpiece a reader has to feel her way through. Intense and gratifying and tear-inducing.
There's a great holiday tie-in complete with a Christmas pageant (with dogs!!!) Add in a group of rambunctious kids and you get the perfect kind of seasonal chaos worthy of the best holiday cheer.
A great cast of secondary characters including Biff the good-natured canine oaf, and the community Scrooge (a hearty bah humbug to you Mr. Romano!) along with Gabby's Nana bring additional zest to the story. McClain has built a lovely community with so much potential and, I think, a few key players who will be featured in their own happily-ever-after stories.
I'm already anticipating the next book in the Rescue Haven series but I have no clue when to expect it and that makes kinda sad. :-(
December 16, 2019
This truly is a love inspired story, featuring an injured veteran, Reese Markowski, trying to make life better for dogs and at risk boys in the town where he spent his teen years. He hadn't anticipated seeing his high school sweetheart, Gabby Hanks, again and certainly hadn't realised she'd had a baby since they last met.
This is a story where the lies and actions of someone else have negatively impacted on the relationship and lives of people around them. It is a moving story of trusting in God to help you move forward after trauma and believing He can help you make the right choices. However, life isn't that simplistic for Reese, who feels so betrayed by Gabby but also still so attracted to her. As the two work with the boys and dogs to try to secure funding for the centre for another year, there will be secrets to be shared, lives to be changed and love to be found. It is a heartwarming story about not being judgemental until you know all the facts and about trusting what you know to be true.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful, Christian story and thank the publishers for gifting me a copy of it via NetGalley and look forward to reading more about this community in future.
This is a story where the lies and actions of someone else have negatively impacted on the relationship and lives of people around them. It is a moving story of trusting in God to help you move forward after trauma and believing He can help you make the right choices. However, life isn't that simplistic for Reese, who feels so betrayed by Gabby but also still so attracted to her. As the two work with the boys and dogs to try to secure funding for the centre for another year, there will be secrets to be shared, lives to be changed and love to be found. It is a heartwarming story about not being judgemental until you know all the facts and about trusting what you know to be true.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful, Christian story and thank the publishers for gifting me a copy of it via NetGalley and look forward to reading more about this community in future.
November 15, 2019
This is a beautiful, heartfelt story of young love, strong faith, emotional secrets and second chances. It makes you realize the harm gossip can cause and how important it is to tell the truth about your true feelings. In the end, the author manages to bring the characters back together where they belong showing that if your faith and love is strong enough, it will conquer all. Beautiful to read and a very happy ending.
February 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this sweet heartwarming Christmas story by Lee Tobin McClain. I couldn't put it down until it
was finished and these are special characters that will leave you thinking about them long after the story is finished.
They are also easy to make friends with. Gabby especially. Gabby is that's she's caring, kind, and compassionate about what she does.
Reese still has a lot of "growing up to do" as they say. I too had a hard time liking him. But he eventually "won"me over as they say.
Ever hear of that old saying you can run but can't hide? It's actually true! And secrets, lies, or whatever the case may be, it tends to come out and living in a small town makes it that much harder!
My husband is perfect example! He got in a little bit of trouble and the whole town knew before he did!
I love this story because it's full of forgiveness, second chances and those are my favorite kinds of stories. I think what I really like about them is that all of these events can happen in real life.
Forgiving someone even if they don't want it is more for yourself than anything!
I love Lee's style of writing because she write from the heart. I tend to think that she's experienced some of these life events herself. All of us have really.
Another reason I like these Love Inspired novels is that they're relaxing and short reads. I finished this one in less than a day. It was one of those books that wouldn't let you go until you finished it.
Overall five star rating for this awesome story!
My thanks to the author and Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
was finished and these are special characters that will leave you thinking about them long after the story is finished.
They are also easy to make friends with. Gabby especially. Gabby is that's she's caring, kind, and compassionate about what she does.
