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Cross Creek #1
Crossing Hearts
Hunter Cross has no regrets. Having left his football prospects behind the day he graduated high school, he’s happy to carry out his legacy on his family’s farm in the foothills of the Shenandoah. But when a shoulder injury puts him face-to-face with the high school sweetheart who abandoned town—and him—twelve years ago, Hunter’s simple life gets a lot more complicated.
Emerson Montgomery has secrets. Refusing to divulge why she left her job as a hotshot physical therapist for a pro football team, she struggles to readjust to life in the hometown she left behind. The more time she spends with Hunter, the more Emerson finds herself wanting to trust him with the diagnosis of MS that has turned her world upside down.
But revealing secrets comes with a price. Can Hunter and Emerson rekindle their past love? Or will the realities of the present—and the trust that goes with them—burn that bridge for good?
Emerson Montgomery has secrets. Refusing to divulge why she left her job as a hotshot physical therapist for a pro football team, she struggles to readjust to life in the hometown she left behind. The more time she spends with Hunter, the more Emerson finds herself wanting to trust him with the diagnosis of MS that has turned her world upside down.
But revealing secrets comes with a price. Can Hunter and Emerson rekindle their past love? Or will the realities of the present—and the trust that goes with them—burn that bridge for good?
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2017
832 people are currently reading
1869 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
61 books2,678 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
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February 7, 2017
Crossing Hearts is book one in the Cross Creek series by Kimberly Kincaid. This is such a wonderful story of getting a second chance at love. And the setting is in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.
Emerson Montgomery never planned to return to the small town of Millhaven where she grew up. But circumstances in her life chose otherwise. She’s been gone twelve years and had a lucrative job she loved as a physical therapist for a pro-football team. But after receiving the life altering news that she had Multiple Sclerosis, she couldn’t withstand the busy life required to do her job. So she went back to her home town to start a small practice there. She is keeping her medical diagnosis secret. No one knows. How could she expect people to depend on her for their health if her own was failing her?
Emerson knew that she would eventually have to see her high school sweetheart, Hunter Cross. But she never thought it would be as a patient. And then there he was, standing in her shop with a look of shock on his face. Twelve long years and all she had to do was look at him and her stomach filled immediately with butterflies. Yep, it was still there even after all this time.
Hunter loves his life living and working on Cross Creek Farm with his two brothers and his dad. He loves the farm, the community, and the small town life. It’s all he’s ever wanted. Except for his high school sweetheart. He thought she was it for him, that she was his forever. But when they finished high school, she left, breaking his heart, until now. She’s back.
Hunter and Emerson slowly get reacquainted and it doesn’t take long for those old feelings to reignite. But what does take time is for trust to grow again. Hunter has no idea why Emerson came back. And both of them can’t help but to wonder, “What if?” What if she’d stayed? Would they be married now with a bunch of kids? Would they be happy?
As Emerson gets more and more comfortable with Hunter, she opens up more and finally reveals why she had to leave all those years ago. Why she had no choice. And eventually, she reveals her biggest secret of all, her health issues. But she feels in her heart and soul that she can trust Hunter with her secret. That she can let him in, let him help her.
“Emerson realized that when she was in Hunter’s arms, she didn’t just feel normal. For the first time she could remember, she felt whole.”
First of all, I wanted to say that I recently moved to the country. And I spent the morning outside preparing for what will soon be my very first springtime vegetable garden at our new house. It was a complete coincidence that I just read this book. Hunter lives on a working farm and there is much talk about their fabulous fresh produce they grow. It made me so excited to get started growing things myself. Isn’t it funny how things like that work sometimes?!
Emerson craved the closeness that a family can provide and she found that in Hunter’s family. She got involved with some of their projects and loved feeling like she belonged, that she was accepted, that she mattered. I loved Hunter’s family. His brother, Eli, was a character. And there is definitely a story there between Eli and the oldest brother, Owen. I look forward to finding out more about that. I also loved Emerson’s friend, Daisy. I hope we get more of her in the future as well.
This was a beautiful, heartwarming book with plenty of steamy sexy times and plenty of sigh worthy moments. Both Emerson and Hunter warmed my heart and I can’t wait to read more about this family and Cross Creek Farm.
Emerson Montgomery never planned to return to the small town of Millhaven where she grew up. But circumstances in her life chose otherwise. She’s been gone twelve years and had a lucrative job she loved as a physical therapist for a pro-football team. But after receiving the life altering news that she had Multiple Sclerosis, she couldn’t withstand the busy life required to do her job. So she went back to her home town to start a small practice there. She is keeping her medical diagnosis secret. No one knows. How could she expect people to depend on her for their health if her own was failing her?
Emerson knew that she would eventually have to see her high school sweetheart, Hunter Cross. But she never thought it would be as a patient. And then there he was, standing in her shop with a look of shock on his face. Twelve long years and all she had to do was look at him and her stomach filled immediately with butterflies. Yep, it was still there even after all this time.
Hunter loves his life living and working on Cross Creek Farm with his two brothers and his dad. He loves the farm, the community, and the small town life. It’s all he’s ever wanted. Except for his high school sweetheart. He thought she was it for him, that she was his forever. But when they finished high school, she left, breaking his heart, until now. She’s back.
Hunter and Emerson slowly get reacquainted and it doesn’t take long for those old feelings to reignite. But what does take time is for trust to grow again. Hunter has no idea why Emerson came back. And both of them can’t help but to wonder, “What if?” What if she’d stayed? Would they be married now with a bunch of kids? Would they be happy?
As Emerson gets more and more comfortable with Hunter, she opens up more and finally reveals why she had to leave all those years ago. Why she had no choice. And eventually, she reveals her biggest secret of all, her health issues. But she feels in her heart and soul that she can trust Hunter with her secret. That she can let him in, let him help her.
“Emerson realized that when she was in Hunter’s arms, she didn’t just feel normal. For the first time she could remember, she felt whole.”
First of all, I wanted to say that I recently moved to the country. And I spent the morning outside preparing for what will soon be my very first springtime vegetable garden at our new house. It was a complete coincidence that I just read this book. Hunter lives on a working farm and there is much talk about their fabulous fresh produce they grow. It made me so excited to get started growing things myself. Isn’t it funny how things like that work sometimes?!
Emerson craved the closeness that a family can provide and she found that in Hunter’s family. She got involved with some of their projects and loved feeling like she belonged, that she was accepted, that she mattered. I loved Hunter’s family. His brother, Eli, was a character. And there is definitely a story there between Eli and the oldest brother, Owen. I look forward to finding out more about that. I also loved Emerson’s friend, Daisy. I hope we get more of her in the future as well.
This was a beautiful, heartwarming book with plenty of steamy sexy times and plenty of sigh worthy moments. Both Emerson and Hunter warmed my heart and I can’t wait to read more about this family and Cross Creek Farm.
July 21, 2021
Readers! I am so excited for the re-release of Crossing Hearts on August 3, 2021!
What does a "re-release" mean? Well, it means that the book will be re-published by me as an Indie contemporary romance. It'll get a new cover, and a new bonus epilogue, but it will contain the same slow, Southern second-chance romance as before.
So: Same story, new updates! No cliffhangers, all hard-fought happily ever after. Can't wait to bring you (back!) to Cross Creek.
What does a "re-release" mean? Well, it means that the book will be re-published by me as an Indie contemporary romance. It'll get a new cover, and a new bonus epilogue, but it will contain the same slow, Southern second-chance romance as before.
So: Same story, new updates! No cliffhangers, all hard-fought happily ever after. Can't wait to bring you (back!) to Cross Creek.
February 17, 2017
3 Crossing Hearts Stars - ❤ Audible Review HERE ❤
B club listen. I have mixed feelings about it.
It was a feel good book, with a HEA. So I can’t help but like that.
Hunter is a character I liked and I didn’t. I think I felt like the woe is me kind of fella, he does get better as the book goes along.
Emerson, I liked her spunk and her determination but I have to say I didn’t like that she fought soooooooo hard to hide. I mean if that had been a patient of hers she would have put her foot down and told them suck it up and be truthful.
