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Hope's Crossing #4
Een fantastisch uitzicht
Alex' droom komt uit wanneer ze haar eigen restaurant begint. Voor een serieuze relatie heeft ze het veel te druk, maar een beetje flirten met de aantrekkelijke Sam Delgado kan geen kwaad, denkt ze. Het was alleen niet de bedoeling dat hij haar buurman werd en ook nog eens oprecht in haar geïnteresseerd lijkt! Toch?
Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
603 people are currently reading
2110 people want to read
About the author
RaeAnne Thayne
311 books3,833 followersI'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.
After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.
Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.
I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.
I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.
Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.
I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
September 19, 2022
This is a Cowboy Romance, and this is the fourth book in the Hope's Crossing series. I have not read the first three books in this series, but I think you can read this book as a standalone. I have to add that this book has some hard to read things in it, so please look up trigger warnings if you get upset easily by reading hard to read things. I loved the characters in this book, and I could feel the characters emotions. I really enjoyed the storyline in this book, and the characters in this book.
lost-interest
August 30, 2016It's too early to tell whether this book is good or not, but one thing is for sure...I loathe the heroine.
I'll put it down for now. Maybe I'll come back to continue this later. (or never?)
I'll put it down for now. Maybe I'll come back to continue this later. (or never?)
December 3, 2015
If Riley's self-hate was bad in Blackberry Summer (and it definitely was), then his sister, Alex, is ten times worse. Which made this book painful to read. It starts off feeling like your average "I need love but I'm not worthy" kind of thing, though Thayne keeps a pretty tight lid on Alex's past so we don't get details. But it persists beyond all reason and in the face of the hottest hunk of ex-Army Ranger in literature. I mean, if you can't fall for Sam, you've no business reading romance novels.
So yeah, Sam is all that and a ten-pound bag of fudge but Alex is so deep into self-hatred that she (sometimes literally) runs from him at every opportunity. So while I was in it for Sam and his boy, Ethan, Alex was a source of constant and unrelenting pain. I'm glad she had her breakthrough in the end, but I couldn't help feeling like she had to have been doing something desperately wrong for the last decade not to have managed even a hint of closure before then. Seriously, not good, not fun, and definitely not entertaining.
Sam alone is responsible for all the stars I'm able to give this book. Alex is very nearly enough to take them all away again...
So yeah, Sam is all that and a ten-pound bag of fudge but Alex is so deep into self-hatred that she (sometimes literally) runs from him at every opportunity. So while I was in it for Sam and his boy, Ethan, Alex was a source of constant and unrelenting pain. I'm glad she had her breakthrough in the end, but I couldn't help feeling like she had to have been doing something desperately wrong for the last decade not to have managed even a hint of closure before then. Seriously, not good, not fun, and definitely not entertaining.
Sam alone is responsible for all the stars I'm able to give this book. Alex is very nearly enough to take them all away again...
Read
June 10, 2025Ugh ... no. Not a book for me. I've already lost my patience with the heroine in chapter one. She thinks her kitchen builder is a trespasser who wants to steal tools because he carries a saw and a tool belt, but then starts to have doubts because he is “surprisingly clean-cut for someone up to no good”. Because he smells good (“like wind and sunshine and really sexy male”), is confident and is actually just her type (“big, gorgeous and only in town for a few weeks”), she ends their first encounter by harassing the poor guy. The following insane dialogue ended my short visit in Hope’s Crossing – I’m out!
„It was now or never, she thought, and plunged forward. “So I don’t see a ring. Is there a Mrs. Delgado?”
Plenty of men didn’t care to wear a wedding ring, either out of personal preference or deliberate obfuscation. When she was interested in a man, she was scrupulously careful about double-checking that particular point.
Some hard-earned lessons tended to stick with a woman.
Sam Delgado blinked, obviously a little bemused by the question. If she hadn’t been watching him carefully for some sign of deceit, she might have missed the tangle of emotion in his gaze.
“As a matter of fact, there is. My brother’s wife.”
“But you don’t have one of your own?” she pressed.
“Not currently.”
His guarded reaction didn’t seem particularly encouraging. He could be engaged—another hot button of hers because of family history—but she hadn’t missed that sadness in his eyes and sensed he was telling the truth.
“Do you anticipate that changing anytime in the near future?”
“Not that I’m aware of, no. Why are you so curious?”
She shrugged. “Personal rule. I don’t date men who are married, engaged or otherwise involved in a long-term relationship.”
