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Emerson Pass Contemporaries #2
The Patron
She’s afraid to take risks. He’s an incurable daredevil. When tragedy throws them together, will it spark a lasting devotion?
Crystal Whalen isn’t sure why she should go on. Two years after her husband’s death on a ski trip, she’s devastated when a fire destroys her quiet Colorado mountain home. And when she can’t keep her hands off the gorgeous divorcé who’s become her new temporary housemate, it only feeds her grief and growing guilt.
Garth Welte won’t be burned again. After his ex-wife took most of his money, the downhill-skiing Olympic medalist is determined to keep things casual with the sexy woman he can’t resist. But the more time they spend with each other, the harder it is to deny his burgeoning feelings.
As Crystal’s longing for the rugged man’s embrace grows, she worries that his dangerous lifestyle will steal him away. And although Garth believes she’s his perfect girl, the specter of betrayal keeps a tight grip on his heart.
Will the thrill-seeker and the wary woman succumb to the power of love?
Crystal Whalen isn’t sure why she should go on. Two years after her husband’s death on a ski trip, she’s devastated when a fire destroys her quiet Colorado mountain home. And when she can’t keep her hands off the gorgeous divorcé who’s become her new temporary housemate, it only feeds her grief and growing guilt.
Garth Welte won’t be burned again. After his ex-wife took most of his money, the downhill-skiing Olympic medalist is determined to keep things casual with the sexy woman he can’t resist. But the more time they spend with each other, the harder it is to deny his burgeoning feelings.
As Crystal’s longing for the rugged man’s embrace grows, she worries that his dangerous lifestyle will steal him away. And although Garth believes she’s his perfect girl, the specter of betrayal keeps a tight grip on his heart.
Will the thrill-seeker and the wary woman succumb to the power of love?
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2021
846 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
119 books1,730 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 15, 2021
Review of The Patron of Emerson Pass: Emerson Pass Contemporaries Book 2 by Tess Thompson
ARC
Ms. Thompson has created a beautifully written story which drew me in from the very start with its bittersweet, multi layered elements of family secrets, loss, the building of trust, hope, second chances, and ultimately~ believing in the power of love.
The Patron of Emerson Pass is a tender yet full-hearted, inspiring story with lots of personality as the author takes you on the journey of Crystal and Garth, along with their families~ how their lives intertwine and have been altered by past choices and circumstance. But through leaning on each other with their strengths, learning about and accepting their weaknesses, and coming together in knowing that moving forward, although frightening at times, it can bring joy and true happiness if you just give it the chance it deserves. All of this, and more, makes for a most entertaining and meaningful read.
The weaving of historical aspects and its unexpected surprises, as well as the addition of new and genuine characters, is what keeps the Emerson Pass series' a favorite for this reader, as the author remains faithful to building on what I see as true dedication in bringing a satisfying and delightful new addition to this memorable storyline, time and again.
I thank Ms. Thompson for the opportunity to read and review her soon to be released contemporary narrative, The Patron of Emerson Pass. Whether as a standalone, or for fans looking to continue this most inviting adventure through Emerson Pass... this is a story that even the most fussy of readers will be surprised by, will relate to, and will most certainly enjoy.
5 Stars
#ThePatronofEmersonPass
#TessThompson
Wild Sage Book Blog
ARC
Ms. Thompson has created a beautifully written story which drew me in from the very start with its bittersweet, multi layered elements of family secrets, loss, the building of trust, hope, second chances, and ultimately~ believing in the power of love.
The Patron of Emerson Pass is a tender yet full-hearted, inspiring story with lots of personality as the author takes you on the journey of Crystal and Garth, along with their families~ how their lives intertwine and have been altered by past choices and circumstance. But through leaning on each other with their strengths, learning about and accepting their weaknesses, and coming together in knowing that moving forward, although frightening at times, it can bring joy and true happiness if you just give it the chance it deserves. All of this, and more, makes for a most entertaining and meaningful read.
The weaving of historical aspects and its unexpected surprises, as well as the addition of new and genuine characters, is what keeps the Emerson Pass series' a favorite for this reader, as the author remains faithful to building on what I see as true dedication in bringing a satisfying and delightful new addition to this memorable storyline, time and again.
I thank Ms. Thompson for the opportunity to read and review her soon to be released contemporary narrative, The Patron of Emerson Pass. Whether as a standalone, or for fans looking to continue this most inviting adventure through Emerson Pass... this is a story that even the most fussy of readers will be surprised by, will relate to, and will most certainly enjoy.
5 Stars
#ThePatronofEmersonPass
#TessThompson
Wild Sage Book Blog
May 31, 2021
The Patron.
Books By Tess Thompson.
Absolutely The Best.
Each time I pick up a book by this author, they just get better and better.. she fastly became one of my Favorites.
Crystal and Garth's story.
A story about Love and Loss and New Family..
Crystal, has lost her 1st husband to death.. now moving on with Garth Is hard. Something she's still working through..
But if not for Garth. She wouldn't be alive...he's a life saver in many ways..
Garth... Raised by his Dad Because Mom, walked out when he was kid..
After his younger brother passed away.
But later mom comes back..
And this could bring them closer..
Garth also thought mom didn't love him. Soon the truth comes out.
Crystal.
Never knew who her dad was. Because mom, said it was a someone she didn't know. didn't his name..
But The truth will come out.
And Family's will grow.
Friends and family thats matters the Most.
I Love How Tess Thompson.
Brings a story Together.
Each Book. Makes me Fall in Love with The Characters..
Definitely Pick up your Copy.
Your will Love this Authors writing. You will be Hooked.
💜💜💜
Books By Tess Thompson.
Absolutely The Best.
Each time I pick up a book by this author, they just get better and better.. she fastly became one of my Favorites.
Crystal and Garth's story.
A story about Love and Loss and New Family..
Crystal, has lost her 1st husband to death.. now moving on with Garth Is hard. Something she's still working through..
But if not for Garth. She wouldn't be alive...he's a life saver in many ways..
Garth... Raised by his Dad Because Mom, walked out when he was kid..
After his younger brother passed away.
But later mom comes back..
And this could bring them closer..
Garth also thought mom didn't love him. Soon the truth comes out.
Crystal.
Never knew who her dad was. Because mom, said it was a someone she didn't know. didn't his name..
But The truth will come out.
And Family's will grow.
Friends and family thats matters the Most.
I Love How Tess Thompson.
Brings a story Together.
Each Book. Makes me Fall in Love with The Characters..
Definitely Pick up your Copy.
Your will Love this Authors writing. You will be Hooked.
💜💜💜
May 28, 2021
I'm really enjoying the Emerson Pass contemporary series! I can't wait for more!
I loved, loved, loved Crystal in The Sugar Queen. I'm so glad she was given center stage in this novel. Trapper, Brandi, and Garth are all back, along with their family members and friends. I got a little confused as to what character had what parents, but that is definitely not a reflection on the author.
A special part of this novel is that there is more than one love story. There are plenty of references to faith, forgiveness, family, but this book isn't "preachy." It's a great story for whatever mood you're in, wanting something to read before you go to bed, wanting a beach read, for anytime at all. Tess just wraps you in a warm hug at the beginning of her books and doesn't let go until the end. And even then, you're still thinking about and invested in the characters. Definitely an author I recommend if you're in the mood for a warm and heartfelt story!
I loved, loved, loved Crystal in The Sugar Queen. I'm so glad she was given center stage in this novel. Trapper, Brandi, and Garth are all back, along with their family members and friends. I got a little confused as to what character had what parents, but that is definitely not a reflection on the author.
