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Home to Owl Creek #5

Their Alaskan Past

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Could their unexpected reunion lead to a second chance?

She broke his heart years ago

But now she needs his help

Veterinarian Maya Roberts has complicated feelings about her ex—Iditarod racer Ace Reynolds—returning to Owl Creek, Alaska. But he’s the perfect person to help with her dog rescue. Now they’re working together, caught by their tangled past and still-unresolved feelings for each other. But a second chance with Ace isn’t just about forgiveness. It means sharing the secret that’s kept them apart…

From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

A HOME TO OWL CREEK TALE

Book 1: Her Secret Alaskan Family
Book 2: An Alaskan Twin Surprise
Book 3: Alaskan Christmas Redemption
Book 4: Hiding in Alaska
Book 5: Their Alaskan Past

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published April 26, 2022

12 people are currently reading
68 people want to read

About the author

Belle Calhoune

95 books434 followers
Belle Calhoune writes heartwarming, inspirational romance novels set in small, cozy towns. Married to her college sweetheart and living in southern Connecticut, she is the mother of two girls. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she is one of five children. Growing up across the street from a public library allowed her to become an avid reader who aspired to be a romance writer. When she isn't writing, she enjoys reading, spending time in Cape Cod, traveling and enjoying time with friends and family.
Belle hopes her books will provide readers with inspiration, entertainment and an escape from day to day life.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,476 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2022
This is a Clean Second Chance Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Home to Owl Creek series. I liked the characters in this book, but I felt the romance fell short it was just flat. The characters did not talk to each other at all. The dogs in the book was my favorite part. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired) or author (Belle Calhoune) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,476 reviews1 follower
April 20, 2022
This is a Clean Second Chance Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Home to Owl Creek series. I liked the characters in this book, but I felt the romance fell short it was just flat. The characters did not talk to each other at all. The dogs in the book was my favorite part. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired) or author (Belle Calhoune) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,476 reviews1 follower
April 24, 2022
This is a Clean Second Chance Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Home to Owl Creek series. I liked the characters in this book, but I felt the romance fell short it was just flat. The characters did not talk to each other at all. The dogs in the book was my favorite part. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired) or author (Belle Calhoune) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
3,941 reviews1,764 followers
May 6, 2022
Reunion romance set in Alaska and centered around a dog rescue? Written by Belle Calhoune?! That would be an auto-buy for me and a swoop in and read it the second the book is unboxed. Which is exactly what happened, by the way.

Love the way Belle Calhoune builds a romance and this one packs an emotional punch as Maya struggles with revealing her secret -- the one that broke them up five years ago -- and Ace struggles with unresolved feelings of hurt over that break up. Do they make things easy on each other? No they do not! In a deliciously angsty kind of way, even though they are drawn to each other all over again. Sometimes my heart hurt for them and sometimes I wanted to shake some sense into them so all my readerly emotions were definitely engaged during this read. :-)

And the dogs! All the rescue pups!!! I want to move to Owl Creek and volunteer at the rescue centre now that it's up and running. Then I can get a front row seat at all the goings on in my favourite Alaskan town. All that sigh-worthy romance and the multitude of swoonworthy heroes and the quirkiness of the folks living there. It would be sheer bliss!

An emotionally engaging reunion romance that still has me smiling...and sighing.
Profile Image for Kay Garrett.
600 reviews93 followers
March 14, 2022
THEIR ALASKAN PAST by Belle Calhoune is fifth book in the Home to Owl Creek series. It is the fabulous story of Maya Roberts and Ace Reynolds in their home town of Owl Creek, Alaska.

Maya and Ace had been friends since they were kids. A friendship that turned to romance. They were full of dreams of spending their lives together - for Maya to become a veterinarian and Ace an Iditarod racer. They also had their share of heartaches. Ace’s Mom succumbed to cancer. Maya’s older sister died in a car accident. When Maya got the diagnosis that she had leukemia, she thought the best way to protect everyone she loved was to keep her illness a secret and to deal with it privately. She just couldn’t put her parents through the punishment of thinking that they may also lose their other daughter too. She knew Ace would stick by her, but that would make him having to relive his mother’s death from cancer if he did. She felt her only choice was to break it off with Ace and go off to Seattle to veterinary school by herself like all was ok. There she would fight her illness alone. The only person she confided in was her best friend Florence, who was sworn to secrecy. It about crushed her, but she not only survived it, but thankfully she survived the leukemia as well. She returns home to work beside her father at the Best Friends Veterinary Clinic taking over completely when he retires.

