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Wild River #1
Winter in Wild River
Die majestätische Winterwelt Alaskas, dramatische Rettungsaktionen, eine idyllische Kleinstadt und die ganz große Liebe Das Letzte, was Erica Sheraton gebrauchen kann, sind freie Tage. Als Ärztin im Alaska General Hospital in Anchorage bleibt ihr kaum Zeit zu schlafen - geschweige denn, sich über ihr verkorkstes Liebesleben Gedanken zu machen. Doch ausgerechnet über Weihnachten wird sie in den Zwangsurlaub geschickt. Bei ihrer besten Freundin, die in dem kleinen Städtchen Wild River ein Outdoor-Unternehmen führt, will sie die Tage mit Skifahren und Schneetouren verbringen. Statt auf der Piste findet sie sich jedoch bald als Teil des Search-and-Rescue-Teams wieder, das dringend auf eine Medizinerin angewiesen ist. Bei den Einsätzen gerät sie immer wieder mit Reed Reynolds aneinander, der das Team führt - und der ihr Herz bei jeder Begegnung schneller schlagen lässt. Doch wie soll es eine Zukunft für den rauen Bergretter aus Wild River und die erfolgreiche Ärztin aus der großen Stadt geben? 'Eine gelunge Mischung aus heißer Liebesgeschichte, atemberaubenden Rettungsmissionen und spritzigen Dialogen.
497 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
353 people are currently reading
3277 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Snow
84 books687 followersJennifer Snow is an award-winning, USA Bestselling author. Her publishing credits include a six book small town, Brookhollow series published through Harlequin Heartwarming, her MMA sports romance series Beyond the Cage is published through Berkley/NAL Intermix, her Colorado Ice series with Grand Central and her Wild River & Wild Coast series published with HQN. She also writes thrillers under J.M. Winchester and screenplays with 13 produced rom-coms for UPTV, Hallmark, BET+, QVC+ and more. Her upcoming speculative rom-com is releasing through Canary Street Press in Sept 2024.
More information can be found at www.jennifersnowauthor.com
More information can be found at www.jennifersnowauthor.com
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June 2, 2019
RATING 4.5 STARS
An Alaskan Christmas is book one in Jennifer Snow’s brand new Wild River series. I knew as soon as I heard about this new series that it was going to be something special and it definitely is.
Dr. Erika Sheraton grew up in Wild River with her best friend Cassie. They were inseparable. Erika always wanted to be a doctor like her father, where as Cassie was a free spirit. So when it came time to separate, for Erika to go to college and Cassie to go on an adventure, they swore they would always stay in touch. But Erika’s drive to excel, studying, then med school, then working at the hospital in Anchorage, they lost each other. Now Erika has built her life around her work. She spends every possible hour at the hospital and is in charge of a new clinical drug trial that takes up every extra second she has. She has built walls up and keeps herself separated from any friendships or friendly interactions in general. It’s just work, work, work. Until her father sends her on a two week forced vacation. She actually has no where to go. She hasn’t talked to Cassie in ten years. Since that’s the only thing she can come up with, she reaches out to her and packs her bag, on her way back to Wild River.
Reed Reynolds is Cassie’s older brother. Reed tends bar most evenings but what he lives for is his job as team leader of the Mountain Search and Rescue. He’s known Erika most of his life since she was always with his sister. Mostly, they just argued. But there was one night when Reed kept Erika safe, that a connection was formed. Now, all these years later, he can’t believe the beautiful woman Erika has changed in to. But on the inside, she seems cold as ice. She’s closed off and aloof. Immediately they seem to push each other’s buttons, just like they always did, and argue about everything. But a funny thing begins to happen. The longer Erika is in Wild River, she starts to relax. She smiles more, lets her emotions show. The pull grows between Reed and Erika until neither can deny it any longer.
Erika also goes along with Reed on a couple of rescues. Not only is she challenged physically, she is able to make a difference with her medical skills in a whole new way. She feels a pride she never felt before.
In a very short time, feelings grow from attraction to something much bigger. Erika’s life is in Anchorage and Reed’s is in Wild River. Can they make a long distance relationship work? Because neither wants to lose what they have found. Was this just the Erika that is on vacation? Will she revert back to her emotionless self when she’s back to her busy life in Anchorage?
This book was just so good. There is so much here. Not only the personal grown for both Erika and Reed, but also some nail biting scenes when they are on the mountain. There are so many wonderful secondary characters whose stories I am excited to learn about. I’m not sure how many books Jennifer plans to write in this series but I’m so excited to find out. And to see whose story will come next. Because I will most definitely be wanting to read it.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
An Alaskan Christmas is book one in Jennifer Snow’s brand new Wild River series. I knew as soon as I heard about this new series that it was going to be something special and it definitely is.
Dr. Erika Sheraton grew up in Wild River with her best friend Cassie. They were inseparable. Erika always wanted to be a doctor like her father, where as Cassie was a free spirit. So when it came time to separate, for Erika to go to college and Cassie to go on an adventure, they swore they would always stay in touch. But Erika’s drive to excel, studying, then med school, then working at the hospital in Anchorage, they lost each other. Now Erika has built her life around her work. She spends every possible hour at the hospital and is in charge of a new clinical drug trial that takes up every extra second she has. She has built walls up and keeps herself separated from any friendships or friendly interactions in general. It’s just work, work, work. Until her father sends her on a two week forced vacation. She actually has no where to go. She hasn’t talked to Cassie in ten years. Since that’s the only thing she can come up with, she reaches out to her and packs her bag, on her way back to Wild River.
Reed Reynolds is Cassie’s older brother. Reed tends bar most evenings but what he lives for is his job as team leader of the Mountain Search and Rescue. He’s known Erika most of his life since she was always with his sister. Mostly, they just argued. But there was one night when Reed kept Erika safe, that a connection was formed. Now, all these years later, he can’t believe the beautiful woman Erika has changed in to. But on the inside, she seems cold as ice. She’s closed off and aloof. Immediately they seem to push each other’s buttons, just like they always did, and argue about everything. But a funny thing begins to happen. The longer Erika is in Wild River, she starts to relax. She smiles more, lets her emotions show. The pull grows between Reed and Erika until neither can deny it any longer.
Erika also goes along with Reed on a couple of rescues. Not only is she challenged physically, she is able to make a difference with her medical skills in a whole new way. She feels a pride she never felt before.
In a very short time, feelings grow from attraction to something much bigger. Erika’s life is in Anchorage and Reed’s is in Wild River. Can they make a long distance relationship work? Because neither wants to lose what they have found. Was this just the Erika that is on vacation? Will she revert back to her emotionless self when she’s back to her busy life in Anchorage?
This book was just so good. There is so much here. Not only the personal grown for both Erika and Reed, but also some nail biting scenes when they are on the mountain. There are so many wonderful secondary characters whose stories I am excited to learn about. I’m not sure how many books Jennifer plans to write in this series but I’m so excited to find out. And to see whose story will come next. Because I will most definitely be wanting to read it.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
December 15, 2019
A sweet holiday romance with the most perfect cozy, Alaskan setting. An easy, quick read.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
November 17, 2022
This was such fun Christmas romance and definitely reminded me of a Hallmark movie. The heroine is an overworked doctor who is forced to take a break and go back to her hometown in Alaska. She runs into her best friend's brother and they don't exactly get off on the right foot. He works search and rescue on the mountain and the heroine ends up helping out with her medical skills to feel useful. They end up in a physical relationship and slowly fall in love. I loved the setting of this romance and how the heroine is reevaluating her life and trying to understand what she wants. She's also dealing with a not so great relationship with her father. I enjoy a returning home Christmas romance and loved that this was brother's best friend. Of course she's from the city, so she has to decide what to do if the relationship goes somewhere serious because they're from such opposite worlds. The ending definitely picked up pace and I ended up really enjoying this story!
