Throwback Thursday: Shelter Mountain by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
First published in 2007 by Mira

John “Preacher” Middleton is about to close the bar when a young woman and her three-year-old son come in out of a wet October night. A marine who has seen his share of pain, Preacher knows a crisis when he sees one—the woman is covered in bruises. He wants to protect them, and he wants to punish whoever did this to her, but he knows immediately that this inclination to protect is something much more. Paige Lassiter has stirred up emotions in this gentle giant of a man—emotions that he has never allowed himself to feel.

But when Paige’s ex-husband turns up in Virgin River, Preacher knows his own future hangs in the balance. And if there’s one thing in the marines’ motto of Semper Fidelis—always faithful—has taught him, it’s that some things are worth fighting for.

Shelter Mountain is the second in the Virgin River series.  I have to say that I did like this one a bit more than the first one.  The synopsis is a bit misleading though.  It's not just John and Paige's story.  Don't get me wrong, they do figure very prominently in the book.  Their love story is so super sweet that you can't help but grin every time they are together.  But to say this is their story would be a lie.

 This book also contains other story-lines and arcs.  While reading, one really gets a sense of the small town that they live in ans just how special it is..  Ricky gets a huge surprise that ends up leading to one of the most gut wrenching scenes that I think I have ever read.  One of Jack's friends is severely injured on the job and is dealing with recovery.  And Mel and Jack are expecting a baby of their own.  

I definitely recommend this one as well as the series.  I'm looking forward to the next book.

Throwback Thursday: Virgin River by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
First published in 2007 by Mira

"Wanted: Midwife/nurse practitioner in Virgin River, population six hundred. Make a difference against the backdrop of towering California redwoods and crystal-clear rivers. Rent-free cabin included." When the recently widowed Melinda Monroe sees this ad she quickly decides that the remote mountain town of Virgin River might be the perfect place to escape her heartache, and to reenergize the nursing career she loves. But her high hopes are dashed within an hour of arriving: the cabin is a dump, the roads are treacherous and the local doctor wants nothing to do with her. Realizing she's made a huge mistake, Mel decides to leave town the following morning.

But a tiny baby, abandoned on a front porch, changes her plans...and a former marine cements them into place.

Melinda Monroe may have come to Virgin River looking for escape, but instead she finds her home.

I'm not sure why I never read this series.  I loved the Thunder Point series, so it shouldn't have been a big surprise that I would enjoy visiting the town of Virgin River.  I really enjoyed this first book.  Ms. Carr has created a wonderful little town with great and caring characters.  

I'll admit that I didn't warm up to Melinda right away.  She was a little too "city" for me and was kind of a snob.  I loved Jack right off and watching this couple fall in love was a real pleasure for me.  I also ended up loving Mel's journey through rediscovering herself and working through her grief.  The one story-line I could have done without was Liz and Ricky's budding romance.  Because of their age, I felt it was a little too much detail for me.  I have a feeling that situation will be a story arc over the series, but still it was a little TMI.  

I definitely want to pick up the next book, Shelter Mountain.  I loved Preacher and can't wait to read his story!

Kari's Most Anticipated Reads for 2016

A New Hope by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr

Publisher: Mira (HQN)
Date of pubication: June 2015

After losing her child, Ginger Dysart was lost in grief. But since moving to Thunder Point, a small town on the Oregon coast, and with the help of her cousin Ray Anne, Ginger is finally moving forward. Her job at the flower shop is peaceful and fulfilling, and she's excited to start her first big assignment, assisting with the Lacoumette wedding. 

In spite of her lasting heartache, Ginger finds herself swept up in the pleasure of the occasion. But the beauty of the Lacoumette farm and the joy of the gregarious family are ruined by an unfortunate encounter with the bride's brother, Matt. Struggling with painful memories of his own recent divorce, Matt makes a drunken spectacle of himself and Ginger when he tries to make a pass at her, forcing Ginger to flee the scene in embarrassment. 

But when Matt shows up at the flower shop determined to make amends, what started out as a humiliating first meeting blossoms into something much deeper than either of them expected. Discovering they have a lot in common, they form a solid friendship, though everyone around them worries that Ginger will end up with a broken heart yet again. But if Ginger has the courage to embrace the future, and if Matt can finally learn to let go of the past, there may still be hope for a happy ending.