What I loved about this book was how these two characters were just drawn to each other. No matter that time and hurt feeling had them apart for so many years.
There were a few digs thrown about that but overall they were really good to each other.
The narrator was good, I liked how she brought the characters there own emotions. I would listen to her again for sure.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
B club listen. I have mixed feelings about it.
It was a feel good book, with a HEA. So I can’t help but like that.
Hunter is a character I liked and I didn’t. I think I felt like the woe is me kind of fella, he does get better as the book goes along.
Emerson, I liked her spunk and her determination but I have to say I didn’t like that she fought soooooooo hard to hide. I mean if that had been a patient of hers she would have put her foot down and told them suck it up and be truthful.
What I loved about this book was how these two characters were just drawn to each other. No matter that time and hurt feeling had them apart for so many years.
There were a few digs thrown about that but overall they were really good to each other.
The narrator was good, I liked how she brought the characters there own emotions. I would listen to her again for sure.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
May 5, 2022
Crossing Hearts was sweet, sensual and such a fabulous second chance romance. The way the story evolved reminded me of honey slowly pouring out of a jar. It was beautifully slow and mesmerizing. While Emerson and Hunter met again, right from the start, we got little pieces of their past here and there. And we didn't fully learn all there was about Emerson and Hunter until further into the story. As someone who is more of a fast paced kinda girl, I found myself loving every single second of it! So if you adore small town stories, sexy cowboys and strong females then definitely give this one a try!
Emerson and Hunter dated in high school, and they were so serious that Hunter even proposed to her. She not only turned him down, but left the state for college, leaving him with his heart completely shattered. Twelve years later, Emerson left her high profile career, her NFL boyfriend and was back in their tiny town as a physical therapist. And Hunter was about to be her very first client!
While they tried their hardest to have a professional relationship, over time chemistry started to appear. Not only was their friendship still there, but their past was definitely not buried. Their old emotions were just begging to be released. It slowly started to come out in their physical therapy sessions, their little town's festival and it got to the point that there was no way they could ignore it any longer. The sexual tension between the two of them was so hot. And when they finally caved, ohhh the sex scenes were even hotter!
I found myself easily obsessed with Hunter. He was strong, caring, determined, a hard worker and such a good guy. As someone who usually prefers the bad boys, I was shocked how hard I fell for him. His feelings were so real, and I loved watching him struggle between caring for Emerson yet being guarded because of their past. And while I liked Emerson, it took me a little bit longer to warm up to her. You see, she could be so stubborn at times. She didn't want anyone to know her medical condition, let alone help her in any way. But over time, Hunter started to wiggle his way into her heart, and I found myself caring for Emerson too. I so wanted them to make it this time around, and I found myself rooting for their HEA!
In Crossing Hearts, you definitely feel all of the small town charm. And on top of that, I loved Hunter's family! His dad and two brothers worked with him on their farm, and I adored how true their family dynamics felt. Yeah they had some problems, and I can't wait to see how it plays out in the future books, but I loved learning about all of them. And I loved even more how Emerson fit so effortlessly in with Hunter's family. Scenes that just involved them eating dinner together, always felt like so much more.
Crossing Hearts had a ton of character and soul. I absolutely adored this book, and I'm so excited to read the rest of Kimberly Kincaid's books. The next two books in this series are Hunter's brothers stories, and I can't wait to dive into them!
*ARC kindly provided by Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
He’d forgotten her once. He could damn well stick to forgetting her again.
Emerson and Hunter dated in high school, and they were so serious that Hunter even proposed to her. She not only turned him down, but left the state for college, leaving him with his heart completely shattered. Twelve years later, Emerson left her high profile career, her NFL boyfriend and was back in their tiny town as a physical therapist. And Hunter was about to be her very first client!
“I’m even wondering what if right now. Like what if”— he paused, but just long enough to fully face her on the bench, letting his opposite hand trail up the outside of her arm—“ you let me get closer to you.”
While they tried their hardest to have a professional relationship, over time chemistry started to appear. Not only was their friendship still there, but their past was definitely not buried. Their old emotions were just begging to be released. It slowly started to come out in their physical therapy sessions, their little town's festival and it got to the point that there was no way they could ignore it any longer. The sexual tension between the two of them was so hot. And when they finally caved, ohhh the sex scenes were even hotter!
“Hunter,”she whispered, her breath hot on his hand, and just like that, he was done waiting. He’d wanted his mouth on hers for twelve goddamn years. He might be light-years away from playing it safe right now, but he didn’t even want to wait another twelve seconds.
He just wanted her.
I found myself easily obsessed with Hunter. He was strong, caring, determined, a hard worker and such a good guy. As someone who usually prefers the bad boys, I was shocked how hard I fell for him. His feelings were so real, and I loved watching him struggle between caring for Emerson yet being guarded because of their past. And while I liked Emerson, it took me a little bit longer to warm up to her. You see, she could be so stubborn at times. She didn't want anyone to know her medical condition, let alone help her in any way. But over time, Hunter started to wiggle his way into her heart, and I found myself caring for Emerson too. I so wanted them to make it this time around, and I found myself rooting for their HEA!
“Don’t worry. I’ve got you, Em. I won’t let go.”
As he settled against the bedsheets with her nestled in close, Emerson realized that when she was in Hunter’s arms, she didn’t just feel normal.
For the first time she could remember, she felt whole.
In Crossing Hearts, you definitely feel all of the small town charm. And on top of that, I loved Hunter's family! His dad and two brothers worked with him on their farm, and I adored how true their family dynamics felt. Yeah they had some problems, and I can't wait to see how it plays out in the future books, but I loved learning about all of them. And I loved even more how Emerson fit so effortlessly in with Hunter's family. Scenes that just involved them eating dinner together, always felt like so much more.
"I don’t think I realized it until now, but what I’ve been waiting for is you. It’s always been you. And this time, I’m not letting you slip away." - Hunter
Crossing Hearts had a ton of character and soul. I absolutely adored this book, and I'm so excited to read the rest of Kimberly Kincaid's books. The next two books in this series are Hunter's brothers stories, and I can't wait to dive into them!
*ARC kindly provided by Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
February 4, 2017
Three and a half stars.
Emerson Montgomery has returned to her hometown of Millhaven after vowing never to return. She's left behind her prestigious job as a physical therapist to the Las Vegas Viking football team and her star running back boyfriend Lance Devlin. Emerson has returned to her hometown and her overbearing parents because she is sick, her exact diagnosis is not revealed for a while so I won't spoiler it, but she doesn't want anyone to know. Her rationale is that her parents already treat her like a child who doesn't know what is best for her, if they fond out she was sick they would be relentless.
Emerson's first patient is Hunter Cross, her high school boyfriend who proposed to her the day she left Millhaven - talk about the awks! As Emerson works with Hunter on his shoulder, which he injured falling out of a barn loft, they set aside the pain from all those years ago and develop a friendship. But how far can Emerson take the friendship when she is hiding such a big secret.
I felt as if this was three books mashed together and the joins were a bit too clear. The first book is the second chance romance, coming home to your first love. The second, which took up a solid chunk of the middle of the book (from about 45% to 65% on my Kindle) was non-stop sex (which apparently was never affected by Emerson's illness). I have to confess I just skimmed over this bit because there was so little plot to go with it. The final, was dealing with Emerson's illness. Now I initially thought that the author also had this illness because it took up so much of the book (I read a book last year in which the author had suffered from the illness and she brought a LOT of detail and realism to the novel, although I felt it slightly off-balanced the story), but on reflection I think that Emerson's illness was a bit too Hollywood (twinges at work and forcing her to go to bed at 7:30 in the evening but doesn't stop her having vigorous sex or helping Hunter's family) and overlooked when not necessary for the plot.
I also felt that the plot was a bit busy. There was the rekindled romance between Emerson and Hunter, the tensions between Hunter's brothers, the tensions with Emerson's parents, the problems with Hunter's father and the farm, the unpleasantness from other women when Emerson returned - maybe if there hadn't been the sexterlude in the middle these storylines could have been fleshed-out more?
