What We Find

Posted on April 12, 2016 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: MIRA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: Join Robyn Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Virgin River and Thunder Point series, as she explores the healing powers of rural Colorado in a brand-new story of fresh starts, budding relationships and one woman’s journey to finding the happiness she’s long been missing

Between the urban bustle of Denver and the high-stress environment of a career in neurosurgery, Maggie Sullivan has hit a wall. When an emergency, high-risk procedure results in the death of a teenager, Maggie finds herself in the middle of a malpractice lawsuit—and experiencing levels of anxiety she’s never faced before. It’s in this desperate moment that Maggie’s boyfriend decides he can’t handle her emotional baggage, and she’s left alone, exhausted and unsure of what her future holds. One thing is certain, though: she needs to slow down before she burns out completely, and the best place she can think to do that is Sullivan’s Crossing.

Named for Maggie’s great-grandfather, the land and charming general store at the crossroads of the Colorado and the Continental Divide trails have been passed down through the generations and now belong to Maggie’s estranged father, Sully. Though raised by her mother and stepfather after her parents divorced, Maggie has always adored Sully—despite his hands-off approach to fatherhood. When she shows up unannounced in Sullivan’s Crossing, he welcomes her with opens arms, and she relishes the opportunity to rebuild their relationship.

But when Sully has a sudden heart attack, Maggie’s world is rocked once again. Consumed with his care, she’s relieved to find that Cal Jones, a quiet and serious-looking camper, has been taking over many of Sully’s responsibilities as he recuperates. Still, Maggie is suspicious of this mysterious man’s eagerness to help—until she finds out the true reason for his deliberate isolation.

Though Cal and Maggie each struggle with loss and loneliness, the time they spend together gives Maggie hope for something brighter just on the horizon…if only they can learn to find peace and healing—and perhaps love—with each other.

Ope’s Opinion: This is the beginning of a new series for Robyn Carr, so there was a lot of details in this book. It really helps the reader to be able to see the surrounds and get to know the people that you will see again.

I really liked Maggie and Cal’s story. They are mature adults, who each had hardships before they met each other. They took their relationship slow – I liked their friendship.

Even though Robyn Carr writes predictable stories, there are always twists along that way that keep me reading. Now I am looking forward to the next one in this series.

Thank you Katie from Little Bird Publicity for sending me this book.

This Just In…

Posted on February 6, 2016 by opesopinions

From Kristin of Kritters Ramblings

Published: January 12, 2016
Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Goodreads: Mallory’s mother died fifteen years ago. But her father’s last words on the phone were unmistakable: “Find . . . mother.” Shame and confusion have kept Mallory Davis from her home for the last fifteen years, but when her dad mysteriously dies on his mail boat route, she doesn’t have any choice but to go back to Mermaid Point. Mallory believes her father was murdered and childhood sweetheart Kevin O’Connor, game warden in Downeast Maine, confirms her suspicions. But Kevin is wary of helping Mallory in her search. She broke his heart—and left—without a word, years ago. When Mallory begins receiving threats on her own life—and her beloved teenage daughter, Haylie—their search intensifies. There’s a tangled web within the supposed murder, and it involves much more than what meets the eye. As answers begin to fall into place, Mallory realizes her search is about more than finding her father’s killer—it is also about finding herself again . . . and possibly about healing what was broken so long ago with Kevin. She just has to stay alive long enough to put all the pieces together.

I am excited to read a new ( new to me ) Christian author!
Thanks Kristin for sharing your books.

From Emer at MIRA

Expected Publication: May 17, 2016
Publisher: MIRA

Goodreads: New York Times bestselling author of The Good Girl, Mary Kubica returns with an electrifying and addictive tale of deceit and obsession

In downtown Chicago, a young woman named Esther Vaughan disappears from her apartment without a trace. A haunting letter addressed to My Dearest is found among her possessions, leaving her friend and roommate Quinn Collins to wonder where Esther is and whether or not she’s the person Quinn thought she knew.

Meanwhile, in a small Michigan harbor town an hour outside Chicago, a mysterious woman appears in the quiet coffee shop where eighteen-year-old Alex Gallo works as a dishwasher. He is immediately drawn to her charm and beauty, but what starts as an innocent crush quickly spirals into something far more dark and sinister than he ever expected.

As Quinn searches for answers about Esther, and Alex is drawn further under Pearl’s spell, master of suspense Mary Kubica takes readers on a taut and twisted thrill ride that builds to a stunning conclusion and shows that no matter how fast and far we run, the past always catches up with us in the end.

Thank you Emer for sending me this book!