After eight books about Thunder Point, I didn't think that Ms. Carr could top herself.  Well, I was wrong.  I absolutely loved A New Hope. Ginger and Matt's story was heartbreaking, yet so sweet that I just had to sigh at the end. Their story is one of the reasons that I love to read romance.  The HEA always makes me smile in the end.  Ginger has come in Thunder Point to stay with her cousin Ray Anne to recover from the loss of her baby.  She has begun to find some peace and the way back to herself while working in Grace's flower shop.  Matt has been a mess since his bitter divorce, a mess that stems from deeper problems than he has told anyone.

What I loved about this relationship is the friendship that came before the love affair.  Ginger and Matt spend hours talking on the phone and just hanging out as friends.  I really felt like that deepened their relationship and made it more believable.  They just fit so well together.  They are a couple you want to fall in love with and you just want to root for.  The relationship isn't without conflict, but that just makes their story better.

It wouldn't be a Thunder Point story without visiting with other characters in the town.  The book also involves Grace and her mother, Winnie.  I really liked how their relationship was improving.  We are also introduced to Lin Su, Winnie's nurse, and her son Charlie.  They are the focus of the next book, Wildest Dreams, which comes out in August.  I can't wait to visit Thunder Point again!

One Wish by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira (Harlequin)
Date of publication: February 2015 

Grace Dillon was a champion figure skater until she moved to Thunder Point to escape the ruthless world of fame and competition. And though she's proud of the quiet, self-sufficient life she's created running a successful flower shop, she knows something is missing. Her life could use a little excitement. 

In a community where there are few eligible singles, high school teacher Troy Headly appoints himself Grace's fun coach. When he suggests a little companionship with no strings attached, Grace is eager to take him up on his offer, and the two enjoy…getting to know each other. 

But things get complicated when Grace's past catches up with her, and she knows that's not what Troy signed up for. Faced with losing her, Troy realizes Grace is more than just a friend with benefits. He's determined to help her fight for the life she always wished for but never believed she could have—and maybe they can find real love along the way.

I swear, this series just keeps getting better.  One Wish is Grace and Troy's story.  Troy is finally over his heartache from losing Iris when he starts noticing how much he likes spending time with Grace.  Grace has been keeping a secret about her earlier life and isn't sure if she is ready to share it with Troy.  Can she trust him enough to show her true self?

I thought this one was so much fun to read.  Watching Troy and Grace fall in love was such a pleasure! They had some hilarious scenes  that made me burst out laughing. Even though she is slow to trust him with her secret identity,  I thought their relationship was very believable and went at a nice steady pace.  Admittedly, Troy did have a "brain atrophy" for a little bit regarding their future, but he redeemed himself in a very nice way in the end.  Their HEA was super sweet.  

Along with Troy and Grace's story, we are treated to a lot of the rest of the town's characters that have shown up in previous books.  That is what makes this series great.  Being able to check in with previous couples and seeing how life it progressing in the town of Thunder Point.  I makes me want to move there myself! The way Raeanne helped her cousin Ginger was very endearing.    Ginger's story is up next and I can't wait to read it!

The Homecoming by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin Mira
Date of publication

At the age of nineteen, Seth Sileski had everything. A superb athlete and scholar, handsome and popular, he was the pride of Thunder Point. Destined for greatness, he lost it all in a terrible accident that put an end to his professional football career when it had barely begun. The people in his hometown have never forgotten what might have been. 

Seth has come to terms with the turns his life has taken. But now he's been presented with an opportunity to return home and show his father—and the people of Thunder Point—he's become a better, humbler version of his former self. 

Winning over his father isn't the only challenge. Seth must also find a way to convince his childhood neighbor and best friend, Iris McKinley, to forgive him for breaking her heart. With his homecoming, will Seth be able to convince the town, his family and especially Iris that he's finally ready to be the man who will make them all proud?

The Homecoming is the latest in the Thunder Point  series.  I have really been enjoying the series.  I think this is going to be one of my favorites.  I know I have said it before, but I love long lost love stories.  Seth and Iris's story was so sweet.  Seth and Iris were best friends for years until one night changed everything. 

The truth of what happened late one night in the delivery van between Seth and Iris was heartbreaking.  At least for Iris.  I felt so bad for her after what happened.  I couldn't blame Iris for walking away from Seth for a little while, but she kind of dragged it out for a little longer than necessary. Despite that I loved how Seth set out to win Iris back.  They were perfect for each other.  I will admit that their "morning after" was hilarious!

Even thought it's book 6, you could read this one as a stand alone.  I think that Troy and Grace's story is next.  I can't wait!