On the positive side, Kimberly Kincaid writes interesting characters, there's no manufactured angst and her writing draws you in. I will definitely be looking for other books in the series.
Recommended for lovers of second chance romances, small towns and medical dramas.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Emerson Montgomery has returned to her hometown of Millhaven after vowing never to return. She's left behind her prestigious job as a physical therapist to the Las Vegas Viking football team and her star running back boyfriend Lance Devlin. Emerson has returned to her hometown and her overbearing parents because she is sick, her exact diagnosis is not revealed for a while so I won't spoiler it, but she doesn't want anyone to know. Her rationale is that her parents already treat her like a child who doesn't know what is best for her, if they fond out she was sick they would be relentless.
Emerson's first patient is Hunter Cross, her high school boyfriend who proposed to her the day she left Millhaven - talk about the awks! As Emerson works with Hunter on his shoulder, which he injured falling out of a barn loft, they set aside the pain from all those years ago and develop a friendship. But how far can Emerson take the friendship when she is hiding such a big secret.
I felt as if this was three books mashed together and the joins were a bit too clear. The first book is the second chance romance, coming home to your first love. The second, which took up a solid chunk of the middle of the book (from about 45% to 65% on my Kindle) was non-stop sex (which apparently was never affected by Emerson's illness). I have to confess I just skimmed over this bit because there was so little plot to go with it. The final, was dealing with Emerson's illness. Now I initially thought that the author also had this illness because it took up so much of the book (I read a book last year in which the author had suffered from the illness and she brought a LOT of detail and realism to the novel, although I felt it slightly off-balanced the story), but on reflection I think that Emerson's illness was a bit too Hollywood (twinges at work and forcing her to go to bed at 7:30 in the evening but doesn't stop her having vigorous sex or helping Hunter's family) and overlooked when not necessary for the plot.
I also felt that the plot was a bit busy. There was the rekindled romance between Emerson and Hunter, the tensions between Hunter's brothers, the tensions with Emerson's parents, the problems with Hunter's father and the farm, the unpleasantness from other women when Emerson returned - maybe if there hadn't been the sexterlude in the middle these storylines could have been fleshed-out more?
On the positive side, Kimberly Kincaid writes interesting characters, there's no manufactured angst and her writing draws you in. I will definitely be looking for other books in the series.
Recommended for lovers of second chance romances, small towns and medical dramas.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
March 6, 2017
Thank God, I finished it. I read Skin Deep by Kimberly Kincaid and loved every single moment. So, I was wandering along my merry way on Netgalley and saw this book and that well why not. The first book you read by her was pretty awesome but in all honesty? This not so much.
Crossing Hearts is long winded. I am a fan of small town romances but this just didn’t hit the usual spot like a small town romance does. Second chance romances are a hit and miss with me anyway.
The writing was good but not a lot happened it did pick up at the end though so there is that or maybe it was because I saw the light at the end of the tunnel and finished it. But fifty pages less maybe would have been better.
I was up for reading about a heroine with a disability and although this plays a vital part in the story her emotions in trying to except the illness that she has drove me up the bloody wall. There is a difference between being stubborn and putting your own health on the line so that no one realizes that you are sick.
Hunter Cross is one of the most patient Heroes ever. If I was him I would have cut my losses but love can make you blind. The one thing that is vital that would have had a great impact on the book is that if Emerson hadn’t become sick then she wouldn’t have moved back home which also means that Emerson and Hunter wouldn’t have crossed paths and never would have gotten back together. So on top of everything else this is tricky.
The reasons for Emerson leaving where not understandable. But I guess it adds some depth to the plot.
I won't continue with the series.
Review can be found @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
July 31, 2021
Crossing Hearts is book #1 of the Cross Creek series by Kimberly Kincaid. A second chance, slow burn contemporary romance told from both points of view, with HEA ending. Trope: small town
Emerson Montgomery had achieved her goal of being a successful physical therapist working for a pro football team, but after her MS diagnosis she goes back to her hometown of Millhaven where she’ll have to face her still angry ex and even more handsome than ever, Hunter Cross. She just never thought she’d see him as a patient, and after twelve years she’s still affected by him.
Hunter has always loved the small town life and is happy working in his family’s farm with his brothers and father, the only thing missing is the girl that left him brokenhearted. But now she’s back and their chemistry never died down. But trust isn’t so easily regained especially when Emerson is keeping secrets from the past and present.
Hunter and Emerson’s story is heartwarmingly sweet and steamy. I loved Hunter’s family and Emerson’s friend Daisy. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3yhv5nT
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
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Emerson Montgomery had achieved her goal of being a successful physical therapist working for a pro football team, but after her MS diagnosis she goes back to her hometown of Millhaven where she’ll have to face her still angry ex and even more handsome than ever, Hunter Cross. She just never thought she’d see him as a patient, and after twelve years she’s still affected by him.
Hunter has always loved the small town life and is happy working in his family’s farm with his brothers and father, the only thing missing is the girl that left him brokenhearted. But now she’s back and their chemistry never died down. But trust isn’t so easily regained especially when Emerson is keeping secrets from the past and present.
Hunter and Emerson’s story is heartwarmingly sweet and steamy. I loved Hunter’s family and Emerson’s friend Daisy. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3yhv5nT
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
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April 23, 2017
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 5*
Trope: Reconciliation romance
Chemistry: Simmering
One-Sentence Summary: Small town reconciliation romance
Review: When I first saw a that there was a new release for Kimberly Kincaid I was filled with a mix of emotions - excitement and then disappointment that it wasn't a new addition in her Rescue Squad series and then excitement again as I realised that hopefully this means that she has two series on the go and therefore multiple books for me to look forward to this year!
Well, this new venture into the world of small town living and farming definitely did not disappoint. This is a reconciliation romance at heart but it was nicely paced and the two characters didn't just fall into bed and pick up where they left off immediately. Additionally, the addition of Emerson's illness added a unique layer absent from most romance - can the hot sexy guy really be perfect enough to be willing to commit to someone with a debilitating illness (*spoiler alert* Yes he can!).
Add in some family drama on both sides (Emerson trying to avoid her controlling parents and Hunter trying to referee his two brothers) and you've got all the makings of a perfect small town romance.
Now I'm eager to get my paws on Eli and Owen's stories and more importantly find out what the hell is going on between those two brothers!
Originally posted @ Love's A State Of Mind
January 12, 2017
Kimberly Kincaid’s new series is quite a charming, heartfelt one and definitely one of the more engaging small-town stories that I’ve read for some time.
Hunter Cross—farmer extraordinaire—captured my imagination from the start and as foreign as this farming thing is to me, he’s vividly drawn enough that his bond to the farm and family cannot be disputed even as he struggles with an own injury and problems that threaten to weigh him down. An old flame returns though, for reasons that she will not disclose, but as things go, attraction and a shared history might trump that even.
There are many things to like about this book, undoubtedly: the assured writing, the small town feel that Kincaid creates so superbly and the great pacing and development of the relationship that’s supposed to be the HEA this time around. But What I found hard to accept though, was Emerson’s pushing away of the man she walked away from—under the erroneous but ultimately patronising claim that was pretty much ‘I did it for your own good’—12 years ago and her present-day lashing out at him because of her fear of her illness becoming public.
And yet that it was Hunter who has to grovel in the end to fight for their relationship. Far be it from me to dictate how a character deals with the traumatic news of a debilitating illness but I thought Emerson had mostly treated Hunter atrociously from the beginning. Illness or not (which incidentally, doesn’t provide a legitimate excuse for behaving badly), I found it hard to like her as a bona fide heroine because of this.
Kincaid does portray all too well how much less brave (and perhaps irrational) an illness can make a person, but I’d hoped for a less clichéd sort of conflict however, but it seemed as though it was always Hunter who had to make active inroads for the both of them which I hadn’t liked, each time Emerson retreated behind her growing fears.
This is a good start nonetheless; I liked the familial conflict laid out in the Cross family and the brothers’ stories that already lie in wait.