September 22, 2019
Sweet, sexy, and heartwarming!
An Alaskan Christmas is an enchanting, passionate tale that features the dependable, handsome Reed who may finally discover his little sister’s best friend has become more than he ever could have imagined, and the driven, hardworking Erika who may finally learn there’s a lot more to life than just work.
The prose is effortless and smooth. The characters are spirited, kindhearted, and amusing. And the plot is an entertaining combination of family, friendship, instant attraction, steamy chemistry, convivial banter, light drama, swoon-worthy romance, and the ins-and-outs of search-and-rescue missions.
Overall, I found An Alaskan Christmas to be a smart, romantic, true wintery treat by Snow that’s a wonderful start to the Wild River series with its unique setting, affable characters, and sliver of danger.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
An Alaskan Christmas is an enchanting, passionate tale that features the dependable, handsome Reed who may finally discover his little sister’s best friend has become more than he ever could have imagined, and the driven, hardworking Erika who may finally learn there’s a lot more to life than just work.
The prose is effortless and smooth. The characters are spirited, kindhearted, and amusing. And the plot is an entertaining combination of family, friendship, instant attraction, steamy chemistry, convivial banter, light drama, swoon-worthy romance, and the ins-and-outs of search-and-rescue missions.
Overall, I found An Alaskan Christmas to be a smart, romantic, true wintery treat by Snow that’s a wonderful start to the Wild River series with its unique setting, affable characters, and sliver of danger.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Erika is a workaholic surgeon and when her father, who is also her boss, forces a two week vacation on her before an important clinical trial she is set to lead, she's not happy. Deciding to try and reconnect with her childhood bestfriend Cassie, she heads up to her hometown of Wild River.
Reed was always intrigued by his younger sister's friend Erika but she's even more stuck-up than she used to be, until he has to help her and his sister get home after a couple of drinks. Having her help on his Search and Rescue crew has brought them together but circumstances and secrets could keep them apart.
Their tattoos had been more than just words at one time and their shared history had to mean something.
First in the Wild River series set in Alaska, I thought the author did a great job transporting the reader there. There are a couple search and rescue missions that Erika and Reed go on that help set the scene and environment, also giving a good winter wonderland feel that fits the holiday title. While I thought the environment setting was well written, I struggled with Erika and Reed's relationships with secondary characters. It's at first set-up for Erika to reconnect with her childhood bestfriend Cassie, but Cassie is not around Erika for most of the book and I missed their friendship, even while this gave more time to Reed and Erika. I also thought more interaction between Reed and his friends was needed to create more of the small town vibe and give the story more life. I just generally missed secondary characters helping to round out and fill the story.
Crazy as it sounded, nothing else seemed to exist when he was holding her. Both an amazing feeling and a terrifying one.
Our leads Erika and Reed do spend a lot of time together, this definitely helped their chemistry but the middle of the book and the majority of their time is sex scenes. I thought the sex scenes did good on emotionally connecting the characters at times but, I personally, was looking for more of them outside the bedroom; I found myself skimming some of the bedroom scenes at times.
Reed and Erika did have chemistry and I liked how low angst most of the story was, the author did a good job of creating real world problems, Erika being a workaholic due to how her father treated her after her mother died and Reed sticking around his hometown to help his sister and mother out and search for his missing father, and how this created two different worlds that put their happily ever after in jeopardy.
And it surprised him that two people who were so incompatible on the surface could be so perfect together at the core.
There was a hint of secondary romance between Reed's sister Cassie and his friend Tank that will draw you into (along with Cassie's narcoleptic dog) wanting to read the second of the series. The main characters' relationships with secondary characters wasn't filled out enough for me and the sex scenes were a bit too abundant but Erika and Reed's chemistry and emotion was there.
Erika is a workaholic surgeon and when her father, who is also her boss, forces a two week vacation on her before an important clinical trial she is set to lead, she's not happy. Deciding to try and reconnect with her childhood bestfriend Cassie, she heads up to her hometown of Wild River.
Reed was always intrigued by his younger sister's friend Erika but she's even more stuck-up than she used to be, until he has to help her and his sister get home after a couple of drinks. Having her help on his Search and Rescue crew has brought them together but circumstances and secrets could keep them apart.
Their tattoos had been more than just words at one time and their shared history had to mean something.
First in the Wild River series set in Alaska, I thought the author did a great job transporting the reader there. There are a couple search and rescue missions that Erika and Reed go on that help set the scene and environment, also giving a good winter wonderland feel that fits the holiday title. While I thought the environment setting was well written, I struggled with Erika and Reed's relationships with secondary characters. It's at first set-up for Erika to reconnect with her childhood bestfriend Cassie, but Cassie is not around Erika for most of the book and I missed their friendship, even while this gave more time to Reed and Erika. I also thought more interaction between Reed and his friends was needed to create more of the small town vibe and give the story more life. I just generally missed secondary characters helping to round out and fill the story.
Crazy as it sounded, nothing else seemed to exist when he was holding her. Both an amazing feeling and a terrifying one.
Our leads Erika and Reed do spend a lot of time together, this definitely helped their chemistry but the middle of the book and the majority of their time is sex scenes. I thought the sex scenes did good on emotionally connecting the characters at times but, I personally, was looking for more of them outside the bedroom; I found myself skimming some of the bedroom scenes at times.
Reed and Erika did have chemistry and I liked how low angst most of the story was, the author did a good job of creating real world problems, Erika being a workaholic due to how her father treated her after her mother died and Reed sticking around his hometown to help his sister and mother out and search for his missing father, and how this created two different worlds that put their happily ever after in jeopardy.
And it surprised him that two people who were so incompatible on the surface could be so perfect together at the core.
There was a hint of secondary romance between Reed's sister Cassie and his friend Tank that will draw you into (along with Cassie's narcoleptic dog) wanting to read the second of the series. The main characters' relationships with secondary characters wasn't filled out enough for me and the sex scenes were a bit too abundant but Erika and Reed's chemistry and emotion was there.
September 22, 2019
Hot enough to melt the snow in Alaska, Jennifer Snow’s AN ALASKAN CHRISTMAS is the perfect package to unwrap and fall into for your Holiday reading!
Erika is a successful, driven surgeon who has become the victim of tunnel vision. All work and no play makes her a very hard person. When forced to take a vacation, she finds herself going back Wild River for a reunion with her best friend and a chance to discover what it feels like to let her guard down and listen to her heart.
Reed was the thorn in her side growing up, but something about the infuriating man awakens her inner siren now and the potential for a four alarm passion to ignite.
Nothing is better than a second chance romance for the holidays, filled with all of the human frailties that make Cupid’s work just a little harder, but so worth the effort! Get ready to get your romance fix as two people discover what is truly important in life with all of the passion and sizzle that will melt everyone’s hearts!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from HQN Books
Publisher: HQN Books; Original edition (September 24, 2019)
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 384 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Erika is a successful, driven surgeon who has become the victim of tunnel vision. All work and no play makes her a very hard person. When forced to take a vacation, she finds herself going back Wild River for a reunion with her best friend and a chance to discover what it feels like to let her guard down and listen to her heart.
Reed was the thorn in her side growing up, but something about the infuriating man awakens her inner siren now and the potential for a four alarm passion to ignite.
Nothing is better than a second chance romance for the holidays, filled with all of the human frailties that make Cupid’s work just a little harder, but so worth the effort! Get ready to get your romance fix as two people discover what is truly important in life with all of the passion and sizzle that will melt everyone’s hearts!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from HQN Books
Publisher: HQN Books; Original edition (September 24, 2019)
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 384 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 3, 2019
Sigh... I loved this story! So good!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I really have to say I enjoyed this book quite a bit. What made the difference for me is that the author didn’t make us wait too long to enjoy the realization that the the main characters actually were attracted to each other.
