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Ransom Canyon #8
Christmas in Winter Valley
Ransom Canyon welcomes you back for a Christmas that has everything you’re looking romance, family and a whole lot of Texas.
Cooper Holloway would take nature over people any day—especially visiting relatives. That’s why he’s headed for a rustic cabin in remote Winter Valley, where he’ll care for a herd of wild mustangs. But Cooper’s plans are quickly thwarted by the arrival of two unexpected one, a stranger in desperate need of his help, and the other, a very attractive young veterinarian.
Elliott is busy trying to keep Maverick Ranch running smoothly with Cooper gone, which is no easy task with family visiting. And when a long-lost love suddenly reappears in his life, Elliott knows he’ll have more than just books to balance this season.
With a big, chaotic family Christmas around the corner and love blooming in surprising ways, the Holloway men will have to make big choices about the future—just in time for the holidays.
Cooper Holloway would take nature over people any day—especially visiting relatives. That’s why he’s headed for a rustic cabin in remote Winter Valley, where he’ll care for a herd of wild mustangs. But Cooper’s plans are quickly thwarted by the arrival of two unexpected one, a stranger in desperate need of his help, and the other, a very attractive young veterinarian.
Elliott is busy trying to keep Maverick Ranch running smoothly with Cooper gone, which is no easy task with family visiting. And when a long-lost love suddenly reappears in his life, Elliott knows he’ll have more than just books to balance this season.
With a big, chaotic family Christmas around the corner and love blooming in surprising ways, the Holloway men will have to make big choices about the future—just in time for the holidays.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
About the author
Jodi Thomas
103 books2,274 followersI'm a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author, wife, mother, in-law, grandmother, sister, friend, and owner of one fat cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
October 11, 2019
Christmas in Winter Valley is a 2019 HQN Books publication.
It may be cold and snowy in Ransom Canyon, but the holiday spirit is warm, filled with second chances and new beginnings!
Griff Holloway has left his brothers, Elliott and Cooper, in charge of running the family ranch while he and his wife, Sunlan, are away from home. However, Elliott is left holding the bag, when Cooper hears that a group of Sunlan’s cousins are coming for a visit and hightails it out of there to spend some alone time at a remote cabin in Winter Valley.
However, Cooper finds his secluded cabin is occupied by an orphaned boy named, Tatum, while Elliott is unexpectedly forced to face his painful past.
Meanwhile, a new hire at the ranch and a former rodeo star, Tye, is looking to discover something about his heritage, but soon finds himself attracted to Dani, the ranch’s down to earth cook.
This book features a group of heartwarming stories, which bring people together just in time for the Christmas holidays. Each romance is touching and sweet, and of course, Tatum’s story certainly pulls on the old heartstrings.
While I enjoyed getting to know all the couples, I must confess I enjoyed Tye and Dani’s story the most. I really appreciate the mature characters who prove it’s never too late to find true love.
By using alternating chapters, instead of individual vignettes, the author allows the reader more time to connect with the characters and gives each story equal strength. Thankfully, the holiday theme is not overdone, but one can still feel the spirit of the season, which will make this book a nice addition to your holiday reading- or a nice gift for someone on your Christmas list.
Overall, this a lovely, clean holiday themed novel, with a little something for all contemporary romance lovers!
It may be cold and snowy in Ransom Canyon, but the holiday spirit is warm, filled with second chances and new beginnings!
Griff Holloway has left his brothers, Elliott and Cooper, in charge of running the family ranch while he and his wife, Sunlan, are away from home. However, Elliott is left holding the bag, when Cooper hears that a group of Sunlan’s cousins are coming for a visit and hightails it out of there to spend some alone time at a remote cabin in Winter Valley.
However, Cooper finds his secluded cabin is occupied by an orphaned boy named, Tatum, while Elliott is unexpectedly forced to face his painful past.
Meanwhile, a new hire at the ranch and a former rodeo star, Tye, is looking to discover something about his heritage, but soon finds himself attracted to Dani, the ranch’s down to earth cook.
This book features a group of heartwarming stories, which bring people together just in time for the Christmas holidays. Each romance is touching and sweet, and of course, Tatum’s story certainly pulls on the old heartstrings.
While I enjoyed getting to know all the couples, I must confess I enjoyed Tye and Dani’s story the most. I really appreciate the mature characters who prove it’s never too late to find true love.
By using alternating chapters, instead of individual vignettes, the author allows the reader more time to connect with the characters and gives each story equal strength. Thankfully, the holiday theme is not overdone, but one can still feel the spirit of the season, which will make this book a nice addition to your holiday reading- or a nice gift for someone on your Christmas list.
Overall, this a lovely, clean holiday themed novel, with a little something for all contemporary romance lovers!
September 25, 2019
Such a magnificent storyteller! Jodi Thomas’s writing style is the most unique and soothing, I’ve ever encountered.
Christmas In Winter’s Valley was a perfect conclusion to a phenomenal series.
Cooper, Elliot, and Dani all find their happy-ever-after. Tatum truly became the star of the story. He melted my heart in every scene.
Such an amazing plot, a book which will leave readers believing in true love, no matter what age.
Sometimes the best things in life come latter when the time is right.
From Ransom Canyon’s prequel, Winter’s Camp, to the series finale, Christmas At Winter’s Valley, I’ve been mesmerized with Crossroads, Texas and the wonderful individuals who call this home.