*ARC by netgalley
(definitely grateful, mind)
Hunter Cross—farmer extraordinaire—captured my imagination from the start and as foreign as this farming thing is to me, he’s vividly drawn enough that his bond to the farm and family cannot be disputed even as he struggles with an own injury and problems that threaten to weigh him down. An old flame returns though, for reasons that she will not disclose, but as things go, attraction and a shared history might trump that even.
There are many things to like about this book, undoubtedly: the assured writing, the small town feel that Kincaid creates so superbly and the great pacing and development of the relationship that’s supposed to be the HEA this time around. But What I found hard to accept though, was Emerson’s pushing away of the man she walked away from—under the erroneous but ultimately patronising claim that was pretty much ‘I did it for your own good’—12 years ago and her present-day lashing out at him because of her fear of her illness becoming public.
And yet that it was Hunter who has to grovel in the end to fight for their relationship. Far be it from me to dictate how a character deals with the traumatic news of a debilitating illness but I thought Emerson had mostly treated Hunter atrociously from the beginning. Illness or not (which incidentally, doesn’t provide a legitimate excuse for behaving badly), I found it hard to like her as a bona fide heroine because of this.
Kincaid does portray all too well how much less brave (and perhaps irrational) an illness can make a person, but I’d hoped for a less clichéd sort of conflict however, but it seemed as though it was always Hunter who had to make active inroads for the both of them which I hadn’t liked, each time Emerson retreated behind her growing fears.
This is a good start nonetheless; I liked the familial conflict laid out in the Cross family and the brothers’ stories that already lie in wait.
*ARC by netgalley
(definitely grateful, mind)
February 7, 2017
Loved Hunter and Emerson and this book will definitely be one of my favorites for 2017 and will be reread.
Emerson had to leave after high school, so that she could get away from the pressure her parents were putting her under, but did she really want to leave Hunter behind. Forward to 12 years later when Hunter walks into the Physical Therapist office and she is his doctor. Emerson finally opens up to Hunter about most things, but there is still one BIG secret that she is keeping, because she thinks if anybody finds out what is wrong that they will only think that she is broken beyond repair, especially her parents.
Hunter knows that something just isn't right with Emerson. She's always tired, with dark circles under her eyes, but she always says she is fine and tries to hid everything. Finally, she doesn't have a choice but to open up to Hunter and tell him what is going on with her. He doe's everything that he can to help her, but finally he goes to far and she tells him to leave. Loved their journey and the proof that some people will love you regardless and will stand by you through anything.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Emerson had to leave after high school, so that she could get away from the pressure her parents were putting her under, but did she really want to leave Hunter behind. Forward to 12 years later when Hunter walks into the Physical Therapist office and she is his doctor. Emerson finally opens up to Hunter about most things, but there is still one BIG secret that she is keeping, because she thinks if anybody finds out what is wrong that they will only think that she is broken beyond repair, especially her parents.
Hunter knows that something just isn't right with Emerson. She's always tired, with dark circles under her eyes, but she always says she is fine and tries to hid everything. Finally, she doesn't have a choice but to open up to Hunter and tell him what is going on with her. He doe's everything that he can to help her, but finally he goes to far and she tells him to leave. Loved their journey and the proof that some people will love you regardless and will stand by you through anything.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Read
March 2, 2018DNF at 66%. I tried hard, I really did. I think the story line is decent but I had a problem with the writing style.
January 1, 2020
Emerson broke Hunter's heart when she moved from her small town to pursue her dreams (there was a lot of shit going on that she never spoke to Hunter about). 12 years later she is back. She gave up her job with a pro football team and moved back to her small town. Hunter still resides there, working on his family farm.
This was a frustrating read. I understood why she left and agree that teenage Hunter would have probably followed her and been unhappy. However, it would have been nice for fully realized adult Emerson to just stand up to her parents. I didn't understand why the MS dx was a big secret (going to the next town over for treatment even though it further just because daddy worked at the closest hospital- she would have had the right to medical privacy). Considering she's in the medical field (she was a physical therapist) she knows the value in a supportive network of friends/family. Once she (finally) told Hunter, he did all he could do to help her. Ultimately she finally did come clean and it was just fine. I wish she would have realized this made her a more empathetic and relate-able to her patients and a better PT (once she learned her limits)/caregiver.
And there was something going on between Owen and Eli (Hunter's brothers), but I don't think I care to read the next to find out what it is.
This was a frustrating read. I understood why she left and agree that teenage Hunter would have probably followed her and been unhappy. However, it would have been nice for fully realized adult Emerson to just stand up to her parents. I didn't understand why the MS dx was a big secret (going to the next town over for treatment even though it further just because daddy worked at the closest hospital- she would have had the right to medical privacy). Considering she's in the medical field (she was a physical therapist) she knows the value in a supportive network of friends/family. Once she (finally) told Hunter, he did all he could do to help her. Ultimately she finally did come clean and it was just fine. I wish she would have realized this made her a more empathetic and relate-able to her patients and a better PT (once she learned her limits)/caregiver.
And there was something going on between Owen and Eli (Hunter's brothers), but I don't think I care to read the next to find out what it is.
February 6, 2018
A second chance romance novel <3
I'm actually kind of happy I picked this audio book on my Kindle Account the other day. Yes, it took me less than a day to listen to it. I was bored at work guys - I need my entertainment!
Crossing Hearts is a wonderful dual POV from Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. Emerson was the love of Hunter's life - until she said no to his proposal and walked away. Well, it's been twelve years since then and guess who's back in town? EMERSON PEOPLE!
Of course I started shipping these two the instant they met and no there was no insta anything here because hey, they've dated before.
There's a slow burn between them because they both are freaking hesitant about getting back with each other. HELLO, just do it! However, once the big secret was revealed everything changes for them because now he doesn't have to wonder why she left. He knows now which relieves a huge amount of pressure off of her shoulders.
I loved these two to death. I loved the story. It was a pretty quick listen and ate the whole story up. I can't wait to dive into the second book of this series at work today!
I'm actually kind of happy I picked this audio book on my Kindle Account the other day. Yes, it took me less than a day to listen to it. I was bored at work guys - I need my entertainment!
Crossing Hearts is a wonderful dual POV from Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. Emerson was the love of Hunter's life - until she said no to his proposal and walked away. Well, it's been twelve years since then and guess who's back in town? EMERSON PEOPLE!
Of course I started shipping these two the instant they met and no there was no insta anything here because hey, they've dated before.
There's a slow burn between them because they both are freaking hesitant about getting back with each other. HELLO, just do it! However, once the big secret was revealed everything changes for them because now he doesn't have to wonder why she left. He knows now which relieves a huge amount of pressure off of her shoulders.
I loved these two to death. I loved the story. It was a pretty quick listen and ate the whole story up. I can't wait to dive into the second book of this series at work today!
March 15, 2018
Hunter Cross knows two things: he loves his family and the back-breaking work on the family farm. But he also loved one woman: Emerson Montgomery. And even though time and distance (and no communication) has kept them apart, Hunter’s never quite gotten over her. And quite honestly, neither has Emerson.
And Emerson is back in town. Back in the small town she never wanted to return to. But she needs a place to start over, a place where she’s comfortable, and there’s really no place like home.
And there’s no one quite like Hunter. But when faced with the past and the present, will the two of them forgive and forget and make the future their own?
Swoon. I love a second-chance romance. Add in a cowboy and I’m a happy girl. I loved the dynamic between Hunter and Emerson. How they both saw the other through the lens of an adult but didn’t forget all the good things from their past. I loved how they loved—and damn, were there some sexy lovin’ times goin’ on. But their relationship was very adult—for the most part—and I found myself fully engrossed in their romance. I also loved the Cross family and their brotherly interactions. Eli and Owen’s stories are going to be amazing and I can’t wait for more in this series! ~ Missy, 4 stars
And Emerson is back in town. Back in the small town she never wanted to return to. But she needs a place to start over, a place where she’s comfortable, and there’s really no place like home.
And there’s no one quite like Hunter. But when faced with the past and the present, will the two of them forgive and forget and make the future their own?