A special part of this novel is that there is more than one love story. There are plenty of references to faith, forgiveness, family, but this book isn't "preachy." It's a great story for whatever mood you're in, wanting something to read before you go to bed, wanting a beach read, for anytime at all. Tess just wraps you in a warm hug at the beginning of her books and doesn't let go until the end. And even then, you're still thinking about and invested in the characters. Definitely an author I recommend if you're in the mood for a warm and heartfelt story!
May 9, 2021
I read this book in two sittings. It would have only been one except that I had previous plans for the next day.
This is Crystal and Garth's story. Master storyteller Tess Thompson has seamlessly woven several of her series into this book. After you finish this book, if you haven't read her Cliffside Bay series, her Emerson Pass Historical books, or her Castaway Christmas series, start reading those.
Crystal Whalen, widow of a billionaire tech mogul, moved to Emerson Pass and took back her maiden name for anonymity. When a fire destroyed her home and that of her neighbor Garth, her childhood friend Brandi offers her home to both Crystal and Garth until their homes can be rebuilt.
Crystal and Garth start to develop a friendship, hoping to keep it simple. But then life intervenes.
Add to the drama their backgrounds. Crystal was raised by a single mother Jennifer. Jennifer grew up in Emerson Pass but moved to Seattle when she was 18. Garth lost his brother to cancer when he was only 10 and his mother left shortly thereafter, Garth was raised by his father who is married to wife #4. Crystal's husband Patrick was tragically killed in a helicopter crash while returning from a ski trip in Alaska. Garth is a retired Olympian ski champion.
If I tell you anything else, I might ruin the surprises in the book. I did mean multiple surprises. Some I guessed; others I did not. That is the magic of Tess Thompson. She keeps you turning the pages until the very end and there is always one more surprise around the corner.
I thank the publisher and author for graciously providing me an ARC. All comments in this review are my own.
This is Crystal and Garth's story. Master storyteller Tess Thompson has seamlessly woven several of her series into this book. After you finish this book, if you haven't read her Cliffside Bay series, her Emerson Pass Historical books, or her Castaway Christmas series, start reading those.
Crystal Whalen, widow of a billionaire tech mogul, moved to Emerson Pass and took back her maiden name for anonymity. When a fire destroyed her home and that of her neighbor Garth, her childhood friend Brandi offers her home to both Crystal and Garth until their homes can be rebuilt.
Crystal and Garth start to develop a friendship, hoping to keep it simple. But then life intervenes.
Add to the drama their backgrounds. Crystal was raised by a single mother Jennifer. Jennifer grew up in Emerson Pass but moved to Seattle when she was 18. Garth lost his brother to cancer when he was only 10 and his mother left shortly thereafter, Garth was raised by his father who is married to wife #4. Crystal's husband Patrick was tragically killed in a helicopter crash while returning from a ski trip in Alaska. Garth is a retired Olympian ski champion.
If I tell you anything else, I might ruin the surprises in the book. I did mean multiple surprises. Some I guessed; others I did not. That is the magic of Tess Thompson. She keeps you turning the pages until the very end and there is always one more surprise around the corner.
I thank the publisher and author for graciously providing me an ARC. All comments in this review are my own.
May 25, 2021
Beautifully Woven Complex Romance. This was the first time I'd actually read this author, despite being in similar orbits for a few years now - virtually since I first began this book blogging/ "review absolutely everything I read" adventure. But as I told her privately, when she puts a book directly in the very channel I make no secret of the fact that most of my current reading comes from (NetGalley, though technically this book was published *before* I got it)... it kinda sounds like a beacon "READ THIS BOOK, JEFF!". :D
And seriously, this was an absolutely beautifully woven tapestry that mixes in long family lore (with many references to her "Emerson Pass Historicals" ongoing series) along with not just one, but *three* second chance romances and a very developed town and surrounding characters. All of the characters feel fully "human" - there aint a single one of them that is wholly monstrous or wholly innocent, and that is a refreshing change of pace from so many books, even within the same genre, that have less complicated characters.
One note, just because I know it itself is a clarion call both directions for different people, is the frequent-yet-not-preachy calls to God, prayer, faith, etc. Having grown up in the Southern Baptist Church and lived my entire life in the exurban or even rural Southern United States, this is the level that people actually talk down here - not the preachiness that so many politicians or celebrities pound on, but just the honest, heart felt, "natural" level of people who genuinely believe what they say. Some of y'all are going to love that, I know other readers who will 1* a book the instant they come across that. So consider yourself prepared either way. ;)
I've bought many of Thompson's books in the time that I've known of her, mostly on the strength of being around her and having several common friends that *rave* about her books. And now I call tell you straight up: If you're looking for something deeper, something more complex with various threads going all over the place and making a book world feel like a true community rather than just a series of barely-joined books... you're going to want to check out this author. And this particular book isn't a bad place to start, despite being labeled Book 2. (Though yes, it does give several details of what - presumably - happened in Book 1.) Very much recommended.
And seriously, this was an absolutely beautifully woven tapestry that mixes in long family lore (with many references to her "Emerson Pass Historicals" ongoing series) along with not just one, but *three* second chance romances and a very developed town and surrounding characters. All of the characters feel fully "human" - there aint a single one of them that is wholly monstrous or wholly innocent, and that is a refreshing change of pace from so many books, even within the same genre, that have less complicated characters.
One note, just because I know it itself is a clarion call both directions for different people, is the frequent-yet-not-preachy calls to God, prayer, faith, etc. Having grown up in the Southern Baptist Church and lived my entire life in the exurban or even rural Southern United States, this is the level that people actually talk down here - not the preachiness that so many politicians or celebrities pound on, but just the honest, heart felt, "natural" level of people who genuinely believe what they say. Some of y'all are going to love that, I know other readers who will 1* a book the instant they come across that. So consider yourself prepared either way. ;)
I've bought many of Thompson's books in the time that I've known of her, mostly on the strength of being around her and having several common friends that *rave* about her books. And now I call tell you straight up: If you're looking for something deeper, something more complex with various threads going all over the place and making a book world feel like a true community rather than just a series of barely-joined books... you're going to want to check out this author. And this particular book isn't a bad place to start, despite being labeled Book 2. (Though yes, it does give several details of what - presumably - happened in Book 1.) Very much recommended.
May 10, 2021
“Life continues. Even after devastation.”
Crystal and Garth are both living with their friends after a fire destroys both of their homes. Garth falls for Crystal, and wants the casual thing they have to turn into more.
Crystal lost her husband in a plane crash and doesn’t want to open her heart again. Can Garth love her enough to break down her walls ?
Family secrets, forgiveness, second chances, and living each day to the fullest !
Crystal and Garth are both living with their friends after a fire destroys both of their homes. Garth falls for Crystal, and wants the casual thing they have to turn into more.
Crystal lost her husband in a plane crash and doesn’t want to open her heart again. Can Garth love her enough to break down her walls ?
Family secrets, forgiveness, second chances, and living each day to the fullest !
March 30, 2022
This book is an excellent read about love, family, loss, and miracles. I highly recommend it!
May 17, 2021
Another great read by Tess Thompson. I love this Emerson Pass Series.
This book pulls at your heart from start to finish. Full of love, heart aches, second chances, and hope for the future, The Patron will have you engulfed in it's pages.
Crystal still trying to cope with the death of her husband, Patrick, doesn't know if she is ready to completely give her heart over to Garth.
Garth had his mind set that what he and Crystal were doing was just having fun, but soon he catches feelings that he is unsure she can reciprocate.
