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When Sheriff Rafe Boudreau catches Tessa Maxwell climbing through the window of a house where she doesn’t belong, the crime rate isn’t the only thing that spikes. Turns out, trouble has followed the small-town schoolteacher to Shiloh Springs, and Rafe and the rest of the Boudreau clan must step in to keep her safe. Can they decipher the clues and end the danger Tessa faces before time runs out?
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2020
2427 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Ivan
77 books181 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author Kathy Ivan can’t remember a time when books and reading weren’t a part of my daily life. I was blessed with a mother who instilled the love of reading in me at a young age. That progressed into a passion for the written word in all forms, which led to my writing. Every day I have new stories and new ideas roaming through my brain, the characters chomping at the bit for their turn to be front and center and have their story told. Today that love of storytelling translates into my desire to write and share my stories with others. I write in many genres, but I’m currently concentrating on romantic suspense and paranormal.
My day job is about as uncreative as it gets. I do medical transcription, spending numerous hours at the computer each day trying to decipher the mumbled, garbled and often unrecognizable words the physicians are dictating, in an effort to make a complete and comprehensive patient record. It’s almost as bad as trying to read their handwriting!
Born and raised in Miami, Florida, I’ve lived in various places throughout my youth, from California to Hawaii and back to Florida (Key West), before finally settling in Texas. I make my home outside Dallas, Texas with my spoiled black lab (Missy).
I am a member of Romance Writers of American and the Dallas Area Romance Authors (DARA), where I’m an active member; you can find me at the local meetings each month.
That’s about it off the top of my head. I love talking with other readers and writers, so feel free to contact me.
My day job is about as uncreative as it gets. I do medical transcription, spending numerous hours at the computer each day trying to decipher the mumbled, garbled and often unrecognizable words the physicians are dictating, in an effort to make a complete and comprehensive patient record. It’s almost as bad as trying to read their handwriting!
Born and raised in Miami, Florida, I’ve lived in various places throughout my youth, from California to Hawaii and back to Florida (Key West), before finally settling in Texas. I make my home outside Dallas, Texas with my spoiled black lab (Missy).
I am a member of Romance Writers of American and the Dallas Area Romance Authors (DARA), where I’m an active member; you can find me at the local meetings each month.
That’s about it off the top of my head. I love talking with other readers and writers, so feel free to contact me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
August 11, 2020
4,5 stars - English Ebook 🍀🦋🍀
March 9, 2023
The concept and idea was good but poorly executed.
Characters were 2-dimensional and weak. Their connection was lacklustre making it seem like insta-love instead of a developing relationship like the end suggested. All the characters felt like this too not just the main players. Also there were too many people at play some coming in for a sentence or two and then you never hear about them again (probably because they’re getting their own book but🤷♀️). It just seemed silly to introduce so many people at the same time and then have nothing come from their appearance.
The timeline was also a mess. You could never tell how much time was moving by. The whole story seemed like it happened within a two/three week span when it was more like a month and a half.
Then there’s the grammar… lets just say it could have benefitted from a few editing sweeps because there were misplaced words EVERYWHERE. But there was also the shifting of the 3rd person perspectives. It was mainly Tessa and Rafe but it occasionally shifted to other characters and got a touch confusing.
Overall, It felt empty and like it was missing huge chunks of the plot. It moved too quickly and glossed over major facts like the possible (and completely obvious) murder of Tessa’s parents. Not to mention the mugguffin and bad guy came from absolutely nowhere. There was very little foreshadowing for the Real Villain. There should have been more signs and doubt to make the reader question what was really going on not have it obvious who the bad guy was until the end and then say “nope it was actually this guy!” With very little preamble. I mean dude was still involved but the other guy became the big bad while who you’re led to believe was the guy became essentially the minion.
Also bad dude’s motives were poorly explained. “He’s insane” or “money hungry” is not a good enough explanation in my book. There had to be a REASON for him to want the money and it should have been touched on whether-or-not his marriage to Tessa’s sister was a premeditated act to getting the money, but none of that was explained again with the glossing over just to rush to have the happily ever after ending for the love birds.
Characters were 2-dimensional and weak. Their connection was lacklustre making it seem like insta-love instead of a developing relationship like the end suggested. All the characters felt like this too not just the main players. Also there were too many people at play some coming in for a sentence or two and then you never hear about them again (probably because they’re getting their own book but🤷♀️). It just seemed silly to introduce so many people at the same time and then have nothing come from their appearance.
The timeline was also a mess. You could never tell how much time was moving by. The whole story seemed like it happened within a two/three week span when it was more like a month and a half.
Then there’s the grammar… lets just say it could have benefitted from a few editing sweeps because there were misplaced words EVERYWHERE. But there was also the shifting of the 3rd person perspectives. It was mainly Tessa and Rafe but it occasionally shifted to other characters and got a touch confusing.
Overall, It felt empty and like it was missing huge chunks of the plot. It moved too quickly and glossed over major facts like the possible (and completely obvious) murder of Tessa’s parents. Not to mention the mugguffin and bad guy came from absolutely nowhere. There was very little foreshadowing for the Real Villain. There should have been more signs and doubt to make the reader question what was really going on not have it obvious who the bad guy was until the end and then say “nope it was actually this guy!” With very little preamble. I mean dude was still involved but the other guy became the big bad while who you’re led to believe was the guy became essentially the minion.
Also bad dude’s motives were poorly explained. “He’s insane” or “money hungry” is not a good enough explanation in my book. There had to be a REASON for him to want the money and it should have been touched on whether-or-not his marriage to Tessa’s sister was a premeditated act to getting the money, but none of that was explained again with the glossing over just to rush to have the happily ever after ending for the love birds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
August 26, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/18/2020)! 🎁
May 16, 2020
I want to know in the kindle version of books who puts the length of time it's supposed to take to read the book? Don't, just don't put that there, because what you estimate as how long it's supposed to take and how long each individual reader takes is completely different. This book for example took me ten minutes.
Now. What the hell was that?
