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Northern Intrigue #5
Loving Winter
Happily single, Winter Woodard who inherited her grandfather’s nursery is looking forward to a busy, fun fall and holiday season.
And it all begins with her cousin’s wedding where Winter meets the man the ladies around town have been buzzing about. Single by choice, Clay Dixon, the very successful football coach at the local high school, has rebuffed all offers of “home-cooked meals,” keeping the female population at bay. That’s fine with Winter. She’s her own woman, thank you very much.
Then bad things begin to happen. And unexpectedly Clay Dixon stands by her through a holiday season fraught with unnerving and destructive setbacks.
Is someone out to ruin Woodard Greenery’s, all she has left of her beloved grandfather and mother?
Welcome to Steadfast, a small town whose people and mysteries you may never forget~
And it all begins with her cousin’s wedding where Winter meets the man the ladies around town have been buzzing about. Single by choice, Clay Dixon, the very successful football coach at the local high school, has rebuffed all offers of “home-cooked meals,” keeping the female population at bay. That’s fine with Winter. She’s her own woman, thank you very much.
Then bad things begin to happen. And unexpectedly Clay Dixon stands by her through a holiday season fraught with unnerving and destructive setbacks.
Is someone out to ruin Woodard Greenery’s, all she has left of her beloved grandfather and mother?
Welcome to Steadfast, a small town whose people and mysteries you may never forget~
97 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2022
212 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Lyn Cote
124 books594 followersLyn grew up loving books. Her favorite night of the week was Friday night, when the Bookmobile came to her neighborhood in Illinois. She’d spend those two hours chatting with the driver of the Bookmobile and the librarian and making the big decision of the week — which books to check out! In those distant days, children were limited in how many books they could check out. Lyn could only take home six a week — and there were so many to choose from. Her favorites were Cotton in my Sack by Lois Lenski, The Little House series and the One of a Kind Family series. Later, she discovered Georgette Heyer’s Regency romances!
This love of books led to a desire to write. Lyn won prizes in high school and college for her poetry and, not surprisingly, Lyn became a history and English teacher. When she became a mother, she gave up teaching, and while raising a son and a daughter, she began working on her first novel. Then she wrote her second and third. Long years of rejection followed — as it does for most writers. Finally in 1997, Lyn got "the call." Her first book, Never Alone, was chosen to appear in the first year of the new Love Inspired line. Lyn has written many articles on writing and the emerging Christian Booksellers Assoc. (CBA) fiction market. In 2006, Lyn's book, Chloe, is a finalist for the RWA's RITA, the highest award in the romance genre in the inspirational category.
Now, Lyn spends her days writing books that show the power of divine as well as human love. Her nest is empty and she and her real life hero, her husband, have more and more time to spend together in their home on a lake in the lovely northwoods. And books are still dear to her heart.
This love of books led to a desire to write. Lyn won prizes in high school and college for her poetry and, not surprisingly, Lyn became a history and English teacher. When she became a mother, she gave up teaching, and while raising a son and a daughter, she began working on her first novel. Then she wrote her second and third. Long years of rejection followed — as it does for most writers. Finally in 1997, Lyn got "the call." Her first book, Never Alone, was chosen to appear in the first year of the new Love Inspired line. Lyn has written many articles on writing and the emerging Christian Booksellers Assoc. (CBA) fiction market. In 2006, Lyn's book, Chloe, is a finalist for the RWA's RITA, the highest award in the romance genre in the inspirational category.
Now, Lyn spends her days writing books that show the power of divine as well as human love. Her nest is empty and she and her real life hero, her husband, have more and more time to spend together in their home on a lake in the lovely northwoods. And books are still dear to her heart.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 23, 2024
I'm not 100% sure what it is I love about this whole series so much. I think part of it is the writing style and some of it is the very real and down to earth setting and characters. I didn't feel like this book had as much depth as I would have liked but I still very much enjoyed it. It focuses on two new characters, Winter and Clay. Both carrying deep hurts and both pretty stand off-ish when it comes to romance. The mystery element in this book wasn't as strong as in some of the others, but it seemed to fit within the lighter story line. As with some of the other books, I continue to adore Ma's presence in the community. Her character is how I hope to be myself one day! This book was clean but didn't have much of a faith based element. Looking forward to the next and last book in this series and am thankful this author has other series, because I'm not sure what I would do if the series ended and I couldn't move on to another by this author! I find myself craving the stories set in this small and close knit community and look forward to my time in that little world!