This book has a great cast of characters each with their own stories of loss, love, and second chances. Most of all some have to learn to forgive and sometimes it's themselves they have to forgive.
Tess Thompson writes about Emerson Pass in a way that makes me want to jump into the book and be apart of the story line.
This book pulls at your heart from start to finish. Full of love, heart aches, second chances, and hope for the future, The Patron will have you engulfed in it's pages.
Crystal still trying to cope with the death of her husband, Patrick, doesn't know if she is ready to completely give her heart over to Garth.
Garth had his mind set that what he and Crystal were doing was just having fun, but soon he catches feelings that he is unsure she can reciprocate.
This book has a great cast of characters each with their own stories of loss, love, and second chances. Most of all some have to learn to forgive and sometimes it's themselves they have to forgive.
Tess Thompson writes about Emerson Pass in a way that makes me want to jump into the book and be apart of the story line.
October 19, 2021
This is book two of the Emerson Pass Contemporaries series and tells the story of Crystal Whalen and Garth Welte. There is another series set in Emerson Pass, Colorado, by the author, which tells historical stories of the people and place. This series deals with the modern day, here and now stories of people in the small town. Crystal lost her husband Patrick in an accident whilst he was on a skiing trip some three years ago and has lost her way in life. He was an adrenaline junkie and the trip had been his ideal type of adventure, but it had killed him and nearly her with the heartbreak and what else she lost at the time. Garth is a former Olympic downhill skier and now an attorney, who has been badly burnt by an ex-wife who stole all of his money, so isn’t looking for any sort of real relationship anytime soon. The two are thrown together after both their homes were lost to a huge fire that swept through Emerson Pass, and ending up in the same campsite together, especially after one too many drinks on Crystal’s part! Soon after, her long-time friend Brandi and her husband Trapper offer them both a place to stay until everything could be sorted out and their homes rebuilt. Crystal had met Brandi the first summer she was sent to Emerson Pass by her single mother Jennifer, to stay the summer with her grandparents, to try and improve her health. Her mother had run away to Seattle when her heart was broken by a man in her home town. Crystal and Garth had agreed to a friends with benefits kind of relationship, as she still loves her dead husband Patrick and draws comparisons to Garth still skiing on the local slopes, as too many shared qualities with her to be comfortable with. She couldn’t bear to lose another partner.
Skiing is something he loves, but his main aim in life has been to try and find some stability, considering how his ex-wife left him and the effect of his brother’s death on him. She tries to convince herself they only have a physical attraction to each other, even when she admits it was never the same with Patrick, who was some twenty years older than her and extremely wealthy. Garth now wants more from their relationship, but she still can’t give up on the idea of the love she had for Patrick! Crystal and Garth are neighbours and now more than friends, but her refusal to move on could well be the tipping point of ending their relationship. His house is ready to move back into and he needs to get out of Trapper’s house and away from Crystal, so he can stop wanting to take their relationship further, against what they had first agreed. An accident leaves both reliving past traumas and issues in their lives. Garth asks his father to come and stay and Crystal’s mother calls her asking to stay after her latest boyfriend cheats on her. Secrets about Crystal’s father’s identity are revealed and bring shocks to all. Brandi’s father Jack Vargas will be around whilst her mother is staying and she has only just found out that they were high school sweethearts! When Garth’s mother also turns up unexpectedly, old love and family are brought to mind for all. Both Crystal and Garth are repeating patterns from their earlier years, to protect themselves from harm, from losing a father, a husband, a mother, a wife. Whether they can break this cycle of destructive thinking and finally allow the love they have for each other to blossom and grow, will be a sight to see. Lots of surprises and twists along the way, as you wait to see if the power of love will prevail. A cracker of a story and a pleasure to read. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series about one of Trapper’s and now Garth’s good friends. Now I have to go back and read the first book to see what happened and maybe even read some of the historical series to catch all the tie ins with characters from this series and all about Emerson Pass. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Skiing is something he loves, but his main aim in life has been to try and find some stability, considering how his ex-wife left him and the effect of his brother’s death on him. She tries to convince herself they only have a physical attraction to each other, even when she admits it was never the same with Patrick, who was some twenty years older than her and extremely wealthy. Garth now wants more from their relationship, but she still can’t give up on the idea of the love she had for Patrick! Crystal and Garth are neighbours and now more than friends, but her refusal to move on could well be the tipping point of ending their relationship. His house is ready to move back into and he needs to get out of Trapper’s house and away from Crystal, so he can stop wanting to take their relationship further, against what they had first agreed. An accident leaves both reliving past traumas and issues in their lives. Garth asks his father to come and stay and Crystal’s mother calls her asking to stay after her latest boyfriend cheats on her. Secrets about Crystal’s father’s identity are revealed and bring shocks to all. Brandi’s father Jack Vargas will be around whilst her mother is staying and she has only just found out that they were high school sweethearts! When Garth’s mother also turns up unexpectedly, old love and family are brought to mind for all. Both Crystal and Garth are repeating patterns from their earlier years, to protect themselves from harm, from losing a father, a husband, a mother, a wife. Whether they can break this cycle of destructive thinking and finally allow the love they have for each other to blossom and grow, will be a sight to see. Lots of surprises and twists along the way, as you wait to see if the power of love will prevail. A cracker of a story and a pleasure to read. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series about one of Trapper’s and now Garth’s good friends. Now I have to go back and read the first book to see what happened and maybe even read some of the historical series to catch all the tie ins with characters from this series and all about Emerson Pass. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
May 25, 2021
Another great Emerson Pass book by Tess Thompson.
I actually devoured this one. It started out strong and kept on going. The chemistry between the two characters in this book was so good. So real. You feel both of their fears. Fear of rejection and fear of loss. In Emerson Pass love seems to always prevail though.
Crystal and Garth were just neighbors. Until they weren't. Until the fire. Sparks started to fly in more ways than one between these two. They are both sort of broken from being hurt and yes burned. Not physically burned but emotionally. Crystal is trying to get over the loss of her husband and her unborn child. She blames herself and doesn't think she deserves to move on. Garth was hurt by his first wife and is afraid of being hurt again. Though he is finally willing to jump back in with Crystal and wants them to be together in every way. He fell in love. She's still afraid.
Two accidents bring these two back to reality in every way. People from their pasts seem to give them the strength to move forward and have the life they both deserve. The happiness and love they both want and need. Secrets are revealed in this book also. I do admit to figuring out rather quickly the secret Crystal's mother kept for years. But still it was great to find out for sure.
I think there will be at least two more love stories from the characters in this book. Also the birth of a new baby. Brandi and Trapper are expecting and Brandi is on bed rest. There will be happiness there I know.
The letters at the end of this book took me back to other books by Tess Thompson that were wonderful. The recipes sound delish and I will be trying a few of them. This book was such a relaxing read for me. I usually read thrillers so this was truly a breath of fresh air.
Set in Emerson Pass, Colorado, it has such beautiful scenery. Written in a way that makes you feel it. Then the accidents of course. You feel that ice and the slide. The crunch of metal. The cold. It's written in a way that you feel everything.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #TessThompson, #Independentlypublished for this ARC. This is my own true feelings about this book.
A big 5/5 stars and high recommend. If you like romance that is not to mushy this is the book for you. I loved it!
I actually devoured this one. It started out strong and kept on going. The chemistry between the two characters in this book was so good. So real. You feel both of their fears. Fear of rejection and fear of loss. In Emerson Pass love seems to always prevail though.