Five years ago Ace had bought an engagement ring ready to ask Maya to marry him. However, before he could she broke up with him with no explanation. It was just about Ace’s undoing. It caused him to doubt everything he thought he knew. His saving grace was his faith, his love of his dogs and mushing which ran through his veins passed down from his grandfather and father. He threw himself into developing the best team of mushing dogs winning a wide array of awards. Pushing himself and his team too hard caused an accident in the Iditarod Race injuring both himself and his dog Luna. About losing Luna and after her leg amputation, had Ace rethinking things – like we aren’t guaranteed tomorrow and how things can change in the blink of an eye. He gives up racing and moves back home with most of his dogs loaning out a few to fellow mushers for the season. Coming home he finds is very hard. He feels folks think of him as a disappointment or a failure so he stays away from town to avoid people’s questions and glances. He’s taken aback when he takes Luna in for a check-up to find Maya now the vet in charge. He’s almost lost for words when she offers him a job at the new dog rescue she’s developing. His initial answer is NO and then he finds out his dad is about to lose his ranch due to a bank foreclosure. He has the money to pay off the debt, but it will clear out his savings. He’s in the need of a job for an income and with no other options available to him, he has to go back and see if the offer is still on the table.

Zach, Ace’s younger brother, has always been irresponsible and getting into trouble. After Ace starts working with Maya, Zach hits Ace up for a job telling him he wants to turn over a new leaf and to work towards higher goals. Ace decides to take the gamble and hires him. Will a job at the Oak Creek Dog Rescue help Zach to show he’s turned over a new leaf? Will it bring the two brothers closer together?

Can everyone come together to make the dog rescue a success? When Maya starts to show symptoms will fear take hold again? Will it mean leukemia has returned? Will the Spring Fling Festival kick them off on the right footing to get local support in funding and adoptions proving that all the hard work is going to pay off? Will working together so closely on something they both love bring Maya and Ace to the realization that the past isn’t over and done with? Can they pick up the pieces and make a relationship work? A relationship can’t be built on secrets or lies. When secrets finally come out will it make or break them? Can they work themselves through actions and intentions and look at things from both sides?

THEIR ALASKAN PAST is the well-crafted, love inspired story woven with a thread of faith that will have you pulling for second chances both for the humans and the dogs. It’s a story of the wish to love and be loved. Belle Calhoune shows that our desire is to do no harm, but sometimes even with our best intentions we do just that. The question is how to you handle it when you see you were wrong. Sometimes you just have to take a step in faith. THEIR ALASKAN PAST is a story of hope, second chances, faith, forgiveness, and love – for all living things. It will have you dreaming for a happily ever after and the author doesn’t not disappoint. FIVE STAR reading!

I received an ARC from the author with no expectations of a review. This review is completely my own unsolicited opinion.
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,129 reviews126 followers
August 25, 2022
Communication would of helped the couple. Beautiful though.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,885 reviews207 followers
August 14, 2022
Their Alaskan Past was a great second chance at love story! I really felt for both Ace and Maya. The feelings they had for each other years earlier came roaring back when they started working together again to establish a dog rescue operation in their community.

Only Maya knew the reason she had broken Ace’s heart in the past. That secret stood between them for most of the story and I thought Maya grew a lot in her understanding that perhaps she hadn’t made the correct decision years earlier. She had her reasons, but she now felt very badly about how that reasoning had hurt Ace and kept even her family in the dark for years. I was happy when she finally opened up to those people who were important to her and I liked watching these two finally find their way back to each other.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews).
1,475 reviews142 followers
July 22, 2022
“Electrifying. Thrilling. They had truly shared a genuine love story.”