Many times strangers wonder into each other’s lives and define the true meaning of family, not always blood related, but spiritually destined.
Jodi Thomas’s best series, one which has been woven into my heart and soul.
Tonya Lucas 7-10-2019
Christmas In Winter’s Valley was a perfect conclusion to a phenomenal series.
Cooper, Elliot, and Dani all find their happy-ever-after. Tatum truly became the star of the story. He melted my heart in every scene.
Such an amazing plot, a book which will leave readers believing in true love, no matter what age.
Sometimes the best things in life come latter when the time is right.
From Ransom Canyon’s prequel, Winter’s Camp, to the series finale, Christmas At Winter’s Valley, I’ve been mesmerized with Crossroads, Texas and the wonderful individuals who call this home.
Many times strangers wonder into each other’s lives and define the true meaning of family, not always blood related, but spiritually destined.
Jodi Thomas’s best series, one which has been woven into my heart and soul.
Tonya Lucas 7-10-2019
October 11, 2019
A quick, light read. Perfect for the season of love. Full review at maidamalby.com.
November 12, 2019
Jodi Thomas is becoming a favorite for cowboy romances! Christmas in Winter Valley is a bit slow moving at first but once it gets going you’ll fall in love with the Holloway brothers Cooper and Elliott and the supporting cast!
September 24, 2019
In "Christmas in Winter Valley", wonderful writer Jodi Thomas treats readers to holidays with the Holloways! In a return to her awesome "Ransom Canyon Series", with Book #8, the author has loner Cooper Holloway hightailing it to an isolated cabin in Winter Valley to escape incoming relatives and keep company with a herd of wild mustangs. Fate has its own ideas for Cooper, however, and an accident, a beautiful young veterinarian named Hayley Westland, and a small boy named Tatum will not only change Coop's plans, they will change his life forever. Meanwhile, back at the Maverick Ranch, family folks and old friends are finding the spirit of the season in their own ways, and it looks like a memorable yuletide for all. Jodi Thomas is one of my all-time favorite authors, and she never fails to make each new book a true reader's delight. She always draws me deeply into the story line and then takes me completely by surprise when she pulls an Ace or two from her sleeve. I highly recommend the works of Jodi Thomas, and her "Ransom Canyon Series" is sure to thrill lovers of contemporary western romance with touches of humor, a good dose of adventure, and a heaping helping of Terrific Texans.
Book Copy Gratis Harlequin Books
Book Copy Gratis Harlequin Books
October 27, 2019
Love and laughs
Thomas makes me smile and giggle. Her stories are full of humor and this one was the same. Please keep writing and brightening my days.
Thomas makes me smile and giggle. Her stories are full of humor and this one was the same. Please keep writing and brightening my days.
October 6, 2019
Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from Lone Star Literary Life partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copies used in those are finalized copies sent to me in exchange for my honest review. #partner #LSBBT
The author does an amazing building of realistic relationships and the development of the characters. Once you start this book, you won’t want to put it down. Although this is only the first book I have read by this author, I am excited to read more from her. The author has a writing style that captivates the reader. She provides a realistic approach to the telling of a romance novel by using descriptive vocabulary to engage the reader. From the moment you pick up this book, you feel a connection with the Holloway family and their ranch. Since this story involves the telling of multiple relationships the author tackles the challenge of creating something that flows well with multiple plots. It can be a bit confusing keeping up with the multiple character stories, each different from the next but if you enjoy a bit of a challenge then you will love this just as much as I did.
You can click the link in my bio to see the full review on my blog.
The author does an amazing building of realistic relationships and the development of the characters. Once you start this book, you won’t want to put it down. Although this is only the first book I have read by this author, I am excited to read more from her. The author has a writing style that captivates the reader. She provides a realistic approach to the telling of a romance novel by using descriptive vocabulary to engage the reader. From the moment you pick up this book, you feel a connection with the Holloway family and their ranch. Since this story involves the telling of multiple relationships the author tackles the challenge of creating something that flows well with multiple plots. It can be a bit confusing keeping up with the multiple character stories, each different from the next but if you enjoy a bit of a challenge then you will love this just as much as I did.
You can click the link in my bio to see the full review on my blog.
December 25, 2022
Thank you Harlequin for my complimentary copy.
It's become a tradition of sorts to read a Jodi Thomas holiday romance every year. I usually get hooked to her stories right away, but it took me a while to get invested in this one.
We have three plotlines here:
- Cooper, Tatum, and Hayley
- Elliot and Jessica
- Dani and Tye
I was personally the most invested in Cooper's story, but unfortunately that storyline received the least amount of attention. It took way too long for Coop to finally meet his love interest. Their relationship wasn't as properly developed as the other two couples. I love the addition of Tatum to the family though. He was my favourite.
Arguably, Tye and Dani had the most fleshed out relationship, but they also got together way too quickly lol. I really liked the conflict here, but Dani also overreacted lol.
As for Jessica and Elliot, I didn't really find Jess all that likable. Because this is a second chance romance, their relationship already had a foundation. But I feel like the resolution was a bit rushed.
Lastly, I lowkey wish Creed and Dallas had their own chapters.
Overall, this wasn't a terrible book, but it just wasn't one of my favourite Jodi Thomas books.
