The New York Times bestselling author of Spring Forward returns to Mystic Creek, Oregon, where an estranged pair are given a second chance.
As a camp cook, Vickie Brown loves feeding any size crowd in the great outdoors--with one notable exception. She never would have predicted she'd join the crew led by gruff cowboy Slade Wilder, the man who broke her heart just days before their wedding.
Life has gone on since Vickie left him, but Slade can admit his attraction to the one woman he's ever loved remains stronger than ever. If he wasn't in such desperate need of an experienced cook for his paying guests, he would send Vickie packing. He knows better than to seek out the company of the woman who broke off their engagement so many years ago.
Except there's no escaping each other in the confines of the wilderness area, especially once their anger begins to soften in the shared close quarters. But after Vickie finds the courage to confront Slade, it will take a leap of faith for them to put their past behind him, even if it's the only way to recapture their once-in-a-lifetime love.
Each year I’ve enjoyed a new visit to Mystic Creek, Oregon. This small-town series has introduced us to the townsfolk and ranchers in the area. Strawberry Hill shares the second chance romance of rancher Slade Wilder, and Vickie Brown, his high school sweetheart. The two were engaged when miscommunication and interference drove them apart.
Over two decades later when Slade needs a camp cook and Vickie’s son needs help she applies for the job. Sparks, pranks, and revelations occur as these two sort out the past and plan the future.
I felt bad for both Slade and Vickie but was happy to see them get their second chance at happy. While the pranks and teenage behavior were a turnoff for me, it helped drive the story.
We also get to enjoy the beginnings of a romance. Deaf foreman Wyatt finds himself almost arrested by Slade’s niece. She is a county deputy whom he unknowingly ignores. Through them we get to see a horse whisper in action, interact with other townsfolk whose stories I hope will be forthcoming. For me, I would have preferred the romance focus on this couple and I was sad to see we didn’t see the romance develop further.
The bear on the cover ties into the story, and I enjoyed both the lessons and antics. I am hoping we learn more about him. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Reading updates
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Started reading
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7 December, 2018:
Finished reading
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7 December, 2018:
Reviewed