November 23, 2017
Unfortunately, for me this book was the perfect example of how a nice story with good characters can be destroyed by the American cliche ending... This may sound harsh, but I’ll explain my thoughts below.
At first, I really liked how the story and the characters developed. Winter and Clay were likable protagonists and Clay‘s sister Kaitlyn was a great addition. I liked the chemistry between the three of them. I also smiled at Ma‘s matchmaking try, even though that was already very cliched. The mystery part was good as well, although it was quite obvious who was behind most of it.
So, to sum it up, I liked the book so far.
However, then came the ending and I was like „what?“. This last thing with Kaitlyn felt totally out of place and was afterwards brushed off in one sentence. And Winter going from „I need time“ to „yes, of course I will marry you“ in a blink? Sorry, not buying it. I know this is a novella and therefore short, but the ending would have been way more believable and just as happy if they had just decided to try for a relationship. Maybe it’s just me not understanding the American need to always get their characters married in the end, but in my opinion that just came out of nowhere and didn’t add up to Winter‘s behavior throughout the story, and that can’t be explained away by the letter she received before.
And since the ending is what stays with you as a last impression of a book, I feel like I didn’t like this one although I did for most of the time. I really had to remind myself of that when rating it and writing this review, and that is not how it should be. I want to close the book with a smile not an „Are you kidding me?“ on my lips. Unfortunately, this book fell into the latter category for me.
Still, since the story and the characters in general were good, I’ll settle for three stars.
At first, I really liked how the story and the characters developed. Winter and Clay were likable protagonists and Clay‘s sister Kaitlyn was a great addition. I liked the chemistry between the three of them. I also smiled at Ma‘s matchmaking try, even though that was already very cliched. The mystery part was good as well, although it was quite obvious who was behind most of it.
So, to sum it up, I liked the book so far.
However, then came the ending and I was like „what?“. This last thing with Kaitlyn felt totally out of place and was afterwards brushed off in one sentence. And Winter going from „I need time“ to „yes, of course I will marry you“ in a blink? Sorry, not buying it. I know this is a novella and therefore short, but the ending would have been way more believable and just as happy if they had just decided to try for a relationship. Maybe it’s just me not understanding the American need to always get their characters married in the end, but in my opinion that just came out of nowhere and didn’t add up to Winter‘s behavior throughout the story, and that can’t be explained away by the letter she received before.
And since the ending is what stays with you as a last impression of a book, I feel like I didn’t like this one although I did for most of the time. I really had to remind myself of that when rating it and writing this review, and that is not how it should be. I want to close the book with a smile not an „Are you kidding me?“ on my lips. Unfortunately, this book fell into the latter category for me.
Still, since the story and the characters in general were good, I’ll settle for three stars.
November 13, 2017
Loving Winter by Lyn Cote
Northern Intrigue Series Book Five
Winter Woodard was trying to keep her business going. It had been in her family since the sixties and she wasn't going to lose it now. But a neighboring competitor along with other things happening to her, weren't making it easy.
Clayton “Clay” Dixon had his life where he wanted it. His work as the high school football coach and taking care of his youngest sister was all he needed. Yet, the redheaded woman with the unique name kept entering into his life—and he didn't mind so much.
Back to the Steadfast, Wisconsin. A small-town with people who watched out for each other, cared for one another, and maybe tried to play matchmaker now and then. A fun, faith-filled story.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Northern Intrigue Series Book Five
Winter Woodard was trying to keep her business going. It had been in her family since the sixties and she wasn't going to lose it now. But a neighboring competitor along with other things happening to her, weren't making it easy.
Clayton “Clay” Dixon had his life where he wanted it. His work as the high school football coach and taking care of his youngest sister was all he needed. Yet, the redheaded woman with the unique name kept entering into his life—and he didn't mind so much.
Back to the Steadfast, Wisconsin. A small-town with people who watched out for each other, cared for one another, and maybe tried to play matchmaker now and then. A fun, faith-filled story.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
November 6, 2017
Loving Winter takes place in the town of Steadfast, Wisconson. It is lightly connected to the author's Northern Intrigue series as it has some characters from those books make an appearance. However, this sweet story can stand on it's own and be enjoyed without having read the other stories that are set in this town.