It's become a tradition of sorts to read a Jodi Thomas holiday romance every year. I usually get hooked to her stories right away, but it took me a while to get invested in this one.
We have three plotlines here:
- Cooper, Tatum, and Hayley
- Elliot and Jessica
- Dani and Tye
I was personally the most invested in Cooper's story, but unfortunately that storyline received the least amount of attention. It took way too long for Coop to finally meet his love interest. Their relationship wasn't as properly developed as the other two couples. I love the addition of Tatum to the family though. He was my favourite.
Arguably, Tye and Dani had the most fleshed out relationship, but they also got together way too quickly lol. I really liked the conflict here, but Dani also overreacted lol.
As for Jessica and Elliot, I didn't really find Jess all that likable. Because this is a second chance romance, their relationship already had a foundation. But I feel like the resolution was a bit rushed.
Lastly, I lowkey wish Creed and Dallas had their own chapters.
Overall, this wasn't a terrible book, but it just wasn't one of my favourite Jodi Thomas books.
July 2, 2019
This book was so good I didn't want to put it down. I even thought about calling into work sick so I could finish it. Although I would never do that it was a nice fantasy. This book has everything you would want. Laughter, drama. And tears both happy and sad.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Harlequin and Netgalley for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Harlequin and Netgalley for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
September 30, 2019
Christmas in Winter Valley by Jodi Thomas is the perfect Christmas feel good heartwarming book. She has the ability to draw me in with her characters and I cannot read the book fast enough. And at the same time want to savor it and read it slowly. In this book we have two of the three brothers kind of tell their story and one of the cowboys.
I think Cooper’s story may have been my favorite. He is the wild brother and he meets a young boy who has ran away from home. It was so sweet and touching to watch the relationship buils. And when the vet comes out and has to save him it’s adorable.
The other brother is Elliot and he is the nerdy numbers guy. He and his girlfriend break up when he had to go back to the ranch to help after his father died. Their relationship never got the closure it needed. As she finds her way back to the ranch they’re able to figure out where to go in the future.
A beautiful side story was the cook and a down and out rodeo star. I loved their story it was absolutely adorable and sweet. They were a more mature couple and had their own challenges, including her two sons. Their banter about biscuits was so fun.
I would highly recommend this book. I read it at the beach but it still gave me the Christmas feels. I’m a huge fan of Jody’s. She has a unique ability to draw you into her stories and fall in love with her characters.Christmas in winter Valley by Jodi Thomas is the perfect Christmas feel good heartwarming book. Jodi has the ability to draw me in with her characters and I cannot read the book fast enough. And at the same time want to savor it and read it slowly. In this book we have two of the three brothers and one of the cowboys as their stories unfold during the Christmas season.
I think Cooper’s story may have been my favorite. He is the wild brother and he meets a young boy who has run away from home. It was so sweet and touching to watch the relationship build. When the vet comes out and has to save him it’s adorable.
The other brother is Elliot and he is the nerdy numbers guy. He and his girlfriend break up when he had to go back to the ranch to help after his father died. Their relationship never got the closure it needed. As she finds her way back to the ranch they’re able to figure out where to go in the future.
A beautiful side story was the cook and a down and out rodeo star. I loved their story it was absolutely adorable and sweet. They were a more mature couple and had their own challenges, including her two sons. Their banter about biscuits was so fun.
I would highly recommend this book. I read it at the beach but it still gave me the Christmas feels. I’m a huge fan of Jody’s. She has a unique ability to draw you into her stories and fall in love with her characters.
sexual content - three different couples have a physical relationship but it is mostly behind closed doors.
Violence - a couple fist fights
Alcohol - a couple people drink too much
I think Cooper’s story may have been my favorite. He is the wild brother and he meets a young boy who has ran away from home. It was so sweet and touching to watch the relationship buils. And when the vet comes out and has to save him it’s adorable.
The other brother is Elliot and he is the nerdy numbers guy. He and his girlfriend break up when he had to go back to the ranch to help after his father died. Their relationship never got the closure it needed. As she finds her way back to the ranch they’re able to figure out where to go in the future.
A beautiful side story was the cook and a down and out rodeo star. I loved their story it was absolutely adorable and sweet. They were a more mature couple and had their own challenges, including her two sons. Their banter about biscuits was so fun.
I would highly recommend this book. I read it at the beach but it still gave me the Christmas feels. I’m a huge fan of Jody’s. She has a unique ability to draw you into her stories and fall in love with her characters.Christmas in winter Valley by Jodi Thomas is the perfect Christmas feel good heartwarming book. Jodi has the ability to draw me in with her characters and I cannot read the book fast enough. And at the same time want to savor it and read it slowly. In this book we have two of the three brothers and one of the cowboys as their stories unfold during the Christmas season.
I think Cooper’s story may have been my favorite. He is the wild brother and he meets a young boy who has run away from home. It was so sweet and touching to watch the relationship build. When the vet comes out and has to save him it’s adorable.
The other brother is Elliot and he is the nerdy numbers guy. He and his girlfriend break up when he had to go back to the ranch to help after his father died. Their relationship never got the closure it needed. As she finds her way back to the ranch they’re able to figure out where to go in the future.
A beautiful side story was the cook and a down and out rodeo star. I loved their story it was absolutely adorable and sweet. They were a more mature couple and had their own challenges, including her two sons. Their banter about biscuits was so fun.