Reese still has a lot of "growing up to do" as they say. I too had a hard time liking him. But he eventually "won"me over as they say.
Ever hear of that old saying you can run but can't hide? It's actually true! And secrets, lies, or whatever the case may be, it tends to come out and living in a small town makes it that much harder!
My husband is perfect example! He got in a little bit of trouble and the whole town knew before he did!
I love this story because it's full of forgiveness, second chances and those are my favorite kinds of stories. I think what I really like about them is that all of these events can happen in real life.
Forgiving someone even if they don't want it is more for yourself than anything!
I love Lee's style of writing because she write from the heart. I tend to think that she's experienced some of these life events herself. All of us have really.
Another reason I like these Love Inspired novels is that they're relaxing and short reads. I finished this one in less than a day. It was one of those books that wouldn't let you go until you finished it.
Overall five star rating for this awesome story!
My thanks to the author and Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
November 25, 2019
High School sweethearts reunite before Christmas, could this be their second chance at love?
Reese Markowski has returned to his hometown to work with at risk youth and dogs. He hires his ex-girlfriend, single mom, Gabby to work for him, they reconnect, but will the secret about her daughter keep them apart?
It is uncomfortable for Reese and Gabby at first, seeing each other after so long, and on the terms that they had broken up. Gabby is excellent with the children, and has big ideas to help the program. While Reese finds himself bonding with Gabby's young daughter.
I really enjoyed this story, it had a lot going on with the kids, dogs, Christmas program, and the relationship between Reese and Gabby. I also really liked the side characters, like Nana and Jacob.
Overall, a heartwarming Christmas read about second chances and love. I really liked how everyone just falls in love with Izzy, especially Reese and Jacob. Enjoyable read, definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Reese Markowski has returned to his hometown to work with at risk youth and dogs. He hires his ex-girlfriend, single mom, Gabby to work for him, they reconnect, but will the secret about her daughter keep them apart?
It is uncomfortable for Reese and Gabby at first, seeing each other after so long, and on the terms that they had broken up. Gabby is excellent with the children, and has big ideas to help the program. While Reese finds himself bonding with Gabby's young daughter.
I really enjoyed this story, it had a lot going on with the kids, dogs, Christmas program, and the relationship between Reese and Gabby. I also really liked the side characters, like Nana and Jacob.
Overall, a heartwarming Christmas read about second chances and love. I really liked how everyone just falls in love with Izzy, especially Reese and Jacob. Enjoyable read, definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 20, 2021
I listened to this book and enjoyed it. Sweet and clean read with a hea.
November 5, 2024
A sweet and easy read
September 24, 2022
Inspiring
A inspirational story of starting over after a horrific incident years ago that affected two lives .One young woman moves back to her small home town where she has secrets which effect not only her but the man she once loved. This is a incredible story of starting over and finding forgiveness and hope for a new beginning.
A inspirational story of starting over after a horrific incident years ago that affected two lives .One young woman moves back to her small home town where she has secrets which effect not only her but the man she once loved. This is a incredible story of starting over and finding forgiveness and hope for a new beginning.
November 6, 2019
I loved this book. The characters are well-developed. I had trouble putting it down because I got invested in Reese and Gabby's story. The story deals with many societal issues. Some of those can be triggering. Reese is a wounded veteran dealing with feeling inadequate at times. His former girlfriend Gabby was raped and has a child as a result of that rape. However I thought these very personal and life-altering topics and others were handled sensitively and respectfully by the author Lee Tobin McClain. I really loved the ending too but I won't give it away.
October 7, 2019
The first thing that drew me to this book was the cover . I love it ! The blurb sounded good so i thought i would give it a try. Right from page one it drew me in.The heartbreak that both main characters had been through pulled at my heartstrings. I loved the authors writing style and the fact she described all of the scenes so well. It was as if i was standing right there with them. Can't wait to read other books by this author. Def a 5 star read. If you are looking for a great short romance story to pull at your heartstrings this story is for you. As always if you like the book you are reading please leave the author a review in places like goodreads & Amazon. Authors appreciate every review they get.Thank you to NetGalley ,the publisher, and author for the chance to read and review this amazing 5 star read for an honest review !