Swoon. I love a second-chance romance. Add in a cowboy and I’m a happy girl. I loved the dynamic between Hunter and Emerson. How they both saw the other through the lens of an adult but didn’t forget all the good things from their past. I loved how they loved—and damn, were there some sexy lovin’ times goin’ on. But their relationship was very adult—for the most part—and I found myself fully engrossed in their romance. I also loved the Cross family and their brotherly interactions. Eli and Owen’s stories are going to be amazing and I can’t wait for more in this series! ~ Missy, 4 stars
March 15, 2018
DRC REVIEW T
Hunter and Emerson, it's a second chance romance. Emerson never wanted to come home but being recently diagnosed with MS really limits her options the only person willing to take her on and work with her schedule was her hometown's only physician who was looking to expand her practice to physical therapy. She knew eventually talking to her parents was inevitable but also she knew she would run across Hunter at some point, she just didn't expect him to be her first patient. The only other thing Hunter has loved more than his family's farm is Emerson, he wouldn't have proposed after graduation if he hadn't but she left and broke his heart but know she back again and for Hunter nothing has changed about how he feels about her. It doesn't take much to insert her back into his life. Even after all these years Hunter still knows Emerson better than she thinks and he knows she's hiding something from him. Emerson made the decision not to tell anyone about her MS, but keeping her secret on top of her debilitating disease is wearing her thin.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was a nice start to the series a good introduction to the characters and their way of life. I enjoyed the fact that they were farmers instead of the typical rancher. Hunter is such a great characters and Emerson once she gets past her major issue and gets things sorted out she a wonderful character too. The other Cross brothers oooh boy.
Hunter and Emerson, it's a second chance romance. Emerson never wanted to come home but being recently diagnosed with MS really limits her options the only person willing to take her on and work with her schedule was her hometown's only physician who was looking to expand her practice to physical therapy. She knew eventually talking to her parents was inevitable but also she knew she would run across Hunter at some point, she just didn't expect him to be her first patient. The only other thing Hunter has loved more than his family's farm is Emerson, he wouldn't have proposed after graduation if he hadn't but she left and broke his heart but know she back again and for Hunter nothing has changed about how he feels about her. It doesn't take much to insert her back into his life. Even after all these years Hunter still knows Emerson better than she thinks and he knows she's hiding something from him. Emerson made the decision not to tell anyone about her MS, but keeping her secret on top of her debilitating disease is wearing her thin.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was a nice start to the series a good introduction to the characters and their way of life. I enjoyed the fact that they were farmers instead of the typical rancher. Hunter is such a great characters and Emerson once she gets past her major issue and gets things sorted out she a wonderful character too. The other Cross brothers oooh boy.
February 19, 2017
I wanted to like this book so much more then I actually did. It has a perfect setting and even a decent sounding plot. I am all for second chance love stories but I overall found it boring and slow paced. It felt like it spent a lot of time building to something but the pay off was lukewarm and rushed at the end along with the expected predictably
May 19, 2017
DNF @37% it's just that boring. 100pgs into a 300pg book and they are just now kind of having a tiny lunch date. Zzzzz. Also don't understand why a well educated 30 year old woman would care that much what her parents think, what the neighbors think, blah blah.
And the brothers aren't cute. Just annoying.
Nothing technically wrong with the writing.
And the brothers aren't cute. Just annoying.
Nothing technically wrong with the writing.
Read
March 6, 2017DNF 35% - Boring...
March 22, 2018
4 sexy and sweet stars for CROSSING HEARTS!
When Hunter Cross falls out of the barn loft and jolts his bad rotator cuff, he's sent to the last person he wanted to see, physical therapist Emerson Montgomery. After a few high profile years with a professional football team, Emerson has made the tough decision to head back to Millhaven, VA, where she grew up. She's shocked to see the boy she loved in the man who's now her patient, and try as she might, it's impossible not to be charmed all over again by his sweet, small town nature. But Emerson is hiding a huge secret from everyone in her world, one that could cost her her job, her friends and her life if she's not careful.
CROSSING HEARTS, the first book in the Cross Creek series, was a pretty good read, and one keeping in Ms. Kincaid's usual style combo of sweet and sexy. This time, she's added a really tough disease in there for Emerson, which, depending on whether you enjoy a bit of hiccup-cry with your sexy times, you may not totally dig. I love me some second chance romance type stories, so CROSSING HEARTS made me swoon with Hunter and Emerson's reconnection and subsequent lurrve connection. I also loved the other Cross brothers, Owen and Eli, and can't wait for their stories.
Bottom Line: No OM/OW or sharing; condom use; no BDSM/kink; no sexual assault; no violence/murder.
When Hunter Cross falls out of the barn loft and jolts his bad rotator cuff, he's sent to the last person he wanted to see, physical therapist Emerson Montgomery. After a few high profile years with a professional football team, Emerson has made the tough decision to head back to Millhaven, VA, where she grew up. She's shocked to see the boy she loved in the man who's now her patient, and try as she might, it's impossible not to be charmed all over again by his sweet, small town nature. But Emerson is hiding a huge secret from everyone in her world, one that could cost her her job, her friends and her life if she's not careful.
CROSSING HEARTS, the first book in the Cross Creek series, was a pretty good read, and one keeping in Ms. Kincaid's usual style combo of sweet and sexy. This time, she's added a really tough disease in there for Emerson, which, depending on whether you enjoy a bit of hiccup-cry with your sexy times, you may not totally dig. I love me some second chance romance type stories, so CROSSING HEARTS made me swoon with Hunter and Emerson's reconnection and subsequent lurrve connection. I also loved the other Cross brothers, Owen and Eli, and can't wait for their stories.
Bottom Line: No OM/OW or sharing; condom use; no BDSM/kink; no sexual assault; no violence/murder.
February 11, 2017
I listened to this audiobook for a book club that I am part of and was wildly enthralled with the storyline.
Hunter Cross and Emerson were high school lovers. Hunter proposed, Emerson said no and fled town. Neither thought they'd ever see each other again. Hunter stayed working on Cross Farms all 12 years and loved it and the small town he lived in. Emerson worked as a physical therapist for the Las Vegas Lightning football team (fictional) and was dating one of the star players. Something happened that forces Emerson to move back home after she broke up with her boyfriend and left the team. Now she's back in their small town and trying to start a successful physical therapy practice.
Hunter was working on the farm with his brother and took a half fall that he stopped with his arm and ended up hurting his shoulder. The injury brings him face-to-face with the one who got away, Emerson, and it brings her face-to-face with her very first client since opening her practice in the back of Dr. Norris's practice.
From the get go you know they have this intense spark between them and you know they are going to spend the whole time doing this whole push-pull thing that people do. It's what people do when they feel something intense but are so afraid of being rejected, so afraid of being hurt, so afraid of the other person not feeling the same way....that they create a series of pushes and pulls before they either give in or don't.
What if? What if you and your high school sweetheart that you never got over could rekindle that romance?
This is the story of that journey and it is beautiful.
It reminds me of the movies Sweet Home Alabama and Hope Floats.
Dara Rosenberg does a lovely job of narrating. I found her voice to be very soothing and very easy to listen to. I would definitely listen to other books she narrates.
I've never read Kimberly Kincaid before but I have to say this story was spectacular. It has a down south, awe shucks, small town air about it and it just sucks you in and lets you become part of the lives of these people. You barely remember it's a story.
Hunter Cross and Emerson were high school lovers. Hunter proposed, Emerson said no and fled town. Neither thought they'd ever see each other again. Hunter stayed working on Cross Farms all 12 years and loved it and the small town he lived in. Emerson worked as a physical therapist for the Las Vegas Lightning football team (fictional) and was dating one of the star players. Something happened that forces Emerson to move back home after she broke up with her boyfriend and left the team. Now she's back in their small town and trying to start a successful physical therapy practice.
Hunter was working on the farm with his brother and took a half fall that he stopped with his arm and ended up hurting his shoulder. The injury brings him face-to-face with the one who got away, Emerson, and it brings her face-to-face with her very first client since opening her practice in the back of Dr. Norris's practice.