I would highly recommend this book. I read it at the beach but it still gave me the Christmas feels. I’m a huge fan of Jody’s. She has a unique ability to draw you into her stories and fall in love with her characters.
sexual content - three different couples have a physical relationship but it is mostly behind closed doors.
Violence - a couple fist fights
Alcohol - a couple people drink too much
October 15, 2019
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.6.
October 5, 2019
This is a wonderful installment of the Ransom Canyon series. Every time Ms Thomas publishes a book I have to re read the last few in the series to add to my enjoyment of the book. I loved reading about the two other Holloway brothers. They find their HEA and we get a great story. I loved the arrival of Tatum and that he found the perfect place. This is one of the best in the series. I am very partial to the Harmony series but the Ransom Canyon holds a very close second. I buy all of Jodi Thomas' books - and I get the audio verson too
August 6, 2019
Jodi Thomas has written a great Christmas book that leaves you longing to be in Winter Valley with all of the Holloway's. The descriptive writing in this story is so soothing that it leave you feeling that you are in the scene with the characters. I felt like I was a part of the whole Holloway bunch whether it was at the ranch, on a call with the Doc, or in the shack with Cooper. I could not put this book down once I started it and longed for more once I was done.
Cooper Holloway is determined to get out of dodge before his cousin-in-laws get to headquarters. Cooper has had dealings with the three women and he is not going to do it again. Cooper is on his way to the shack to help the wild mustangs get the medical attention they need to make it through the winter. The local vet is supposed to meet Cooper up there and bring the medical supplies they will need to take care of the mustangs. Cooper is one that is a free spirit and loves to be out living on the land.
When Cooper has a mishap and ends up needing medical attention himself, things take a turn in his schedule that he had not planned on. When his little buddy he meets ends up saving his life, they are bonded for life and Cooper knows that he has a special bond with there. I really don't want to give too much away about this story because it is so good and reading it as it happens is the best part of it.
There are so many romances going on in this story that it makes it so fun to read. You wonder who is going to get with who next. Old flames are rekindled and new ones are lite with burning desires for each other. Jodi Thomas has done an excellent job with this story! I really was disappointed when I came to the end and realized that there would be no more Holloway's for awhile. (Hopefully only for a short time!) You will not be disappointed in this read!
All opinions are my own and voluntary. Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an advanced copy of this book!
Cooper Holloway is determined to get out of dodge before his cousin-in-laws get to headquarters. Cooper has had dealings with the three women and he is not going to do it again. Cooper is on his way to the shack to help the wild mustangs get the medical attention they need to make it through the winter. The local vet is supposed to meet Cooper up there and bring the medical supplies they will need to take care of the mustangs. Cooper is one that is a free spirit and loves to be out living on the land.
When Cooper has a mishap and ends up needing medical attention himself, things take a turn in his schedule that he had not planned on. When his little buddy he meets ends up saving his life, they are bonded for life and Cooper knows that he has a special bond with there. I really don't want to give too much away about this story because it is so good and reading it as it happens is the best part of it.
There are so many romances going on in this story that it makes it so fun to read. You wonder who is going to get with who next. Old flames are rekindled and new ones are lite with burning desires for each other. Jodi Thomas has done an excellent job with this story! I really was disappointed when I came to the end and realized that there would be no more Holloway's for awhile. (Hopefully only for a short time!) You will not be disappointed in this read!
All opinions are my own and voluntary. Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an advanced copy of this book!
September 30, 2019
Loved it. A wonderful fun book to read. A keeper I will read again. Jodi Thomas is truly high on my favorite list.
September 1, 2019
Disclaimer right off the bat: I wanted a Christmas book when I read this and since the word Christmas is in the title, I should have been safe, right? Yeah, not so much. There is very little Christmas in this novel and it could have been set at any point in the winter. Heck, it could have been set in the summer if you eliminate the snow.
I've never read Jodi Thomas before and I'm not sure I would again. She's got some writing talent but this book suffered from too many characters with a lack of development and honestly, it was boring. I almost stopped at about 5% but I skimmed and then picked up reading a bit later on.
We've got 4 couples. Yes, 4 romances in one book with multiple points of view. And while the transition from POV to POV was not hard to follow, it was just too much. Added to the 4 couples, there were other side characters, a storyline about an abandoned child and one of the characters that's part of a couple had his own side story as well. There was little to no sexual tension between any of the couple and no sex scenes. Now, I don't need sex in my books to be happy, not at all. But this just fell flat.
The whole time I was reading I was thinking this book must have been written with the idea of being adapted into a Hallmark movie. I'd happily watch this on TV. But it didn't make for a good book. Too many characters meant none got a ton of development, the plots were not explored in depth and there was generally a lack of emotion with the exception of the child mentioned.
So yeah... I'd recommend skipping this book.
I've never read Jodi Thomas before and I'm not sure I would again. She's got some writing talent but this book suffered from too many characters with a lack of development and honestly, it was boring. I almost stopped at about 5% but I skimmed and then picked up reading a bit later on.
We've got 4 couples. Yes, 4 romances in one book with multiple points of view. And while the transition from POV to POV was not hard to follow, it was just too much. Added to the 4 couples, there were other side characters, a storyline about an abandoned child and one of the characters that's part of a couple had his own side story as well. There was little to no sexual tension between any of the couple and no sex scenes. Now, I don't need sex in my books to be happy, not at all. But this just fell flat.