Sometimes we have to read halfway through the book to even get to the connection. But the author laid out this story in such a way that allows us to enjoy so much more of the budding and building of the relationship. That to me is a huge plus.
But this is no lighthearted read. This actually had me in tears several times and I was fully connected to Ericka and Reed’s happiness. Both of these main characters are extremely strong people and they’re beautifully balanced with each other. They have similar interests and are both workaholics.
My heart ached for them and their individual pains. Their second chance fairy-tale romance is definitely swoon worthy and this book made a huge impact on me! Sexy, enticing, heartbreaking, and a beautifully romantic Christmas story! I cannot wait for more in the series!
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/an-alaskan-c...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I really have to say I enjoyed this book quite a bit. What made the difference for me is that the author didn’t make us wait too long to enjoy the realization that the the main characters actually were attracted to each other.
Sometimes we have to read halfway through the book to even get to the connection. But the author laid out this story in such a way that allows us to enjoy so much more of the budding and building of the relationship. That to me is a huge plus.
But this is no lighthearted read. This actually had me in tears several times and I was fully connected to Ericka and Reed’s happiness. Both of these main characters are extremely strong people and they’re beautifully balanced with each other. They have similar interests and are both workaholics.
My heart ached for them and their individual pains. Their second chance fairy-tale romance is definitely swoon worthy and this book made a huge impact on me! Sexy, enticing, heartbreaking, and a beautifully romantic Christmas story! I cannot wait for more in the series!
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/an-alaskan-c...
September 23, 2019
Jennifer Snow’s Wild River series is off to a great beginning with the first story, An Alaskan Christmas. She brings together two unlikely people who seem to rub each other the wrong way but fit so well together when you get right down to it. Dr. Erika Sheridan is forced to take a 2-week vacation from her job at the Anchorage hospital, and reluctantly contacts her childhood best friend, Cassie, to visit her in her old hometown of Wild River. What she hadn’t counted on was feeling a huge attraction to Cassie’s older brother Reed, who has definitely changed for the better. Reed not only is a bartender but a leader in the local Search & Rescue team for the surrounding area. When Erika is left on her own for a few days, she ends up going out on a few rescue mission and shows how invaluable she can be to the team, and for Reed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book because there was substance to the story beyond the budding romance between Reed and Erika. Personal conflicts, family drama and secrets, and the rescue missions, definitely kept me glued to the book. Erika was a workaholic and had a hard time create a balance between her professional and personal life. Her career and research mean so much to her but she can’t seem to please her boss aka her father. You can feel the tension and stress she puts on herself and you shake your fist hoping she realizes sometimes there is no pleasing someone. Reed’s father walked away years ago and he continues to hope and search for him. Both Cassie and Erika knew of his whereabouts and wonder how and when they can tell him without things going sideways. The story was relatable and very realistic to everyday living. The many layers were woven together, nicely with the romance and sex scenes scorching the pages between Reed and Erika.
I’ve read other stories by Jennifer Snow and have become an even bigger fan with this story. The writing is fresh and clear, her characters get developed, the romance sizzled, and there is a diversity of secondary characters and a hint of what is to come. The author said it perfectly herself that sums up the story. How is it that two people who were so incompatible on the surface could be so perfect together at the core? An Alaskan Christmas is an enticing and easily read romance for contemporary romance fans.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book because there was substance to the story beyond the budding romance between Reed and Erika. Personal conflicts, family drama and secrets, and the rescue missions, definitely kept me glued to the book. Erika was a workaholic and had a hard time create a balance between her professional and personal life. Her career and research mean so much to her but she can’t seem to please her boss aka her father. You can feel the tension and stress she puts on herself and you shake your fist hoping she realizes sometimes there is no pleasing someone. Reed’s father walked away years ago and he continues to hope and search for him. Both Cassie and Erika knew of his whereabouts and wonder how and when they can tell him without things going sideways. The story was relatable and very realistic to everyday living. The many layers were woven together, nicely with the romance and sex scenes scorching the pages between Reed and Erika.
I’ve read other stories by Jennifer Snow and have become an even bigger fan with this story. The writing is fresh and clear, her characters get developed, the romance sizzled, and there is a diversity of secondary characters and a hint of what is to come. The author said it perfectly herself that sums up the story. How is it that two people who were so incompatible on the surface could be so perfect together at the core? An Alaskan Christmas is an enticing and easily read romance for contemporary romance fans.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
December 23, 2019
Coffee Dates With Alaskan Christmas
First Date – Our story opens when we meet Erika Sheraton. Erica is a gifted surgeon and researcher in Anchorage with zero bedside manner. She lives and breathes her duties at the hospital in the hopes of some praise from her father who runs the hospital. Things are looking sad for Erika, but when her Dad tells her the board is forcing her on a mandatory 14-day leave, she visits her childhood friend, Cassie in Wild River, Alaska. They haven’t seen each other in over ten years. Cassie’s bartender brother, Reed Reynolds, helps ease the awkwardness of renewing friendships with a little alcohol. I gotta tell ya… was not a fan of Erika on our first coffee date. Reed teased her, and she loosened up but yikes this girl needs to chill.
Second Date– A few days in the mountain air has done Erika wonders and I am loving the chemistry between her and Reed. We get to do a little search and rescue on the mountain and damn it I want fudge in the worst way. I loved the no-strings romance that unfolded. Before you know these two were completely wrapped in ribbon and planning trips to visit each other. I am, however, hating on someone’s Daddy at the moment.
Third Date- Growing pains, serious setbacks, dangerous moments and swoons had me completely caught up. Secondary characters added depth from family to friends. I loved all the side stories and found they only enhanced my feelings towards the couple. The drama was kept low and was replaced with some suspense and heart-pounding moments before the author delivered all I hoped for and more.
If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romance with snow and character growth, you’ll love An Alaskan Christmas. However, this wasn’t really a Christmas romance. There was no roasted goose, mistletoe or cookies. I am looking forward to the next book in the Wild River series.
If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romance with snow and character growth, you’ll love An Alaskan Christmas. However, this wasn’t really a Christmas romance. There was no roasted goose, mistletoe or cookies. I am looking forward to the next book in the Wild River series. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date – Our story opens when we meet Erika Sheraton. Erica is a gifted surgeon and researcher in Anchorage with zero bedside manner. She lives and breathes her duties at the hospital in the hopes of some praise from her father who runs the hospital. Things are looking sad for Erika, but when her Dad tells her the board is forcing her on a mandatory 14-day leave, she visits her childhood friend, Cassie in Wild River, Alaska. They haven’t seen each other in over ten years. Cassie’s bartender brother, Reed Reynolds, helps ease the awkwardness of renewing friendships with a little alcohol. I gotta tell ya… was not a fan of Erika on our first coffee date. Reed teased her, and she loosened up but yikes this girl needs to chill.
Second Date– A few days in the mountain air has done Erika wonders and I am loving the chemistry between her and Reed. We get to do a little search and rescue on the mountain and damn it I want fudge in the worst way. I loved the no-strings romance that unfolded. Before you know these two were completely wrapped in ribbon and planning trips to visit each other. I am, however, hating on someone’s Daddy at the moment.
Third Date- Growing pains, serious setbacks, dangerous moments and swoons had me completely caught up. Secondary characters added depth from family to friends. I loved all the side stories and found they only enhanced my feelings towards the couple. The drama was kept low and was replaced with some suspense and heart-pounding moments before the author delivered all I hoped for and more.