„A corner of his mouth danced up. “I didn’t realize we were planning on dating.”
“Planning on it? No. But if the opportunity arose, I like to be certain ahead of time that both parties are...unentangled. Poachers bug the hell out of me. And men who allow themselves to be poached are even worse.”
He gazed at her for a long moment as if he wasn’t quite sure how to answer. “You don’t have any problem speaking your mind, Ms. McKnight, do you?”
“Please. Call me Alex. Especially considering we might be planning on dating at some point in the foreseeable future.”
He laughed as he shook his head. “Here’s something you should know about me then. Call me old-fashioned, but I like to be in the driver’s seat in these sorts of things.“
„She gave him a sultry smile over her shoulder. “Oh, you foolish, foolish man. You might think you’re behind the wheel when it comes to most women, but that’s only because we’ve decided to hand over the keys.”
He chuckled that rough, sexy laugh that sent shivers down her spine again. “I don’t know what sort of p—er, pansies—you traditionally date, Alex McKnight, but I’m a former Army Ranger. Know what our motto is? Rangers lead the way. And we don’t just mean into enemy territory.“
„It was now or never, she thought, and plunged forward. “So I don’t see a ring. Is there a Mrs. Delgado?”
Plenty of men didn’t care to wear a wedding ring, either out of personal preference or deliberate obfuscation. When she was interested in a man, she was scrupulously careful about double-checking that particular point.
Some hard-earned lessons tended to stick with a woman.
Sam Delgado blinked, obviously a little bemused by the question. If she hadn’t been watching him carefully for some sign of deceit, she might have missed the tangle of emotion in his gaze.
“As a matter of fact, there is. My brother’s wife.”
“But you don’t have one of your own?” she pressed.
“Not currently.”
His guarded reaction didn’t seem particularly encouraging. He could be engaged—another hot button of hers because of family history—but she hadn’t missed that sadness in his eyes and sensed he was telling the truth.
“Do you anticipate that changing anytime in the near future?”
“Not that I’m aware of, no. Why are you so curious?”
She shrugged. “Personal rule. I don’t date men who are married, engaged or otherwise involved in a long-term relationship.”
„A corner of his mouth danced up. “I didn’t realize we were planning on dating.”
“Planning on it? No. But if the opportunity arose, I like to be certain ahead of time that both parties are...unentangled. Poachers bug the hell out of me. And men who allow themselves to be poached are even worse.”
He gazed at her for a long moment as if he wasn’t quite sure how to answer. “You don’t have any problem speaking your mind, Ms. McKnight, do you?”
“Please. Call me Alex. Especially considering we might be planning on dating at some point in the foreseeable future.”
He laughed as he shook his head. “Here’s something you should know about me then. Call me old-fashioned, but I like to be in the driver’s seat in these sorts of things.“
„She gave him a sultry smile over her shoulder. “Oh, you foolish, foolish man. You might think you’re behind the wheel when it comes to most women, but that’s only because we’ve decided to hand over the keys.”
He chuckled that rough, sexy laugh that sent shivers down her spine again. “I don’t know what sort of p—er, pansies—you traditionally date, Alex McKnight, but I’m a former Army Ranger. Know what our motto is? Rangers lead the way. And we don’t just mean into enemy territory.“
November 23, 2013
Good book. Alex is about to have her dreams come true as the head chef of a new restaurant in town, as long as the construction of the kitchen gets done on time. Sam has been hired to finish the kitchen. There's a heat that's obvious between them from the moment they meet. Alex sees no problem getting involved with Sam. She doesn't do commitments and he's only in town for a short time. Then she discovers that he and his son are moving to town permanently and he's interested in more than short term.
I loved Sam. He's a great dad who wants a fresh start for himself and his son. His wife died a couple years ago and then he discovered that his father-in-law was a crooked contractor. Now he's looking forward to living in a small town where people care for each other and look out for each other. He isn't really interested in a new relationship since he's going to be busy setting up his business and taking care of his son. He's attracted to Alex as soon as he meets her and looks forward to getting to know her better. He likes the way she's direct about what she wants. He enjoys her sense of humor and discovers that under her brash exterior is a very kindhearted woman. It's not too long before he's starting to think of Alex in longer terms, but he can't get her to agree. Every time he thinks he's making some progress she pushes him away. He senses that there is a deep pain that keeps her from accepting the idea of a future with him. I really liked the way that he kept trying to get close to Alex. He knew he was falling for her and he was pretty sure that she felt the same but he was having problems getting past her walls. Even when he tried to stay away from her he was aware of what she was doing. I loved his final attempt to get her to open up to him and share her pain. This expressed his feelings perfectly: "I love you, Alexandra. Nothing you’ve told me tonight changes that. I love you in spite of all the reasons you think I shouldn’t. In part, maybe, because of the those reasons. You’re the person you are today because of everything that has happened to you.”