Crystal and Garth were just neighbors. Until they weren't. Until the fire. Sparks started to fly in more ways than one between these two. They are both sort of broken from being hurt and yes burned. Not physically burned but emotionally. Crystal is trying to get over the loss of her husband and her unborn child. She blames herself and doesn't think she deserves to move on. Garth was hurt by his first wife and is afraid of being hurt again. Though he is finally willing to jump back in with Crystal and wants them to be together in every way. He fell in love. She's still afraid.
Two accidents bring these two back to reality in every way. People from their pasts seem to give them the strength to move forward and have the life they both deserve. The happiness and love they both want and need. Secrets are revealed in this book also. I do admit to figuring out rather quickly the secret Crystal's mother kept for years. But still it was great to find out for sure.
I think there will be at least two more love stories from the characters in this book. Also the birth of a new baby. Brandi and Trapper are expecting and Brandi is on bed rest. There will be happiness there I know.
The letters at the end of this book took me back to other books by Tess Thompson that were wonderful. The recipes sound delish and I will be trying a few of them. This book was such a relaxing read for me. I usually read thrillers so this was truly a breath of fresh air.
Set in Emerson Pass, Colorado, it has such beautiful scenery. Written in a way that makes you feel it. Then the accidents of course. You feel that ice and the slide. The crunch of metal. The cold. It's written in a way that you feel everything.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #TessThompson, #Independentlypublished for this ARC. This is my own true feelings about this book.
A big 5/5 stars and high recommend. If you like romance that is not to mushy this is the book for you. I loved it!
July 14, 2024
Questo libro è il secondo che parla di Emerson pass e delle vite dei suoi abitanti, Crystal è figlia di Jennie che dopo aver avuto il cuore infranto ha deciso di crescerla lontana da li, ma ogni estate la mandava dai nonni fino a quando loro non sono morti, poi Crystal si è sposata e dopo aver perso il marito per un 'incidente aereo è tornata ad Emerson Pass, qui ha ricominciato una nuova vita, ha aperto un locale di articoli per la casa e aiuta chi è meno fortunato perché suo marito era un genio delle app ed aveva moltissimi soldi che sono rimasti a lei, in città ha una grandissima amica Bradi che conosce da quando è bambina, un giorno un grande incendio brucia completamente la sua casa e anche quella del suo vicino che per fortuna si accorge del pericolo e la salva, la sera dopo essersi messi in salvo ed aver mangiato con i loro amici si trovano in tenda da soli e vanno insieme, lei piange perché crede di dover rimanere fedele a suo marito, ma non riesce a resistere alla tentazione di continuare questa specie di storia con lui, soprattutto perché per mesi non avendo casa loro vanno a vivere con Bradi e suo marito, un giorno discutono perché lui vuole di più e pur di non tornare a casa dei loro amici prova a tornare a casa sua che è stata appena finita, ma si scatena una tormenta di neve ed ha un brutto incidente, Crystal a quel punto capisce che comincia a provare qualcosa per lui e quando torna a casa lo aiuta a sistemarsi e resta con lui e suo padre che è arrivato per accudirlo, dopo un giorno si presenta anche la madre che per anni era stata lontana perché distrutta dal dolore di aver perso il fratello che era malato di tumore, Crystal qualche giorno dopo ha un brutto incidente dopo che la madre le aveva detto che il padre di Bradi la sua migliore amica era anche suo padre, la notizia la sconvolge, ma riesce a perdonare e capire sua madre aiutata anche dal padre che vuole essere presente nella sua vita, quando ha l'incidente capisce che è vita e una e deve andare avanti, dopo qualche mese Garth il suo vicino le chiede di sposarlo e alla stessa cena vengono a sapere che anche i genitori di Garth si sono risposati perché hanno capito di essersi sempre amati.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2021
Garth and Crystal are two characters that are broken in different ways but you can't help but want them to find their happily ever after. He moved to Emerson Pass after a divorce and has never wanted anything serious. She moved to Emerson Pass to help her best friend and start over after her husband died. When tragedy, in the form of a fire that destroys both of their houses, forces them together, they quickly comfort each other. They both agree that it is temporary and fun, until he wants more.
I liked how he wore his heart on his sleeve and let her know that he wanted something serious. Unfortunately, she wasn't ready for more and pushed him away. Throughout their journey, many secrets are revealed and you learn about the hurts they both have suffered. Both of them learn what it is like to worry about the other, in similar situations, at different times in the book.
The secrets are so old and hurt deep down that they threaten to ruin the lives of those involved. I really enjoyed the personal growth that both Garth and Crystal experienced. The supporting characters were wonderful and I liked how their stories were interwoven with the rest of the story. I wish her mom and Jack would have had more of a conclusion, but maybe we will get more of them in another book. God, and faith play a big part in this book but it isn't over done or too preachy. The horrible tragedies Garth and his family endured. as well as Crystal, made them the people they are. Emerson Pass and the people who live there have wormed their way into my heart and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book in the series.
There is at least one trigger in this book that might be hard for some to read, but it doesn't go into a lot of detail. A wonderful heartwarming story about family, faith and second chances. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
I liked how he wore his heart on his sleeve and let her know that he wanted something serious. Unfortunately, she wasn't ready for more and pushed him away. Throughout their journey, many secrets are revealed and you learn about the hurts they both have suffered. Both of them learn what it is like to worry about the other, in similar situations, at different times in the book.
The secrets are so old and hurt deep down that they threaten to ruin the lives of those involved. I really enjoyed the personal growth that both Garth and Crystal experienced. The supporting characters were wonderful and I liked how their stories were interwoven with the rest of the story. I wish her mom and Jack would have had more of a conclusion, but maybe we will get more of them in another book. God, and faith play a big part in this book but it isn't over done or too preachy. The horrible tragedies Garth and his family endured. as well as Crystal, made them the people they are. Emerson Pass and the people who live there have wormed their way into my heart and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book in the series.
There is at least one trigger in this book that might be hard for some to read, but it doesn't go into a lot of detail. A wonderful heartwarming story about family, faith and second chances. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
March 7, 2022
The Patron by Tess Thompson is the second book in the Emerson Pass Contemporaries series. Crystal Whalen isn’t sure why she should move on. Two years after her husband’s death on a ski trip, she is still reeling from her devastation. She is further devastated when a fire destroys her mountain home. The fire has thrown her together with Garth Welte, the gorgeous former skiing Olympian turned lawyer, whose home was also destroyed. The two become temporary housemates as their mutual friends, Trapper and Brandi, offer them a room while their houses are rebuilt. However, Crystal’s attraction to Garth only fuels her grief and guilt. Garth has his own wounds. He was burned when his ex-wife took most of his money and he is determined to keep things casual with Crystal, unfortunately, his growing feelings are getting more and more harder to deny. As they deal with their respective wounds, will they allow themselves a chance at love one more time?
The Patron picks up where the first book, The Sugar Queen, left off. The town of Emerson Pass is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating fire. It is a sweet and heartwarming story of faith, forgiveness and family. I particularly liked Ms. Thompson’s treatment of Crystal’s grief. It felt very real and tangible as she struggles with moving forward. As a couple, I didn’t get the warm fuzzies with Crystal and Garth as I did with Trapper and Brandi, but honestly, I think it’s because I related to Brandi’s struggles more than I did with Crystal’s and Garth’s. There was a bit of a mystery that is revealed in the story. However, I figured it out very early in the story and it was nice to have an “I knew it!” moment as I read. Overall, I enjoyed The Patron and I look forward to reading more books in the Emerson Pass Contemporaries series. I recommend The Patron but first you must read The Sugar Queen.
The Patron is available in paperback and eBook
The Sugar Queen is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
The Patron picks up where the first book, The Sugar Queen, left off. The town of Emerson Pass is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating fire. It is a sweet and heartwarming story of faith, forgiveness and family. I particularly liked Ms. Thompson’s treatment of Crystal’s grief. It felt very real and tangible as she struggles with moving forward. As a couple, I didn’t get the warm fuzzies with Crystal and Garth as I did with Trapper and Brandi, but honestly, I think it’s because I related to Brandi’s struggles more than I did with Crystal’s and Garth’s. There was a bit of a mystery that is revealed in the story. However, I figured it out very early in the story and it was nice to have an “I knew it!” moment as I read. Overall, I enjoyed The Patron and I look forward to reading more books in the Emerson Pass Contemporaries series. I recommend The Patron but first you must read The Sugar Queen.
The Patron is available in paperback and eBook
The Sugar Queen is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
May 18, 2021
Have you ever read an author that you know without reading the back of the book that you're going to buy the book or check it out from the library without any context whatsoever, because you know that it's going to be magnificent simply because? That's how I feel about all of Tess Thompson's novels to date. Tess gets me. She makes me feel all the feels, and this book definitely did not disappoint.
Crystal is destined for spinsterhood following the death of the love of her life. She vowed to love, honor, and obey until death did they part...and well, she's holding to those vows out of survivor's guilt...after all, there is no way on that she'll ever love anyone like she love Patrick.
And, then, there is Garth. That sweet talking, insanely attractive, beast of a man that wants nothing more than to be the one that loves away that pain for Crystal --despite his own inner vows that he wasn't getting involved with another woman ever again following his bitter divorce for anything more than a no-strings attached fling.
Let's not forget to add in all the other family baggage, it's no wonder this unlikely duo doesn't have a clue as to which way is up. Crystal has daddy issues, as in she's never had one and dead husband issues. And, Garth, well, he has a dead brother and his mom bailed on him and dad when he was a child...so, he's got mommy issues. There is a lot to overcome, but it remains to be seen if either Crystal or Garth can let go of the past to see what's right now.
But, as with all friends-to-lovers amazing narratives Tess, we get to feel all the raw emotion as Crystal and Garth struggle to not be a couple and deal with all the past baggage that haunts their present and their future. Secrets are revealed, lies are unburied, forgiveness is sought...there is a lot of things going on in Emerson Pass.
Don't skip the bonus at the end. It's scrumptious!
Crystal is destined for spinsterhood following the death of the love of her life. She vowed to love, honor, and obey until death did they part...and well, she's holding to those vows out of survivor's guilt...after all, there is no way on that she'll ever love anyone like she love Patrick.
And, then, there is Garth. That sweet talking, insanely attractive, beast of a man that wants nothing more than to be the one that loves away that pain for Crystal --despite his own inner vows that he wasn't getting involved with another woman ever again following his bitter divorce for anything more than a no-strings attached fling.
Let's not forget to add in all the other family baggage, it's no wonder this unlikely duo doesn't have a clue as to which way is up. Crystal has daddy issues, as in she's never had one and dead husband issues. And, Garth, well, he has a dead brother and his mom bailed on him and dad when he was a child...so, he's got mommy issues. There is a lot to overcome, but it remains to be seen if either Crystal or Garth can let go of the past to see what's right now.
But, as with all friends-to-lovers amazing narratives Tess, we get to feel all the raw emotion as Crystal and Garth struggle to not be a couple and deal with all the past baggage that haunts their present and their future. Secrets are revealed, lies are unburied, forgiveness is sought...there is a lot of things going on in Emerson Pass.
Don't skip the bonus at the end. It's scrumptious!
May 19, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! Tess Thompson did it again, she has such a wondeful way of writing her stories!
This is the second installment of the Emerson Pass of the Emerson Contemporaries. It was really nice to meet the main characters of this story Crystal and Garth. it is their story. They meet thanks to events and somewhere destiny is entwined in the storyline. How they need to come to terms with happenings from the past, get back to the source and try to believe they can do it. It is about family and new beginnings. I love the descriptions of Emerson Pass it makes you feel as if you are there. The characters are so well" painted" it's as if they were part of your own family and friends. How life isn't only about the past but also living in the present. Having to let go and forgive, believe that there is a life and family there for you. I also enjoyed to see how the reader gets to know more about the history behind Emerson Pass, how this town came to be with the ancestors. How the people want to make the town a community and not just a small place with less people. During the winter season when it's full of life and activity. the story unravels and gets the reader attached to the story very quickly and the book was difficult to put down!
I also enjoyed that there was a bit of mystery in the story to get you out on the trail. The town of Emerson Pass is a place that I would enjoy living in, it's got what would make my happiness the views, the mountains, nature and all that. I also did like the letters in the end of the book and recipes that had been included a homely touch and more explanations to the past.
Thanks for writing this wondeful book and I look forward to reading the next in this series. I am grateful to have read this book I can definitely recommed it!
Thank you Charlotte N
This is the second installment of the Emerson Pass of the Emerson Contemporaries. It was really nice to meet the main characters of this story Crystal and Garth. it is their story. They meet thanks to events and somewhere destiny is entwined in the storyline. How they need to come to terms with happenings from the past, get back to the source and try to believe they can do it. It is about family and new beginnings. I love the descriptions of Emerson Pass it makes you feel as if you are there. The characters are so well" painted" it's as if they were part of your own family and friends. How life isn't only about the past but also living in the present. Having to let go and forgive, believe that there is a life and family there for you. I also enjoyed to see how the reader gets to know more about the history behind Emerson Pass, how this town came to be with the ancestors. How the people want to make the town a community and not just a small place with less people. During the winter season when it's full of life and activity. the story unravels and gets the reader attached to the story very quickly and the book was difficult to put down!
I also enjoyed that there was a bit of mystery in the story to get you out on the trail. The town of Emerson Pass is a place that I would enjoy living in, it's got what would make my happiness the views, the mountains, nature and all that. I also did like the letters in the end of the book and recipes that had been included a homely touch and more explanations to the past.
Thanks for writing this wondeful book and I look forward to reading the next in this series. I am grateful to have read this book I can definitely recommed it!
Thank you Charlotte N
June 20, 2021
Crystal and Garth are two souls brought together by tragic circumstances. Crystal has lost the love of her life and Garth has been burned by the one he thought loved him. Crystal is afraid of betraying her lost husband and even more afraid of giving her heart to someone in fear of losing them, too. Garth has felt a connection to Crystal almost immediately. He can't deny his feelings for her. "Quite by accident I'd fallen in love with her. Tragically, she was in love with a ghost. If that doesn't sound like a country song, I don't know what does." This is the perfect premise to set up this book.
I have loved each book in The Emerson Pass series. Ms. Thompson has built up a cast of characters that become friends and family and with each novel it's like returning home. The characters are all so emotionally developed and well written that I become involved in their lives and circumstances. That's so true with Garth and Crystal's story. They have pasts to overcome, fears to conquer, and events that will either make or break their path together. Thrown into the mix are parents who are all dealing with pasts of their own. Ms. Thompson weaves these stories all together to make a novel that touched my heart, had me yearning for outcomes and breathless with the hope that second chances can be in lives that have endured so much.
I love to spend time in the Emerson Pass world, with the people who live there and the promise of more amazing stories from the talented writing of Tess Thompson. It's a wonderful escape and a wonderful way to spend time in a book! I want to thank Ms. Thompson for the privilege and honor of reading another great book. I loved it! And I so look forward to the next novel in the series. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.
I have loved each book in The Emerson Pass series. Ms. Thompson has built up a cast of characters that become friends and family and with each novel it's like returning home. The characters are all so emotionally developed and well written that I become involved in their lives and circumstances. That's so true with Garth and Crystal's story. They have pasts to overcome, fears to conquer, and events that will either make or break their path together. Thrown into the mix are parents who are all dealing with pasts of their own. Ms. Thompson weaves these stories all together to make a novel that touched my heart, had me yearning for outcomes and breathless with the hope that second chances can be in lives that have endured so much.
I love to spend time in the Emerson Pass world, with the people who live there and the promise of more amazing stories from the talented writing of Tess Thompson. It's a wonderful escape and a wonderful way to spend time in a book! I want to thank Ms. Thompson for the privilege and honor of reading another great book. I loved it! And I so look forward to the next novel in the series. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.
July 29, 2021
This is the story of Crystal and Garth. We’ve met them before in The Sugar Queen. You will want to go back to read that one if you want more details of the tragedy that brought them together. But it isn’t completely necessary to do so to enjoy this second installment in the contemporary branch of the Emerson Pass series.
I have to start off by acknowledging how Tess really has a way with words. She can poetically sum up life’s truths in such a way that you want to copy the phrases and hang them on your wall. We get this right off the bat in the prologue narrated by Crystal.
Both Crystal and Garth had come to Emerson Pass to escape the pain of the pasts. Crystal had lost her grandparents and her husband in accidents, plus lost her baby. Garth is recovering from a failed marriage. The tragedy of the fire that had destroyed their neighboring houses brought them together. But Crystal cannot convince herself to let go and give in to the relationship. And then fate steps in to shake things up on so many levels.
I admit that I didn’t have my usual warm fuzzies from Crystal and Garth as I usually do in Tess’s stories. But there are some other relationships going on, also related to past trauma, that made up for it in spades. I can’t really specify any more without spoilers. But I did shed a tear or two a few times throughout.
As with Sugar Queen, I enjoyed the nods to the historical branch of the series. I’m not usually a big fan of historical romance, but those hold a special place in my heart. Keep your eye out for references to a couple of Tess’s other series as well.
A fun addition to this book is an extensive collection of family recipes that were sent in by readers. I’m looking forward to trying some out.
Thank you to the author for a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have to start off by acknowledging how Tess really has a way with words. She can poetically sum up life’s truths in such a way that you want to copy the phrases and hang them on your wall. We get this right off the bat in the prologue narrated by Crystal.
Both Crystal and Garth had come to Emerson Pass to escape the pain of the pasts. Crystal had lost her grandparents and her husband in accidents, plus lost her baby. Garth is recovering from a failed marriage. The tragedy of the fire that had destroyed their neighboring houses brought them together. But Crystal cannot convince herself to let go and give in to the relationship. And then fate steps in to shake things up on so many levels.
I admit that I didn’t have my usual warm fuzzies from Crystal and Garth as I usually do in Tess’s stories. But there are some other relationships going on, also related to past trauma, that made up for it in spades. I can’t really specify any more without spoilers. But I did shed a tear or two a few times throughout.
As with Sugar Queen, I enjoyed the nods to the historical branch of the series. I’m not usually a big fan of historical romance, but those hold a special place in my heart. Keep your eye out for references to a couple of Tess’s other series as well.
A fun addition to this book is an extensive collection of family recipes that were sent in by readers. I’m looking forward to trying some out.
Thank you to the author for a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 19, 2024
Sono passati due anni dalla morte del marito, ma Crystal fa ancora fatica ad andare avanti. Non vuole frequentare nessuno e si sente in colpa anche solo al pensiero.
Ma l'affascinante Garth è sempre troppo spesso nei suoi pensieri.
Garth è stato un campione di sci, aveva successo e tutto sembrava andare per il meglio. Quando la sua carriera si è interrotta anche il suo matrimonio è andato in pezzi. Ha scoperto il tradimento della moglie e il divorzio lo ha lasciato con il cuore incrinato e il portafoglio vuoto.
Crystal lo attrae tantissimo ma la paura di restare nuovamente deluso lo frena, anche il dover competere con un fantasma non aiuta.
L'incendio che ha distrutto le loro case li obbliga a cercare ospitalità e l'amico Trapper offre loro rifugio.
La vicinanza forzata li aiuterà ad aprirsi e a darsi una chance?
Nel secondo volume la Thompson ci parla di Crystal e Garth, già conosciuti nel primo libro. Avevamo visto come la vicinanza forzata a casa di Trapper abbia portato la coppia ad avvicinarsi molto e a passare la notte insieme ma entrambi non vogliono cedere e preferiscono lasciare le cose solo a livello fisico.
Crystal deve prima capire che è arrivato il momento di andare avanti e che il marito non avrebbe mai voluto che lei si bloccasse così.
Anche Garth deve fare un bel lavoro su stesso perchè la botta che gli ha dato l'ex moglie è stata pesante.
Insieme sono molto carini però l'autrice ha messo un po' troppo drama. Troppi incidenti a tutti e due, li ho trovati un po' inutili. Anche meno grazie.
Continuerò la serie per scoprire la storia del veterinario.
Ma l'affascinante Garth è sempre troppo spesso nei suoi pensieri.
Garth è stato un campione di sci, aveva successo e tutto sembrava andare per il meglio. Quando la sua carriera si è interrotta anche il suo matrimonio è andato in pezzi. Ha scoperto il tradimento della moglie e il divorzio lo ha lasciato con il cuore incrinato e il portafoglio vuoto.
Crystal lo attrae tantissimo ma la paura di restare nuovamente deluso lo frena, anche il dover competere con un fantasma non aiuta.
L'incendio che ha distrutto le loro case li obbliga a cercare ospitalità e l'amico Trapper offre loro rifugio.
La vicinanza forzata li aiuterà ad aprirsi e a darsi una chance?
Nel secondo volume la Thompson ci parla di Crystal e Garth, già conosciuti nel primo libro. Avevamo visto come la vicinanza forzata a casa di Trapper abbia portato la coppia ad avvicinarsi molto e a passare la notte insieme ma entrambi non vogliono cedere e preferiscono lasciare le cose solo a livello fisico.
Crystal deve prima capire che è arrivato il momento di andare avanti e che il marito non avrebbe mai voluto che lei si bloccasse così.
Anche Garth deve fare un bel lavoro su stesso perchè la botta che gli ha dato l'ex moglie è stata pesante.
Insieme sono molto carini però l'autrice ha messo un po' troppo drama. Troppi incidenti a tutti e due, li ho trovati un po' inutili. Anche meno grazie.
Continuerò la serie per scoprire la storia del veterinario.
May 19, 2021
What a delight to return to Emerson Pass to continue on where the story left off in Book 2. Tess Thompson’s newest novel, ‘The Patron of Emerson Pass’, doesn’t skip a beat. The characters’ lives in this book are creatively intertwined and comingled with the memories of those that we have read about in her historical romance books of Emerson Pass through newly discovered letters and recipes. Friends and family are connected in more ways than imagined and new memories are created.
Love, forgiveness, and healing is what this book focuses on. Is it possible for the characters in this novel to get past betrayal, heartache, mistakes, and lost love? Will they be able to overcome their haunting diminished self-confidences and doubts? Are they destined for life-long loneliness or can they ever be as happy as their friends?