From the get go you know they have this intense spark between them and you know they are going to spend the whole time doing this whole push-pull thing that people do. It's what people do when they feel something intense but are so afraid of being rejected, so afraid of being hurt, so afraid of the other person not feeling the same way....that they create a series of pushes and pulls before they either give in or don't.
What if? What if you and your high school sweetheart that you never got over could rekindle that romance?
This is the story of that journey and it is beautiful.
It reminds me of the movies Sweet Home Alabama and Hope Floats.
Dara Rosenberg does a lovely job of narrating. I found her voice to be very soothing and very easy to listen to. I would definitely listen to other books she narrates.
I've never read Kimberly Kincaid before but I have to say this story was spectacular. It has a down south, awe shucks, small town air about it and it just sucks you in and lets you become part of the lives of these people. You barely remember it's a story.
February 7, 2017
Hunter Cross was helping his brother Owen on the farm, when Hunter nearly falls from the hayloft and hurts the same shoulder that had ended his high school football career 12 years before. Hunter will need physical therapy; it’s a good thing that Doc Sanders just hired one. Emerson Montgomery is back in Millhaven, the small Virginia town, where she swore she would never set foot again. After her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, Emerson’s life unravelled: her football star boyfriend dumped her, her career with a SuperBowl winning team became too much to handle, and the only place she eventually found work was in her hometown. If she kept quiet, maybe everything would work out alright, and she might even avoid her overbearing parents. Emerson’s hopes are dashed when her very first patient is the man who had asked her to marry her in high school, and from whom she ran away.
I was eagerly waiting for CROSSING HEARTS, and at the same time dreading it. The subject matter is a tricky one, and I must say I was expecting endless angst, misunderstandings galore, handwringing. And I must congratulate Kimberly Kincaid for not falling prey to any of those traps. Ms. Kincaid does a masterful job at tackling a serious illness, parental issues, and Emerson’s running away from Hunter. The author never took the easy way out, but doesn’t dwell on the little things either; CROSSING HEARTS is a very realistic, and extremely compelling book. Emerson’s reasons for her actions are entirely believable; I understood her, I felt her pain – physical and emotional – and I love that there was none of the expected resentment from Hunter’s part for the sudden split. Emerson and Hunter handled every issue like responsible adults, and how they rekindled the romance was both believable and wonderful.
Every character is carefully drawn; the Cross men’s bickering felt real (and how I love Eli!), and Ms. Kincaid has created a small town I loved and can’t wait to revisit. The romance between Emerson and Hunter is touching, emotional, but most of all, I believed in them, in their love, in their acceptance of what is and who they are, and how to make it work the second time around. Hunter is exactly the type of hero I wish we would see more often: a compassionate, good, kind, caring, and hard-working man, who knows what he wants and is willing to work for it. Emerson is also fantastic, and does not reject systematically what is before her.
The writing is flawless, the pace impeccable, the dialogues spot-on, and Ms. Kincaid knew where she was going with her story, and it shows; everything in CROSSING HEARTS is done to perfection. CROSSING HEARTS is proof that you can have a steamy romance with a serious subject and do it with heart and unnecessary drama and unpleasantness. CROSSING HEARTS is Kimberly Kincaid at her absolute best, and I cannot wait to see where this series is going. This is a book that is not to be missed!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I was eagerly waiting for CROSSING HEARTS, and at the same time dreading it. The subject matter is a tricky one, and I must say I was expecting endless angst, misunderstandings galore, handwringing. And I must congratulate Kimberly Kincaid for not falling prey to any of those traps. Ms. Kincaid does a masterful job at tackling a serious illness, parental issues, and Emerson’s running away from Hunter. The author never took the easy way out, but doesn’t dwell on the little things either; CROSSING HEARTS is a very realistic, and extremely compelling book. Emerson’s reasons for her actions are entirely believable; I understood her, I felt her pain – physical and emotional – and I love that there was none of the expected resentment from Hunter’s part for the sudden split. Emerson and Hunter handled every issue like responsible adults, and how they rekindled the romance was both believable and wonderful.
Every character is carefully drawn; the Cross men’s bickering felt real (and how I love Eli!), and Ms. Kincaid has created a small town I loved and can’t wait to revisit. The romance between Emerson and Hunter is touching, emotional, but most of all, I believed in them, in their love, in their acceptance of what is and who they are, and how to make it work the second time around. Hunter is exactly the type of hero I wish we would see more often: a compassionate, good, kind, caring, and hard-working man, who knows what he wants and is willing to work for it. Emerson is also fantastic, and does not reject systematically what is before her.
The writing is flawless, the pace impeccable, the dialogues spot-on, and Ms. Kincaid knew where she was going with her story, and it shows; everything in CROSSING HEARTS is done to perfection. CROSSING HEARTS is proof that you can have a steamy romance with a serious subject and do it with heart and unnecessary drama and unpleasantness. CROSSING HEARTS is Kimberly Kincaid at her absolute best, and I cannot wait to see where this series is going. This is a book that is not to be missed!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
February 5, 2017
Haven’t you ever wondered what if………..
The always amazing Kimberly Kincaid kicks off a new small town series with Crossing Hearts and does so with a book that will worm its way into the heart of every reader who reads it for the simple reason that it’s so beautifully written.
Yes, I admit to being totally biased when it comes to this authors writing. I have been there from the start and watched as she has settled into her writing mojo and written book after book that has gone straight to my keeper/re-read shelf. With this start to a new series, she has absolutely found her small town romance stride and kicks butt as she does.
This book…. I FREAKING LOVED IT. Once again, I am envisioning packing my bag to move to yet another fictional new town, (damn you Kimberly Kincaid, stop doing this to me!!!), where the men are hot, the women feisty, the gossip flows freely and I can totally see myself fitting in.
While this is the first book in the series, so there is a lot of world building, you forget that very quickly as you start to feel like you’ve known these characters and this town forever and a very long day. That makes this reader very happy.
Add in the wonderful love story that evolves from an accident that brings high school sweethearts Hunter and Emmerson back into each other’s lives and asks the question, haven’t you ever wondered what if? I think Hunter answers that perfectly, even if it made me spring a leak.
These two have a history that will call to every romantic bone in your body, teenage lovers who break up only to be
brought back together by fate. The passion between Hunter and Emmerson is evident from the first and I loved seeing it grow as they learnt the new sides of each other they carry now as adults and how that first blush of love is re-ignited and burns strong.
I absolutely have fallen head over heels for the Cross men (yes, all of them. Just you wait and see, you will too.) and I have a huge girl crush on Emmerson. Yes she’s got the wrong idea about how to handle her illness, but it just made me love her more. She is so tough, strong and hard headed, LOL. But that’s what makes her lovable and Hunter too for being the man that he is and standing beside her. Cue the swoons.
Sorry if I’ve rambled on, but my head is spinning with too many words about how much I loved this book and how much I am already anticipating the next one. I need to know why Hunter’s brothers Eli and Owen snipe at each other and okay, I want to see Mr Cross again. I’m more than ready to move to Cross Creek just to stalk those Cross men.
What a way to kick start a new series Kimberly Kincaid. Well done indeed. I already hear Hunter and Emmerson calling for a re-read. Do yourself a favour small town romance lovers and read this book, if you aren’t already addicted to this author, you will be soon. Trust me, it only took one book to hook me and I couldn’t be happier.
**As posted on www.thesubclubbooks.com on Tuesday 7th February **
The always amazing Kimberly Kincaid kicks off a new small town series with Crossing Hearts and does so with a book that will worm its way into the heart of every reader who reads it for the simple reason that it’s so beautifully written.
Yes, I admit to being totally biased when it comes to this authors writing. I have been there from the start and watched as she has settled into her writing mojo and written book after book that has gone straight to my keeper/re-read shelf. With this start to a new series, she has absolutely found her small town romance stride and kicks butt as she does.
This book…. I FREAKING LOVED IT. Once again, I am envisioning packing my bag to move to yet another fictional new town, (damn you Kimberly Kincaid, stop doing this to me!!!), where the men are hot, the women feisty, the gossip flows freely and I can totally see myself fitting in.