Five years ago, Maya Roberts and Ace Reynolds were the “it” couple of Owl Creek, Alaska. Things changed for these two when Maya unexpectedly and without giving a reason ended things with Ace. She went to vet school in Seattle, Washington and Ace went on to put all of himself into being the best Iditarod racer he could be. During the last five years, the two haven’t seen or spoken to each other once. Now both find themselves back in Owl Creek. Maya has recently taken over her father’s vet practice. Ace has returned after ending his highly successful racing career after a horrific accident.

A follow-up appointment for Ace’s beloved dog Luna leads him to Dr. Roberts’s vet clinic. Ace is shocked to discover Maya has replaced her father at the clinic. Neither expected to see each other and both are out of sorts by the unexpected face-to-face. Maya uses the opportunity to offer Ace a job as coordinator for the new Owl Creek Dog Rescue she’s been trying to start. Eventually, Ace reluctantly agrees. Working together almost daily brings back memories of the good times and love they once shared. It also brings back past hurts and resentment. When Maya and Ace decide to give their relationship another chance, she knows that the only way to truly move forward is to be honest about the past. But that past is full of secrets that can destroy everything they’re working to build.

Their Alaskan Past by Belle Calhoune is the fifth book in her Home to Owl Creek series. This is a standalone read, however, readers of the series get cameos from past characters. At the beginning of the book, Belle has a note to readers, where she gives a little more information on this couple. I loved that Ace and Maya are so evenly matched. Honestly, it's pretty hard for me to think of another couple that is like two pieces to a puzzle. They fit and are equals. These two have this incredible love that even time doesn't stop. I'm becoming a sucker for second-chance romances, especially when I know that neither party really wanted to end things or they ended things as a way to save themselves from something.

What I like if not love about Belle and her writing of this series is that religion isn't crammed down your throat. You're able to look inward and put yourself in the characters' shoes. I kind of like that. Maya and Ace have real-life challenges that at some point in time, to some degree, we all have had or experienced.

~ Favorite Quotes ~

“Not all prayers are answered the way we hope they’ll be. It doesn’t mean He isn’t listening, even though it might feel like it.”

“That’s the cool thing about life. We never know what’s coming around the corner.”

“That’s a parent’s job, to weather the storms with our children.”

“It’s hard to judge people by their worst moments.”

“The thing about true love, it endures.”

**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
385 reviews27 followers
April 15, 2022
I am happily revisiting Belle Calhoune’s Owl Creek, Alaska, in her latest installment, Their Alaskan Past.
Ace is a champion dog sled team musher, sidelined by a terrible accident during the premiere dog race, the Iditarod. He’s back home to Owl Creek with six of his dogs (including Luna, whose injuries bore the brunt of the accident), tail between his legs, convinced he’s let down the whole town. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Veterinarian Maya has taken over her father’s practice after his retirement. She’s also Ace’s ex-love, having abruptly broken up with him five years earlier. She kept her reason hidden from everyone, even her parents.
Maya is starting a dog rescue and desperately needs to find someone to head it up, or she’ll lose the grant money. She knows Ace would be perfect for the job, and he reluctantly accepts.
Can Maya and Ace work together, even with their past looming between them? Can Maya find the strength to share the secret she’s kept as a burden to herself for so long? Can Ace forgive himself for the turn his life took?
This is a beautiful story of trust, honesty, faith and love. Take the time to visit Owl Creek. You’ll be glad you did!
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. My opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Melissa.
352 reviews35 followers
April 26, 2022
Their Alaskan Past is the newest installment of Belle Calhoune’s Home to Owl Creek series. Local veterinarian Maya Roberts has taken over her dad’s practice in Owl Creek. Her dream is to start a dog rescue. Her ex-boyfriend Ace Reynolds has retired from dog sledding after he and his dogs suffered an horrific accident in the Iditarod race. When he brings his dog Luna to Maya’s office for a checkup, she realizes she has found the perfect candidate to run her dog rescue mission. No one loves dogs like Ace does. Just one tiny problem. Maya has the secret of why she broke up with him many years ago. Can they find a way to forgive and make this dog rescue a success? Only time will tell!