If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romance with snow and character growth, you’ll love An Alaskan Christmas. However, this wasn’t really a Christmas romance. There was no roasted goose, mistletoe or cookies. I am looking forward to the next book in the Wild River series.
If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romance with snow and character growth, you’ll love An Alaskan Christmas. However, this wasn’t really a Christmas romance. There was no roasted goose, mistletoe or cookies. I am looking forward to the next book in the Wild River series. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 10, 2019
I ended up giving An Alaskan Christmas 3 stars. Unfortunately this is an instance of going in with different expectations. When I read a Christmas book I want it to be throwing up Christmas and brimming with Christmas cheer. I’m not sure about the decision to have the word Christmas in the title. I think titled differently I would have enjoyed this book more. It was an interesting story of the Alaskan wilderness, search and rescue teams, and a hot romance between Erika and Reed. But almost no Christmas. I left feeling mostly disappointed but I know other readers loved this one. So go in knowing there’s not much Christmas here!!
December 16, 2019
I was disappointed in this book which lacked the development of a true relationship between characters. Furthermore, it's not what I normally consider to be a Christmas read as there was very little reference to Christmas in the story.
3.5 stars (rounded down to 3 stars).
3.5 stars (rounded down to 3 stars).
September 22, 2019
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
So the first book in the Wild River series is fantastic. I didn't know at first if I would like it, but Snow does a great job of setting up the hero and heroine. They have some obstacles to get past, but I loved them falling for each other and trying to make it work long distance. I also loved that we get a sneak peek at the couple in the next series I assume (the hero's sister and a coworker of his). I definitely plan on reading this series in the future!
"An Alaskan Christmas" follows surgeon, Erika Sheraton. Erika is driven and looking forward to starting a new drug trial that will help prevent people from rejecting organs after transplants. However, after losing another intern (she's too driven and not a people person) her father who is a head at the hospital in Anchorage tells her she is being forced to take two weeks off. Erika has no romantic relationships and really no friendships. However, she messages her childhood best friend Cassie Reynolds and asks about visiting her in their hometown of Wild River. Cassie's brother Reed though remembers Erika, and recalls her being a snobby girl who once ended up getting them lost in the woods at night Now he's older and hotter and does Search and Rescue for Wild River. The twosome ended up disliking each other again after years apart, but both feel attracted to each other.
So Erika at first is prickly, but once you find out her backstory (her mom's death and her father pulling away from her) you can see why she is the way she is. I also loved having the woman being the successful one in this relationship. Erika knows what she is doing and she's a great doctor. I liked we never questioned her competence. She starts realizing she wasn't a good friend to Cassie after moving away and tries to step in to heal that breech. And when she realizes how attracted she is to Reed, the sparks just fly. There is a secret she's keeping (no secret baby!) but I am glad it got resolved via another character.
Reed is very good at his job though he gave up going to school to become a EMT or nurse due to wanting to help his sister out with her business. He's a good guy and I liked how we get to see how attracted he is to Erika and how it quickly develops into something more. There is a scene where Reed goes and asks an older woman in Wild River about what to do if you want to show someone you care that had me laughing out loud.
The secondary characters were developed well enough to make you more interested in reading about them in future books. I can't wait to see how Cassie gets her man!
The writing was very good (Snow obviously knows Alaska, search and rescue, and about frostbite and other things). The flow worked too.
The setting of Wild River sounded great though it only has about 2,000 people.
The ending was great and we get a HEA.
So the first book in the Wild River series is fantastic. I didn't know at first if I would like it, but Snow does a great job of setting up the hero and heroine. They have some obstacles to get past, but I loved them falling for each other and trying to make it work long distance. I also loved that we get a sneak peek at the couple in the next series I assume (the hero's sister and a coworker of his). I definitely plan on reading this series in the future!
"An Alaskan Christmas" follows surgeon, Erika Sheraton. Erika is driven and looking forward to starting a new drug trial that will help prevent people from rejecting organs after transplants. However, after losing another intern (she's too driven and not a people person) her father who is a head at the hospital in Anchorage tells her she is being forced to take two weeks off. Erika has no romantic relationships and really no friendships. However, she messages her childhood best friend Cassie Reynolds and asks about visiting her in their hometown of Wild River. Cassie's brother Reed though remembers Erika, and recalls her being a snobby girl who once ended up getting them lost in the woods at night Now he's older and hotter and does Search and Rescue for Wild River. The twosome ended up disliking each other again after years apart, but both feel attracted to each other.
So Erika at first is prickly, but once you find out her backstory (her mom's death and her father pulling away from her) you can see why she is the way she is. I also loved having the woman being the successful one in this relationship. Erika knows what she is doing and she's a great doctor. I liked we never questioned her competence. She starts realizing she wasn't a good friend to Cassie after moving away and tries to step in to heal that breech. And when she realizes how attracted she is to Reed, the sparks just fly. There is a secret she's keeping (no secret baby!) but I am glad it got resolved via another character.
Reed is very good at his job though he gave up going to school to become a EMT or nurse due to wanting to help his sister out with her business. He's a good guy and I liked how we get to see how attracted he is to Erika and how it quickly develops into something more. There is a scene where Reed goes and asks an older woman in Wild River about what to do if you want to show someone you care that had me laughing out loud.
The secondary characters were developed well enough to make you more interested in reading about them in future books. I can't wait to see how Cassie gets her man!
The writing was very good (Snow obviously knows Alaska, search and rescue, and about frostbite and other things). The flow worked too.
The setting of Wild River sounded great though it only has about 2,000 people.
The ending was great and we get a HEA.
September 3, 2019
I contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Jennifer Snow & Harlequin for providing our copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
Don't be fooled by this super sweet holiday cover. An Alaskan Christmas by Jennifer Snow is a steamy, whirlwind romance with deeper meaning. This book has all my favorite things. Christmas, second chance love, a bit of thrilling tension & a HEA ending. It's a must-read for any and all romance lovers.
Search & Rescue
Erika returns home after she is forced on vacation. Far from the craziness of the ER room, Erika begins to think maybe there really is more to life. She has a history with Reid that ties in with his current profession. Erika even joins them on a search & rescue mission. After all, she is a skillful surgeon.
What she doesn't expect is to fall hard for Reid. Same goes for him. I love that Jennifer Snow gives us insight into what they're not thinking. Each character is dealing with some heavy trauma. For me, this makes the story more believable. Even better, it makes their love story more interesting.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! An Alaskan Christmas has the perfect amount of steam. Much like my fave The Christmas Sister by Sarah Morgan, it features wilderness, snow, Christmas & love. Undoubtedly, will re-read this book once a year. I love it that much!
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Jennifer Snow & Harlequin for providing our copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
Don't be fooled by this super sweet holiday cover. An Alaskan Christmas by Jennifer Snow is a steamy, whirlwind romance with deeper meaning. This book has all my favorite things. Christmas, second chance love, a bit of thrilling tension & a HEA ending. It's a must-read for any and all romance lovers.
Search & Rescue
Erika returns home after she is forced on vacation. Far from the craziness of the ER room, Erika begins to think maybe there really is more to life. She has a history with Reid that ties in with his current profession. Erika even joins them on a search & rescue mission. After all, she is a skillful surgeon.
What she doesn't expect is to fall hard for Reid. Same goes for him. I love that Jennifer Snow gives us insight into what they're not thinking. Each character is dealing with some heavy trauma. For me, this makes the story more believable. Even better, it makes their love story more interesting.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! An Alaskan Christmas has the perfect amount of steam. Much like my fave The Christmas Sister by Sarah Morgan, it features wilderness, snow, Christmas & love. Undoubtedly, will re-read this book once a year. I love it that much!
December 28, 2019
Another mood read for December! I was saving this one for just the right time and the time had come. It was steamy and sweet, not too Christmasy but the perfect winter atmosphere in Alaska.