The book should have had more. More depth. More background. The book was to short. Hi I'm Rafe the town sheriff. Hi I'm Tess the new teacher at the school. His momma comes along, we're having a bbq at the big house, why don't you join us? Race brings Tess they talk. Don't worry Tess my ten brothers, my sister, my momma, my daddy will protect you if anything happens to you. By the way I love you. Seriously? Add something in between. No wonder it only took me ten minutes to read.
Now. What the hell was that?
The book should have had more. More depth. More background. The book was to short. Hi I'm Rafe the town sheriff. Hi I'm Tess the new teacher at the school. His momma comes along, we're having a bbq at the big house, why don't you join us? Race brings Tess they talk. Don't worry Tess my ten brothers, my sister, my momma, my daddy will protect you if anything happens to you. By the way I love you. Seriously? Add something in between. No wonder it only took me ten minutes to read.
February 21, 2022
Ok, where to start. I got this book free on Amazon and wish I had skipped it. While not horrible, the author failed to capture the show not tell concept of writing. Everything was rosy and happy with no conflict for the H/H to deal with each other. Everything was external conflict to their relationship and even
that was weak as the good guys were all so lovey dovey.
Tessa moved out to Texas and we know her parents died recently. The timing is off in that you don’t know if thei death was the catalyst to move or if she wanted to explore the country and their death just made it more real to leave. We don’t know what happened to Mrs. Edwards to create the open position and we never see Tessa have her first day of teaching. Her career seemed glossed over. She talks about her sister and niece but it’s not like you feel a bond there. Running from an abusive boyfriend is also thrown in as a second thought.
There wasn’t much in the way of motivation from the bad guys except he wanted money and planned some killings. It felt pushed and not thought out. I really missed catching the clues from action, instead it all appeared to me like being hand fed my supper.
Rafe had a story and once again the backstory of his life was regurgitated for my viewing. It was a great backstory, but delivered without me feeling the emotion it should have generated.
Oh, and it is a sweet romance with barely any kissing. No touch, clothes stay on, church going with no sex. Yep, not even enough energy to get me excited.
So you guessed it…not continuing with this series.
that was weak as the good guys were all so lovey dovey.
Tessa moved out to Texas and we know her parents died recently. The timing is off in that you don’t know if thei death was the catalyst to move or if she wanted to explore the country and their death just made it more real to leave. We don’t know what happened to Mrs. Edwards to create the open position and we never see Tessa have her first day of teaching. Her career seemed glossed over. She talks about her sister and niece but it’s not like you feel a bond there. Running from an abusive boyfriend is also thrown in as a second thought.
There wasn’t much in the way of motivation from the bad guys except he wanted money and planned some killings. It felt pushed and not thought out. I really missed catching the clues from action, instead it all appeared to me like being hand fed my supper.
Rafe had a story and once again the backstory of his life was regurgitated for my viewing. It was a great backstory, but delivered without me feeling the emotion it should have generated.
Oh, and it is a sweet romance with barely any kissing. No touch, clothes stay on, church going with no sex. Yep, not even enough energy to get me excited.
So you guessed it…not continuing with this series.
July 19, 2021
4.4 stars.
Ok first things first. This was a completely clean romance.
No sex. Not even a fade to black moment. And no cuss words either.
Usually I’m disappointed by that because I’m of the mind that the more steam the better the book.
But.
Though, I think it would’ve added to the book, I wasn’t all that disappointed.
The story and characters really carried everything.
I loved getting to know all the people of Shiloh Springs.
It was sweet and there was some danger and some humor.
I think I’ll be looking into reading the next book in the series.
I’m excited to see what happens with Tessa’s sister Beth.
So cute.
Ok first things first. This was a completely clean romance.
No sex. Not even a fade to black moment. And no cuss words either.
Usually I’m disappointed by that because I’m of the mind that the more steam the better the book.
But.
Though, I think it would’ve added to the book, I wasn’t all that disappointed.
The story and characters really carried everything.
I loved getting to know all the people of Shiloh Springs.
It was sweet and there was some danger and some humor.
I think I’ll be looking into reading the next book in the series.
I’m excited to see what happens with Tessa’s sister Beth.
So cute.
dnf
August 30, 2022DNF at pg 63
Oh, do I have a bone to pick with this book! I don't think I have ever had so many Goodread updates before.
First, since I am married to a LEO, I know how cops talk. Rafe does not talk like one. He uses the Q word which if you know first responders, they don't like that word. It's a jinx. Also, they don't call cases or leads a story. They call them cases or leads. There is much more I could say but not going to.
Second, the two MCs apparently had a different meeting than what I read because both said they had an "instant" connection/chemistry. I'm not buying it. There is a difference between finding someone attractive versus actually having a connection with the person.
Third, there is a chapter in which Rafe goes and checks on Tessa at the elementary when he is supposed to be finding a teenage (or I think he was a teenage) boy who might be facing charges due to a young lady's parents finding out he has been with (just says canoodling) her. Are you freaking kidding me? It even says he should be going to find said dude (we will call him since I don't know his exact age). Also, there should have been a DUI when a woman was driving her husband's tractor in town drunk on moonshine, but she gets to sober up and then go home. NO!!!! It's a DUI!!! Wy's voice is screaming inside my head at this.
For authors, if you are going to write about law enforcement, please educate yourself. No good LEO would let a woman drunk driving a tractor in town go home. They would do a field sobriety test, write a DUI, then take the drunk woman to jail until she could bond out. It doesn't matter how small a town it is. The law is the law and they could lose their job or be sued.
There are so many problems I have with how law enforcement is depicted in this book. Let's not even start with the "romance". I'm done. I pulled the plug.
My husband's voice is inside my head nitpicking at everything. Do you know how bad a book has to be for my husband to be in my head?!
Oh, do I have a bone to pick with this book! I don't think I have ever had so many Goodread updates before.
First, since I am married to a LEO, I know how cops talk. Rafe does not talk like one. He uses the Q word which if you know first responders, they don't like that word. It's a jinx. Also, they don't call cases or leads a story. They call them cases or leads. There is much more I could say but not going to.