Alex is a serial dater. She doesn't do more than a few dates with any one man, preferring to keep all her relationships light and casual. Part of her fear of commitment comes from the way her father deserted the family when she was a kid. She doesn't want to open herself up to that kind of pain again. Currently she is way too busy getting the new restaurant up and running to spend time with a man anyway. When she meets Sam she finds him very appealing and thinks it would be fun to be with him for the short time he'll be in town. She doesn't expect the intensity of her attraction to him and tries to pull away from him. She's willing to go for friendship with him, but is afraid what might happen if she goes for more. When she finds out that he has a son and that they are moving to town permanently she takes it as just one more reason to stay away from him. I liked the way that her soft heart doesn't let her stay away for long. She adds him to the people she cooks for, finds herself enjoying being around his son, and occasionally is tempted to let him get closer. But as much as she comes to care for him she has a secret pain that she hasn't even shared with her family and friends, that makes her feel that she doesn't deserve that kind of happiness. She doesn't seem to see the same good person that everyone else sees, the one who cooks for shut-ins, takes care of a friend who is dying of cancer, rescues a lost dog and takes it home with her, and is there for any friend who needs her help. I loved the way that she finally opened up to Sam, expecting him to reject her, and is stunned to find out that he doesn't, that he loves her just the way she is.
I loved Sam. He's a great dad who wants a fresh start for himself and his son. His wife died a couple years ago and then he discovered that his father-in-law was a crooked contractor. Now he's looking forward to living in a small town where people care for each other and look out for each other. He isn't really interested in a new relationship since he's going to be busy setting up his business and taking care of his son. He's attracted to Alex as soon as he meets her and looks forward to getting to know her better. He likes the way she's direct about what she wants. He enjoys her sense of humor and discovers that under her brash exterior is a very kindhearted woman. It's not too long before he's starting to think of Alex in longer terms, but he can't get her to agree. Every time he thinks he's making some progress she pushes him away. He senses that there is a deep pain that keeps her from accepting the idea of a future with him. I really liked the way that he kept trying to get close to Alex. He knew he was falling for her and he was pretty sure that she felt the same but he was having problems getting past her walls. Even when he tried to stay away from her he was aware of what she was doing. I loved his final attempt to get her to open up to him and share her pain. This expressed his feelings perfectly: "I love you, Alexandra. Nothing you’ve told me tonight changes that. I love you in spite of all the reasons you think I shouldn’t. In part, maybe, because of the those reasons. You’re the person you are today because of everything that has happened to you.”
Alex is a serial dater. She doesn't do more than a few dates with any one man, preferring to keep all her relationships light and casual. Part of her fear of commitment comes from the way her father deserted the family when she was a kid. She doesn't want to open herself up to that kind of pain again. Currently she is way too busy getting the new restaurant up and running to spend time with a man anyway. When she meets Sam she finds him very appealing and thinks it would be fun to be with him for the short time he'll be in town. She doesn't expect the intensity of her attraction to him and tries to pull away from him. She's willing to go for friendship with him, but is afraid what might happen if she goes for more. When she finds out that he has a son and that they are moving to town permanently she takes it as just one more reason to stay away from him. I liked the way that her soft heart doesn't let her stay away for long. She adds him to the people she cooks for, finds herself enjoying being around his son, and occasionally is tempted to let him get closer. But as much as she comes to care for him she has a secret pain that she hasn't even shared with her family and friends, that makes her feel that she doesn't deserve that kind of happiness. She doesn't seem to see the same good person that everyone else sees, the one who cooks for shut-ins, takes care of a friend who is dying of cancer, rescues a lost dog and takes it home with her, and is there for any friend who needs her help. I loved the way that she finally opened up to Sam, expecting him to reject her, and is stunned to find out that he doesn't, that he loves her just the way she is.