The whole time I was reading I was thinking this book must have been written with the idea of being adapted into a Hallmark movie. I'd happily watch this on TV. But it didn't make for a good book. Too many characters meant none got a ton of development, the plots were not explored in depth and there was generally a lack of emotion with the exception of the child mentioned.
So yeah... I'd recommend skipping this book.
September 17, 2019
Christmas in Winter Valley is a great example of why I love Jodi Thomas' books. I have never been to Texas and most likely never will, but I do journey there through her writing. The scenery and sense of country permeates the story. To me it feels like real life ranching and cowboys.
I loved all the characters, the two Holloway brothers at home while brother Griffin is away. Elliott the one that manages the books side of the ranch and Cooper who likes to roam the country on a horse. Then there is Tatum, no more about him, only to say I adored him, but you got to have the surprise of meeting him. Tye Franklin is an older man who rides into the ranch looking for a job and he too is a delight.
There is plenty going on with them all, a number of women running about the place, some like chickens without heads, but they add to the fun. The plot goes along at a wonderful pace and there is always something happening. As well, there are lots of laugh out loud moments, I love the sense of humour is this book.
It goes through December, leading up to Christmas, so its perfect to read before Christmas. You'll either read it really fast because it reads itself, or you might be like me, read slowly in small pieces because you want to prolong your time with the Holloways.
I loved all the characters, the two Holloway brothers at home while brother Griffin is away. Elliott the one that manages the books side of the ranch and Cooper who likes to roam the country on a horse. Then there is Tatum, no more about him, only to say I adored him, but you got to have the surprise of meeting him. Tye Franklin is an older man who rides into the ranch looking for a job and he too is a delight.
There is plenty going on with them all, a number of women running about the place, some like chickens without heads, but they add to the fun. The plot goes along at a wonderful pace and there is always something happening. As well, there are lots of laugh out loud moments, I love the sense of humour is this book.
It goes through December, leading up to Christmas, so its perfect to read before Christmas. You'll either read it really fast because it reads itself, or you might be like me, read slowly in small pieces because you want to prolong your time with the Holloways.
September 22, 2019
Jodi Thomas Ransom Canyon series has long been a favorite, as she creates vivid scenes and stories involving Texas ranching and the people who live and work them. Christmas in Winter Valley is a heartwarming addition to the series and lives up to my expectations of a Jodi Thomas book. Finding that happily ever after is not always easy, and this book certainly shows that as the author artfully weaves a story involving four couples of different ages and then tosses in an orphaned child just to make things more interesting. I did feel the story between Creed and Dallas got a little lost, but they were not the main characters. I loved Tatum’s story and role in the book. This is a warm, comfortable read and made me want to go back and reread the entire series—a plan for this winter, Well done!
September 17, 2019
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
Christmas in Winter Valley is the 8th standalone in Jodi Thomas' Ransom Canyon series. Trust me when I say you can read it without reading the others, this is only my second book of the series. Whether you are new to the series or not Ransom Canyon will make you feel like a part of the family.
The book combines a few different happily ever afters into one cohesive story line. A wild cowboy and an independent veterinarian, An older couple finding love when they weren't expecting it, a couple getting a second chance to be together, and a young boy finding a family to call his own. The friendships and relationships built in the story are sweet and charming. The only downside with so many couples and point of views I feel like I didn't get enough of each pairing, and I was left wanting a little more.
Christmas in Winter Valley was a charming holiday contemporary that would make a great read on a cozy winter night.
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Christmas in Winter Valley is the 8th standalone in Jodi Thomas' Ransom Canyon series. Trust me when I say you can read it without reading the others, this is only my second book of the series. Whether you are new to the series or not Ransom Canyon will make you feel like a part of the family.
The book combines a few different happily ever afters into one cohesive story line. A wild cowboy and an independent veterinarian, An older couple finding love when they weren't expecting it, a couple getting a second chance to be together, and a young boy finding a family to call his own. The friendships and relationships built in the story are sweet and charming. The only downside with so many couples and point of views I feel like I didn't get enough of each pairing, and I was left wanting a little more.
Christmas in Winter Valley was a charming holiday contemporary that would make a great read on a cozy winter night.
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September 24, 2019
Digital galley from HQN and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 stars
It’s two weeks before Christmas and all across the Maverick Ranch creatures and cowboys are stirring. The Holloway brothers (introduced to readers in book 7 of the Ransom Canyon series) are busy running the family ranch, seeing to horses, and visiting in-laws out of town. They don’t have time for orphans, accidents, injuries and ex girlfriends but they’ll be forced to deal with all and then some. My favorite part of the book involved young Tatum and the ranchers who show him what family is all about. And I loved Tye and his growing relationship with the ranch cook. Christmas in Winter Valley is a charming and romantic book perfect to curl up with this Christmas season. Fans of Jodi Thomas will not be disappointed.
4.5 stars
It’s two weeks before Christmas and all across the Maverick Ranch creatures and cowboys are stirring. The Holloway brothers (introduced to readers in book 7 of the Ransom Canyon series) are busy running the family ranch, seeing to horses, and visiting in-laws out of town. They don’t have time for orphans, accidents, injuries and ex girlfriends but they’ll be forced to deal with all and then some. My favorite part of the book involved young Tatum and the ranchers who show him what family is all about. And I loved Tye and his growing relationship with the ranch cook. Christmas in Winter Valley is a charming and romantic book perfect to curl up with this Christmas season. Fans of Jodi Thomas will not be disappointed.