Second, the two MCs apparently had a different meeting than what I read because both said they had an "instant" connection/chemistry. I'm not buying it. There is a difference between finding someone attractive versus actually having a connection with the person.
Third, there is a chapter in which Rafe goes and checks on Tessa at the elementary when he is supposed to be finding a teenage (or I think he was a teenage) boy who might be facing charges due to a young lady's parents finding out he has been with (just says canoodling) her. Are you freaking kidding me? It even says he should be going to find said dude (we will call him since I don't know his exact age). Also, there should have been a DUI when a woman was driving her husband's tractor in town drunk on moonshine, but she gets to sober up and then go home. NO!!!! It's a DUI!!! Wy's voice is screaming inside my head at this.
For authors, if you are going to write about law enforcement, please educate yourself. No good LEO would let a woman drunk driving a tractor in town go home. They would do a field sobriety test, write a DUI, then take the drunk woman to jail until she could bond out. It doesn't matter how small a town it is. The law is the law and they could lose their job or be sued.
There are so many problems I have with how law enforcement is depicted in this book. Let's not even start with the "romance". I'm done. I pulled the plug.
My husband's voice is inside my head nitpicking at everything. Do you know how bad a book has to be for my husband to be in my head?!
April 28, 2020
I liked it, but... One of those feelings, so only 3 stars (probably between 2-3, rounded up).
Tessa (h) moves to small-town Texas, to take over the new teaching position in Shiloh Springs. She's escaping from recent deaths in the family, and from an uncomfortable situation with her ex. Rafe (H), the local sheriff, encounters her trying to slip in the window of her new rental place and mistakes her for a burglar. After a rocky start, the air is cleared for sparks to show between the two. But has Tessa truly started over, or has her past followed her from NC?
It was cute. I liked the big family dynamic (though they were definitely on the pushy side). And I liked the slow pacing with Tessa and Rafe, both trying to take things cautiously despite the insta-attraction. It was a nice change of pace from some of the other romances I've read recently. And I liked the diversity of the characters too - plenty of other characters to appear in books to come.
I wasn't crazy about Tessa. She was a little bland to me, nothing to really make her stand out, but for someone who chirped on about southern manners, she struck me as a little out of touch. Oblivious? Insensitive? I don't know quite the word I'm looking for. It just seemed really rude to me, to just ask about the family so bluntly and so frequently. Not all adopted families or foster families like digging up their histories, and to skirt the edges of pushy about Rafe's past just didn't impress me.
There was something very simple about the writing. No, I'm not talking about the sweet'n'clean writing. I'm talking about the actual writing. Things got repeated unnecessarily, for example. I think we're told three different times in the first three chapters that a cold is going around, so the sheriff's department is short staffed, and Rafe's now working doubles. In almost the same words each time. Like, ok, we get it - he's working a lot. Or how "Nica to her family" was included in Rafe's thoughts twice. I know there's a lot of characters to introduce, but I think we can remember the one girl's name in the family. Or how one character would say something, then ask again in a chapter or two like it hadn't been encountered before. 'How old was he when he came to your house? 11? Oh, that's right. He told me exactly that a chapter ago.' And seriously, how many times did they have to repeat that family is everything, that family is more than blood, and other variations on that theme. I definitely admire the sentiment, but it got a little old.
There needed to have been a proofreader, not just spellcheck. There were quite a lot of words where something-close-yet-not-quite-right was used. Sometimes it was a homophone issue (shone/shown). Sometimes it was just a similar sounding word (memorial/memorable). And sometimes it was a typo error that just didn't get caught (had/hand). But it was frequent and got distracting.
I felt let down by the criminal and motives.
Alternating 3rd person POV, mostly the leads with a few scenes from other characters (mostly other Boudreaus). No cheating, no love triangle nonsense, and no OW/OM drama. Entertainingly pushy small town and large family characters. Sweet and clean story of insta-attraction growing into something more. Standalone and no cliffhangers with an HEA, but lots of other characters introduced for future stories.
Would I read more? Maybe. This was a free find on Kindle, so maybe if future books were too? It wasn't bad and I'd be willing to read more in the series or by the author, but I wasn't really sold on it either. Like I said, "I like it, but..."
Tessa (h) moves to small-town Texas, to take over the new teaching position in Shiloh Springs. She's escaping from recent deaths in the family, and from an uncomfortable situation with her ex. Rafe (H), the local sheriff, encounters her trying to slip in the window of her new rental place and mistakes her for a burglar. After a rocky start, the air is cleared for sparks to show between the two. But has Tessa truly started over, or has her past followed her from NC?
It was cute. I liked the big family dynamic (though they were definitely on the pushy side). And I liked the slow pacing with Tessa and Rafe, both trying to take things cautiously despite the insta-attraction. It was a nice change of pace from some of the other romances I've read recently. And I liked the diversity of the characters too - plenty of other characters to appear in books to come.
I wasn't crazy about Tessa. She was a little bland to me, nothing to really make her stand out, but for someone who chirped on about southern manners, she struck me as a little out of touch. Oblivious? Insensitive? I don't know quite the word I'm looking for. It just seemed really rude to me, to just ask about the family so bluntly and so frequently. Not all adopted families or foster families like digging up their histories, and to skirt the edges of pushy about Rafe's past just didn't impress me.
There was something very simple about the writing. No, I'm not talking about the sweet'n'clean writing. I'm talking about the actual writing. Things got repeated unnecessarily, for example. I think we're told three different times in the first three chapters that a cold is going around, so the sheriff's department is short staffed, and Rafe's now working doubles. In almost the same words each time. Like, ok, we get it - he's working a lot. Or how "Nica to her family" was included in Rafe's thoughts twice. I know there's a lot of characters to introduce, but I think we can remember the one girl's name in the family. Or how one character would say something, then ask again in a chapter or two like it hadn't been encountered before. 'How old was he when he came to your house? 11? Oh, that's right. He told me exactly that a chapter ago.' And seriously, how many times did they have to repeat that family is everything, that family is more than blood, and other variations on that theme. I definitely admire the sentiment, but it got a little old.