February 27, 2013
This one wasn't my favorite in the series, but it was a decent read. I loved the character of Sam--strong, patient, great father, fantastic...hands. His son, Ethan, was awesome--reminded me a lot of the boy in Jerry Maguire. (Did you know the human head weighs ten pounds? ;)) The chocolate lab was sweet (though yet another example of a fictional animal who makes me feel inadequate as a non-fictional owner, but I digress.) The character I had problems with was Alex. She just seemed too hung up on her issues, which, when we finally find out what they are, just didn't add up to the hype as far as I was concerned. Of course we got the HEA, and saw many favorite characters from the other books, so in the end all's well that ends well. I'll definitely be looking forward to the next installment--and only partially to see what Ethan's up to :)
April 14, 2013
This is the fourth in the author's Hope's Crossing series and I planned to savor it slowly. Alas, I failed miserably--because I couldn't put it down. The sparks between Alexandra and Sam blow them both off dead-center, but he recovers faster than she and only understands why she keeps pushing him away when she finally reveals the terrible secret she's been hiding for everyone for far too many years.
Fortunately for her, Sam's 7-yr old son and the chocolate lab she takes in when she finds him wandering through town, obviously lost and looking for a home, help Sam to secure Alexandra in his heart and his arms.
What's next? I'll have to wait for the next installment in Hope's Crossing tales with WILLOWLEAF LANE.
Fortunately for her, Sam's 7-yr old son and the chocolate lab she takes in when she finds him wandering through town, obviously lost and looking for a home, help Sam to secure Alexandra in his heart and his arms.
What's next? I'll have to wait for the next installment in Hope's Crossing tales with WILLOWLEAF LANE.
June 7, 2013
**I received a free copy from the publisher in an exchange of an honest review.**
I want to live in Currant Creek Valley! What a cozy place this little town is. I must say I loved the vibrant colors of the book cover! I love books with cozy covers like this one, they tend to make me feel like I am right in the story and in the middle of where it takes place. I also enjoyed the characters in the book. The relationship that developed between Alexandra and Sam was cute. It was quite funny the circumstances in which they first met one another. The story had a little sprinkle of everything. There was romance and some sadness mixed in as well. Overall it was a good story and I will be reading more books by this author and will follow this series if it becomes one.
I want to live in Currant Creek Valley! What a cozy place this little town is. I must say I loved the vibrant colors of the book cover! I love books with cozy covers like this one, they tend to make me feel like I am right in the story and in the middle of where it takes place. I also enjoyed the characters in the book. The relationship that developed between Alexandra and Sam was cute. It was quite funny the circumstances in which they first met one another. The story had a little sprinkle of everything. There was romance and some sadness mixed in as well. Overall it was a good story and I will be reading more books by this author and will follow this series if it becomes one.
April 16, 2015
Another enjoyable read in this series. I do have to admit that I felt the ending was a little too abrupt and "quick fix" after the push and pull of the rest of the story. Nevertheless, I liked the characters. This series just makes you feel good when you're reading each book. I feel as if I know the people in this town and look forward to learning the next couple's journey into each other's lives.
September 4, 2020
Although I didn’t start at the beginning of this series, I had no moments where I felt lost, so it reads well as a stand-alone novel. The characters have depth and the plot pulled me into the story. I can’t wait to read the next one in this series. I also love this narrator. Happy reading and listening!
May 11, 2022
Alex, a woman in her thirties and an accomplished chef, behaves poorly towards a guy, Sam. He's a contractor, a widower and dad, and a nice guy. He's oblivious to red flags. She doesn't hide her bitchiness, and he ought to be glad and run. Becoming involved with her and married to her, will make him responsible for the extensive therapy, she so desperately needs.
February 21, 2018
Brain candy.
January 24, 2021
This might be the best of this series. I love the characters, the small town setting, and the stories. This is a new author for me but I like her.
November 12, 2023
Enjoyable!
March 4, 2013
4 STARS
Hope's Crossing book 4
I like Hope's Crossing books. It is a community that has pulled its self together. The characters are interesting and keep me wanting to know more about them. It is good to see old friends and what they are up to now. It is also a clean read.
Alexandra is about to have her dream come true. She is going to have her own restraunt. That if her kitchen is done on time. Alex only dates guys who won't be around for the long time. She is also hiding a secret. Alex has a big family, most who live close by.
Sam came to Currant Creek Valley to work. He is taking over to finsh the restraunt after the last guy had to leave on family business. Sam was a army ranger. He is looking for a new home to raise his son in. Sam does not let Alex know that he has a son or thinking of moving his business to Currant Creek Valley.