I ended up really liking Winter and Clay and hoping things would work out for them. I must admit that Clay started out as a character that I didn't know if I could grow to like! Once I understood a bit about his past, his reactions were a little more understandable. I enjoyed the hint of mystery running through this story as Winter found her plant nursery the target of vandals time and again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I ended up really liking Winter and Clay and hoping things would work out for them. I must admit that Clay started out as a character that I didn't know if I could grow to like! Once I understood a bit about his past, his reactions were a little more understandable. I enjoyed the hint of mystery running through this story as Winter found her plant nursery the target of vandals time and again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 8, 2017
I love this sweet, winter season romance! Winter is the owner of a flower shop/greenhouse that starts having some bad luck, with vandalism and business competition. Clay is the local high school coach who meets Winter at their friend's wedding. When she hurts her ankle, Clay's sister helps out at the shop and leads the way for Clay and Winter to get to know each other better. I love the way the friendship grows and the story develops. I'm surprised so much could happen in such a short time, with the book only being a little over a hundred pages. My only complaint being that I wasn't ready for the story to end! I hope there are more books with this same group of people and their town. I enjoyed reading this one a lot. I highly recommend Loving Winter.
December 22, 2024
3.5 stars Sweet novella!
Winter Woodard and Clay Dixon meet at the wedding of her cousin Sage Dietz and Garrett Connolly. They are both in the wedding, and they both have their reasons to remain single. They do not hit it off well, and it was fun to see their forced proximity play out.
Winter inherited her grandfather’s nursery is hoping for a busy, fun fall and Christmas season but someone is vandalizing her business.
I love reading series and seeing recurring characters. Ma is such a character, love her and her loyalty and meddling! And Clay Dixon's sister is a fun addition to the story.
Sweet story, enjoyed the characters, just moved a bit fast at the end. (I get that it's a novella and there are limited pages for a full resolution.) I still enjoyed it and will look forward to reading more of this series!
Winter Woodard and Clay Dixon meet at the wedding of her cousin Sage Dietz and Garrett Connolly. They are both in the wedding, and they both have their reasons to remain single. They do not hit it off well, and it was fun to see their forced proximity play out.
Winter inherited her grandfather’s nursery is hoping for a busy, fun fall and Christmas season but someone is vandalizing her business.
I love reading series and seeing recurring characters. Ma is such a character, love her and her loyalty and meddling! And Clay Dixon's sister is a fun addition to the story.
Sweet story, enjoyed the characters, just moved a bit fast at the end. (I get that it's a novella and there are limited pages for a full resolution.) I still enjoyed it and will look forward to reading more of this series!
November 6, 2017
Loving Winter is a delightful novella. The storyline is enjoyable and I adore the characters. They were perfect for their own role. Author Lyn Cote writes a novella showing everyone has to release things from the past, then each one finds pleasure and happiness meant for them. Loving Winter by Author Lyn Cote is a marvelous novella. I highly recommend reading this author's book.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to review it. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to review it. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
November 6, 2017
Loving Winter is a delightful novella! Having enjoyed Cote’s Northern Intrigue series, I was pleased to return to the small town of Steadfast, Wisconsin. Winter and Clay are vulnerable characters who struggle with issues of trust, and I enjoyed the development of their relationship, as well as their journey to making peace with their pasts. Loving Winter is an engaging blend of intrigue and romance, and I look forward to reading more from Lyn Cote!
I received a complimentary copy of this novella. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this novella. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.
November 6, 2017
Loving Winter
By: Lyn Cote
I really enjoyed Loving Winter. The author drew me in at the start and I was hooked. This is Winter and Clay’s story. The story and characters both were very vivid. I did not to want to put it down. There is a Wedding and both Winter and Clay are in it. Clay is a former high school football player and now a coach. Things don't go the way they should between these two. She is accused of using her relatives for cheap publicity. Can these two make it through the wedding? Can they ever be friends?
By: Lyn Cote
I really enjoyed Loving Winter. The author drew me in at the start and I was hooked. This is Winter and Clay’s story. The story and characters both were very vivid. I did not to want to put it down. There is a Wedding and both Winter and Clay are in it. Clay is a former high school football player and now a coach. Things don't go the way they should between these two. She is accused of using her relatives for cheap publicity. Can these two make it through the wedding? Can they ever be friends?
November 2, 2017
Wow, Winter and Clay... great pair. Well written with believable clean characters. Will they become a couple??? That path is unknown but scattered with dangerous and mysterious problems for Winter's nursery. Very good!!!!!