There needed to have been a proofreader, not just spellcheck. There were quite a lot of words where something-close-yet-not-quite-right was used. Sometimes it was a homophone issue (shone/shown). Sometimes it was just a similar sounding word (memorial/memorable). And sometimes it was a typo error that just didn't get caught (had/hand). But it was frequent and got distracting.
I felt let down by the criminal and motives.
Alternating 3rd person POV, mostly the leads with a few scenes from other characters (mostly other Boudreaus). No cheating, no love triangle nonsense, and no OW/OM drama. Entertainingly pushy small town and large family characters. Sweet and clean story of insta-attraction growing into something more. Standalone and no cliffhangers with an HEA, but lots of other characters introduced for future stories.
Would I read more? Maybe. This was a free find on Kindle, so maybe if future books were too? It wasn't bad and I'd be willing to read more in the series or by the author, but I wasn't really sold on it either. Like I said, "I like it, but..."
May 11, 2020
The Boudreau's Book 1
We met Rafe Boudreau in Kathy Ivan's book, Protecting Gabi. He is the sheriff in Shiloh Springs. He meets Tessa under unusual circumstances. She's to be the new second grade teacher. They like each other immediately. The road to their HEA is not an easy one. Get this book ASAP. You won't regret it. Sorry, no spoilers
We met Rafe Boudreau in Kathy Ivan's book, Protecting Gabi. He is the sheriff in Shiloh Springs. He meets Tessa under unusual circumstances. She's to be the new second grade teacher. They like each other immediately. The road to their HEA is not an easy one. Get this book ASAP. You won't regret it. Sorry, no spoilers
June 28, 2020
Good book, just the right length and entertaining all the way through. Fast reading, not boring
Would recommend to all my friends who read. Look forward to reading more of this author's books. Let's all support this author.
Would recommend to all my friends who read. Look forward to reading more of this author's books. Let's all support this author.
November 2, 2020
A wonderful little sweet romance with some suspense thrown in. Just what I needed to read.
April 18, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
The purpose of Thrifty Thursday is to read a book which was free (at some point).
Kindle freebie on December 27, 2023 (currently FREE at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as of writing this post)
Rafe is about a very large family of foster boys and one girl (I didn't like her but she's barely in the story). The main character is a teacher, Tessa who left North Carolina after her parent's death and a boyfriend became a stalker after she broke up with him. Rafe Boudreau is the sheriff. Tessa is better developed than Rafe but the primary development is really the Boudreau family. They have an awesome found family vibe and support each other.
Tessa and Rafe have an insta-love kind of thing. The romance is clean. Of course, her stalker shows up. The plot is kind of weak overall. Still it was an easy read and I might read more in the series because I like the family and their caretaking of others.
COYER April Mystery RAT
The purpose of Thrifty Thursday is to read a book which was free (at some point).
Kindle freebie on December 27, 2023 (currently FREE at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as of writing this post)
Rafe is about a very large family of foster boys and one girl (I didn't like her but she's barely in the story). The main character is a teacher, Tessa who left North Carolina after her parent's death and a boyfriend became a stalker after she broke up with him. Rafe Boudreau is the sheriff. Tessa is better developed than Rafe but the primary development is really the Boudreau family. They have an awesome found family vibe and support each other.
Tessa and Rafe have an insta-love kind of thing. The romance is clean. Of course, her stalker shows up. The plot is kind of weak overall. Still it was an easy read and I might read more in the series because I like the family and their caretaking of others.
COYER April Mystery RAT
July 9, 2024
A fun quick romantic suspense novel that sucked me in and I finished in two hours flat. 5 ⭐.
March 25, 2021
This was a fun introduction to a series. I want to read some more about the Boudreau brothers, but if there are eleven stories for all the siblings, then I doubt I'll read all eleven books. I did like this one, though there were a few glaring discrepancies. I know I read a review where someone mentioned about the gun info being wrong and the reviewer was right on that score. Simple research would've fixed that one. There were a few awful typos, too.
But I finished the book. I really liked the characters' attitudes. They all seemed to have a love for life and/or a desire to fight for their dreams. The hero seemed to be a man of integrity when it came to starting a relationship with the heroine. The only thing I kinda wondered about was the heroine's outlook on love relationships, having just escaped from a very bad relationship. I just thought maybe she fell in love too easily and too fast. I do realize the shortness of a romance novel means the story has to play out pretty quickly so that may have been the issue there.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, the characters, the fact that there was more to this story than just a simple romance, and that the romance was clean. Good stuff! If you like clean contemporary romance with a bit of mystery and action, you might want to give this one a try.
But I finished the book. I really liked the characters' attitudes. They all seemed to have a love for life and/or a desire to fight for their dreams. The hero seemed to be a man of integrity when it came to starting a relationship with the heroine. The only thing I kinda wondered about was the heroine's outlook on love relationships, having just escaped from a very bad relationship. I just thought maybe she fell in love too easily and too fast. I do realize the shortness of a romance novel means the story has to play out pretty quickly so that may have been the issue there.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, the characters, the fact that there was more to this story than just a simple romance, and that the romance was clean. Good stuff! If you like clean contemporary romance with a bit of mystery and action, you might want to give this one a try.
September 23, 2023
This novella is book 1 in Kathy Ivan’s Texas Boudreaux Brotherhood.
This was a fairly low angst, small town, & closed door romantic suspense. I liked the burgeoning relationship between Rafe and Tessa. The Boudreaux family is huge and I love how they welcomed Tessa to the town and family.
I do think the world building, especially the introduction of so many people, overwhelmed the development of the mystery/suspense and the romance plots. Combined with repetitive writing left me wanting more substance to what should have been the main focus.
Overall a easy and quick listen. Now that (I hope) the background has been established I’m interested in continuing to see if future books offer more development.
Narration:
This was my first time listening to both Alex Knox and Tieran Wilder. They were a good fit for the characters and writing. I enjoyed both of their performances.
Narration note: There were some production issues - long breaks in the middle of paragraphs. These gaps kept making me think that the playback was stopping for no reason.