Alex on first meeting Sam after a misunderstanding occured asks him if he is married? So if they want to go out she needs to know that he is single. Sam says yes but he was a Ranger and they always lead the way. So he asks her.
They had a great time and on a walk around town Alex found a stray dog around town. He was skinny but had a collar on him. Alex names him Leo. She hopes to find his owner.
Their are no big secrets to reveal. Only personal trials they each face but you are slowly getting the answers you want to know. I did not want to put the book down last night. Read till my eyes could not focus anymore.
One secret of Sam's is he has a cute son living with his brother while he finshes the school year. Than Sam will bring him to Hope's Crossing.
Ethan is very smart and friendly. He is not afraid to hint at what he likes.
I would read more books about Hope's Crossing in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and in exchange asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
Publisher: Harlequin HQN (March 26, 2013) 320 pages ASIN: B00ALTVHJI
discription below taken off of amazon
If you build it, love will come…to Hope's Crossing.
Alexandra McKnight prefers a life of long workdays and If you build it, love will come…short-term relationships, and she's found it in Hope's Crossing. A sous chef at the local ski resort, she's just been offered to Hope's Crossing. her dream job at an exclusive new restaurant being built in town. But when it comes to designing the kitchen, Alex finds herself getting up close and personal with construction foreman Sam Delgado….
At first glance, Sam seems perfect for Alex. He's big, tough, gorgeous—and in town for only a few weeks. But when Sam suddenly moves into a house down the road, Alex suspects that the devoted single father of a six-year-old boy wants more from her than she's willing to give. Now it's up to Sam to help Alex see that, no matter what happened in her past, together they can build something more meaningful in Hope's Crossing.
Hope's Crossing book 4
I like Hope's Crossing books. It is a community that has pulled its self together. The characters are interesting and keep me wanting to know more about them. It is good to see old friends and what they are up to now. It is also a clean read.
Alexandra is about to have her dream come true. She is going to have her own restraunt. That if her kitchen is done on time. Alex only dates guys who won't be around for the long time. She is also hiding a secret. Alex has a big family, most who live close by.
Sam came to Currant Creek Valley to work. He is taking over to finsh the restraunt after the last guy had to leave on family business. Sam was a army ranger. He is looking for a new home to raise his son in. Sam does not let Alex know that he has a son or thinking of moving his business to Currant Creek Valley.
Alex on first meeting Sam after a misunderstanding occured asks him if he is married? So if they want to go out she needs to know that he is single. Sam says yes but he was a Ranger and they always lead the way. So he asks her.
They had a great time and on a walk around town Alex found a stray dog around town. He was skinny but had a collar on him. Alex names him Leo. She hopes to find his owner.
Their are no big secrets to reveal. Only personal trials they each face but you are slowly getting the answers you want to know. I did not want to put the book down last night. Read till my eyes could not focus anymore.
One secret of Sam's is he has a cute son living with his brother while he finshes the school year. Than Sam will bring him to Hope's Crossing.
Ethan is very smart and friendly. He is not afraid to hint at what he likes.
I would read more books about Hope's Crossing in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and in exchange asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
Publisher: Harlequin HQN (March 26, 2013) 320 pages ASIN: B00ALTVHJI
discription below taken off of amazon
If you build it, love will come…to Hope's Crossing.
Alexandra McKnight prefers a life of long workdays and If you build it, love will come…short-term relationships, and she's found it in Hope's Crossing. A sous chef at the local ski resort, she's just been offered to Hope's Crossing. her dream job at an exclusive new restaurant being built in town. But when it comes to designing the kitchen, Alex finds herself getting up close and personal with construction foreman Sam Delgado….
At first glance, Sam seems perfect for Alex. He's big, tough, gorgeous—and in town for only a few weeks. But when Sam suddenly moves into a house down the road, Alex suspects that the devoted single father of a six-year-old boy wants more from her than she's willing to give. Now it's up to Sam to help Alex see that, no matter what happened in her past, together they can build something more meaningful in Hope's Crossing.
May 27, 2013
My view
As other Hope Crossing books, Currant Creek Valley is a love story between two unconventional characters. One can say that the characters are reversed since Alexandra has many traits normally associated with males; as her apprehension to commitment and her short term relationships.
On the other hand, Sam is the soft loving father of a six-year old trying to bring stability to their life. He loves his family and is ready to work hard to give his son everything he may need. Together, Sam & Alex complemented each other.
The story flows nicely and it has the right amount of steam and romance to balance their relationship. As well, the book let us look into the life of characters in previous books as well as those to take center in the next book installment.