I received an Advance Reader Copy without the expectation of a review. Review given is my own opinion.
I received an Advance Reader Copy without the expectation of a review. Review given is my own opinion.
November 10, 2017
I really enjoyed this story! It is a mystery and a little romance. Winter, Clay and Kaitlynn are the main characters I grew to love right away! Each with their own problems. Winter's florist is being vandalized and she doesn't know by whom or why. Clay is a coach to a local high school and also a big brother trying to raise his teenage sister Kaitilynn. (being a teenager tells you enough already)! Clay needs to find a way to communicate with his sister without her over reacting! After Winter hurts her ankle, she finds she needs assistance. Kaitlynn is hired to help while Winter heals. Clay soon finds out that with Winter in the picture, his life is better. Hmmmm... This book can be read as a stand alone.
I received this book free from the author, but the opinions are my own!
I received this book free from the author, but the opinions are my own!
December 1, 2017
Great story must Read
So far this is sad because of what is going on and if you want to know please read but so far I am interested in knowing what’s happening and can’t wait to read the rest hopefully soon! Thanks to the author excellent story line so far will continue to read this mystery story!!
So far this is sad because of what is going on and if you want to know please read but so far I am interested in knowing what’s happening and can’t wait to read the rest hopefully soon! Thanks to the author excellent story line so far will continue to read this mystery story!!
October 20, 2022
Sweet installment to this series. There is a mystery, but it isn't a gruesome one... meaning no dead bodies. And this isn't a cozy mystery.. it's not quirky enough. LOL! But it is a nice read. I enjoyed the way the MCs connected. Both had sworn off romance, but God had other plans. It does all tidy up a bit too neat at the end, but honestly that was fine and fitting here.
January 14, 2023
Learning to Trust
Ms Cote's books ate always a joy for me and this one did not disappoint. She has an insite to a variety of personalities and brings them together in a godly and identifyable way. It's filled with fear, love, family problems and hate. Shook it up and it made for good reading.
Ms Cote's books ate always a joy for me and this one did not disappoint. She has an insite to a variety of personalities and brings them together in a godly and identifyable way. It's filled with fear, love, family problems and hate. Shook it up and it made for good reading.
November 20, 2023
A Great Clean Romance
Reading this whole series was time well spent for me. I enjoyed the last novella as much as I enjoyed the first novel. These two MCs were easy to relate to and I quickly became hooked. If you’re looking for a short, clean story with a bit more romance than suspense and a dose of inspiration, then check out this book.
Reading this whole series was time well spent for me. I enjoyed the last novella as much as I enjoyed the first novel. These two MCs were easy to relate to and I quickly became hooked. If you’re looking for a short, clean story with a bit more romance than suspense and a dose of inspiration, then check out this book.
October 31, 2017
Clay gets the wrong impression of Winter at her cousin's wedding. Winter is busy enough with her landscape business that she doesn't have time to date. When Winter needs help and Clay steps in to help, they start to truly see each other. This is a sweet romance.and a well written novella.
November 16, 2017
As usual, absolutely loved Lyn’s book! She is such a great writer and like all her other books, this was no exception. You fall immediately in love with Winter Woodard and can’t help but wish for her happy ending as soon as you start reading. My only complaint? That I’m done reading!
March 17, 2019
I have just finished the sixth book in this series
I loved reading this series. They are sweet romances with mystery and great characters . Sometimes it is good to read about people who work together for a good cause and also worship together.
I loved reading this series. They are sweet romances with mystery and great characters . Sometimes it is good to read about people who work together for a good cause and also worship together.
October 31, 2022
Winter's Mysterious Greenhouse Happenings
I enjoyed this story but wanted more depth. Opposite opinions formed too soon can lead to attraction as happened with Winter and the football coach. Winter owns a greenhouse and many 'bad things' happen to it and to her.
I enjoyed this story but wanted more depth. Opposite opinions formed too soon can lead to attraction as happened with Winter and the football coach. Winter owns a greenhouse and many 'bad things' happen to it and to her.
November 11, 2017
Sweet story involving family, love and trust. I enjoyed this one. I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my personal honest opinion.
December 22, 2021
Review of Loving Winter
I absolutely loved this book and I will recommend this book to anyone who loves romance novels. She is an amazing writer.
I absolutely loved this book and I will recommend this book to anyone who loves romance novels. She is an amazing writer.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews