Evergreen Springs

August 31, 2015
Second chances abound in Thayne's third contemporary set in small Haven Point, Id. (after Redemption Bay). Former rodeo rider and ex-con Cole Barrett is reviving the family ranch, and his two kids are learning to live with him after their mother's death. Cole also has to take care of his pregnant sister, Tricia. In the background is his resentment that his own father didn't stick around during his childhood. Family physician Devin Shaw steps into the middle of all the anger, disappointment, and tension, spreading joy and warmth everywhere she goes. Unfortunately she's just too perfect: she moonlights at the ER, teaches yoga to senior citizens, and volunteers with a charity. Even her substantial past medical troubles don't do much to humanize her. Cole is human enough for both of them, though: standoffish, slow to trust, and quick to hold a grudge. Watching him learn about forgiveness is much more satisfying than the tepid romance story line.

Starred review from October 15, 2015

Rodeo rider, taciturn loner, and new single dad Cole Barrett can't accept help. Then he finds himself in a bind, and upbeat family practice doctor Devin Shaw rallies the Haven Point troops and sweeps into his life, forcing him to rethink his position. Attraction simmers between the pair as they strike a bargain over his ranch's legendary hot springs and the assistance he needs for his kids, a bargain that has unintended but satisfying consequences. VERDICT Entertaining, heart-wrenching, and totally involving, this multithreaded story overflows with characters readers will adore. A sure winner for fans of sweet, family-themed community tales. Thayne (Redemption Bay) lives in the northern Utah mountains.

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