All in all, the book is a good addition to the series.
What I liked the most
I think I like that the female main character takes initiative and is not fragile and full of insecurities. She is someone that is comfortable on her skin and knows exactly what she wants and needs.
I wanted more of
I wanted more of Sam’s story. The reader learns about him and his past, but since you met Alex in previous books the reader knows more about her than him.
Who should read it
Any one who is into the Hope’s Crossing series or that is looking for a sweet and sizzling story.
Rate
4.5 out of 5
As other Hope Crossing books, Currant Creek Valley is a love story between two unconventional characters. One can say that the characters are reversed since Alexandra has many traits normally associated with males; as her apprehension to commitment and her short term relationships.
On the other hand, Sam is the soft loving father of a six-year old trying to bring stability to their life. He loves his family and is ready to work hard to give his son everything he may need. Together, Sam & Alex complemented each other.
The story flows nicely and it has the right amount of steam and romance to balance their relationship. As well, the book let us look into the life of characters in previous books as well as those to take center in the next book installment.
All in all, the book is a good addition to the series.
What I liked the most
I think I like that the female main character takes initiative and is not fragile and full of insecurities. She is someone that is comfortable on her skin and knows exactly what she wants and needs.
I wanted more of
I wanted more of Sam’s story. The reader learns about him and his past, but since you met Alex in previous books the reader knows more about her than him.
Who should read it
Any one who is into the Hope’s Crossing series or that is looking for a sweet and sizzling story.
Rate
4.5 out of 5
August 4, 2014
One of my favorite light romance series continues with the story of Alex McKnight and Sam Delgado in Hope's Creek. Alex is part of a large close knit family , most of whom live in Hope's Crossing. She's just recently returned from an extended stay in Europe, and is preparing to open her dream restaurant. Sam is a single father with very little family who plans to move to Hope's Crossing to give a closer community life for his son. He's also the new carpenter finishing Alex's new restaurant. The attraction is immediate but past life issues interfere with their happily ever after.
As always, RaeAnne Thayne adds an element of seriousness to her stories that make them superior to the average romance. Special in this book is this thought: "People make mistakes. You can either let it eat away at you from the inside until you're hollowed out and have nothing good left. Or you can learn to accept that none of us can change our past. All we can do is move forward and make something better out of the rest of our days."
These Hope Crossing books just continue to grow on me. I love the characters and feel closer to them with every book. RaeAnne Thayne writes a wonderful story full of issues, compassion, love and community that draws me right into every one of her books!
As always, RaeAnne Thayne adds an element of seriousness to her stories that make them superior to the average romance. Special in this book is this thought: "People make mistakes. You can either let it eat away at you from the inside until you're hollowed out and have nothing good left. Or you can learn to accept that none of us can change our past. All we can do is move forward and make something better out of the rest of our days."
These Hope Crossing books just continue to grow on me. I love the characters and feel closer to them with every book. RaeAnne Thayne writes a wonderful story full of issues, compassion, love and community that draws me right into every one of her books!
May 23, 2013
The 4th book in The Hope Crossing series. If you love reading about small towns than this series is for you. I just loved getting to know the people of Hope Crossing. Alex is finally offered her dream job at the new restaurant being built in town. Sam is the construction foreman who is going to finish building the kitchen. Sparks begin to fly between the two of them. Sam also has a 6 year old little boy who is so adorable. An amazing story about the three of them. Looking forward to more Hope Crossing books.
May 5, 2013
I thought this one was sweet. I wasn't surprised by Alex and her secrets, but was surprised that her friends and family let her have those secrets for all those years.
I really liked how Alex went after Sam at the start, even if their connection scared her off. The slow way that they managed to get to know each other was sweet. It seemed like each one was blindsided with things, but rolled with the punches. Ethan was great in how he bowled over Alex, as was Alex's reaction to him.
The ending was perfect, a great way to showcase what this series represents, family and friends.
I really liked how Alex went after Sam at the start, even if their connection scared her off. The slow way that they managed to get to know each other was sweet. It seemed like each one was blindsided with things, but rolled with the punches. Ethan was great in how he bowled over Alex, as was Alex's reaction to him.
The ending was perfect, a great way to showcase what this series represents, family and friends.
July 30, 2015
Probably my least favourite of the series. 2.5 stars.
I *loathe* "shut him out" plots. I looked forward to this entry in the series because I really enjoy restaurant-based stories. This had so little to do with the restaurant that it was almost a joke.