This book captivated me from the moment I began reading it. I highly recommend that you read the previous books in this series so that you are familiar with references made by the characters and to familiarize yourself with Emerson Pass, but know that if you just want to jump right in with this book first, you will not be lost and will thoroughly fall in love with all the characters in this novel as I did. You will not be disappointed!
Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC. All opinions and thoughts are my own and freely given.
Love, forgiveness, and healing is what this book focuses on. Is it possible for the characters in this novel to get past betrayal, heartache, mistakes, and lost love? Will they be able to overcome their haunting diminished self-confidences and doubts? Are they destined for life-long loneliness or can they ever be as happy as their friends?
This book captivated me from the moment I began reading it. I highly recommend that you read the previous books in this series so that you are familiar with references made by the characters and to familiarize yourself with Emerson Pass, but know that if you just want to jump right in with this book first, you will not be lost and will thoroughly fall in love with all the characters in this novel as I did. You will not be disappointed!
Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC. All opinions and thoughts are my own and freely given.
June 4, 2021
The Patron of Emmerson Pass by Tess Thompson is the first book I am reading of her works, though I have come across her name quite a lot and know that she is a famous author. After having read the book, I can say it is with good reason. She is such a wonderful writer.
This story is about two people who have some baggage from their previous relationships and also from their past. Both Crystal and Garth have some hangups about getting into a committed relationship again. But still they get involved and neither seem to know how to navigate all their emotions and feelings towards each other. How, if in case, they do it is the story.
What we have here is a very human story, written about two very definitive individuals, in a very clear and realistic way. The author has a way of bringing the reader into the character's lives and make us root for them. Not only the principal characters, but other secondary characters too. I really liked the way the story started and ended. I felt like all the people in the story are my friends and acquaintances; and I was really interested in knowing how their lives move forward. This is the marking of a great story according to me and this book is totally worthy of 5 stars. This author has captured my interest completely and I am sure to check out many of her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is about two people who have some baggage from their previous relationships and also from their past. Both Crystal and Garth have some hangups about getting into a committed relationship again. But still they get involved and neither seem to know how to navigate all their emotions and feelings towards each other. How, if in case, they do it is the story.
What we have here is a very human story, written about two very definitive individuals, in a very clear and realistic way. The author has a way of bringing the reader into the character's lives and make us root for them. Not only the principal characters, but other secondary characters too. I really liked the way the story started and ended. I felt like all the people in the story are my friends and acquaintances; and I was really interested in knowing how their lives move forward. This is the marking of a great story according to me and this book is totally worthy of 5 stars. This author has captured my interest completely and I am sure to check out many of her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2021
Your life never ends up like you think it will.” When one of the characters in this story uttered these words, I thought it brilliantly summed up this story. The Patron is an enchanting story about Garth and Crystal, two people trying to move on from their past relationships. They are both closed off and afraid to take a chance on love, until a fire destroys both of their homes.
Tess Thompson is one of my go to authors and I especially love reading her small town romances. She does such a great job of writing this feel good story about small town life. I easily connected to Garth and Crystal. They are easy to like, well developed and both of them have a voice in this story, so I always knew what they were both thinking and feeling.
The plot isn’t complicated but it flows nicely and I loved being in Emerson Pass, right along with the characters in this story. This story has a sweet and magical feel to it and love is in the air, for not only Garth and Crystal, but some of the other characters included in this story.
This is a heartwarming story about forgiveness, new beginnings, moving on from grieving and learning to trust again. I liked all the characters In this story, but I especially loved Garth and Crystal. They are easy to like and connect with and I thought they were great together. If you like small town stories, that will put a smile on your face, give this a try.
Originally posted on Long and Short Reviews.
Tess Thompson is one of my go to authors and I especially love reading her small town romances. She does such a great job of writing this feel good story about small town life. I easily connected to Garth and Crystal. They are easy to like, well developed and both of them have a voice in this story, so I always knew what they were both thinking and feeling.
The plot isn’t complicated but it flows nicely and I loved being in Emerson Pass, right along with the characters in this story. This story has a sweet and magical feel to it and love is in the air, for not only Garth and Crystal, but some of the other characters included in this story.
This is a heartwarming story about forgiveness, new beginnings, moving on from grieving and learning to trust again. I liked all the characters In this story, but I especially loved Garth and Crystal. They are easy to like and connect with and I thought they were great together. If you like small town stories, that will put a smile on your face, give this a try.
Originally posted on Long and Short Reviews.
May 18, 2021
I truly loved the next story in the modern day Emerson Pass. The author successfully weaves the story to include characters from the historical series as well. I definitely recommend this book!
Crystal and Garth both lost their homes in the terrible Emerson Pass Fire. Garth actually rescued Crystal as the fire approached. As the adrenaline rush died down after the fire, sparks flew. Crystal, a millionaire by marriage, was widowed when her wealthy husband died to soon a ski trip. Crystal has closed off that part of her heart and is determined to never open her heart again, because she doesn’t want to face loss. Garth, lost a brother in their childhood due to cancer. He has always felt second best, after his mother left the family
Both main characters have tortured pasts and seem determined to stay away from love, future and permanence. As their parents arrive in Emerson Pass, secrets come to life, car accidents threaten to cut life short.
How many people will be willing to open their lives to new relationships and give love a chance?
After the story ends special surprises are included with
Letters and recipes.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this great story. This is my honest opinion
Crystal and Garth both lost their homes in the terrible Emerson Pass Fire. Garth actually rescued Crystal as the fire approached. As the adrenaline rush died down after the fire, sparks flew. Crystal, a millionaire by marriage, was widowed when her wealthy husband died to soon a ski trip. Crystal has closed off that part of her heart and is determined to never open her heart again, because she doesn’t want to face loss. Garth, lost a brother in their childhood due to cancer. He has always felt second best, after his mother left the family
Both main characters have tortured pasts and seem determined to stay away from love, future and permanence. As their parents arrive in Emerson Pass, secrets come to life, car accidents threaten to cut life short.
How many people will be willing to open their lives to new relationships and give love a chance?
After the story ends special surprises are included with
Letters and recipes.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this great story. This is my honest opinion
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2021
The Patron is such a heartwarming healing read. I loved this one so much. I love being back in Emerson Pass with all the face we love both past and present making an appearance. This is Garth and Crystal's book. I loved getting know both Garth and Crystal more in this one. Both have suffered pain and loss in some way or another. They heal each other in ways they never expected. There is some magical forces going on in this town that bring people together, bring on forgiveness and help rebuild relationships. I love all the changes Crystal goes through even as secrets from the past are coming out. You feel the heart and soul of Emerson Pass as you read this. You feel the love that passes through all the couples featured in this one. You see a shining light on Garth and Crystal as they both move on from the ghost that they are chasing. All the love is just beautiful. I love how Garth never gives up on Crystal and shows her it is okay to move on. The fire may have destroyed parts of the town but it brought everyone together again. I could not get enough of this one. You need to one click this one now.
May 29, 2021
If there was a huge dictionary of book genres and you went to the section about second chance love, The Patron by Tess Thompson would definitely be featured. This is the second book in the Emerson Pass Contemporaries series, and it is just as amazing as the first.
This book starts a couple of months after the events of the first one, and changes are definitely noticeable. The small town is trying to recover from everything that happened. All of the great characters have returned, with the focus of this book being on Crystal and Garth.
I really like Crystal. She’s a strong, fierce woman full of kindness that is trying to overcome a tragedy that many people wouldn’t survive. Due to this, she is very blocked off and resistant to risks. I also really like the side characters in this story, especially Crystal’s mom and Garth’s parents.
