The Holiday Gift by RaeAnne Thayne

Blurb: With two kids and an active life, widow Faith Dustin only wants peace and quiet for Christmas. But her snowy Pine Gulch ranch is nothing but chaotic. All that keeps Faith going is her helpful neighbor, cowboy Chase Brannon. He’s always been “good ol’ Chase,” her faithful friend. Until he kisses her under the mistletoe…

Years ago Chase blew his chance with the woman he’s loved since childhood. Now he’s determined to step out of the friend zone…and into the role of husband. But the scared and stubborn Faith won’t let herself fall. With Christmas just days away, Chase will need all the magic of the season—and the help of her two matchmaking children—to unwrap a second chance at love.

 

 

 Available November 22nd on Amazon

3 stars

I don’t know whats wrong with me lately, but this book has left me wanting in the romance department.  I have never read a Harlequin book before.  And I must admit, I’m a bit disappointed.  I was expecting more romance, possibly some explicit scenes but this one was kinda blah if I’m being honest.

I found Faith to be a bit cowardly, and needy. This did not endear her to me.  I get that she was scared but she almost let fear keep her from something that could have been great.  I just found the trip took sooo long I couldn’t enjoy the destination when I got there. She tested the patience of a saint with her wishy washy ness.

Its a good thing Chase was a saint.  He took her indecision and her back pedaling in stride.  Waiting her out, I mean I get it, he loves her.  But what did she do that was so awesome to capture his love?  It felt a bit one sided to me since he did so much on her ranch but she didn’t seem to reciprocate the help on his.  I mean, yeah, she got him groceries once in a while, but in my eyes it wasn’t enough.

IDK, maybe my expectations were so high on this that it was doomed to fail. But this one just wasn’t the right fit for me.

I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest/unbiased opinion.