Whenever You Come Around {Review}

Whenever You Come Around by Robin Lee Hatcher

Kings Meadow Book #3

Visit the Author's Website HERE

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publishing Date: May 12, 2015

Goodreads Summary:

Will writing a romance help this author find a real-life hero?

Charity Anderson turned her back on Kings Meadow years ago, with good reason, and has avoided visits to her hometown whenever possible. But with her house in Boise damaged by floodwaters and a book deadline bearing down, staying in her parents’ empty home seems her only option. However, being in Kings Meadow dredges up a painful secret, and old fears threaten to overwhelm her.

Charity’s former high school classmate Buck Malone never left town, instead sacrificing his dreams to take care of his family. Now he enjoys an uncomplicated life as a wilderness guide and confirmed bachelor. The last thing on his mind is settling down.

When Charity’s dog causes an accident that leaves Buck with a broken ankle and wrist at the start of prime tourist season, Charity has little choice but to render aid while he recuperates. Soon Buck becomes the inspiration for Charity’s hero, both on the page and off. Can he also help her face and overcome her fears so they might find their own happily ever after? 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Buy a copy today!! 

My Thoughts:

Disappointed in this one. Her previous book was so cute with historic and contemporary storylines and an overall mastery of the written word. This one just fell so short in comparison. Although it is listed in a series it is almost completely a standalone. Kimberly and Chet from book two are only occasionally mentioned so you aren't getting any real spoilers there. It holds no further bonds with 'Love Without End'. There is no duo storyline here and I felt we were missing SO much detail. 

Charity and Buck almost just fell in love with the idea of each other rather than knowing each other. Buck, who has dated every single woman in town, has decided Charity is a challenge and instantly decides he wants to know her every secret. Charity, an author writing her first romance, is using Buck as her muse. She ends up falling for him because she is thinking about him constantly for her novel. That doesn't mean she actually knows him, but just feels more like a physical attraction. I was missing their actual connection. 

We also miss the details of Charity's jaded past. Over several scenes we can sort of piece together what happens, at least the major points, and while I feel sad for her and the situation, I am never connected to it. Through whatever she was writing at the time, she just suddenly decides to be brave enough to spill the beans to her sister. Things just unravel to a happy ending after that. 

I'm ragging pretty hard here, which makes me sad, because I still have faith in Hatcher. I saw how great she can be in 'Love Without End', she just fell short here with 'Whenever'. Is it worth your time? Love a good Western romance? Throw in some horses, nature, and fantastic dog and it is worth your summer reading time. 2.5 stars.