The Promise by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin (Mira)
Date of publication: June 2014

Scott Grant has a bustling family practice in the small Oregon community of Thunder Point. The town and its people have embraced the widowed doctor and father of two, his children are thriving, and Scott knows it's time to move on from his loss. But as the town's only doctor, the dating scene is awkward. That is, until a stunning physician's assistant applies for a job at his clinic. 

Peyton Lacoumette considers herself entirely out of the dating scene. She's already been burned by a man with kids, and she's come to Thunder Point determined not to repeat past mistakes. When Scott offers her a job, at a much lower salary than she's used to, Peyton is surprisingly eager to accept…at least for now. She's willing to stay for a three-month trial period while she explores other options. 

Scott and Peyton know the arrangement is temporary—it isn't enough time to build a real relationship, never mind anything with lasting commitment. But love can blossom faster than you think when the timing is right, and this short visit just might hold the promise of forever.

I know I have said it before, but I am in love with this series.  The fifth book, The Promise, didn't let me down!  I have been waiting to read Scott's story since he showed up in the beginning of the series.  He is a widower with two small children and has set up a small general medical practice in Thunder Point and has settled nicely into the community.  Now, he his ready to get back in the dating pool, if only the right woman would come along.   Peyton answers his add for a PA on a whim as she looks for a place to heal her wounds from a horrible break-up.  

I loved both characters and loved watching them fall for each other.  Scott is the total opposite of Peyton's ex boyfriend, loser Ted and is perfect for her.  Scott is such a sigh-worthy character.  If I had to pick a book boyfriend, he would definitely be at the top of my list!  Their HEA was perfect.    

Of course, it wouldn't be a good Thunder Point book without checking in with the other residents.  I am intrigued by the developing relationship between Carrie and Rawley and will be interested in seeing how that develops in later books.  The Homecoming is up next.  I can't wait to read it!

The Chance by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Date of publication:  February 2014

With its breathtaking vistas and down-to-earth people, Thunder Point is the perfect place for FBI agent Laine Carrington to recuperate from a gunshot wound and contemplate her future. The locals embraced Laine as one of their own after she risked her life to save a young girl from a dangerous cult. Knowing her wounds go beyond the physical, Laine hopes she'll fit in for a while and find her true self in a town that feels safe. She may even learn to open her heart to others, something an undercover agent has little time to indulge. 

Eric Gentry is also new to Thunder Point. Although he's a man with a dark past, he's determined to put down roots and get to know the daughter he only recently discovered. When Laine and Eric meet, their attraction is obvious to everyone. But while the law enforcement agent and the reformed criminal want to make things work, their differences may run too deep…unless they take a chance on each other and find that deep and mysterious bond that belongs to those who choose love over fear.

I think that The Chance has become my favorite of this series, so far. This was a wonderful story filled with second chances.  Eric is Ashley's biological father. He has moved to town to start a new business and be closer to his daughter.  An ex-con, he has turned his life around and made himself into a model citizen.  Laine is back in town to take a hiatus from her FBI job.  She has a lot of recovering to do from her gunshot wound and the events at the cult compound a few months before.  They say opposites attract and from the start, the attraction for these two is strong.  I loved this relationship.  Even though they were so different, they just worked so well together.

Along with the main couple, there are a couple of other relationships that add a lot of warmth to the book.  I thought the relationship between Al and Justin and his brothers was wonderful, yet heartbreaking at the same time.  RayAnne also finally gets some happiness in her life as well. This book could be picked up as a stand alone.  There is enough background to give the reader just enough information to feel at home in the town of Thunder Point.  But as a whole this series is wonderful and so worth reading.  The Promise is next.  I can't wait to read it.  It will be nice to see Scott Grant finally get some happiness back in his life!

The Hero by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin (Mira)
Date of publication: August 2013

In a moment of desperation, Devon McAllister takes her daughter and flees a place where they should have been safe and secure. She has no idea what is around the next bend, but she is pretty certain it can't be worse than what they've left behind. Her plan is to escape to somewhere she can be invisible. Instead, an unexpected offer of assistance leads her to Thunder Point, a tiny Oregon town with a willingness to help someone in need. 

As the widowed father of a vulnerable young boy, Spencer Lawson knows something about needing friendship. But he's not looking for anything else. Instead, he's thrown his energy into his new role as Thunder Point's high school football coach. Tough and demanding to his team, off the field he's gentle and kind...just the kind of man who could heal Devon's wounded heart. 