December 31, 2019
A three-for-one book, with mature love, new love, and second chance love. Oldest brother Griffin and his wife are away from the ranch, visiting her sick father. He's left his two brothers, Elliott and Cooper in charge.
The book opens as Cooper is preparing to leave in a hurry, killing two birds with one stone. He needs to head into the hills and check on the wild mustangs before winter sets in. The local vet is supposed to meet him up there. He is also desperate to get away before his sister-in-law's cousins arrive. He's encountered them before and doesn't want to deal with the giggly, party animals again. Cooper gets quite a surprise when he arrives at the cabin and finds a nine-year-old runaway boy named Tatum. Cooper is too soft-hearted to immediately turn the boy into social services, which turns out to be a good thing when Cooper is badly injured in a fall. It's Tatum who finds help in the form of Hayley, veterinarian, and granddaughter of the vet Cooper was expecting.
We also meet Elliott, the middle brother, and ranch business manager. For the most part, Elliott would prefer to work with the books than the cows, but he can do both. Elliott had left college early when his father died, returning to the ranch to help run it. He left behind his fiancée, Jessica, who refused to come with him, telling him he was a fool to give up his education. He's never forgotten her and hasn't gotten involved with anyone since then. He has a lot on his plate with both Cooper and Griffin away, the cousins visiting, and the end-of-year paperwork for the ranch. Griffin hired an accountant to come to the ranch and help with the books. To say that Elliott was surprised to find Jessica sitting at the desk in the study would be putting it mildly.
Then there's the new ranch hand, Tye. He's older, a former rodeo rider and a magician with horses. At his previous job, he was contacted by a Texas Ranger who delivered Tye's "inheritance" from his grandfather, who died in prison. Tye was puzzled by his grandfather's old journal and sketchbook, which talked about a "gift" for Tye, but never comes right out and says where or what it is. He eventually figures out that it's somewhere around Crossroads, Texas, and takes a job at the ranch while he tries to decipher the journal. There he meets the ranch cook, Danielle, a plain-speaking, big-hearted woman that he's immediately drawn to.
I loved the way that the three stories were intertwined throughout the book. Each chapter alternated among the various couples, giving a chance to see the relationship develop as the days progressed. I think Cooper changed the most, from the charming, commitment-free cowboy to a man who was looking for something more. I loved his relationship with Tatum, taking the boy home with him and giving him the kind of attention he needed. I also enjoyed watching his relationship with Hayley grow. Both of them are independent, neither one taking well to being bossed. It was fun to see a little bit of protectiveness come out, though Cooper was smart enough not to push it. There's a great scene at the end between Cooper and the ex-boyfriend who doesn't realize he's an ex. I enjoyed their interactions, as Hayley has just as fun a sense of humor as Cooper does.
Elliott had spent years remembering the way that he and Jess split, still hurt and angry over the way she refused to give even a little when he had to leave school. He remembers her as the one with all the plans, each step of the future all mapped out. When she shows up at the ranch, it's clear that she stuck to those plans and is precisely where she wanted to be. I have to say that Jessica irritated me a bit at first with the way she went on and on about her place in her father's firm and her coworker fiancé. She was cold to Elliott and barely polite to anyone else. But the longer she stayed, the more she loosened up, especially once she and Elliott cleared the air over their breakup. It also became evident that the sparks between Jessica and Elliott were still there. The question was, would Jessica see that sticking to her plan wasn't making her happy? I liked her "aha" moment and seeing her go after the future she wanted.
Tye and Danielle's story was the sweetest. Tye's life has been a transient one with no desire to settle down. He won't even commit to staying long at the ranch, never sure when the urge to leave will hit. But the moment he met Dani, something changed. Dani is the single mother of two adult sons. Her marriage hadn't been a good one and she has no desire ever to marry again. Her boys are not the brightest bulbs in the box, and she took the job as a cook at the ranch to get away from enabling their dependency on her. Dani is surprised to discover that when Tye looks at her, he actually sees her and who she is. She has been used to blending into the background most of her life. I loved watching her bloom under his attention and see herself as a desirable woman. I also liked the way that Dani's attention gave Tye the feeling he could put down roots. Some interesting moments between Tye and Dani's sons created some problems, but peace was restored thanks to a little unexpected interference. I liked the way that Dani helped Tye with his search and loved the surprise that was waiting for him at the end of it.
I loved the wrap-up of the story at Christmas. The family meeting among the three brothers produced a surprise for Tatum and an especially heartwarming moment for Cooper. I loved seeing each couple face the future in their unique styles. None of the women are slackers in making their desires known, and their men are smart enough to follow through.
The book opens as Cooper is preparing to leave in a hurry, killing two birds with one stone. He needs to head into the hills and check on the wild mustangs before winter sets in. The local vet is supposed to meet him up there. He is also desperate to get away before his sister-in-law's cousins arrive. He's encountered them before and doesn't want to deal with the giggly, party animals again. Cooper gets quite a surprise when he arrives at the cabin and finds a nine-year-old runaway boy named Tatum. Cooper is too soft-hearted to immediately turn the boy into social services, which turns out to be a good thing when Cooper is badly injured in a fall. It's Tatum who finds help in the form of Hayley, veterinarian, and granddaughter of the vet Cooper was expecting.