Highly recommended and I’m glad I got this one in for this month too!
*Thank you Harlequin and HQN publicity team for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
Highly recommended and I’m glad I got this one in for this month too!
*Thank you Harlequin and HQN publicity team for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
May 3, 2020
3.5 Stars
Erika and Reed are stubborn and their story is a sweet one. I love all things Alaska so this book was right up my alley.
I like that even though Erika was pushed into her vacation she picked going to see her College friend. That showed that she really wanted to be more than what she had become.
Reed gets blind sided with how much he is attracted to Erika now that she is all grown up.
I kinda loved the way this book unfolded. It was just the right amount of sweet and sassy.
I really enjoyed the narration as well.
Erika and Reed are stubborn and their story is a sweet one. I love all things Alaska so this book was right up my alley.
I like that even though Erika was pushed into her vacation she picked going to see her College friend. That showed that she really wanted to be more than what she had become.
Reed gets blind sided with how much he is attracted to Erika now that she is all grown up.
I kinda loved the way this book unfolded. It was just the right amount of sweet and sassy.
I really enjoyed the narration as well.
December 1, 2019
A charming, sexy, and entertaining romance.
Erika Sheraton is a workaholic surgeon who’s ordered to take a mandatory vacation and heads to Wild River, Alaska where her best friend Cassie lives.
Reed Reynolds is Cassie’s brother and a valuable member of Wild River’s search-and-rescue team. As soon as Erika and Reed meet there’s a strong attraction but also lighthearted tension and humorous banter. As they start spending time with each other the desire and admiration for each other grows, but what will happen when vacation ends and Ericka has to return back to work?
This was a heart-warming romance which I enjoyed and recommend.
Thanks to Harlequin and the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Erika Sheraton is a workaholic surgeon who’s ordered to take a mandatory vacation and heads to Wild River, Alaska where her best friend Cassie lives.
Reed Reynolds is Cassie’s brother and a valuable member of Wild River’s search-and-rescue team. As soon as Erika and Reed meet there’s a strong attraction but also lighthearted tension and humorous banter. As they start spending time with each other the desire and admiration for each other grows, but what will happen when vacation ends and Ericka has to return back to work?
This was a heart-warming romance which I enjoyed and recommend.
Thanks to Harlequin and the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
did-not-finish
June 25, 2023DNF at 11%.
This book could have promise, but there are several things that are off.
1. The heroine is too young for this setup. We are told she is being given a mandatory vacation of two weeks by the hospital board cause she hasn't taken a vacation in years and got so tired she almost got into a car accident. Also, that she scares off interns and her latest one is leaving her for another doctor because she's way too busy.
She's 29 and has been practicing as a general surgeon for at least two years. While she graduated from college in three years, it's VERY unlikely that she would have come through her residency so young. She's no Doogie Howser. She's jaded and overworked and doesn't know how to take a break.
I googled average age of a starting surgeon and I got 30-45, with an average of 36.8. So, it's SUPER unlikely that she's been in her job for years when she's only 29. And getting a reputation for going through interns? It just doesn't make sense for her age. This storyline would make sense for someone in their late 30s or even early 40s.
2. The uptight heroine just needs to break loose and drink alcohol. If she only can get drunk, then her better side will come out. Frankly, this is SUCH an unhealthy viewpoint and we don't need it in our romances. For one, that she's too uptight. So many romances show women pursuing their careers to be super uptight and not knowing how to have fun. They just need a wild friend or future lover to pour liquor in them so they can laugh and show their softer side. Actual quote from this book: "Gone was the uptight stick-up-her-ass professional. And it had only taken two shots of tequila."
Ugh.
3. The big city heroine doesn't know how to dress for an Alaskan winter. It's so dumb. She's from Alaska... and she lived in this small town. She knows how to dress. Being a doctor in a bigger city (ha! Anchorage has less than 300k people) doesn't mean she becomes an idiot. But no, we get a super sexy heroine who wears super high impractical boots that she knows won't be good for this area, cause why? I doubt a doctor wouldn't have some practical shoes.
I mostly am done with this book because of #2. Tired of the "uptight woman" trope... and definitely don't ascribe to the "just get alcohol in her and you'll see the real her" crap this book is touting. I've lived with an alcoholic that couldn't show her true self without alcohol... and it's depressing and sad... not a great start to a romance novel.
This book could have promise, but there are several things that are off.
1. The heroine is too young for this setup. We are told she is being given a mandatory vacation of two weeks by the hospital board cause she hasn't taken a vacation in years and got so tired she almost got into a car accident. Also, that she scares off interns and her latest one is leaving her for another doctor because she's way too busy.
She's 29 and has been practicing as a general surgeon for at least two years. While she graduated from college in three years, it's VERY unlikely that she would have come through her residency so young. She's no Doogie Howser. She's jaded and overworked and doesn't know how to take a break.
I googled average age of a starting surgeon and I got 30-45, with an average of 36.8. So, it's SUPER unlikely that she's been in her job for years when she's only 29. And getting a reputation for going through interns? It just doesn't make sense for her age. This storyline would make sense for someone in their late 30s or even early 40s.
2. The uptight heroine just needs to break loose and drink alcohol. If she only can get drunk, then her better side will come out. Frankly, this is SUCH an unhealthy viewpoint and we don't need it in our romances. For one, that she's too uptight. So many romances show women pursuing their careers to be super uptight and not knowing how to have fun. They just need a wild friend or future lover to pour liquor in them so they can laugh and show their softer side. Actual quote from this book: "Gone was the uptight stick-up-her-ass professional. And it had only taken two shots of tequila."
Ugh.
3. The big city heroine doesn't know how to dress for an Alaskan winter. It's so dumb. She's from Alaska... and she lived in this small town. She knows how to dress. Being a doctor in a bigger city (ha! Anchorage has less than 300k people) doesn't mean she becomes an idiot. But no, we get a super sexy heroine who wears super high impractical boots that she knows won't be good for this area, cause why? I doubt a doctor wouldn't have some practical shoes.
I mostly am done with this book because of #2. Tired of the "uptight woman" trope... and definitely don't ascribe to the "just get alcohol in her and you'll see the real her" crap this book is touting. I've lived with an alcoholic that couldn't show her true self without alcohol... and it's depressing and sad... not a great start to a romance novel.
September 30, 2019
Thank you to Inkslinger and NetGalley for an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
An Alaskan Christmas
By: Jennifer Snow
*REVIEW* 🎄🎄🎄🎄
An Alaskan Christmas. Sounds cozy, blanketed with snow and just plain awesome! Erika is a doctor/workaholic who is on a two week mandated vacation. She returns to Wild River, Alaska to visit her best friend Cassie. While there, old flames rekindle with Erika and Cassie's brother, Reed. They have a natural chemistry, not to mention lust. As something grows between them, Erika also helps Reed with search and rescue missions because, as a doctor, her skills are needed in those situations. Erika begins to feel alive again, and perhaps even happy? It's never that easy, though. She faces obstacles, but Erika starts to realize that she can face whatever and still have people who care about her. She is worth more than just her profession. Erika, Reed, Cassie and a host of quirky secondary characters make for an excellent and complimentary community. Erika is an intelligent persistent and diligent woman who learns more than she could imagine about herself. Reed is the sexy bartender hero type, and he's totally swoon worthy. They are dynamic and likeable as a couple, and things get hot between these two. The entire setting is so lovely and gorgeous. The writing makes you feel warm and fuzzy with a dash of hot and spicy. I loved the Alaskan atmosphere, the characters' journies and the sense of magic and home that only comes from a feel good story like this one. Can I go to Alaska now?