The Patron isn’t exactly light reading, as bad things do happen, but as usual with Tess Thompson, everything flows really well. I’m always left very satisfied after finishing one of her books, and this one is no different. I can’t wait for the next one!
This book starts a couple of months after the events of the first one, and changes are definitely noticeable. The small town is trying to recover from everything that happened. All of the great characters have returned, with the focus of this book being on Crystal and Garth.
I really like Crystal. She’s a strong, fierce woman full of kindness that is trying to overcome a tragedy that many people wouldn’t survive. Due to this, she is very blocked off and resistant to risks. I also really like the side characters in this story, especially Crystal’s mom and Garth’s parents.
The Patron isn’t exactly light reading, as bad things do happen, but as usual with Tess Thompson, everything flows really well. I’m always left very satisfied after finishing one of her books, and this one is no different. I can’t wait for the next one!
May 14, 2021
Such a beautiful family story!
One of my favorite aspects of this author's works is the many layered stories-within-a-story that are told. This book focuses on the blossoming romance between Crystal and Garth, two lonely hearts thrown together by a raging wildfire, who are now faced with seeing if they can turn their comforting friends-with-benefits relationship into something real.
We're also treated to the interconnected history of the various residents of Emerson Pass, past and present, and there's plenty of emotional upheaval with both Crystal's and Garth's parents. For story content alone, this book has so much more packed into it than the typical romance, and it's all done exquisitely well.
I love the way the author ties in characters from her Cliffside Bay series and links the contemporary Emerson Pass characters with their ancestors from the corresponding historical series. The writing will tear your heart out a couple times so be prepared with a full box of tissues nearby. Crystal and Garth go through so much before they can finally address their demons and find their HEA, and I loved every bit of their journey. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
One of my favorite aspects of this author's works is the many layered stories-within-a-story that are told. This book focuses on the blossoming romance between Crystal and Garth, two lonely hearts thrown together by a raging wildfire, who are now faced with seeing if they can turn their comforting friends-with-benefits relationship into something real.
We're also treated to the interconnected history of the various residents of Emerson Pass, past and present, and there's plenty of emotional upheaval with both Crystal's and Garth's parents. For story content alone, this book has so much more packed into it than the typical romance, and it's all done exquisitely well.
I love the way the author ties in characters from her Cliffside Bay series and links the contemporary Emerson Pass characters with their ancestors from the corresponding historical series. The writing will tear your heart out a couple times so be prepared with a full box of tissues nearby. Crystal and Garth go through so much before they can finally address their demons and find their HEA, and I loved every bit of their journey. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 4, 2021
The Patron Of Emerson Pass
By: Tess Thompson
Wow! Tess once again brings a story with so much love, family, and redemption. Crystal and Garth were thrown together during a traumatic fire that burned through Emerson Pass. He rescued her and from then on the relationship she fought against and that he fought for grew. During this story, Crystal faces many difficult things, but through them all Garth is her rock. She fights with loss of a husband and child. Secrets come to light about her parentage. Garth also battles his own demons and finds his peace with Crystal.
I absolutely love this story. This story has such a dynamic family feel. Its full of heartbreak and hurt, and that leads to aspects of forgiveness and love. This story from page 1 stole my heart. The whole of Emerson Pass stole my heart. I love the family and friendships. The realness of the world around them. Crystal and Garth, Trapper and Brandi, each new stories brings the past to the future.
I can't wait to keep traveling in Emerson Pass, even if it's only by reading.
Stormi Ellis
By: Tess Thompson
Wow! Tess once again brings a story with so much love, family, and redemption. Crystal and Garth were thrown together during a traumatic fire that burned through Emerson Pass. He rescued her and from then on the relationship she fought against and that he fought for grew. During this story, Crystal faces many difficult things, but through them all Garth is her rock. She fights with loss of a husband and child. Secrets come to light about her parentage. Garth also battles his own demons and finds his peace with Crystal.
I absolutely love this story. This story has such a dynamic family feel. Its full of heartbreak and hurt, and that leads to aspects of forgiveness and love. This story from page 1 stole my heart. The whole of Emerson Pass stole my heart. I love the family and friendships. The realness of the world around them. Crystal and Garth, Trapper and Brandi, each new stories brings the past to the future.
I can't wait to keep traveling in Emerson Pass, even if it's only by reading.
Stormi Ellis
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2021
This book follows the relationship of Garth and Crystal. Crystal was marred to a very wealthy, powerful tech mogul named Patrick. When Patrick was suddenly killed in a tragic helicopter accident, Crystal retreated to Emerson Pass and pretty much gave up on any possibility of a future relationship.
Garth, a family law attorney who was an Olympic skier, lives close enough to Crystal to see her regularly. When a fire breaks out, threatening both of their homes and surrounding forest, Garth goes to her rescue and brings Crystal to safety. They begin a physical relationship that night, but while Crystal is determined to keep it light, Garth wants more.
I don't do spoilers, so I won't tell you how or whether these two manage to find a happy compromise, you'll need to read it yourself to find out. Its a fast-moving read, and well worth the time. Highly recommend.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Garth, a family law attorney who was an Olympic skier, lives close enough to Crystal to see her regularly. When a fire breaks out, threatening both of their homes and surrounding forest, Garth goes to her rescue and brings Crystal to safety. They begin a physical relationship that night, but while Crystal is determined to keep it light, Garth wants more.
I don't do spoilers, so I won't tell you how or whether these two manage to find a happy compromise, you'll need to read it yourself to find out. Its a fast-moving read, and well worth the time. Highly recommend.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
June 22, 2021
I read The Patron by Tess Thompson after finishing a dark story about the Holocaust. I was excited to dig into a Tess Thompson book because she writes incredible stories. Her descriptions of the locations and the depth of the characters put you in the middle of the plot. You are there! I needed to get my mind to a brighter place and it worked! I enjoyed The Patron so much!. The Patron is the second in the Emerson Pass Contemporary series. If you are familiar with the Emerson Pass books then you understand what I mean. This story, likes the others, focus on two characters, In this case, Crystal and Garth, that are introduced in a previous book. But you can read this as a standalone. Although why you would want to miss out on any of these books is questionable. The Patron adds another layer to Emerson Pass. It is familiar characters, family, love and the past mixed with the present. I loved it!
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
May 16, 2021
Oh, I do love a Tess Thompson series, and the Emerson Pass books are so wonderful, with the historical set of stories, alongside the modern.
I love the way history entwines itself through the contemporary books!
Crystal and Garth are recovering from the aftermath of a fire that took their homes from them. Both feeling keen senses of loss, from events previous to the fire, then having this loss on top, leave them both fragile and emotional, and they begin to rely upon one another, more than they had planned to.
The 'will they, won't they?' nature of the story leaves you wanting more until you reach the climax, But there is so much more to this story. A tale of families, ripped apart by tragedies, or lost loves, all which surface during The Patron.
I am happy to say that there was more than one happy ending!
I can't wait until the next one comes out!
I love the way history entwines itself through the contemporary books!
Crystal and Garth are recovering from the aftermath of a fire that took their homes from them. Both feeling keen senses of loss, from events previous to the fire, then having this loss on top, leave them both fragile and emotional, and they begin to rely upon one another, more than they had planned to.
The 'will they, won't they?' nature of the story leaves you wanting more until you reach the climax, But there is so much more to this story. A tale of families, ripped apart by tragedies, or lost loves, all which surface during The Patron.
I am happy to say that there was more than one happy ending!
I can't wait until the next one comes out!
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