I absolutely loved loved loved this book. Belle Calhoune always writes great books and I feel I can honestly say this is her best one yet. I read the book in two sittings. I only stopped reading it the first night because it was like 1 am in the morning. I was forced to put it down. LOL. I really cared about Maya and Ace and of course the dogs. I love dogs so much. It’s always a plus when dogs are in it. I loved how the novel centers on the act of forgiveness. It’s a faith inspired book & she expertly mixes the faith element with the love story. You get a lot of updates on previous Owl Creek residents too. I hope you really enjoy this novel as much as I did. I can’t wait to read about Owl Creek, Alaska again.

I was given an advance copy. All opinions are my own!
Profile Image for QualiTea Books.
29 reviews1 follower
April 28, 2022
Maya Roberts and Ace Reynolds used to be an inseparable couple, but that was five years ago.- before they both left town and their lives were turned upside down. Now they are back in the town of Owl Creek, Alaska and Maya needs Ace’s help to start her dog rescue. However, Ace is still harboring hurt from Maya’s break up and working together will prove difficult for them both.

This is one of those books that while you are reading it you just keep asking yourself “why?” trying to understand the thought process of the characters at times. I would get so frustrated at Maya for keeping secrets from Ace (see potential triggers) but then you figure out the why behind her decisions and it makes sense and you just want to give her a big hug, to take back everything you thought about her while reading and wish you could take away her pain that she felt she had to suffer with alone. This book felt a tad repetitive at times but it also felt very real. We were shown the emotions and conflictions of Maya and Ace as they tried to navigate their new working relationship while healing from their past relationship and losses in their lives. Yet despite the past, Belle Calhoune never fails to deliver a future with a happily ever after for her characters.

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from the author; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Our website offers more information such as tea recommendations and any potential triggers you might encounter for any books we review.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,838 reviews161 followers
April 26, 2022
Owl Creek, Alaska is a place I'd love to visit, and it's all because of the descriptive powers of Belle Calhoune! I feel the cold, view the beautiful scenery and experience the joy of small-town life. Calhoune also creates great characters, and Their Alaskan Past is no exception. Iditarod racer Ace Reynolds's return to Owl Creek is marred by the painful past that he shared with veterinarian Maya Roberts, but she needs his help and he's willing to give it a try. Dog rescue is Maya's mission, and it's this project that offers them the chance to repair their fractured relationship. What follows is a touching story of secrets that need to be revealed, old hurts that need to be forgiven, and the promise of a second chance at love.

Calhoune gives readers another enjoyable blend of conflict, romance, and faith, and I'm eager to read the next book in her series, Home to Owl Creek. I recommend Their Alaskan Past to all who enjoy Christian romance.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Vicky Sluiter.
Author 1 book88 followers
April 26, 2022
It was so good to return to Owl Creek Alaska. Author Belle Calhoune has become a favorite and I’m always looking for her next book. Their Alaskan Past can definitely be read as a stand alone but if you haven’t read this series I highly recommend it. You’re in for a treat!

A past of broken hearts, secrets kept, and love lost, Their Alaskan Past has all of the feelings you could be looking for. Maya and Ace both had me grieving for them and wanting to pray for their wounds to heal. The mark of a really good book! Calhoune does a great job of weaving ends together in this heartwarming, clean romance. And while I’m not a dog person, I enjoyed reading about the dog rescue and the different personalities of the dogs. I highly recommend reading this book. I think you’ll love it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
673 reviews6 followers
March 2, 2022
Their Alaskan Past is another great book by Belle Calhoune.
The ups and downs of a past relationship.Ace and Maya are
trying to work together
with their past. They both love animals especally dogs.
Opening an rescue shelter
for dogs is a great why to work out their issues. This book
is a must read ....I loved it
1,765 reviews33 followers
March 13, 2022
I have enjoyed all the books in this series set in Owl Creek, Alaska. This story is about a couple that used to be sweethearts but they Maya abruptly ended their relationship 5 years ago without any reason and Ace is still confused and angry about it. He was ready to "pop the question" and had not warning that Maya would be ending things, so he still doesn't understand where things went wrong. Ace is an Iditarod racer and recently had a terrible crash that has affected him greatly so he's moved back to his hometown, only to find Maya is there too. What will happen when they two former sweethearts are back in the same place and have to confront their past? Especially when Maya is now a veterinarian and wants Ace to run the new dog rescue in town which is right next door to her office? I loved the theme of second chances, forgiveness and hope for the future. The dogs were a favorite part of the story for me, along with the townspeople that I have come to love through the other books!
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,210 reviews51 followers
May 11, 2022
Ace is back home after an accident that ended up having his dog loose a leg. He's really shook up about this and is back in his hometown now looking for a job. Maya is the town veterinarian taking over her fathers job and trying to run a side dog rescue. Last thing she expected was to offer Ace the job of running the dog rescue for her since he is experienced with job and the last thing she expected was for him to take up her offer.