This was a fairly low angst, small town, & closed door romantic suspense. I liked the burgeoning relationship between Rafe and Tessa. The Boudreaux family is huge and I love how they welcomed Tessa to the town and family.
I do think the world building, especially the introduction of so many people, overwhelmed the development of the mystery/suspense and the romance plots. Combined with repetitive writing left me wanting more substance to what should have been the main focus.
Overall a easy and quick listen. Now that (I hope) the background has been established I’m interested in continuing to see if future books offer more development.
Narration:
This was my first time listening to both Alex Knox and Tieran Wilder. They were a good fit for the characters and writing. I enjoyed both of their performances.
Narration note: There were some production issues - long breaks in the middle of paragraphs. These gaps kept making me think that the playback was stopping for no reason.
February 22, 2023
Could have been better
This small town romance with a side of light danger had a promising premise but the execution fell flat. Tessa moves to small town Shiloh Springs to teach elementary school. After the unexpected death of her parents and a stalker ex-boyfriend, she needed the change. Rafe is the town sheriff and the son of the oldest and largest family in town. Rafe and Tessa have instant chemistry and attraction and begin spending time together. The story included some sweet moments, chuckles, supportive friends and family, and painful pasts. Unfortunately, the writing was clunky and had multiple grammatical and factual errors. In addition, the MCs spent little time together and lacked dimension which made it hard to connect to them. 2.5 stars.
This small town romance with a side of light danger had a promising premise but the execution fell flat. Tessa moves to small town Shiloh Springs to teach elementary school. After the unexpected death of her parents and a stalker ex-boyfriend, she needed the change. Rafe is the town sheriff and the son of the oldest and largest family in town. Rafe and Tessa have instant chemistry and attraction and begin spending time together. The story included some sweet moments, chuckles, supportive friends and family, and painful pasts. Unfortunately, the writing was clunky and had multiple grammatical and factual errors. In addition, the MCs spent little time together and lacked dimension which made it hard to connect to them. 2.5 stars.
April 23, 2024
Sheriff + Red = ❤
I love a good small town romance! This is no different. I loved being at Shiloh Springs for a little while. I absolutely fell for the Boudreau family. I loved everything about Rafe and Tessa. Rafe and his family welcomed Tessa with open arms. It was really sweet. Rafe and Tessa story was beautifully written. 💛!
Can't wait to go back and see them all again. I'm excited to read about Antonio next. 😊
I love a good small town romance! This is no different. I loved being at Shiloh Springs for a little while. I absolutely fell for the Boudreau family. I loved everything about Rafe and Tessa. Rafe and his family welcomed Tessa with open arms. It was really sweet. Rafe and Tessa story was beautifully written. 💛!
Can't wait to go back and see them all again. I'm excited to read about Antonio next. 😊
April 21, 2020
So happy to have found this book on Amazon for $0!
I really enjoyed it and have already purchased the next book in the series.
This book is a standalone, 1 st book about the Boudreau family.
Like all the characters, fun meeting the family.
Romance with some suspense.
No sex scenes, which I find overdone too many times.
Worth your time to read!
I really enjoyed it and have already purchased the next book in the series.
This book is a standalone, 1 st book about the Boudreau family.
Like all the characters, fun meeting the family.
Romance with some suspense.
No sex scenes, which I find overdone too many times.
Worth your time to read!
March 20, 2023
Veloce e piacevole lettura, l'unico problema è che ho trovato una bella contraddizione su quanto viene detto all'inizio e poi più avanti nella storia riguardo a un aspetto importante di quanto accaduto alla protagonista.
September 1, 2020
Rafe is the first book in Kathy Ivan's Texas Boudreau Brotherhood. In it we meet our lead characters--Tessa Maxwell and Sheriff Rafe Boudreau. Tessa needing a change in life from the drama and heartbreak in Charlotte, N.C. takes a job as a teacher in the small town of Shiloh Springs, Texas. Needless to say that when these two meet sparks fly and what evolves is the premise of Ms. Ivan's plot. What will happen to them? Will they end up together? Will their journey be smooth or rough? To find out, you have to read this contemporary, sweet western romance.
I enjoyed the way Ms. Ivan created her characters. I loved that they were multi-layered and she revealed their dreams, strengths, and vulnerabilities. As this is the first book of the series, it provides an opportunity to meet the other members of both the Maxwell and Boudreau families. I also appreciated Ms. Ivan's use of literary devices such as point of view, dialog, and descriptive language. Through the dialog and their internal dialog readers are provided an opportunity to get to know them better, to truly understand their personalities and to get their backstories. I was intrigued with the way she used point of view. She shifted between third person point of view and a dual point of view approach. The third person point of view provides the backstories. The dual point of view familiarizes readers with Tessa and Rafe's past histories. Lastly, her use of descriptive language painted vivid and realistic scenes. For example phrases such as "hair dark as a raven's wing spilled free..." allows you to see visualize the intensity of the color of the hair. I also enjoyed Ms. Ivan's use of red herrings when building suspense in this story through the stalker and then the final scenes where the true identities of the villains were revealed. Caught me by surprise at first. If you want to read a suspense romance then you should read this one. I'm pretty sure I'm going to continuing reading the other books in this series.
I enjoyed the way Ms. Ivan created her characters. I loved that they were multi-layered and she revealed their dreams, strengths, and vulnerabilities. As this is the first book of the series, it provides an opportunity to meet the other members of both the Maxwell and Boudreau families. I also appreciated Ms. Ivan's use of literary devices such as point of view, dialog, and descriptive language. Through the dialog and their internal dialog readers are provided an opportunity to get to know them better, to truly understand their personalities and to get their backstories. I was intrigued with the way she used point of view. She shifted between third person point of view and a dual point of view approach. The third person point of view provides the backstories. The dual point of view familiarizes readers with Tessa and Rafe's past histories. Lastly, her use of descriptive language painted vivid and realistic scenes. For example phrases such as "hair dark as a raven's wing spilled free..." allows you to see visualize the intensity of the color of the hair. I also enjoyed Ms. Ivan's use of red herrings when building suspense in this story through the stalker and then the final scenes where the true identities of the villains were revealed. Caught me by surprise at first. If you want to read a suspense romance then you should read this one. I'm pretty sure I'm going to continuing reading the other books in this series.