An Alaskan Christmas
By: Jennifer Snow
*REVIEW* 🎄🎄🎄🎄
An Alaskan Christmas. Sounds cozy, blanketed with snow and just plain awesome! Erika is a doctor/workaholic who is on a two week mandated vacation. She returns to Wild River, Alaska to visit her best friend Cassie. While there, old flames rekindle with Erika and Cassie's brother, Reed. They have a natural chemistry, not to mention lust. As something grows between them, Erika also helps Reed with search and rescue missions because, as a doctor, her skills are needed in those situations. Erika begins to feel alive again, and perhaps even happy? It's never that easy, though. She faces obstacles, but Erika starts to realize that she can face whatever and still have people who care about her. She is worth more than just her profession. Erika, Reed, Cassie and a host of quirky secondary characters make for an excellent and complimentary community. Erika is an intelligent persistent and diligent woman who learns more than she could imagine about herself. Reed is the sexy bartender hero type, and he's totally swoon worthy. They are dynamic and likeable as a couple, and things get hot between these two. The entire setting is so lovely and gorgeous. The writing makes you feel warm and fuzzy with a dash of hot and spicy. I loved the Alaskan atmosphere, the characters' journies and the sense of magic and home that only comes from a feel good story like this one. Can I go to Alaska now?
December 3, 2021
12/3/2021 - DNF @40%. The title & cover are deceptive - This isn’t a Christmas/holiday or small town book. It’s snowing & in December but minus one or two random mentions of something vaguely holiday-ish - there’s nothing to distinguish this from any other wintertime plot. And it’s not really a small town romance either. Other than someone saying, “small town”. There’s very few secondary characters (and besides Cassie those are underdeveloped) or shops or atmosphere or anything to suggest the charm that generally comes with books in this genre.
Other things didn’t quite work for me. I actually quit listening in the middle of the sex scene because I didn’t feel any chemistry between these two. Yes, they refer to each other as sexy/hot/good looking - but Reed hasn’t had anything nice to say about Erika (rightfully so as she’s awful toward him) before he decides to just get over how much he doesn’t like her & sleep with her.
Sometimes this kind of frenemies to lovers things works - but usually there’s like an “oh, that’s why they have their walls up” kind of moment. Nothing like that here… maybe it comes later. At this point I’m just bored.
I think this author’s writing style just isn’t for me.
Narration: This is my first experience with Melissa Moran. I liked her narration, but wasn’t “wow-ed” by it. It’s possible it might have been better as a dual with a male narrator or just the fact that I didn’t click with the author. Would be willing to check her out again.
Other things didn’t quite work for me. I actually quit listening in the middle of the sex scene because I didn’t feel any chemistry between these two. Yes, they refer to each other as sexy/hot/good looking - but Reed hasn’t had anything nice to say about Erika (rightfully so as she’s awful toward him) before he decides to just get over how much he doesn’t like her & sleep with her.
Sometimes this kind of frenemies to lovers things works - but usually there’s like an “oh, that’s why they have their walls up” kind of moment. Nothing like that here… maybe it comes later. At this point I’m just bored.
I think this author’s writing style just isn’t for me.
Narration: This is my first experience with Melissa Moran. I liked her narration, but wasn’t “wow-ed” by it. It’s possible it might have been better as a dual with a male narrator or just the fact that I didn’t click with the author. Would be willing to check her out again.
September 24, 2019
If you’re looking for a romance with some serious heat and fire this holiday season look no further because this one was 🔥🔥🔥 I was a little bit fooled by the cutesy cover and didn’t expect it to be quiet so steamy but it was, just wanted to start by giving a heads up on that one right away!
Besides a sizzling romance this one had some serious depth as well, there was a lot going on between Erika and her best friend Cassie, they had a lot to work through in order to repair the friendship that was once so important to them both. There was such a fantastic storyline involving family and friendship and a romance that was both sweet and endearing but also so sexy. Erika and Reed were both extremely likable characters and their chemistry was off the charts. I absolutely loved everything about this one, the setting, the plot the relationships between the characters, it was all amazing. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book either, so pumped it’s the beginning of a new series. I’m also super excited to see that the author has extensive backlist that I can dive into as well because this was SO good.
An Alaskan Christmas in three words: Spicy, Saucy and Sweet
Besides a sizzling romance this one had some serious depth as well, there was a lot going on between Erika and her best friend Cassie, they had a lot to work through in order to repair the friendship that was once so important to them both. There was such a fantastic storyline involving family and friendship and a romance that was both sweet and endearing but also so sexy. Erika and Reed were both extremely likable characters and their chemistry was off the charts. I absolutely loved everything about this one, the setting, the plot the relationships between the characters, it was all amazing. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book either, so pumped it’s the beginning of a new series. I’m also super excited to see that the author has extensive backlist that I can dive into as well because this was SO good.
An Alaskan Christmas in three words: Spicy, Saucy and Sweet
November 26, 2019
This was decidely un-christmassy and mainly focused on a romance with a bit of snow and some mountains! If you like a lot of romance in a book then this is definitely the book for you. Not only did her warmth help him warm up but it also made him hard apparently! I found it a bit over the top to be honest and the underlying story was a little lost. It's not really a book to get you in the Christmas spirit. If Christmas was taken out of the title it would make more sense. An Alaskan Romance is more like it!
December 17, 2021
Diese Serie hab ich schon lange auf der Wunschliste und letztens hab ich mich endlich getraut und mir die E-Books gekauft. Dass es kurz davor als Hörbuch verfügbar ist, damit habe ich nicht gerechnet, aber ich musste es sofort hören. Und wow diese Geschichte hat mir mega gut gefallen. Ich wollte gar nicht, dass es endet. Außerdem liebe ich es weiße Weihnachten, zumindest in meinem Kopf, genießen zu können. Diese Story hat mich von der ersten Minute an gefesselt und auch wenn ich wusste wie es enden wird, wollte ich einfach immer mehr erfahren. Ich freue mich schon auf die nächsten Bände. Ich werde sie wieder als Hörbuch hören, da die Sprecherin eine angenehme Stimme hatte und ich ihr stundenlang zuhören könnte.
5 Sterne
5 Sterne
May 23, 2019
Kind of a cool premise, but there was very little character development and I didn’t see any real relationship between the hero and the heroine except for pure sexual attraction.
November 10, 2022
Der Auftaktband zur der Alaska Love Reihe hat mir sehr gut gefallen.
Vor allem das Kleinstadt-Setting konnte mich überzeugen. Ich bin normalerweise kein großer Fan von den Bergen, aber hier mochte ich das Setting wirklich sehr gerne, insbesondere in Kombination mit Winter und Schnee. Auch das Setting rund um das search and Rescue Team hat mir gut gefallen.
Die Geschichte selbst war unterhaltsam mit zwei grundsätzlich sympathischen Protagonisten. Erika war manchmal ein wenig speziell und für meinen Geschmack zu sehr auf ihre Karriere und ihren Vater fixiert. Reed mochte ich von Beginn an gerne und habe ihn als sehr sympathisch und bodenständig empfunden. Die Chemie zwischen den beiden kam gut zur Geltung, auch wenn man die beiden aufgrund ihrer Kommunikation untereinander manchmal gerne eine bisschen geschüttelt hätte.
Der Auftakt der Reihe war sehr gelungen und ich bin gespannt auf die Fortsetzungen.
Vor allem das Kleinstadt-Setting konnte mich überzeugen. Ich bin normalerweise kein großer Fan von den Bergen, aber hier mochte ich das Setting wirklich sehr gerne, insbesondere in Kombination mit Winter und Schnee. Auch das Setting rund um das search and Rescue Team hat mir gut gefallen.