We also meet Elliott, the middle brother, and ranch business manager. For the most part, Elliott would prefer to work with the books than the cows, but he can do both. Elliott had left college early when his father died, returning to the ranch to help run it. He left behind his fiancée, Jessica, who refused to come with him, telling him he was a fool to give up his education. He's never forgotten her and hasn't gotten involved with anyone since then. He has a lot on his plate with both Cooper and Griffin away, the cousins visiting, and the end-of-year paperwork for the ranch. Griffin hired an accountant to come to the ranch and help with the books. To say that Elliott was surprised to find Jessica sitting at the desk in the study would be putting it mildly.
Then there's the new ranch hand, Tye. He's older, a former rodeo rider and a magician with horses. At his previous job, he was contacted by a Texas Ranger who delivered Tye's "inheritance" from his grandfather, who died in prison. Tye was puzzled by his grandfather's old journal and sketchbook, which talked about a "gift" for Tye, but never comes right out and says where or what it is. He eventually figures out that it's somewhere around Crossroads, Texas, and takes a job at the ranch while he tries to decipher the journal. There he meets the ranch cook, Danielle, a plain-speaking, big-hearted woman that he's immediately drawn to.
I loved the way that the three stories were intertwined throughout the book. Each chapter alternated among the various couples, giving a chance to see the relationship develop as the days progressed. I think Cooper changed the most, from the charming, commitment-free cowboy to a man who was looking for something more. I loved his relationship with Tatum, taking the boy home with him and giving him the kind of attention he needed. I also enjoyed watching his relationship with Hayley grow. Both of them are independent, neither one taking well to being bossed. It was fun to see a little bit of protectiveness come out, though Cooper was smart enough not to push it. There's a great scene at the end between Cooper and the ex-boyfriend who doesn't realize he's an ex. I enjoyed their interactions, as Hayley has just as fun a sense of humor as Cooper does.
Elliott had spent years remembering the way that he and Jess split, still hurt and angry over the way she refused to give even a little when he had to leave school. He remembers her as the one with all the plans, each step of the future all mapped out. When she shows up at the ranch, it's clear that she stuck to those plans and is precisely where she wanted to be. I have to say that Jessica irritated me a bit at first with the way she went on and on about her place in her father's firm and her coworker fiancé. She was cold to Elliott and barely polite to anyone else. But the longer she stayed, the more she loosened up, especially once she and Elliott cleared the air over their breakup. It also became evident that the sparks between Jessica and Elliott were still there. The question was, would Jessica see that sticking to her plan wasn't making her happy? I liked her "aha" moment and seeing her go after the future she wanted.
Tye and Danielle's story was the sweetest. Tye's life has been a transient one with no desire to settle down. He won't even commit to staying long at the ranch, never sure when the urge to leave will hit. But the moment he met Dani, something changed. Dani is the single mother of two adult sons. Her marriage hadn't been a good one and she has no desire ever to marry again. Her boys are not the brightest bulbs in the box, and she took the job as a cook at the ranch to get away from enabling their dependency on her. Dani is surprised to discover that when Tye looks at her, he actually sees her and who she is. She has been used to blending into the background most of her life. I loved watching her bloom under his attention and see herself as a desirable woman. I also liked the way that Dani's attention gave Tye the feeling he could put down roots. Some interesting moments between Tye and Dani's sons created some problems, but peace was restored thanks to a little unexpected interference. I liked the way that Dani helped Tye with his search and loved the surprise that was waiting for him at the end of it.
I loved the wrap-up of the story at Christmas. The family meeting among the three brothers produced a surprise for Tatum and an especially heartwarming moment for Cooper. I loved seeing each couple face the future in their unique styles. None of the women are slackers in making their desires known, and their men are smart enough to follow through.
October 6, 2019
This is the second book I have read from the Ransom Canyon series, and I have absolutely loved them both. I keep meaning to start from the beginning; however, as the saying goes, so many books, so little time. The unfortunate dilemma of every reader. And while this story picks up not too long after the events of Mistletoe Miracles, each book completely stands alone, so there is no reason to feel as though you are missing anything. Each book is connected by this rural and remote town that is incredibly rich in Texas heritage, and you will be lovingly welcomed wherever you chose to begin.
"From the moment I touched you, I felt like I've been waiting for you. Like I've been working my way back to you, but we've never met."
Following the relationships of three very different couples, this is another heartwarming, inspiring, and charming story that will wrap you up in the arms of this completely genuine community. Each couple is navigating different stages of their lives, while also exploring the relationships that they suddenly find themselves trying to embrace. The author's writing style is so effortless that in her deft hands, these fictional characters become masterfully relatable and delightfully engaging. She breathed such life into these distinct individuals that I couldn't help but become invested in their outcomes. I found myself most connected to Dani and Tye's story, anticipating their return at each reading to find out how everything would work out for them.
"She felt like this stranger was really seeing her. No on had done that for a long time. Maybe ever. As he walked away, she almost laughed to aloud. A worthless man and an invisible woman might just become friends."