This was a pretty quick enjoyable read. I love a good book that includes a second chance at romance. I mean Ace was still pretty upset with how things ended between the two never really having closure since it was what seemed to be randomly ended by Maya. Maya never told Ace or her family a big secrets that she was hiding and it seems to be coming back to bit her especially after a few curious symptoms and Ace being back in town. It was interesting seeing what happened to break up the two and what would happen if Ace found out. I mean she really was trying to do what she felt was best for everyone around her. I liked the connection of these two and really couldn't help but root for them. Overall this was a pretty good book I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Mindy Steele.
Author 36 books351 followers
March 17, 2022
Back to Owl Creek, and what it treat it was. A tangled past can leave to an uncertain future, but when you add a few four legged friends, there's always a happy ending.
Profile Image for Marie.
578 reviews23 followers
March 21, 2022
Thank you in advance to the author, Belle Calhoune, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.

This isn’t the very first book by the author I’ve read. Last year I read her No Ordinary Christmas, the first book in the Mistletoe, Maine series from Forever (a Read Forever/Hachette Imprint).

This is however, the first Love Inspired book by the author that I have read despite buying the first book in this series two years ago (February 2020) – Her Secret Alaskan Family, and winning a reissue of Reunited at Christmas.

Some series books can be read on their own. This can be read on its own, for the most part. However, many of the characters from the previous four books play either a significant role, or are mentioned here. In addition, some of the incidents might be referenced here as well. I would definitely suggest reading those four books before heading into this one. Those can be found at the links below.

I do need to get books #2-#4 in this series as I don’t have them.

The cover is the cutesy, standard of the couple as they should be – with their happy ever after ending (HEA). But, once you get to know the couple – Ace and Maya – you know it’s going to be a rough road for them in this emotional second-chance romance. In fact, at times, it seems almost impossible.

Returning characters (mentioned or appearance):

🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Sage & Hank (Her Secret Alaskan Family)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Gabe (An Alaskan Twin Surprise)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Piper & Braden (Alaskan Christmas Redemption)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Ella & Connor (Hiding in Alaska)

New characters:

🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Ace Reynolds (former dog sled racer)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Blue Reynolds (Ace’s father)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Zach Reynolds (Ace’s younger brother)
🏔️ 🏡 🦉 Maya Roberts (Veterinarian, Ace’s ex-girlfriend)

As of note, there will be mentions of cancer, animal abuse, and kill shelters. Those with sensitivities to these topics will want to read with caution. The author doesn’t go into detail, but is realistic about the subjects.

I had to laugh and sympathize with Ace about his return to Owl Creek being more painful than a tooth extraction. Heads up – those are BAD. I had a bad lower molar extraction in 2006 – not a fun time at all.

If an accident and early retirement wasn’t bad enough for Ace’s ego, seeing Maya, the woman who dumped him five (5) years ago is another reason to add to his bad mood. Of course, Ace’s former racing dog, now a “tripod”, Luna – is crazy about Maya, who happened to have taken over her father’s veterinarian clinic.

Even worse than running into Maya, she would like him to help her with the dog rescue. Of course, he says no – only because it entails working with her. She didn’t think he’d be that jaded or cold after the break-up.

Ace’s attitude doesn’t get any better when he learns his father’s property is about to be foreclosed on.

Of course, Ace does the right thing by his dad, but it means eating humble pie to work for Maya. I definitely loved how Maya’s suggestion to hire his brother as an assistant was met with refusal, yet Ace ended up doing just that.