October 16, 2020
Reese Markowski can’t believe he’s hiring his ex-girlfriend Gabby Hanks to help him save his program for dogs and at-risk boys. Their holiday reunion is a joyful but painful surprise, and nothing prepares Reese for the truth about Gabby’s baby.
“The Secret Christmas Child” discusses themes of forgiveness and second chances. The book also addresses challenges about disabilities, rape and fast judgments.
Author Lee Tobin McClain writes a fast-paced story with plenty of dialogue that helps readers understand the characters. I also appreciate how she addresses real-life challenges, including dark subjects such as rape.
While I liked elements of the story such as helping at-risk boys and teamwork, I did not like how the characters changed their minds so fast about major life-changing events. In less than 12 hours, the characters could move past rejection and other major concerns and be ready to get married. And parts of the story are very unrealistic, like how adults did not supervise the at-risk children in their care.
“The Secret Christmas Child” discusses themes of forgiveness and second chances. The book also addresses challenges about disabilities, rape and fast judgments.
Author Lee Tobin McClain writes a fast-paced story with plenty of dialogue that helps readers understand the characters. I also appreciate how she addresses real-life challenges, including dark subjects such as rape.
While I liked elements of the story such as helping at-risk boys and teamwork, I did not like how the characters changed their minds so fast about major life-changing events. In less than 12 hours, the characters could move past rejection and other major concerns and be ready to get married. And parts of the story are very unrealistic, like how adults did not supervise the at-risk children in their care.
December 21, 2021
The Secret Christmas Child is a lovely small town story. Reese Markowski, who runs a dinner theater type boat, and Gabby Hanks, who often helps out, are helping at their local church to set up for the annual nativity when they discover a very young infant in the manger. The accompanying note says the mother needs help and will be back by New Years.
Although the two good friends consult local authorities they decide to adhere to the note and take it upon themselves to care for the infant. As two single people this is a steep learning curve but with help of their friends and relatives they are set up to not fail. Alternating between her small cottage and his larger home, the pair learn much about themselves and one another. The friend zone may have a breach!
This is a delightful story of hope, but also of how the nightmare of a being a foster child spills over into adult life. The reader will root for this pair trying to do the right thing for the child, but might also shed a tear as to Gabby and the mother’s backgrounds. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
Although the two good friends consult local authorities they decide to adhere to the note and take it upon themselves to care for the infant. As two single people this is a steep learning curve but with help of their friends and relatives they are set up to not fail. Alternating between her small cottage and his larger home, the pair learn much about themselves and one another. The friend zone may have a breach!
This is a delightful story of hope, but also of how the nightmare of a being a foster child spills over into adult life. The reader will root for this pair trying to do the right thing for the child, but might also shed a tear as to Gabby and the mother’s backgrounds. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
November 11, 2023
Gabby Hanks
Reese Markowski
Gabby has returned home to help her ailing Grandmother with her daughter Izzy in tow. Reese is a Veteran who lost an arm while in the service. Reese now runs a program for boys at risk and does dog training for dogs that aren’t considered adoptable. Gabby needs a job and is talked into applying for a part-time position with Reese’s program. Neither Reese nor Gabby are excited about working together due to past history between them but they both need help. This is a good book. The relationship between Reece and Gabby is strained but you see how they strive to find a way to make it good. Gabby and Reese both have had to overcome adversity and it has changed both of them. I liked both characters they both had strong and vulnerable feelings. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
Reese Markowski
Gabby has returned home to help her ailing Grandmother with her daughter Izzy in tow. Reese is a Veteran who lost an arm while in the service. Reese now runs a program for boys at risk and does dog training for dogs that aren’t considered adoptable. Gabby needs a job and is talked into applying for a part-time position with Reese’s program. Neither Reese nor Gabby are excited about working together due to past history between them but they both need help. This is a good book. The relationship between Reece and Gabby is strained but you see how they strive to find a way to make it good. Gabby and Reese both have had to overcome adversity and it has changed both of them. I liked both characters they both had strong and vulnerable feelings. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
August 11, 2023
Emotionally complex Christian romance
Gabby is surprised to see her former love at her grandmother's house. Reese is just as surprised to see Gabby and eventually her infant daughter, Izzy. They both had some major emotional issues to deal with. Can they work through the problems to save Reese's pet project to help at risk teens and unwanted dogs?