March 7, 2021
Nowadays, romances seem to come in flavors, and my two faves are sci fi romance and contemporary western romance. One look at the cover art, and it is quite obvious that my latest romance fits into the western sub-genre. Point of view character Tessa is a schoolteacher taking over in mid stream, as well as escaping a smothering former male companion. We used to call those boyfriends, but I’m getting old. Rafe is a single, fabulous looking sheriff. Maybe sheriffs look like that in Texas, but around here they tend to be older, heavier, and won election because they are related to half of the county. Rafe, as and adopted son of the rather large Boudreau clan, only has one of the three common characteristics of a sheriff, but I digress….
This book has over a thousand reviews, and many of them are five star. While I was able to finish it, I question at least two of those stars. Apart from the initial impressions that these characters don’t have enough in common with real life, the dialogue just doesn’t ring true. The romance is more tell than show; that is, the author tells the reader that Tessa is infatuated with Rafe and that Rafe fell in love with Tessa at first sight. However, apart from a few quick meals, they don’t spend all that much time getting to know each other. The characters don’t go through much of the reversals that are common in the genre, and the suspense is fairly light.
Contemporary western settings sometimes cause authors to struggle a bit. When to introduce the stetson, substituting a fancy pick up for a good horse, and getting the characters out of town and into the big country are all issues that writers of this genre must figure out. Ivan does very little in using her setting, so much so that this story could have been set in Atlanta by adding some grits or Seattle by adding some rain.
Rafe is contemporary romance that isn’t erotic or vulgar, and those are pluses for me. I just wish there had been more interaction, more suspense, and more Texas.
This book has over a thousand reviews, and many of them are five star. While I was able to finish it, I question at least two of those stars. Apart from the initial impressions that these characters don’t have enough in common with real life, the dialogue just doesn’t ring true. The romance is more tell than show; that is, the author tells the reader that Tessa is infatuated with Rafe and that Rafe fell in love with Tessa at first sight. However, apart from a few quick meals, they don’t spend all that much time getting to know each other. The characters don’t go through much of the reversals that are common in the genre, and the suspense is fairly light.
Contemporary western settings sometimes cause authors to struggle a bit. When to introduce the stetson, substituting a fancy pick up for a good horse, and getting the characters out of town and into the big country are all issues that writers of this genre must figure out. Ivan does very little in using her setting, so much so that this story could have been set in Atlanta by adding some grits or Seattle by adding some rain.
Rafe is contemporary romance that isn’t erotic or vulgar, and those are pluses for me. I just wish there had been more interaction, more suspense, and more Texas.
November 5, 2021
Rafe: Texas Boudreau Brotherhood Book 1 is by Kathy Ivan. This book is really good and makes a good opening for the series. Rafe is the sheriff of Shiloh Springs. He works hard and usually has a desk full of paperwork to catch up on. He is very handsome and is very personable.
Rafe is on his way home when he notices someone at Old Man Johnson’s cabin. Someone is trying to break into the cabin and not doing a very good job of it. He is only able to see their bottom because they are trying to climb in a window. He walks up and speaks to the person. He is pleasantly surprised to see the trespasser is a woman, a beautiful woman. He fully intends to arrest her when she manages to convince him to wait as the realtor is suppose to be there. Sure enough, Serena appears and gives Tessa Maxwell an alibi.
Tessa is from North Carolina and has come to Texas to take a teaching job for the year. She had rented the cabin and brought some of her things. She has now met one of the Boudreau clan. Soon, she meets Patricia who is handling the rental. Patricia lines up her boys to clear the yard and do some much needed outside repairs on the cabin as well as stock Tessa up with food. Tessa finds out quickly that if Patricia wants it done, it gets done.
Tessa has come from North Carolina to get away from the grief of her parents’ sudden death and the strange behavior of her boyfriend, Trevor when she breaks up with him. She hates to leave her sister and her niece; but feels it is best for her to put some distance between herself and her grief. But her problems just follow her.
Rafe is on his way home when he notices someone at Old Man Johnson’s cabin. Someone is trying to break into the cabin and not doing a very good job of it. He is only able to see their bottom because they are trying to climb in a window. He walks up and speaks to the person. He is pleasantly surprised to see the trespasser is a woman, a beautiful woman. He fully intends to arrest her when she manages to convince him to wait as the realtor is suppose to be there. Sure enough, Serena appears and gives Tessa Maxwell an alibi.
Tessa is from North Carolina and has come to Texas to take a teaching job for the year. She had rented the cabin and brought some of her things. She has now met one of the Boudreau clan. Soon, she meets Patricia who is handling the rental. Patricia lines up her boys to clear the yard and do some much needed outside repairs on the cabin as well as stock Tessa up with food. Tessa finds out quickly that if Patricia wants it done, it gets done.
Tessa has come from North Carolina to get away from the grief of her parents’ sudden death and the strange behavior of her boyfriend, Trevor when she breaks up with him. She hates to leave her sister and her niece; but feels it is best for her to put some distance between herself and her grief. But her problems just follow her.
January 1, 2024
3.75 stars
A fast paced book which had an intriguing mixture of romance, small town/found family vibes and mystery. The mystery subverted my expectations slightly and didn't go quite the way I thought it would.
I enjoyed the characters and the side characters as well - they were distinct and memorable and generally kind. Tessa and Rafe definitely had a bit of 'insta-love' but I actually really liked how their relationship panned out, they took things slow and didn't rush anything. It was refreshing to have a MMC who wasn't grumpy or rude or creepily possessive. Rafe cared about Tessa and his family and wanted to keep them safe, he was open with that but also respected their boundaries and decisions. He was vulnerable about his backstory and was able to show his vulnerability and feelings in realistic and healthy ways. I liked Tessa as well, she was kind and sweet but had dealt with some hardship, she took some time being comfortable accepting the help the Boudreau's readily gave out.