The Hero is the third book in the Thunder Point series.  I swear this series keeps getting better and better.  I have probably said ti before about this series, but the thing I am loving the most is the way the author includes many of the past characters.  It's like visiting with old friends.  I know I would love to live in a town like this one.

In The Hero, Devon has run from a commune with her 3 YO daughter.  She has come to realize that her idealistic life is really a prison and she wants to live freely.  Rawley picks her up in the highway and recognizes a lost soul in need of help.  He brings her to Thunder Point where she begins to make a life for herself and Mercy.  There she meets Spencer and their love story begins.

I loved Spencer and Devon together.  I admired Devon's caution about their relationship and commended her for wanting to take things slow.  Despite Spencer's freak-out, I thought they were great together.  But, even more than Spencer and Devon's relationship, I loved the bond that Devon and Mercy formed with Rawley.  We get to see more of his true personality in this book.  The way he took to being a "grandpa" was super sweet.

There's a lot of story-lines packed into this book, so you definitely don't want to miss this installment.  I have The Chance in queue on my TBR list.  I can't wait to read Eric and Laine's story!

The Newcomer by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr

Publisher: Mira ( Harlequin)

Date of publication: June 2013

Single dad and Thunder Point's deputy sheriff "Mac" McCain has worked hard to keep everyone safe and happy. Now he's found his own happiness with Gina James. The longtime friends have always shared the challenges and rewards of raising their adolescent daughters. With an unexpected romance growing between them, they're feeling like teenagers themselves-suddenly they can't get enough of one another. 

And just when things are really taking off, their lives are suddenly thrown into chaos. When Mac's long-lost-and not missed-ex-wife shows up in town, drama takes on a whole new meaning. They're wondering if their new feelings for each other can withstand the pressure...but they are not going down without a fight. 

The Newcomer is the second book in the Thunder Point series. I enjoyed the first one and was looking forward to this one.  I'm happy to say that it is just as good.  The synopsis is a bit deceiving though, because it isn't just about Mac and Gina, the story also deals with Cooper and Sarah and their relationship.  In fact, it really encompasses a lot of characters from the first book.  

Landon and Eve are getting closer, Sarah is struggling with a possible reassignment and what that means for her and Cooper.  Ashley's boyfriend breaks her heart and she has to learn to deal with the loss of first love. Cooper's past comes back to haunt him in a big way.  And finally. Mac and Gina face their own obstacles for a HEA,  Kind of a lot, right? But, so worth the journey for all of them. The story flows well and  it was good to visit with all of the characters again.  I am really loving this series and look forward to reading the next book, The Hero. 

Review: The Wanderer by Robyn Carr

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira (Harlequin)
Date of publication: March 2013

Nestled on the Oregon coast is a small town of rocky beaches and rugged charm. Locals love the land's unspoiled beauty. Developers see it as a potential gold mine. When newcomer Hank Cooper learns he's been left an old friend's entire beachfront property, he finds himself with a community's destiny in his hands.

Cooper has never been a man to settle in one place, and Thunder Point was supposed to be just another quick stop. But Cooper finds himself getting involved with the town. And with Sarah Dupre, a woman as complicated as she is beautiful.

With the whole town watching for his next move, Cooper has to choose between his old life and a place full of new possibilities. A place that just might be home.

The Wanderer is the first in a new series.  It is supposed to be an off shoot of Ms. Carr's Virgin River Series.  I haven't read any of those books yet, but I didn't feel like I needed to in order to enjoy this book.  The book is a great first book in a series.  Ms. Carr has woven a tale not just about two people who find love, but an entire town filled with interesting characters.

At the center of this story is Cooper.  He has come to Thunder Point to find out what happened to his friend.  He soon discovers that he has inherited a huge sum of land, a broken down bar and a handy man who doesn't seem to want to make new friends.  Sarah has recently moved to the area to escape her divorce and try to start over with her brother in a new life.  When the two finally meet (it takes a while), sparks fly and the tension is thick.  The romance between theses two was slow and very sweet.  I loved these two together. They are so right for each other.

Along with Cooper and Sarah, we are treated to one other sweet side romance.  I was really rooting for Mac and Gina to get together.  They were too cute in the end.  I loved the scene on the beach!  It was one of my favorites of the book.  They are the center of the next book and I can't wait. There is so much going on in this book that I really hate to give it away. With great characters, a bad guy, and a bit of a mystery, you can't go wrong!