Of all the books in the series this one is the one that feels phoned in. I didn't feel any sizzle between the leads at all. And honestly when I pick up a light harlequin I don't want to read about someone wasting away from Cancer. I get enough of that in life. It's what I am reading to escape from.
I *loathe* "shut him out" plots. I looked forward to this entry in the series because I really enjoy restaurant-based stories. This had so little to do with the restaurant that it was almost a joke.
Of all the books in the series this one is the one that feels phoned in. I didn't feel any sizzle between the leads at all. And honestly when I pick up a light harlequin I don't want to read about someone wasting away from Cancer. I get enough of that in life. It's what I am reading to escape from.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2013
3.5 stars
This is another good addition to this series and I look forward to reading this series. All are nice reads, but some just have a little bit more than others. Plus, it's nice to see how the previous cast of characters are doing.
Alex isn't looking for love, but she and Sam find it anyway in this friendly home town.
This is another good addition to this series and I look forward to reading this series. All are nice reads, but some just have a little bit more than others. Plus, it's nice to see how the previous cast of characters are doing.
Alex isn't looking for love, but she and Sam find it anyway in this friendly home town.
October 13, 2014
3.75 stars
I really am enjoying this series. The characters are generally believable, the setting gorgeous (though I may be biased on that front), and the town idyllic. The stories often pull at my heart strings in multiple ways. I really wish I hadn't let quite so much time pass between reading books in this series.
I really am enjoying this series. The characters are generally believable, the setting gorgeous (though I may be biased on that front), and the town idyllic. The stories often pull at my heart strings in multiple ways. I really wish I hadn't let quite so much time pass between reading books in this series.
January 2, 2014
My least fave of the series. The character of Alex is set up to be almost bipolar, yet when we do find out what drives her, I thought, big whoop. The character of Sam was much more believable & fleshed out. An entire book could be written about Sam & his son, Ethan.
November 8, 2012
I am currently a blubbering mess and will write the review soon... I want to move to Hope's Crossing...
January 14, 2014
As with many Thayne books, there is a lack of sizzle, and in fact the principals don't even seem to like each other much. So, eh. I enjoyed catching up with some minor characters though.
August 17, 2014
I am enjoying this series, though I found the tone of this story a bit melancholy.
March 27, 2015
This is the only book by RaeAnne a Thayne that I didn't like, a weak unlikeable heroine and a boring plot
August 5, 2018
Always love visiting Hope's Crossing. Follow Alexandra and Sam on their road to a happily ever after
October 31, 2017
soooo i read Sugar Pine Trail and thought it was cute and wanted to read the start of the series. turns out the Caine's started in the hope's crossing series and not the haven point series.
ok the entire hope's crossing series was like a hallmark movie with a lil nicholas sparks thrown in. cuz in hallmark there is not as much bad stuff going like folks dying and whatnot, nick sparks likes death or dismemberment or some awful tragedy.
i enjoyed the hope's crossing series for that hallmark feel.
they were cute. they are good lil romances. no graphic sex, a lil bit of violence. a lot of dogs, kids, and family members. and nothing was mysterious. oh she tried, but nope. she tried to be all nicholas sparks and throw in some twists but nope it was hallmark. you saw the "surprises" coming a mile away. i really liked the big family and small picturesque town aspect. so hallmark.
even though i read them all one after another, the stories and characters were sufficiently different that i could enjoy each one.
not so with the haven point series. they have all the same stuff yet the no hallmark feels. except for the first one in the series(Snow Angel Cove)and the last oneSugar Pine Trail). (both of which have Caine's in them- like everyone of the hope crossing series does.) i am almost done with that series and it sucks. it started out very good with adian caine but it went downhill form there. why? cuz every book was VERY similar to the first one. i am literally recognizing entire phrasing. (like i am positive she used some of the exact sentences in all the books!) the lead characters all remind me of the previous leads. and they are so very quick to judge. like how can you be attracted to a person and feel this "hunger" (she uses that word A LOT) when you think they are mean or nasty or uptight or something else very unpleasant? the situations are even similar (crutches for everyone!) also every book is i really NEED help but i don't want your help but i guess i'll take it and try to be grateful and oh now i am in love.
i am saddened by this since i really enjoyed hope's crossing and the first and last book in the haven point series. oh welll...
ok the entire hope's crossing series was like a hallmark movie with a lil nicholas sparks thrown in. cuz in hallmark there is not as much bad stuff going like folks dying and whatnot, nick sparks likes death or dismemberment or some awful tragedy.
i enjoyed the hope's crossing series for that hallmark feel.
they were cute. they are good lil romances. no graphic sex, a lil bit of violence. a lot of dogs, kids, and family members. and nothing was mysterious. oh she tried, but nope. she tried to be all nicholas sparks and throw in some twists but nope it was hallmark. you saw the "surprises" coming a mile away. i really liked the big family and small picturesque town aspect. so hallmark.
even though i read them all one after another, the stories and characters were sufficiently different that i could enjoy each one.
not so with the haven point series. they have all the same stuff yet the no hallmark feels. except for the first one in the series(Snow Angel Cove)and the last oneSugar Pine Trail). (both of which have Caine's in them- like everyone of the hope crossing series does.) i am almost done with that series and it sucks. it started out very good with adian caine but it went downhill form there. why? cuz every book was VERY similar to the first one. i am literally recognizing entire phrasing. (like i am positive she used some of the exact sentences in all the books!) the lead characters all remind me of the previous leads. and they are so very quick to judge. like how can you be attracted to a person and feel this "hunger" (she uses that word A LOT) when you think they are mean or nasty or uptight or something else very unpleasant? the situations are even similar (crutches for everyone!) also every book is i really NEED help but i don't want your help but i guess i'll take it and try to be grateful and oh now i am in love.
i am saddened by this since i really enjoyed hope's crossing and the first and last book in the haven point series. oh welll...
December 11, 2025
When I first started this series, I was looking for something similar in tastes to the Virgin River series. While that will always remain a favorite to me, this series overall is similar in theme and quite enjoyable.
This installment focuses on Alex, a sibling to some of the characters featured in the prior books. Alex is a trained chef and is getting ready to open a new restaurant in Hope's Crossing backed by her sister's husband. This is finally Alex's opportunity to have her own kitchen. When the contractor gets delayed, Brodie calls upon Sam, a professional he has used for jobs in another city, to come finish the job. Sam is thrilled as he is looking for a quieter town where he and his son, 6-year-old Ethan to settle down. When Sam and Alex meet sparks fly. However, both have some previous baggage to overcome and while Sam is willing to take a risk, Alex isn't. Can Sam and Ethan change her mind.
I have to admit this is probably my least favorite of the series so far, but it was still good. I loved Sam and Ethan and enjoyed some of the side characters, especially the elderly lady Alex checks in on daily to provide food and assistance. Yet Alex was rather annoying and while her behaviors made sense in the end, I wish I had an idea earlier what had happened to make her such a player with the men in her life. Also, early on in the book, Alex finds a stray chocolate lab she names Leo running loose in town. She takes the dog in and tries to find his owners but has no luck. Leo plays a pretty big role in the majority of the book, which was a pleasant surprise and let's be honest, definitely bumped my rating up a star/paw.
There are four more books in this series and I'm hoping I can conclude this series in 2026. They are great to throw in here and there among some of my heavier, darker reads and I look forward to picking them up.
This installment focuses on Alex, a sibling to some of the characters featured in the prior books. Alex is a trained chef and is getting ready to open a new restaurant in Hope's Crossing backed by her sister's husband. This is finally Alex's opportunity to have her own kitchen. When the contractor gets delayed, Brodie calls upon Sam, a professional he has used for jobs in another city, to come finish the job. Sam is thrilled as he is looking for a quieter town where he and his son, 6-year-old Ethan to settle down. When Sam and Alex meet sparks fly. However, both have some previous baggage to overcome and while Sam is willing to take a risk, Alex isn't. Can Sam and Ethan change her mind.
I have to admit this is probably my least favorite of the series so far, but it was still good. I loved Sam and Ethan and enjoyed some of the side characters, especially the elderly lady Alex checks in on daily to provide food and assistance. Yet Alex was rather annoying and while her behaviors made sense in the end, I wish I had an idea earlier what had happened to make her such a player with the men in her life. Also, early on in the book, Alex finds a stray chocolate lab she names Leo running loose in town. She takes the dog in and tries to find his owners but has no luck. Leo plays a pretty big role in the majority of the book, which was a pleasant surprise and let's be honest, definitely bumped my rating up a star/paw.
There are four more books in this series and I'm hoping I can conclude this series in 2026. They are great to throw in here and there among some of my heavier, darker reads and I look forward to picking them up.
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