While this is the first book in the series, so there is a lot of world building, you forget that very quickly as you start to feel like you’ve known these characters and this town forever and a very long day. That makes this reader very happy.
Add in the wonderful love story that evolves from an accident that brings high school sweethearts Hunter and Emmerson back into each other’s lives and asks the question, haven’t you ever wondered what if? I think Hunter answers that perfectly, even if it made me spring a leak.
These two have a history that will call to every romantic bone in your body, teenage lovers who break up only to be
brought back together by fate. The passion between Hunter and Emmerson is evident from the first and I loved seeing it grow as they learnt the new sides of each other they carry now as adults and how that first blush of love is re-ignited and burns strong.
I absolutely have fallen head over heels for the Cross men (yes, all of them. Just you wait and see, you will too.) and I have a huge girl crush on Emmerson. Yes she’s got the wrong idea about how to handle her illness, but it just made me love her more. She is so tough, strong and hard headed, LOL. But that’s what makes her lovable and Hunter too for being the man that he is and standing beside her. Cue the swoons.
Sorry if I’ve rambled on, but my head is spinning with too many words about how much I loved this book and how much I am already anticipating the next one. I need to know why Hunter’s brothers Eli and Owen snipe at each other and okay, I want to see Mr Cross again. I’m more than ready to move to Cross Creek just to stalk those Cross men.
What a way to kick start a new series Kimberly Kincaid. Well done indeed. I already hear Hunter and Emmerson calling for a re-read. Do yourself a favour small town romance lovers and read this book, if you aren’t already addicted to this author, you will be soon. Trust me, it only took one book to hook me and I couldn’t be happier.
**As posted on www.thesubclubbooks.com on Tuesday 7th February **
August 3, 2021
4 star Review Crossing Hearts (Cross Creek #1) by Kimberly Kincaid
This is a second chance at love story for Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. It was, at times an emotional read as Emerson struggles with her recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
Returning to her home town is the last thing Emerson planned on doing but sometimes fates throws you a hand and you have no choice but to deal with it. When she comes face to face with her first physical therapy patient and it turns out to be Hunter, a man she had a relationship with in the past, she knows that this is only the beginning of the hurdles that she will need to overcome.
I had a hard time relating to Emerson, for the life of me I cannot understand why she did not reach out to others for support; although I found Hunter likeable enough. Helping Hunter with his shoulder injury means that they have to spend a lot of time in one another’s company. As they rekindle their friendship the sparks they once shared come to life.
They both have baggage from how their relationship ended previously. Can they come to terms with it and forge a future together? However what happens when the secret that Emerson is hiding is revealed? Will Hunter forgive her?
Merged review:
4 star Review Crossing Hearts (Cross Creek #1) by Kimberly Kincaid
This is a second chance at love story for Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. It was, at times an emotional read as Emerson struggles with her recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
Returning to her home town is the last thing Emerson planned on doing but sometimes fates throws you a hand and you have no choice but to deal with it. When she comes face to face with her first physical therapy patient and it turns out to be Hunter, a man she had a relationship with in the past, she knows that this is only the beginning of the hurdles that she will need to overcome.
I had a hard time relating to Emerson, for the life of me I cannot understand why she did not reach out to others for support; although I found Hunter likeable enough. Helping Hunter with his shoulder injury means that they have to spend a lot of time in one another’s company. As they rekindle their friendship the sparks they once shared come to life.
They both have baggage from how their relationship ended previously. Can they come to terms with it and forge a future together? However what happens when the secret that Emerson is hiding is revealed? Will Hunter forgive her?
This is a second chance at love story for Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. It was, at times an emotional read as Emerson struggles with her recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
Returning to her home town is the last thing Emerson planned on doing but sometimes fates throws you a hand and you have no choice but to deal with it. When she comes face to face with her first physical therapy patient and it turns out to be Hunter, a man she had a relationship with in the past, she knows that this is only the beginning of the hurdles that she will need to overcome.
I had a hard time relating to Emerson, for the life of me I cannot understand why she did not reach out to others for support; although I found Hunter likeable enough. Helping Hunter with his shoulder injury means that they have to spend a lot of time in one another’s company. As they rekindle their friendship the sparks they once shared come to life.
They both have baggage from how their relationship ended previously. Can they come to terms with it and forge a future together? However what happens when the secret that Emerson is hiding is revealed? Will Hunter forgive her?
Merged review:
4 star Review Crossing Hearts (Cross Creek #1) by Kimberly Kincaid
This is a second chance at love story for Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross. It was, at times an emotional read as Emerson struggles with her recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
Returning to her home town is the last thing Emerson planned on doing but sometimes fates throws you a hand and you have no choice but to deal with it. When she comes face to face with her first physical therapy patient and it turns out to be Hunter, a man she had a relationship with in the past, she knows that this is only the beginning of the hurdles that she will need to overcome.
I had a hard time relating to Emerson, for the life of me I cannot understand why she did not reach out to others for support; although I found Hunter likeable enough. Helping Hunter with his shoulder injury means that they have to spend a lot of time in one another’s company. As they rekindle their friendship the sparks they once shared come to life.
They both have baggage from how their relationship ended previously. Can they come to terms with it and forge a future together? However what happens when the secret that Emerson is hiding is revealed? Will Hunter forgive her?
February 7, 2017
OMG Kimberly Kincaid has started a new series people!! It is beyond AMAZING. Hunter and Emerson have a bit of a history, when they were 18 they were in love but circumstances had one leaving Millhaven and the other staying. Emerson is one of the top physical therapists for the Super Bowl Champion Las Vegas Lightning, but soon finds herself back home after being gone for over a decade. Emerson finds it bittersweet to be back home but is excited to be getting her own practice up and running, when low and behold her first patient is Hunter Cross, the same Hunter Cross that Emerson left behind in Millhaven all those years ago!!
Hunter damaged his rotator cuff working in the barn with his older brother and is out of action on the family farm until he goes through some PT, but he wasn't expecting to come face to face with the firey red headed physical therapist a.k.a the one that got away. Emerson Montgomery
As these two start working together Emerson's plan to keep things strictly professional starts to waiver a bit, as they start getting to know each other again and friendships start building back up Emerson finds that's its not all that hard being back home if you leave out the strained relationship with her parents that is.
It definitely makes for an awesome read and I gotta say Kimberly Kincaid knows just how much of sweet sexy hot shot alpha males you need to make for one hell of a story, there's plenty of Chemistry between Hunter and Emerson, the love and friendships between all the characters was just amazing and there were even some healing hearts that added to make an all round massive HIT for the start of this series and I honestly can't wait for more from this awesome author!!!
Hunter damaged his rotator cuff working in the barn with his older brother and is out of action on the family farm until he goes through some PT, but he wasn't expecting to come face to face with the firey red headed physical therapist a.k.a the one that got away. Emerson Montgomery
As these two start working together Emerson's plan to keep things strictly professional starts to waiver a bit, as they start getting to know each other again and friendships start building back up Emerson finds that's its not all that hard being back home if you leave out the strained relationship with her parents that is.
It definitely makes for an awesome read and I gotta say Kimberly Kincaid knows just how much of sweet sexy hot shot alpha males you need to make for one hell of a story, there's plenty of Chemistry between Hunter and Emerson, the love and friendships between all the characters was just amazing and there were even some healing hearts that added to make an all round massive HIT for the start of this series and I honestly can't wait for more from this awesome author!!!
January 3, 2017
Crossing Hearts: 1st in a New Series---Ansoutley Loved this book. Ms. Kincaid really touched upon something in this book and did an excellent job.
Hunter Cross comes face to face with the last person he'd ever think of seeing again in Millhaven.
Emerson Montgomery was his everything.
It's been 12 years. What the heck was she doing back in the town she couldn't wait to leave?
Hunters whole life is the farm he grew up on. Him and his two brothers, and there father. Now he has to deal with seeing Emerson day in and day out for PT. If that's what it took to get back into being up to
par then so be it. He needed to be on top of his game. He couldn't let the past dictate what happened between them now.