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some kisses but no steam or action. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals are an integral part of the story. I can't wait to see who is up in book 2!
Gabby is surprised to see her former love at her grandmother's house. Reese is just as surprised to see Gabby and eventually her infant daughter, Izzy. They both had some major emotional issues to deal with. Can they work through the problems to save Reese's pet project to help at risk teens and unwanted dogs?
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some kisses but no steam or action. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals are an integral part of the story. I can't wait to see who is up in book 2!
December 12, 2019
This book was a delightful read of young love finding a way to overcome snap judgments and old hurts. I really enjoyed that the main characters were trying to help at risk youth, especially while they themselves were in their early twenties. The faith aspect of the story was well woven through where it didn’t feel forced and it brought an extra depth to the story and the characters.
January 17, 2020
In this uplifting romance Reese Markowski has founded a program to rehabilitate dogs using at-risk-boys in an after school program. Gabby Hanks returns to town and is staying with her grandmother. He hires her to work in his program even though they have a history. He is unaware when he hires her that she has a baby. They must learn to work together and forgive the past.
January 3, 2022
Great story. It’s been a long time since a book made me cry.
The story is well written. The issues are real life . The issues are real life and handled in a thoughtful caring manner. I loved the character development. The internal story was well developed without revealing some interesting plot twists that were quite surprising
The story is well written. The issues are real life . The issues are real life and handled in a thoughtful caring manner. I loved the character development. The internal story was well developed without revealing some interesting plot twists that were quite surprising
January 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I liked how it touched on at risk boys, and them helping the rescue dogs that need the most help.
This was funny and sad. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you netgalley and harlequin for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
This was funny and sad. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you netgalley and harlequin for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
September 25, 2022
The Secret Christmas Child
Such a well written story. The heartbreak of being young and facing challenges that were overwhelming are so well defined. The challenges of overcoming and growing into grace instead of bitterness was so good.
Such a well written story. The heartbreak of being young and facing challenges that were overwhelming are so well defined. The challenges of overcoming and growing into grace instead of bitterness was so good.
January 21, 2024
A wonderful romance set during the Christmas season! Gabby is back home to take care of her grandmother. She is has also brought along her daughter! Reese hires Gabby to help him out at his rescue. Will they over come there pasts to find their love for each other as never went away?
April 17, 2024
Miracles still happen
She was broken but surviving, he was broken but healing. Can they find their way back to each other with so many obstacles against them. Especially with a lot of broken boys to tend to. This is such an emotional, but beautiful story. I highly recommend it!
She was broken but surviving, he was broken but healing. Can they find their way back to each other with so many obstacles against them. Especially with a lot of broken boys to tend to. This is such an emotional, but beautiful story. I highly recommend it!
November 28, 2019
I loved this book. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Read
December 1, 2019Categories
Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Rescue Haven (Book #1)
Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Rescue Haven (Book #1)
Read
December 1, 2019Categories
Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Rescue Haven (Book #1)
Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Rescue Haven (Book #1)
December 19, 2019
This book is a nice, light read. It is about finding a love lost with a great message. I’ve never read any books by this series but I enjoyed the book very much.
August 21, 2020
A great story of second chances, and all the barriers to it happening. A romance of two very real people with real problems. I loved it and will recommend this book to others.
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