Yet, Ace still feels drawn to Maya because of her care and compassion towards animals, namely dogs. Still, the unresolved bitterness digs at him – with him directing it a Maya at the wrong time. But, by ignoring the feelings – he has no closure with the relationship. Still, he tries to temper his attitude to work with her to not only open the rescue, but ensure there are adequate funds.
There are some light-hearted moments tempered with the bitterness and resentment. There is also a reality that lurks behind the scenes as well.

And, as it is a romance – Maya and Ace start coming together, slowly. But, as usual – it won’t be easy. At times, it is even painful. Yet, it is also endearing and representative of God’s will.

This is one of those “aw, it looks so cute” kind of books, and drags you in with the emotional feels. I honestly read 102 pages within a few hours (was off and on due to other things I was doing at the time). Calhoune’s writing definitely draws the reader in and puts them in the scene with vivid descriptions and emotional dialogue.

It is also frustrating because of Maya’s reasoning for breaking things off and Ace’s hotheaded behavior, his stubbornness, and inability to want to listen. My heart broke for Maya because of her reason. At times I wanted to tell her she needed someone else and to let him go.

Ace’s attitude was frustrating, irritating, and in some ways very realistic. He also didn’t realize that her sister’s death in a car accident influenced her decisions, much like Ace letting his past influence his decision with Maya. I loved the author’s note in the back about trust being rebuilt (is it possible) and what isn’t forgivable. He wanted to forgive and yet didn’t because he didn’t want to get hurt again. That is understandable as well.

There was a bit of confusion when Maya would reference her health past. She would mention doctors in California with treatment in Seattle (Washington). There is a state between the two (Oregon). I don’t know if Maya lived in both places, or this was a bit of an error for a future book. It didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the book though. Then again, I might’ve read so fast I didn’t even see the reason for both locations.

I love how the author realistically dealt with the threat of cancer coming back and how people might do things differently with their lives, including a relationship and family planning. It isn’t something that ever goes away, it often lurks and strikes back at the wrong times – as if there is ever a good time.

I really had to chuckle at Ace’s light socket incident when he was five, as well as sympathize. I was about 2-3 when I did something similar. Mine was a long hair pin. In short, I used it to pry the kid proof cover off, stuck the pin in, and zap! Didn’t want to do it again. I wasn’t harmed, but shocked.

Calhoune definitely did something that needs to be done more – normalizing disabled pets. I see so many lively “different” pets on Instagram and it makes me smile at how adept they are at overcoming their disabilities. We truly could learn from them on that note.

Since this is Love Inspired, there will be themes of the Christian faith present – characters seeking the Lord’s guidance, references to God, second chances, and forgiveness. It is also a clean read with no bad language or mentions of intimacy. There are also subtle and not preachy lessons the author conveys as well.

Fans of the author and the genre will want to add this to their library.

I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, or the other two books I have of hers.
Profile Image for Judith.
403 reviews
November 21, 2024
I doubt Maya would've been treated for Leukemia without her parents' insurance information. I doubt she could have gotten home from chemo therapy on her own
I doubt she could have set up housing on her own in another state while ill. I doubt she could have matriculated in vet school while terribly ill. I doubt that there wouldn't have been a power of attorney on file signed by her granting power t95hdr parents. That whole business of get secret from everyone isn't tactically explained. Later, she feels ill, but it's severe anemia. Si, no shots, no liver pills. It's just another secret that could result in liver disease. Meanwhile, she finally tells Ace five years later. Do they resolve to never have secrets? No, she'll just keep acting the secret martyr. But anyway, the authorvgave her cancer and anemia, his mother cancer, her sister some killing disease, his grandmother a serious fall, his dad a near miss foreclosure. So Ace used all his money to Dave the farm. What about the next payment? The dad isn't working. Why not sell it. Because, Ace can't earn enough money working at a shelter to support a family, but hell go ahead with marriage. Maya will be rhe breadwinner. Maya is a vet in a poor town. They're all one week's salary away from disaster.
Profile Image for Keren Herrera-Lyles.
332 reviews18 followers
August 19, 2022
This is such an amazing story. I found myself reading it in one day.