Emerson couldn't believe who she was looking at. She broke his heart. Now back
in her home town she needed a change. She was a physical therapist and a darn good one. She had her reasons for leaving. It was the hardest thing she ever had to do.
Now seeing Hunter something inside her triggered a sense of remembering how it was.
But she holds a secret she must keep under wraps.
The most touching book I have read in such a long time. Laughed, cried. Just loved this book.
Hunter Cross comes face to face with the last person he'd ever think of seeing again in Millhaven.
Emerson Montgomery was his everything.
It's been 12 years. What the heck was she doing back in the town she couldn't wait to leave?
Hunters whole life is the farm he grew up on. Him and his two brothers, and there father. Now he has to deal with seeing Emerson day in and day out for PT. If that's what it took to get back into being up to
par then so be it. He needed to be on top of his game. He couldn't let the past dictate what happened between them now.
Emerson couldn't believe who she was looking at. She broke his heart. Now back
in her home town she needed a change. She was a physical therapist and a darn good one. She had her reasons for leaving. It was the hardest thing she ever had to do.
Now seeing Hunter something inside her triggered a sense of remembering how it was.
But she holds a secret she must keep under wraps.
The most touching book I have read in such a long time. Laughed, cried. Just loved this book.
August 3, 2021
4.5 Stars for Crossing Hearts (Cross Creek #1)
If you love second chance, small town romance this book should certainly be on your radar. This is Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross’s emotional journey.
Emerson has returned to her hometown after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, she is struggling to come to terms with MS and truthfully coming home was not her first choice but determined to make the best of it she starts working for the local doctor. Imagine her surprise when her first physical therapy patient is Hunter a man she had a previous relationship with. Hunter can’t believe the woman who was once the love of his life is back in town and as she treats his injured shoulder they start to rekindle their friendship and it’s not long before the feelings they once had soon rush to the surface. But there are a lot hurdles that will need to be overcome if this couple are to truly get their HEA. A couple both dealing with hurt from how their relationship ended previously find themselves looking towards a future but what happens when Emerson reveals the secret she has kept from everyone.
I enjoyed this emotional read, I loved the characters , their story and the residents of Cross Creek and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
If you love second chance, small town romance this book should certainly be on your radar. This is Emerson Montgomery and Hunter Cross’s emotional journey.
Emerson has returned to her hometown after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, she is struggling to come to terms with MS and truthfully coming home was not her first choice but determined to make the best of it she starts working for the local doctor. Imagine her surprise when her first physical therapy patient is Hunter a man she had a previous relationship with. Hunter can’t believe the woman who was once the love of his life is back in town and as she treats his injured shoulder they start to rekindle their friendship and it’s not long before the feelings they once had soon rush to the surface. But there are a lot hurdles that will need to be overcome if this couple are to truly get their HEA. A couple both dealing with hurt from how their relationship ended previously find themselves looking towards a future but what happens when Emerson reveals the secret she has kept from everyone.
I enjoyed this emotional read, I loved the characters , their story and the residents of Cross Creek and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
February 7, 2017
Kimberly Kincaid’s style of writing never fails to pull me into her stories and make me wish I was a part of them. Crossing Hearts is beautifully written and encompasses everything I love about second chances.
Hunter Cross is a smalltown boy who loves where he’s at. His high school sweetheart, Emerson Montgomery couldn’t leave fast enough. She left for college and he stayed to take care of the family farm. When Hunter injures his rotator cuff and he’s sent for physical therapy, imagine his surprise when he runs into Emerson again. For Hunter and Emerson, the more time they spend together, the more they realize their love for each other, never truly faded. Can they get right the second time around or will Emerson’s secret be too much to handle?
Crossing Hearts is highly recommended, in fact, I would suggest buying a copy for your keeper shelf because you will want to read it over and over again.
Hunter Cross is a smalltown boy who loves where he’s at. His high school sweetheart, Emerson Montgomery couldn’t leave fast enough. She left for college and he stayed to take care of the family farm. When Hunter injures his rotator cuff and he’s sent for physical therapy, imagine his surprise when he runs into Emerson again. For Hunter and Emerson, the more time they spend together, the more they realize their love for each other, never truly faded. Can they get right the second time around or will Emerson’s secret be too much to handle?
Crossing Hearts is highly recommended, in fact, I would suggest buying a copy for your keeper shelf because you will want to read it over and over again.
August 7, 2021
4.5 Crossing Hearts♥️
I was super lucky in that I won a copy of this book through a lottery on FB for this author😁 Suffice to say I haven’t read any of these books by Kimberly and I was excited to get stuck into it and I’ve already purchased Eli’s book to start when I get a chance❣️
Emerson moves back to her hometown after being away for more than a decade. She wants a change of pace after working with a sports team in Vegas and this opportunity is the only one that felt right. However, before she’s even been in town for a little while - the boy she left behind, who is now all MAN, suddenly appears before her for some physical therapy as he’s reinsured his shoulder😢
Admittedly, it always takes me a while to really become entrenched in a new story but I really enjoyed the Cross family dynamics and I’m looking forward to reading the next few books and finding out more about Eli and Owen and their sibling rivalry that they have going on😳
I was super lucky in that I won a copy of this book through a lottery on FB for this author😁 Suffice to say I haven’t read any of these books by Kimberly and I was excited to get stuck into it and I’ve already purchased Eli’s book to start when I get a chance❣️
Emerson moves back to her hometown after being away for more than a decade. She wants a change of pace after working with a sports team in Vegas and this opportunity is the only one that felt right. However, before she’s even been in town for a little while - the boy she left behind, who is now all MAN, suddenly appears before her for some physical therapy as he’s reinsured his shoulder😢
Admittedly, it always takes me a while to really become entrenched in a new story but I really enjoyed the Cross family dynamics and I’m looking forward to reading the next few books and finding out more about Eli and Owen and their sibling rivalry that they have going on😳
February 10, 2017
Who ever knew my next book boyfriend would be a farmer! Loved, loved Hunter, sexy, caring and so compassionate. Emerson was amazing so strong, while keeping a secret from the rest of the world. A second chance romance between Hunter and Emerson, oh the sparks do fly.
Small town romance that will take your heart in and not let go. Packed full of emotions, that will bring happy and sad tears to your eyes. I'm loving the Cross family, three strong sexy boys raised by their father. Emerson has a big secret that she kept from everyone, and once she learns to trust Hunter, she is soon able to reveal her secret to her family and friends. Of course, you must have the foodies to be a Kimberly Kincaid book.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for more of the Cross boys, including their Dad!!
Small town romance that will take your heart in and not let go. Packed full of emotions, that will bring happy and sad tears to your eyes. I'm loving the Cross family, three strong sexy boys raised by their father. Emerson has a big secret that she kept from everyone, and once she learns to trust Hunter, she is soon able to reveal her secret to her family and friends. Of course, you must have the foodies to be a Kimberly Kincaid book.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for more of the Cross boys, including their Dad!!
August 2, 2017
Omg this book was SOOOO boring. These huge " secrets" were made to be such a big deal and they were just stupid. So she had controlling parents ... a little bit of an overreaction to completely break up with the love of your life and leave for 10 yrs (maybe just maybe he would of understood).
The other things was her ridiculousness to keep her MS a secret . My mom has MS and it's not something you can hide... but it's not like a death sentence. Her reasoning that she couldn't tell her parents because they thought she'd seem more imperfect was ridiculous, especially with her being a physical therapist. Obviously she would know it's a nerve disorder and not something that she caused .
She was a damn drama queen and not likable at all. Hunter deserved better then her annoying self!
The other things was her ridiculousness to keep her MS a secret . My mom has MS and it's not something you can hide... but it's not like a death sentence. Her reasoning that she couldn't tell her parents because they thought she'd seem more imperfect was ridiculous, especially with her being a physical therapist. Obviously she would know it's a nerve disorder and not something that she caused .
She was a damn drama queen and not likable at all. Hunter deserved better then her annoying self!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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