Die Geschichte selbst war unterhaltsam mit zwei grundsätzlich sympathischen Protagonisten. Erika war manchmal ein wenig speziell und für meinen Geschmack zu sehr auf ihre Karriere und ihren Vater fixiert. Reed mochte ich von Beginn an gerne und habe ihn als sehr sympathisch und bodenständig empfunden. Die Chemie zwischen den beiden kam gut zur Geltung, auch wenn man die beiden aufgrund ihrer Kommunikation untereinander manchmal gerne eine bisschen geschüttelt hätte.
Der Auftakt der Reihe war sehr gelungen und ich bin gespannt auf die Fortsetzungen.
November 16, 2019
4.5 Stars: This is the first book in a new series by Jennifer Snow. It is hot, steamy, and sizzling. Erika Sheraton grew up in Wild River, a shy, almost loner. She had one friend, Cassie Reynolds. They were inseparable, and Cassie's family made life bearable for her after the death of her mother. Erika always wanted to be a doctor like her father, so when it came time for college, Erika heads off to Anchorage with plans of medical school, never to return to Wild River. Erika is still a loner as well as a workaholic. She spends every possible hour at the hospital and is in charge of a new clinical drug trial that takes up every extra moment she has. She has no friends, and no life, but suddenly she finds herself on a forced two week vacation. She actually has nowhere to go. She hasn’t talked to Cassie in ten years, but that is the only place she can think of going, so she reaches out to her and heads off to Wild River. Little does she know that she is about to face her past and her life will never be the same again.
I love the characters we meet in Wild River. Cassie is still pretty much the same, but has opened her own business. The search and rescue team play a huge role in Erika's soul searching, and they are led by Reed Reynolds, Cassie's brother. I enjoyed the chemistry between Reed and Cassie. It sizzled from the first meeting, with both of them remembering a past experience. Of course they both try to ignore the feeling, but it doesn't last long. Their relationship grows quickly and their intimate encounters sizzle, with some graphic encounters. Erika has a difficult time with her pride and that causes her and Reed to have a couple of touchy situations. She is a very talented surgeon, stubborn and driven, so when she gets the call to come back to the hospital, she heads back with the hope that she and Reed will be able to carry on a long-distance romance.
I really enjoyed this passionate story. There is a lot in this book, including the romance and personal growth involving Reed and Erika. I loved the parts with the rescues on the mountain. Some of them had me holding my breath as I eagerly read to see if those in trouble would survive or not. There were also so many wonderful secondary characters, including Cassie, and I am looking forward to more of their stories in future Wild River Stories. The setting is great. A small Alaskan ski and camping town that is basically a hospitality industry, yet it has a lot to offer. This is a well-written story that I read quickly to find out what was going to happen. The plot combines friendship, insta-love, steamy chemistry, some graphic intimacy, fun dialogue, a bit of angst, some humour and the excitement of the search-and-rescue missions. A bit of everything to appeal to just about anyone. I enjoyed this story and definitely recommend it during this wintry, Christmas season. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I love the characters we meet in Wild River. Cassie is still pretty much the same, but has opened her own business. The search and rescue team play a huge role in Erika's soul searching, and they are led by Reed Reynolds, Cassie's brother. I enjoyed the chemistry between Reed and Cassie. It sizzled from the first meeting, with both of them remembering a past experience. Of course they both try to ignore the feeling, but it doesn't last long. Their relationship grows quickly and their intimate encounters sizzle, with some graphic encounters. Erika has a difficult time with her pride and that causes her and Reed to have a couple of touchy situations. She is a very talented surgeon, stubborn and driven, so when she gets the call to come back to the hospital, she heads back with the hope that she and Reed will be able to carry on a long-distance romance.
I really enjoyed this passionate story. There is a lot in this book, including the romance and personal growth involving Reed and Erika. I loved the parts with the rescues on the mountain. Some of them had me holding my breath as I eagerly read to see if those in trouble would survive or not. There were also so many wonderful secondary characters, including Cassie, and I am looking forward to more of their stories in future Wild River Stories. The setting is great. A small Alaskan ski and camping town that is basically a hospitality industry, yet it has a lot to offer. This is a well-written story that I read quickly to find out what was going to happen. The plot combines friendship, insta-love, steamy chemistry, some graphic intimacy, fun dialogue, a bit of angst, some humour and the excitement of the search-and-rescue missions. A bit of everything to appeal to just about anyone. I enjoyed this story and definitely recommend it during this wintry, Christmas season. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
December 25, 2019
If you are looking for a steamy holiday romance involving a workaholic surgeon reconnecting with her best friends brother (now a sexy member of Search & Rescue), then An Alaskan Christmas might be right up your alley
When overworked Dr. Erika Shelton is forced to take a vacation just before Christmas, she returns to her childhood hometown to stay with her best friend growing up. She slowly begins to unwind and open back up to life. Largely due to reconnecting with her friend's older brother Reed, who now splits his time between bartending and working on a search and rescue team. They have quite a steamy romance that feels less sudden because of their history together and I generally liked their relationship, although I wish they did more actual communicating instead of just hooking up all the time.
I also didn't love the way body issues were handled here. We are told that if it weren't for her (very unhealthy) workaholic lifestyle, Erika would naturally be a larger woman (200 pounds to be exact, as if that is just an unthinkable number?...) but as it is, she just has large breasts. This was an ideal opportunity to have a plot where she realizes how unhealthy her behavior is and learns to relax and celebrate her body along with a new partner. That would have been amazing. Unfortunately, we instead get Reeds pov marveling at how tiny her waist is and how flat her stomach is while still appreciating the places she does has curves. This was not only irritating, but a real missed opportunity and something that could be actively harmful to some readers given the way it was handled.
That said, there are some thematically rich subplots here. There are scenes of peril involving rescue operations and it is truly amazing what these men and women sacrifice as volunteers to keep people safe. There is also a lot about complicated family relationships, trying to find healing, and how sometimes you just have to decide who you want to be and do it regardless of what people around you think. I think this is a solid first book in a series with clear possibilities for characters to explore in future books. While this wasn't perfect and I didn't love it, I mostly had a good time with it as a light holiday romance. I received an advance copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
When overworked Dr. Erika Shelton is forced to take a vacation just before Christmas, she returns to her childhood hometown to stay with her best friend growing up. She slowly begins to unwind and open back up to life. Largely due to reconnecting with her friend's older brother Reed, who now splits his time between bartending and working on a search and rescue team. They have quite a steamy romance that feels less sudden because of their history together and I generally liked their relationship, although I wish they did more actual communicating instead of just hooking up all the time.
I also didn't love the way body issues were handled here. We are told that if it weren't for her (very unhealthy) workaholic lifestyle, Erika would naturally be a larger woman (200 pounds to be exact, as if that is just an unthinkable number?...) but as it is, she just has large breasts. This was an ideal opportunity to have a plot where she realizes how unhealthy her behavior is and learns to relax and celebrate her body along with a new partner. That would have been amazing. Unfortunately, we instead get Reeds pov marveling at how tiny her waist is and how flat her stomach is while still appreciating the places she does has curves. This was not only irritating, but a real missed opportunity and something that could be actively harmful to some readers given the way it was handled.
That said, there are some thematically rich subplots here. There are scenes of peril involving rescue operations and it is truly amazing what these men and women sacrifice as volunteers to keep people safe. There is also a lot about complicated family relationships, trying to find healing, and how sometimes you just have to decide who you want to be and do it regardless of what people around you think. I think this is a solid first book in a series with clear possibilities for characters to explore in future books. While this wasn't perfect and I didn't love it, I mostly had a good time with it as a light holiday romance. I received an advance copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
One of the things I love so much about reading is the fact that the books I read can take me to somewhere different. I can be sitting in my home in Chicago and the next thing you know I'm on a ranch in Texas. Here's the thing, I've been on a lot of ranches and a few small-towns so I wanted to read someplace I haven't spent a lot of time at.