Loneliness is a central theme, and though each character is struggling in his or her own way, the author is able to converge each of these separate story lines into a meaningful exploration of family, new beginnings, and second chances. There is no doubt as to the authenticity of this cast of characters. They were all hardworking, friendly individuals who like anyone else may find themselves facing struggles; however, it is through healthy connections and relationships with others that they keep moving forward. None of them are perfect, and they don't or haven't always made good choices, but they continue to push themselves towards redemption and happiness as they find friendship, guidance, and love in the most unlikely places.
The romance aspects of the story are so subtle, showcasing the power of the author's use of description to let your imagination do all the work. And though it's a simple, conversational tone between characters, you can feel the sparks igniting, and it's breathtakingly magical to watch unfold.
Ultimately, happy endings come together in a touching tapestry that makes this a perfect selection to curl up with this season!
Many thanks to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me a free copy of this book. This is my honest and thoughtful review.
December 3, 2019
3.5 stars. Picked this up at the Christmas section of the library. Love a cowboy romance... haha. Interesting very plain writing, but I enjoyed it. There were about 4 or 5 romances going on here! Light Christmas read.
December 15, 2019
DNF at 30%. Too many characters. Felt disconnected from the characters and setting. Could be I need to start at the beginning of the series. Setting aside for now.
May 28, 2022
3.5 stars
September 24, 2019
This book takes us back to Ransom Canyon and the Holloway family. This is a heartwarming fun read with multiple romances, a delightful young boy, and some humor thrown in the mix. This is part of a series but you will have no trouble reading it as a stand alone. It is the perfect choice if you are looking for a fun, happily ever after story. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
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October 1, 2019Categories
Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction, Western Romance
Miniseries
Ransom Canyon (Book #8)
Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction, Western Romance
Miniseries
Ransom Canyon (Book #8)
June 25, 2019
This is part of the Ransom Canyon series. I love this series. I really like being able to revisit with characters from the previous books and I love the settings for all of her books
February 24, 2020
Jodi Thomas’ 2018 holiday romance, MISTLETOE MIRACLES, was my favorite holiday romance of last year. So to say that I had high expectations is an understatement. As always, Ms. Thomas knows how to wrap your heart up in a soft blanket to give you all the fuzzy feelings. She effortlessly writes multiple romances in a single story while driving the plot of the book forward. CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY picked up where MISTLETOE MIRACLES left off with the two single ranching brothers finding love and maybe a bonus rancher or two in there.
What I loved: I loved Elliot and Jess’s second chance romance. The misunderstandings and distance between them made my heart hurt, but I was really rooting for them the whole time. I also enjoyed the addition of Tatum to the family dynamic. I was curious about how his storyline would resolve the entire time, which made me want to keep turning the pages.
Tye and Dani’s romance absolutely melted my heart. I loved how the pragmatic and mature Dani melted for Tye, and he melted right back. I really believed in their love story. They might have been my favorite couple in the book overall.
What didn’t work: I felt like a few of the romances, specifically Creed and Dallas and Cooper and Hayley. With Creed and Dallas, 90% of their love story happened off the page, and I really wanted to know more. Selfishly, a spoiled society girl with a rough ranch hand is one of my favorite tropes and I just felt a little shorted.
With Cooper and Hayley, they both individually had a good amount of page time, but I didn’t really feel any sparks between them. Cooper just decided he loved Hayley at some point during the story. I think a few more deep conversations between Cooper and Hayley would have gone a long way. I felt very surface with Cooper’s character the entire book and I don’t see how Hayley could have gotten any deeper.
Overall, this was a sweet and enjoyable holiday romance on a ranch. I love Jodi Thomas’ writing, I just expected more from two of the four couples.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
What I loved: I loved Elliot and Jess’s second chance romance. The misunderstandings and distance between them made my heart hurt, but I was really rooting for them the whole time. I also enjoyed the addition of Tatum to the family dynamic. I was curious about how his storyline would resolve the entire time, which made me want to keep turning the pages.
Tye and Dani’s romance absolutely melted my heart. I loved how the pragmatic and mature Dani melted for Tye, and he melted right back. I really believed in their love story. They might have been my favorite couple in the book overall.
What didn’t work: I felt like a few of the romances, specifically Creed and Dallas and Cooper and Hayley. With Creed and Dallas, 90% of their love story happened off the page, and I really wanted to know more. Selfishly, a spoiled society girl with a rough ranch hand is one of my favorite tropes and I just felt a little shorted.
With Cooper and Hayley, they both individually had a good amount of page time, but I didn’t really feel any sparks between them. Cooper just decided he loved Hayley at some point during the story. I think a few more deep conversations between Cooper and Hayley would have gone a long way. I felt very surface with Cooper’s character the entire book and I don’t see how Hayley could have gotten any deeper.
Overall, this was a sweet and enjoyable holiday romance on a ranch. I love Jodi Thomas’ writing, I just expected more from two of the four couples.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
February 2, 2023
Obviously I’m not reading this for the complex plot or character development. It was a fun setting. I would have liked more from Cooper and Hayley and Creed and Dallas rather than so much on Elliot and Jess.
August 8, 2019
You know what you’re going to get from a Jodi Thomas novel and her formula happens to really appeal to me. You have a group of lonely, but good, decent people who find love and a community that they can belong to. Thomas has a very recognizable style of writing dialogue. The characters often have a wry, understated sense of humor that is quite entertaining. As with all her other books, I got lost in the world that she has created and enjoyed seeing her characters with their overlapping and interconnected stories find a happiness that none of them expected to ever find.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
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