Veterinarian Maya and Ace a sled dog musher. This story grab my attention from the start, graduating myself from Veterinary assistant and love of animals it was reading my dream. Maya and Ace had been a couple, but when Maya found out she had leukemia she broke up with Ace without letting him know the reason. Ace took to sledding and in a hasty moment his life dream came tumbling down.

But one day after returning to his hometown Owl Creek Alaska, he takes Luna one of his sled dogs to the Vet., and behold Maya comes out. Then after seeing Luna over, she asks him if he would help her with her dream of opening a dog rescue, but hurt and surprised Ace declines.

After something occurs, Ace goes back to accept the job and is where the story begins. Their hearts are still hurting for each other. And after several things that occur, they find out for themselves that God's timing is always right. And that forgiveness and truth can be the one thing that will bring them back together.

I loved this story. I did want to smack Ace a couple of times for his ego bursting but it was a sweet and fun story.
Profile Image for Rachel DeVaughn.
1,091 reviews32 followers
April 24, 2022
I enjoyed reading this sweet “Home to Owl Creek” story involving animal lovers Maya and Ace. This story was easy to read with interesting characters and story line that kept my interest from beginning to end.

I liked reading about Maya’s vet practice and her vision for a dog rescue facility. When Ace comes back into town, she knows he’s perfect for the job even though they have a previous history that didn’t end well. I loved reading about the dogs, taking care of rescues and the details behind opening a rescue shelter.

Both Maya and Ace were great characters full of love, selflessness, giving, and kind; although they had a hard time showing that to each other. I loved getting to know the town and townspeople and can’t wait to read more from Owl Creek! I really enjoyed this book!

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
98 reviews3 followers
April 26, 2022
This is the first book by Belle Calhoune that I have read. In the beginning it was to me a slow read but the more I got into the book the better it got. Veterinarian Maya Roberts returns to Owl Creek, Alaska to take over her dad's practice as he is retiring. She returns with a secret that broke apart her relationship with Ace. She needs him to help her run a dog rescue that she is attaching to her practice because of his expertise with dogs and his insight. Can they work together? Can they possibly resolve what happened between them and why? All I can say is read this book you get all the dynamics and answers. You won't regret it. Great book on forgiveness, love, restoration, family, and of course dogs.
I received this book as a gift with no request or demand for a good review. All the words in this are my own. I truly think if you love dogs and Alaska you will enjoy this book. Looking forward to reading more by Belle Calhoune.
Profile Image for Tabitha Bouldin.
Author 45 books705 followers
May 26, 2022
A fun and unique look at second chance romance. Ace and Maya have been apart for five years, but one look and the old feelings come right back to live. I love second chance romance, and this book does an incredible job. Their Alaskan Past takes a look at how even when you're trying to save someone's feelings, they're still getting hurt. Maya left out a critical detail about why she broke things off with Ace, and her actions changed how he viewed everything about their history. This book offers a powerful glimpse into how much two people can overcome past hurts and heartaches. Their faith and the way they now approach life brought the story to life. I enjoyed the author's writing style and how she took me on an adventure through Alaska. I especially loved Maya's dog rescue and the love and commitment Ace shows.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
1,166 reviews6 followers
February 11, 2023
Loved Ace and Maya's story! Ace and Maya were a couple, and everyone thought they'd marry. Ace was blindsided when Maya broke up with him, not even telling him WHY. For five years, they haven't seen each other, and he's not kept up with what's gone on in her life. When he goes back home to Owl Creek, he's totally unprepared to see her as the vet he takes his dog, Luna, to. He's determined not to work with her in her dog rescue, until unforeseen circumstances force his hand. The more time they spend together, the more both of them realize that the old feelings are still there, and that they still love each other. Will Maya get up the nerve to not only tell her parents her secret, but Ace? And, when she tells Ace, will she lose him again, and this time for good???

The only thing I didn't like about this book, was at one point Ace and Maya are watching the Northern Lights, and she attributes this to "Mother Nature" instead of rightfully attributing this to God.
Profile Image for Vicky Sluiter.
Author 1 book88 followers
March 24, 2022
It was so good to return to Owl Creek Alaska. Author Belle Calhoune has become a favorite and I’m always looking for her next book. Their Alaskan Past can definitely be read as a stand alone but if you haven’t read this series I highly recommend it. You’re in for a treat!

