Overcoming self-doubt and fear plays a big part in Thayne's fifth Haven Point contemporary (after Riverbend Road). Widow Andrea Montgomery wants to make her two kids' first Christmas in Haven Point, Idaho, as memorable as possible. Then she's emotionally blackmailed into checking up on a man who makes her nervous. Sheriff Marshall Bailey has enough to deal with: a broken leg, embezzlement within his own department, and a son who has no idea Marshall is his father. The last thing he wants or needs is help from a wary widow. However, their constant interactions-and a blizzard that forces the two to live together for a couple of days-help attraction develop, bringing a chance at happiness for two reluctant hearts. The wrap-up of the subplots is too easy, and Marshall's incessant refusal of help is grating, but adorable kids, cute pets, and neighborly values make for a sweet read. Agent: Karen Solem, Spencerhill Associates. (Oct.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Widowed Andie Montgomery is planning to give her two young children a wonderful first Christmas in Haven Point-and it doesn't include keeping tabs on Marshall Bailey, the wounded, grouchy sheriff who lives up the street. But there's no way she can refuse her friend Wynona's request to check in on her brother as he recovers, especially as Wyn had saved Andie by taking a bullet for her in a terrifying confrontation. Naturally, Marsh isn't looking for help, but earnest Andie won't take no for an answer. In addition, her chatty four-year-old and his painfully shy older sister take Marsh in hand, and he can't help but be charmed. Is he in danger of falling for them all, including their relationship-wary mom? A mystery, a rebellious teenager, and hints of long-standing town conflict add interest and depth to this ongoing series. VERDICT A stubbornly independent hero who learns to accept assistance and a heroine afraid of risking another loss take a chance on each other. This holiday-steeped romance overflows with family and wintry small-town appeal. Thayne (Riverbend Road) lives in Northern Utah. lumps of coal? © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.