From Katie at Little Bird Publicity

Expected Publication: April 5, 2016
Publisher: MIRA

Goodreads: Join Robyn Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author of theVirgin River and Thunder Point series, as she explores the healing powers of rural Colorado in a brand-new story of fresh starts, budding relationships and one woman’s journey to finding the happiness she’s long been missing

Thank you Katie!
Look for my review on April 12th.

Wildest Dreams

Posted on September 3, 2015 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: MIRA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: Blake Smiley searched the country for just the right place to call home. The professional triathlete has traveled the world, but Thunder Point has what he needs to put down the roots he’s never had. In the quiet coastal town he can focus on his training without distractions. Until he meets his new neighbors and everything changes.

Lin Su Simmons and her teenage son, Charlie, are fixtures at Winnie Banks’ house as Lin Su nurses Winnie through the realities of ALS. A single mother, Lin Su is proud of taking charge and never showing weakness. But she has her hands full coping with a job, debt and Charlie’s health issues. And Charlie is asking questions about his family history—questions she doesn’t want to answer.

When Charlie enlists Blake’s help to escape his overprotective mother, Lin Su resents the interference in her life. But Blake is certain he can break through her barriers and be the man she and Charlie need. When faced with a terrible situation, Blake comes to the rescue, and Lin Su realizes he just might be the man of her dreams. Together, they recognize that family is who you choose it to be.

Ope’s Opinion: This is another wonderful Robyn Carr book from the Thunder Point Series. She just keeps writing great characters who make Thunder Point more interesting and fun to read.

Lin Su’s story was a steady slow moving one. Being a mom and being hurt in the past made her reluctant to get into a relationship that might hurt her or her son. I loved the way Blake slowly, cautiously eased Lin Su into a friendship first.

It was great to see all the other people in Thunder Point get updated. Robyn Carr does a really good job of naturally including the other town people in each book. She also does a great job of telling you who everyone is if this is the first book you picked up.

Rating: 4 – I like this book so much I know several friends to share it with.

A New Hope

Posted on June 29, 2015 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: Starting over is never easy, but in Thunder Point, where newcomers are welcome and friends become family, it’s possible to find yourself again. In this brand-new story, #1New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr takes us on a moving and rewarding journey as a young woman finds new hope.

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.

Ope’s Opinion: This is the eighth book in the Thunder Point Series. It is my favorite one so far. I loved the pace of the story. There was a lot of subtle humor – I found my self giggling at times.

The two main characters – Ginger and Matt started out their relationship in a funny way ( Don’t want to spoil it, so you’ll have to read ). They started out as friends and their relationship slowly moved into more. I loved that their physical relationship did not happen until they really knew each other. The explicit sexual scenes in this book were held to a minimum – which was also a positive for me.

Once again, we were able to see some of the characters from the previous books. We saw their relationships develop and move along. It is like visiting an old friend and catching up with them.

Now I am looking forward to the next visit to Thunder Point to see where Ginger and Matt are and who will be the center of the story.

Rating: 5 – This book is so good it will be passed on and on and on…..

One Wish

Posted on June 3, 2015 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Kristin of Kritters Ramblings

Goodreads: 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.

Ope’s Opinion: This is another good book by Robyn Carr. You know that Grace and Troy will be happy at the end, but getting there is always fun! Catching up on other Thunder Point characters was enjoyable too.

Watching Grace become independent after such a dependent childhood made me respect her character.

I am looking forward to the next Thunder Point book. I want to see how Grace and her mom work out their relationship. I also want to see all the new babies that are on the way. It should be another great read.

Rating: 4 – I like the book so much I know several friends to share it with.

Never Too Late

Posted on April 16, 2015 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: MIRA
Genre: Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr examines the lives of three sisters as they step beyond the roles of wife, mother, daughter and discover the importance of being a woman first.

Clare Wilson is starting over. She’s had it with her marriage to a charming serial cheater. Even her own son thinks she’s given his father too many chances. With the support of her sisters, Maggie and Sarah, she’s ready to move on. Facing her fortieth birthday, Clare is finally feeling the rush of unadulterated freedom.

But when a near-fatal car accident lands Clare in the hospital, her life takes another detour. While recovering, Clare realizes she has the power to choose her life’s path. The wonderful younger police officer who witnessed her crash is over the moon for her. A man from her past stirs up long-buried feelings. Even her ex is pining for her. With enthusiasm and a little envy, her sisters watch her bloom.

Together, the sisters encourage each other to seek what they need to be happy. Along the way they all learn that it’s never too late to begin again.

Ope’s Opinion: Oh, Robyn Carr is such a good writer. Her books ( and this one is no exception ) are such a pleasure to read. When I hear the words “pleasure reading” Robyn Carr comes to mind. The title fit the story. It was not too late for several of the relationships.