In one chapter Rafe called Tessa about 4 different pet names in about 10 paragraphs which made me chuckle but was a little jarring, it was like he couldn't choose what to call her. There were moments where we saw a slightly sassier side to Tessa and I wished we could've seen a bit more of this and her sister.
But generally an enjoyable read with a great small town feel and a little bit of tension added in.
A fast paced book which had an intriguing mixture of romance, small town/found family vibes and mystery. The mystery subverted my expectations slightly and didn't go quite the way I thought it would.
I enjoyed the characters and the side characters as well - they were distinct and memorable and generally kind. Tessa and Rafe definitely had a bit of 'insta-love' but I actually really liked how their relationship panned out, they took things slow and didn't rush anything. It was refreshing to have a MMC who wasn't grumpy or rude or creepily possessive. Rafe cared about Tessa and his family and wanted to keep them safe, he was open with that but also respected their boundaries and decisions. He was vulnerable about his backstory and was able to show his vulnerability and feelings in realistic and healthy ways. I liked Tessa as well, she was kind and sweet but had dealt with some hardship, she took some time being comfortable accepting the help the Boudreau's readily gave out.
In one chapter Rafe called Tessa about 4 different pet names in about 10 paragraphs which made me chuckle but was a little jarring, it was like he couldn't choose what to call her. There were moments where we saw a slightly sassier side to Tessa and I wished we could've seen a bit more of this and her sister.
But generally an enjoyable read with a great small town feel and a little bit of tension added in.
October 12, 2020
OH W.O.W!! That about sums up my impression of this book. I love the dynamic of the entire Boudreau family. Hell, while I was reading I felt like I was part of their family (excuse me while I go get my last name changed ;)) I loved how i was introduced to some of the brothers & sister in this book. I fell in love with the parents,Douglas and Ms. Patti, they are such rare and affectionate people!! I felt the love the Douglas and Ms. Patti had for their sons and daughters and how the siblings interacted, that hit me deep. I CANNOT WAIT FOR EACH OF THEIR OWN BOOKS!! Kathy Ivan's Texas Boudreau Brotherhood series? I. AM. ALL. IN!! I can't wait till I get my eager hands on ALL her books. I was ecstatic when I saw that she also have other series, def gonna keep me busy for the rest of this year!! Anyways, back to the Rafe's book, I really enjoyed the entire book and how Rafe and Tessa's relationship progressed. Their relationship was so natural, it gave me the love at first sight impression. Though I preferred if there were more action in this book. This book in my opinion felt like an introduction to some of the characters in her upcoming books which I'm all for because it makes me even more curious about those books. I SWOONED when I read Rafe and Tessa's confession to one another.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
I thought the audiobook was decent. Rafe and Tessa started out with what seemed like a developing relationship that turned into instalove. It also seemed like Rafe's background was more developed than Tessa's.
In terms of mystery or suspense, tidbits were thrown out there and I thought they could have been more interesting and possibly even suspenseful but they didn't seem fully fleshed out. Then suddenly I was hit with this unexpected drama. I knew there was a stalker. I even had a good idea of who was involved, and there was no surprise at the stalker's associate, but the why of the entire situation came out of the blue. I was waiting to see how it connected to the rest of the story. There was no indication, hint, etc. that there was a reason for it to happen until it happened.
I was really disappointed by the fact that we did not get to read about any reaction about a life altering occurrence in someone's life from the person who would be affected the most. The reader was left hanging.
I did like the small town family aspect of the book. I didn't think Tessa had much of a personality. This was a lighthearted, easy, no stress read, with very little drama. I would suggest you read or listen to it and judge for yourself.
In terms of mystery or suspense, tidbits were thrown out there and I thought they could have been more interesting and possibly even suspenseful but they didn't seem fully fleshed out. Then suddenly I was hit with this unexpected drama. I knew there was a stalker. I even had a good idea of who was involved, and there was no surprise at the stalker's associate, but the why of the entire situation came out of the blue. I was waiting to see how it connected to the rest of the story. There was no indication, hint, etc. that there was a reason for it to happen until it happened.
I was really disappointed by the fact that we did not get to read about any reaction about a life altering occurrence in someone's life from the person who would be affected the most. The reader was left hanging.
I did like the small town family aspect of the book. I didn't think Tessa had much of a personality. This was a lighthearted, easy, no stress read, with very little drama. I would suggest you read or listen to it and judge for yourself.
May 3, 2020
Tessa and Rafe
Tessa has just moved to Shiloh Springs, TX and is at the house she is going to be renting for the next year if all goes well with the teaching job she was hired for. The only thing she really misses from North Carolina is her older sister Beth and her niece Jamie. Evan her brother-in-law is ok and she knows he will take good care of them both since he seems to love them so much. The one person she won't miss is Trevor her ex-boyfriend. She broke up with him four months ago after he started getting really weird. Her parents died six months ago in a freak accident - carbon monoxide from the furnace. Still can't figure out how that had happened since her father was so meticulous about the upkeep on everything. Oh well here she is waiting on the realtor to bring the papers and keys and now she really has to use the facilities! Next thing you know she's trying to shimmy into the window and gets caught by the Sheriff! He threatens to take her to jail! Will she be able to get out of this trouble? Will she be able to use the facilities? What happens next? Read this great story by Kathy Ivan to find out!
Tessa has just moved to Shiloh Springs, TX and is at the house she is going to be renting for the next year if all goes well with the teaching job she was hired for. The only thing she really misses from North Carolina is her older sister Beth and her niece Jamie. Evan her brother-in-law is ok and she knows he will take good care of them both since he seems to love them so much. The one person she won't miss is Trevor her ex-boyfriend. She broke up with him four months ago after he started getting really weird. Her parents died six months ago in a freak accident - carbon monoxide from the furnace. Still can't figure out how that had happened since her father was so meticulous about the upkeep on everything. Oh well here she is waiting on the realtor to bring the papers and keys and now she really has to use the facilities! Next thing you know she's trying to shimmy into the window and gets caught by the Sheriff! He threatens to take her to jail! Will she be able to get out of this trouble? Will she be able to use the facilities? What happens next? Read this great story by Kathy Ivan to find out!