A past of broken hearts, secrets kept, and love lost, Their Alaskan Past has all of the feelings you could be looking for. Maya and Ace both had me grieving for them and wanting to pray for their wounds to heal. The mark of a really good book! Calhoune does a great job of weaving ends together in this heartwarming, clean romance. And while I’m not a dog person, I enjoyed reading about the dog rescue and the different personalities of the dogs. I highly recommend reading this book. I think you’ll love it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Profile Image for Kimberly  Bush.
21 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2022
I absolutely loved reading this story. Their Alaskan Past, by Belle Calhoune, is the fifth book in the Home to Owl Creek series. One of the wonderful things about this story about Ace and Maya, is that it tells their story, without you needing to read the previous books. It is great stand alone, but shares small updates on the stories of prior series characters without taking away from their love story.
Maya, a veterinarian, and Ace, a retired Iditarod racer, have been thrown together by what one could only call destiny. They have a past romantic history, secrets, broken hearts, and self doubt. All the while Ace is given the opportunity presented by Maya to help with a dog rescue. They have a second chance with their romance and as usual, Belle Calhoune delivers.
Normally I have a book read in one sitting, but this one took me two, as I slowed down to really enjoy it.
499 reviews6 followers
September 6, 2022
This book was such a warm and wonderful story of rekindled love, forgiveness, faith and second chances.
Belle Calhoune does a wonderful job of welcoming readers back to the rugged Alaskan town of Owl Creek.
The characters are believable and the sense of community is tightly woven into the story.
Local veterinarian Maya Robert’s dream is to establish a dog rescue.
Ace Reynolds’s has retired from being a champion Iditarod dog racer after a devastating accident.
Maya and Ace share a past relationship that ended suddenly and now find themselves working together to establish the dog rescue. Maya also shares a secret that
affects their past and possible future. Ace needs to swallow his pride and forgive Maya.
This couple dreams again of finding a happily ever after together. Pick up this book to see where life leads them. You will be glad you did!
Profile Image for Tina Wyatt.
225 reviews3 followers
May 16, 2023
Ace Reynolds is back in Owl Creek Alaska after losing the Iditarod because of a terrible accident involving his sled team of dogs. His favorite dog was badly injured and is recovering . Ace is dealing with all the guilt of everything. He takes his dog to local vet to get a checkup up on how he healing . Dr. Roberts has been his vet for yrs so Ace wasn't prepared to see Dr. Roberts daughter instead. He is now facing his long lost love that broke his heart 5 yrs. ago. Maya Roberts has recently taken over her dads vet practice. Maya left Owl creek 5 yrs ago to study to be a vet . She is also carrying a secret that nobody know concerning why she left town to begin with. This is a a sweet clean second chance romance. Along with the other books in this series; this is also a sweet , good read. I have enjoyed all the books in this series.
Profile Image for Reeca Elliott.
2,043 reviews25 followers
April 28, 2022
Maya Roberts is a veterinarian trying to get an animal rescue off the ground. When her ex-boyfriend shows up, she offers him the job. But, can Ace get over their past? Can everyone get over all the secrets?

This is a fast paced, short romance with a wonderful setting. Now, it is a bit “too sweet” and a bit predictable. But I did get lost in this tale and I finished it in one sitting. So, it is perfect for a short flight or car ride.

I adored the characters, especially Ace. He is struggling to find his way. Add in the wonderful Alaska setting and these great animals and I was hooked!

Need a sweet, quick read…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest opinion.
Profile Image for Dawn Leonard.
328 reviews
May 2, 2022
Their Alaskan Past is a story of forgiveness and a second chance at love with the main characters being Maya, a veterinarian, and Ace, a former Iditarod racer. I love the setting of a dog rescue. While Maya and Ace deal with their past, the dog rescue is a great reminder that dogs in shelters or rescues need foster or forever homes. They need another chance to love.
I love the "Home to Owl Creek" series! I feel like I've been to Alaska reading them. Author Belle Calhoun does a great job describing the characters, the dogs, and the settings. I love the characters too! I recommend all the books in this series.
I received a copy of Their Alaskan Past from the author without any promise of a review. All opinions are my own.
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