So when I saw this book was in Alaska I really thought about it. I knew I read one book by this author prior but hadn't read another and I wasn't sure why so that made me pause for a second until I was once again offered to review it.
I figured that had to be a sign.
And I was right! An Alaskan Christmas turned out to be a wonderful story that moved surprisingly fast. I read it only in a day which is quick for me. Two days is my usual. It's not like I can sit around reading all day and night. Boy, that would be fun. I usually read half one day and half the other. But with this one, once I started it I didn't stop.
I really enjoyed the characters. Reed is more of an open book kind of guy. What you see is what you get. He's a great guy who loves his family and friends and really loves what he does in life. I'm not saying there isn't any depth to him, just that he puts it all on the table for you.
Now Erika isn't as easy or open as a person. In the beginning, I couldn't believe the heroine I was saddled with. She is a closed-off person who takes the saying 'keeping to yourself' to a whole different level.
I wasn't sure I'd ever like her. Then she started to surprise me. She was able to learn some much about herself by taking a short vacation to a place she once called home.
I think the reason I read this book so fast is because of the characters. You really feel like you got to know them and wanted them to be happy. The author also sucked you into the town with the little bits you learn about the other people and left you wanting more. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series and I'm so happy to have found a new series for me to love.
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ARC received for an honest review
One of the things I love so much about reading is the fact that the books I read can take me to somewhere different. I can be sitting in my home in Chicago and the next thing you know I'm on a ranch in Texas. Here's the thing, I've been on a lot of ranches and a few small-towns so I wanted to read someplace I haven't spent a lot of time at.
So when I saw this book was in Alaska I really thought about it. I knew I read one book by this author prior but hadn't read another and I wasn't sure why so that made me pause for a second until I was once again offered to review it.
I figured that had to be a sign.
And I was right! An Alaskan Christmas turned out to be a wonderful story that moved surprisingly fast. I read it only in a day which is quick for me. Two days is my usual. It's not like I can sit around reading all day and night. Boy, that would be fun. I usually read half one day and half the other. But with this one, once I started it I didn't stop.
I really enjoyed the characters. Reed is more of an open book kind of guy. What you see is what you get. He's a great guy who loves his family and friends and really loves what he does in life. I'm not saying there isn't any depth to him, just that he puts it all on the table for you.
Now Erika isn't as easy or open as a person. In the beginning, I couldn't believe the heroine I was saddled with. She is a closed-off person who takes the saying 'keeping to yourself' to a whole different level.
I wasn't sure I'd ever like her. Then she started to surprise me. She was able to learn some much about herself by taking a short vacation to a place she once called home.
I think the reason I read this book so fast is because of the characters. You really feel like you got to know them and wanted them to be happy. The author also sucked you into the town with the little bits you learn about the other people and left you wanting more. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series and I'm so happy to have found a new series for me to love.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for an honest review
December 10, 2019
The last thing Erika Shelton wants to do is to follow through and take a forced two-week vacation. As a doctor in high demand, she is truly burning the candle at both ends. So she ends up heading to spend time with her best friend Cassie Reynolds. A bonus to this trip is none other than Cassies hot brother Reed, a mountain rescuer.
Erika and Reed get along - very well when it comes to the physical side - and rather quickly. They do have a bit of snark in their relationship and I rather enjoyed that. While Erika and Reed got to know one another again, the story contained strong bonds of family and friendship. Also, there is something about Reed's past that he is holding onto, and Erika has hew own grief involving her father and her work, and this gave this book an extra layer.
This sexy, often serious, story was an excellent read and had a very satisfying conclusion. I always love reading the impossible being made possible. An Alaskan Christmas is the first book in Jennifer Snow's Wild River series. I look forward to not only meeting other couples on their road to love, but would love to continue reading rescue scenarios. These were a very nice bonus to an enjoyable story.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Erika and Reed get along - very well when it comes to the physical side - and rather quickly. They do have a bit of snark in their relationship and I rather enjoyed that. While Erika and Reed got to know one another again, the story contained strong bonds of family and friendship. Also, there is something about Reed's past that he is holding onto, and Erika has hew own grief involving her father and her work, and this gave this book an extra layer.
This sexy, often serious, story was an excellent read and had a very satisfying conclusion. I always love reading the impossible being made possible. An Alaskan Christmas is the first book in Jennifer Snow's Wild River series. I look forward to not only meeting other couples on their road to love, but would love to continue reading rescue scenarios. These were a very nice bonus to an enjoyable story.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 7, 2022
Dnf at 50%
December 18, 2021
Being ordered to take time off by her father and boss, Erika returns to Wild River to reconnect with her childhood best friend Cassie. She reluctantly trades in her scrubs for a ski suit and far from the craziness at the hospital the workaholic surgeon finds herself fighting with Cassie’s brother Reed. Helping him and his search-and-rescue team and catching on the sparks between them, she begins to realize that there might be more to life…
Every single year I’m looking forward to read as many Christmas Romances as I possibly can manage. This is one of the kinds I absolutely love and while I don’t mind picking the festive reads of a series and never look back to the related books, I’m happy to have discovered a new author and series I really want to keep up with.
It’s a quick and festive read, includes a steamy romance and enough depth and offers a great mix of drama, emotions and fun.
At first Erica appears snobby and unapproachable, not really someone I could have liked from the beginning. But it did fit her persona and getting to know her, learning about her and seeing making up for the lost time with Cassie, helping out and evolve in a very authentic way made me feel for her.
Reed was so good from the very beginning and quickly became the perfect book boyfriend. He’s smart, strong and kind-hearted.
I loved their banter and how flirty they were and even though they went from insecure to pretty sure in no time, I felt it. And I got made every single time Erika didn’t appreciate Reed enough, like when he came to Anchorage, my heart broke a little. And that’s what lead me to becoming irritated with her and her need to please daddy again.
The only thing that made me mad was her father, their relationship and the ending.
That guy is maddening through the whole thing, ordering her back only to take something so important to her away from her in a pretty insensitive way, blaming her for his mistakes, only to be the good guy in the end?! I don’t get it and I don’t buy it.
Even though I was still mad and therefore couldn’t enjoy it properly, the ending was cute and the perfect conclusion.
Now I'm looking forward to see what it is with Cassie and Tank soon.
Every single year I’m looking forward to read as many Christmas Romances as I possibly can manage. This is one of the kinds I absolutely love and while I don’t mind picking the festive reads of a series and never look back to the related books, I’m happy to have discovered a new author and series I really want to keep up with.
It’s a quick and festive read, includes a steamy romance and enough depth and offers a great mix of drama, emotions and fun.
At first Erica appears snobby and unapproachable, not really someone I could have liked from the beginning. But it did fit her persona and getting to know her, learning about her and seeing making up for the lost time with Cassie, helping out and evolve in a very authentic way made me feel for her.
Reed was so good from the very beginning and quickly became the perfect book boyfriend. He’s smart, strong and kind-hearted.
I loved their banter and how flirty they were and even though they went from insecure to pretty sure in no time, I felt it. And I got made every single time Erika didn’t appreciate Reed enough, like when he came to Anchorage, my heart broke a little. And that’s what lead me to becoming irritated with her and her need to please daddy again.
The only thing that made me mad was her father, their relationship and the ending.
That guy is maddening through the whole thing, ordering her back only to take something so important to her away from her in a pretty insensitive way, blaming her for his mistakes, only to be the good guy in the end?! I don’t get it and I don’t buy it.
Even though I was still mad and therefore couldn’t enjoy it properly, the ending was cute and the perfect conclusion.
Now I'm looking forward to see what it is with Cassie and Tank soon.
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