July 29, 2020
Just One Word: Cowboy Sheriff *wink wink*
A short, fun yet exciting romantic suspense read that also introduces a whole neew clan for the reader to dive into!
I really enjoyed this short yet impactful romance; plus the whole new yummy Texan cowboys to fall in love with ;)
For more reviews visit For The Love of Fictional Worlds :)
Do come join us at For The Fictional Worlds Facebook Page | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon |
A short, fun yet exciting romantic suspense read that also introduces a whole neew clan for the reader to dive into!
I really enjoyed this short yet impactful romance; plus the whole new yummy Texan cowboys to fall in love with ;)
For more reviews visit For The Love of Fictional Worlds :)
Do come join us at For The Fictional Worlds Facebook Page | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon |
August 5, 2020
Rafe by Kathy Ivan is the first book in a new series called Texas Boudreau Brotherhood #1. The Boudreau brothers are all adopted children by Douglas and Ms Patti. The oldest boy, Rafe, is now the sheriff of Shiloh Spring. He was driving by an empty house when he saw someone trying to break in.
Tess is starting her life over after her parents died. She moved to Shiloh Springs to be the new second grade teacher and is renting a house. She really needed to use a bathroom so she tried to shimmy in through a window while waiting for the real estate agent to open up her house. That's how Rafe and Tess meet over him getting ready to charge her with trespassing. The situation was resolved but before you knew it the whole Boudreau clan was constantly around and Tess seems to be adopted by them. However, not all is how it seems...there are some issues beginning to creep into Tess’s life and she feels uncomfortable like she is being watched.
Rafe by Kathy Ivan is a romantic thriller. The characters, Tess and Rafe are fun together. The setting and the overwhelming numbers of Bourdreau boys make the story hotly interesting. Rafe by Kathy Ivan is a good read.
Tess is starting her life over after her parents died. She moved to Shiloh Springs to be the new second grade teacher and is renting a house. She really needed to use a bathroom so she tried to shimmy in through a window while waiting for the real estate agent to open up her house. That's how Rafe and Tess meet over him getting ready to charge her with trespassing. The situation was resolved but before you knew it the whole Boudreau clan was constantly around and Tess seems to be adopted by them. However, not all is how it seems...there are some issues beginning to creep into Tess’s life and she feels uncomfortable like she is being watched.
Rafe by Kathy Ivan is a romantic thriller. The characters, Tess and Rafe are fun together. The setting and the overwhelming numbers of Bourdreau boys make the story hotly interesting. Rafe by Kathy Ivan is a good read.
October 14, 2020
A lovely quick read!
But do not let the title confuse you, Shiloh Springs gets it's share of troubles!
They begin with Rafe, (Sheriff) and an elementary school teacher who just moved into town, Tessa.
Things begin wonderfully, well except for almost being arrested in the beginning because of a misunderstanding, on Rafe's part, not Tessa's.
You'll meet the most intriguing family, and people just in this first book, in Shiloh Springs!
There's definitely things in this novel, that stated swimmingly into happily ever after and changes quickly, that don't seem as they appear!
I have to give Ms. Ivan credit, what I thought and what happened certainly did not coincide! KUDOS, Ms. Ivan for completely surprising me.
My concerns about certain individuals were completely wrong. While I feel for Tessa, you made the storyline none one very interesting!
Love it! Easy read, with terrific twist, but light on my brain, on a day I completely needed it!
Recommend this novel,
Absolutely!
Karen
But do not let the title confuse you, Shiloh Springs gets it's share of troubles!
They begin with Rafe, (Sheriff) and an elementary school teacher who just moved into town, Tessa.
Things begin wonderfully, well except for almost being arrested in the beginning because of a misunderstanding, on Rafe's part, not Tessa's.
You'll meet the most intriguing family, and people just in this first book, in Shiloh Springs!
There's definitely things in this novel, that stated swimmingly into happily ever after and changes quickly, that don't seem as they appear!
I have to give Ms. Ivan credit, what I thought and what happened certainly did not coincide! KUDOS, Ms. Ivan for completely surprising me.
My concerns about certain individuals were completely wrong. While I feel for Tessa, you made the storyline none one very interesting!
Love it! Easy read, with terrific twist, but light on my brain, on a day I completely needed it!
Recommend this novel,
Absolutely!
Karen
January 22, 2024
This was a freebie I got from BookBub. I love Westerns, romances, and suspense....what could go wrong?
Here we follow Sheriff Rafe and Tessa. Rafe catches Tessa climbing through the window of a house that isn't hers. He doesn't know her so of course he is going to stop her. Turns out she is the new renter of the house and the new schoolteacher in their tiny town. However, it turns out trouble has followed Tessa and she will need all the help she can get.
This was pretty quick and easy to read. There is some romance and suspense. Tessa is in danger and Rafe will help her. There was insta-lust, but the love took a moment, and that worked for me.
I loved Rafe and his backstory. Poor kid, but I'm SO glad he found a loving family.
I liked Tessa too after a bit.
The mystery/suspense was pretty atypical, but it was entertaining.
This was quick and entertaining. I feel like there could've been some more build-up and some more time with our characters. Honestly...I think it needed to be longer, but I liked it. I'll give this 4 stars.
Here we follow Sheriff Rafe and Tessa. Rafe catches Tessa climbing through the window of a house that isn't hers. He doesn't know her so of course he is going to stop her. Turns out she is the new renter of the house and the new schoolteacher in their tiny town. However, it turns out trouble has followed Tessa and she will need all the help she can get.
This was pretty quick and easy to read. There is some romance and suspense. Tessa is in danger and Rafe will help her. There was insta-lust, but the love took a moment, and that worked for me.
I loved Rafe and his backstory. Poor kid, but I'm SO glad he found a loving family.
I liked Tessa too after a bit.
The mystery/suspense was pretty atypical, but it was entertaining.
This was quick and entertaining. I feel like there could've been some more build-up and some more time with our characters. Honestly...I think it needed to be longer, but I liked it. I'll give this 4 stars.
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