I enjoyed all three of the McCarthy sisters and their men. Each one had their own story, but they were intertwined. The sisters relationships with each other was fun to read about too.

I know this was a romance book, so I expect some sex scenes ( that I am not fond of ). This book had a few too many and were too detailed for my taste. If it had not been for that part I would have given this book a five. So if you like steamy – you will like this book.

The ending was very satisfying. I liked where everyone ended up and who they ended up being with. Overall, a very good book.

Rating: 4 – I like this book so much I know several friends to share it with.

The Homecoming

Posted on August 25, 2014 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Genre: Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Publication Date: August 26, 2014

Goodreads: In a small town, reputation is everything. In her latest novel, #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr explores the burden placed on a young man returning home to face his mistakes—the first step in claiming the life he was meant to live …

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?

Ope’s Opinion: There were some great things in this book and a few disappointing things. Let me start with the disappointing so we can end on a good note. Robyn Carr does not usually use the “f” word and she used it in weird places in this book. This book is part of a series. Robyn usually updates us on all the other characters we had met in the past – there were not many updates in this book.

Now, lets get to the good part. Seth and Iris are a really cute couple. It was fun to watch them come together. I love how Robyn Carr handles secrets with her characters – she does not wait until the last pages to reveal the secret. She gives plenty of time for her characters to work things out. She really knows how to tell a story.

I really liked how Robyn Carr handle the abusive situation. I thought it was great to see a school counselors responsibilities. It was encouraging to watch these characters confront abuse head on – as scary as that is.

As usual I am looking forward to her next installment in this series.

Rating: Three Chairs – I like the book enough to suggest it to a friend or two.

The Promise

Posted on June 23, 2014 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Note: This will be available to buy tomorrow.
June 24th!

Goodreads: #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr returns to Thunder Point with an uplifting story about overcoming loss and finding unexpected love

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.

Ope’s Opinion: Reading this book is kind of like going home to visit and see how things have changed. This is the fifth in the Thunder Point series. Robyn Carr has done an awesome job of weaving the new comers to Thunder Point with the previous characters.

I like how Peyton was always trying to learn from her past decisions and mistakes. It made her a little cautious in her relationships. Scott and Peyton having their careers in common helped Peyton trust Scott. I really liked Peyton’s family. They were down to earth. They were her anchor – her stability. It was fun to see such a great family portrayed in this book.

It was great to see Ted and his family situation explored in depth, even though they do not live in Thunder Point.

I really liked how this book ended. It took place back at Peyton’s safe place (no more details – don’t want to spoil it ).

Rating: Four Chairs – I like this book so much I know several friends to share it with.

Four Friends

Posted on March 26, 2014 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira Books
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: Gerri can’t decide what’s more devastating: learning her rock-solid marriage has big cracks, or the anger she feels as she tries to repair the damage. Always the anchor for friends and her three angst-ridden teenagers, it’s time to look carefully at herself. The journey for Gerri and her family is more than revealing—it’s transforming.

Andy doesn’t have a great track record with men, and she’s come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.

Sonja’s lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he’s through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There’s no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.

Miraculously, it’s BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends.

Ope’s Opinion: I really enjoy reading books about female friendships. I expect conflict and difficulties, but I think this was a bit over the top. All the friends were having issues at the beginning. It was a little overwhelming to keep it all straight.

I do love the friendships that were built in this book. It is great to see women who support each other – not talk behind each others back and tear each other apart. These women encouraged each other to figure out what would be best for themselves. They accepted each other with their differences. I like strong women characters.

Robyn Carr is one of my go-to authors. When I read one of her books, I am usually in for a good read full of great characters. This book just didn’t live up to her usual standards. It was a little too sad for me. After saying that, I will tell you, I will read her next book because she has many more hits then misses.

I will read Robyn Carr again and again.

Rating: Three Chairs – I like the book enough to suggest it to a friend or two.

The Chance

Posted on February 24, 2014 by opesopinions

Author: Robyn Carr
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Little Bird Publicity

Goodreads: Share the joys, heartbreaks, challenges and triumphs of the people who inhabit the small Oregon town of Thunder Point with #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr 

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.

Ope’s Opinion: Oh, this book is so good!! It is the fourth in the series. You could read it alone, but the back story makes you more involved with the people. Meeting new characters and getting up dates on the past people we met in Thunder Point made the story move really fast.

One of the new characters was a family with three boys. It was a heart wrenching story line. I hope we see more of them in future books.

Laine’s family had a lot to deal with in this book. It had some really good twists and turns. Not everything was solved at the end of this book, so I am anxiously waiting for the next one!

Side note: This book will be available for purchased tomorrow – it will be worth buying!