"It was Shangri-la with cattle and palm trees.", 30 Mar 2008
Kara grew up in the Brazilian rainforest with her famous environmentalist parents. The best American finishing schools and Ivy League colleges prepared her for a life among the jet-set but when her parents die, Kara discovers she was adopted and sets out to find her birth parents. Her search leads her to a Florida cattle ranch run by a handsome cowboy named Ben who has a surprising collection of ranch hands.

This wonderful novel is told in "He said-She said" style: Kara and Ben take turns narrating the story. This clever device enables us to know them intimately; they are real, thoughtful people with complicated pasts and loving hearts. We fall in love with the folks at Ben's ranch - his ailing little brother, Kara's mentally-challenged birth parents, even the abuseded horse, Estrela.

The story is fast-paced, full of humour, romance, down-home Florida culture, and some villains you'll love to hate. Nothing is wasted; all the story elements are well-developed and resolve quite satisfactorily. This beautifully-written story is about finding happiness when it's least expected. Heartily recommended.

A MUST READ, 22 Feb 2008
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldnt put it down. You cant help falling in love with all the characters in the story, I didnt want it to end. This is the first book by this Author I have read but it certainly wont be the last. You must take the time to read this book. For all you may know what happens next its a thoroughly enjoyable read.

another gem, 23 Dec 2007
Another wonderful story writen by Ms Smith.
A book to keep and read again sometime in the future!

a heartwarming romance with vivid characters!, 12 Dec 2007
My praise for A Gentle Rain goes beyond words as it left me with a rainbow of emotions when I closed this book.

When Kara stumbles upon secrets of her past it is up to her if she wants to find out more. And Kara does find more....when she arrives at a ranch in Florida owned by Ben Thocco she gets acquainted with its colorful people. In a matter of days Kara is a part of this new world, with a new job and new people to get to know. And a mare that has taken a liking to her and proves to the rest of the world what Ben Thocco, his brother Joey and Ben's crew: Mac, Lily, Miriam, Bigfoot, Roy, Dale, Cheech and Possum all along knew. Still choices need to be made to uncover the secrets of the past or to let it remain in the past as love and family are found in an unexpected place...

I'm still pondering on words as this emotionally gripping story leaves me with blurry eyes, a warm heart and a grin on my face all at once. I believe this to be the strength of Deborah Smith's writing, she's able to tell a story of the heart, of people that I can meet just by stepping out into the world. The romance soars high in A Gentle Rain but it is the characters that Deborah Smith portraits that drew me into their lives and emotions. Ben had me from the moment he appears in the story! It's just his down-to-earth behavior with a sense of humor that is purely his own and his loyalty to those he cares for that just had me at his hello. His past reveals itself in layers throughout the story and gives a reaction with Kara that just keeps me on the edge of my seat wondering when it all will be in the open, how will they react and above all, will love prevail!

This book is told from two perspectives, from Ben's side and Kara's and it took me a moment to feel the rhythm of it, but then it adds a dimension, a depth to it that I highly appreciated. I do feel that Kara was the center of this story and her growth as a person was one I enjoyed from start to finish. I could relate to Kara so easily and there for felt her journey as she felt it, with all the high and low points and many endearing moments. Those moments were often related to the crew on Ben's ranch. Mac and Lily paint a beautiful picture of two people who simply love one another and that love has nothing to do with how smart you are but is just plainly something you feel in the heart. Joey, in all the trials of life he gives the lesson that all things should be savored in life, even the smallest pleasures can reward you with the brightest of smiles. Each character there on the ranch has such an outspoken personality that they, in their own way, make a lasting impression. From shy and quiet to brash and bold they possess a zest for life that teaches Kara to embrace life in all its possibilities.

What I truly was in awe of was how Deborah Smith gave voice to challenged characters who want to live life on their own terms making me fall for each of them. A Gentle Rain is told with a love for the contemporary romance genre and that though it holds moments of true pleasure, humor and love, it also is a story with moments that are painfully real which gave some blurry eyed moments. This gave a true feel to this tale and a human face to the emotions of the characters but also swept me away in all their thoughts and feelings that particularly reverberate with me. The love between Ben and Kara is simmering, carefully testing the strength of it and shines when they each come to know one another making me curl up on the couch with another cup of tea, knowing I will not close this book until I read the very last page.

With A Gentle Rain Deborah Smith gives us a novel where the background of Florida is a canvas for a breathtaking romance story between a man and a woman. Each has a past that entwines them in the present and gives them and their family a chance for a love filled future.

Reviewed by Leontine
Courtesy of Realms on our Bookshelves

"It was Shangri-la with cattle and palm trees.", 30 Mar 2008
Kara grew up in the Brazilian rainforest with her famous environmentalist parents. The best American finishing schools and Ivy League colleges prepared her for a life among the jet-set but when her parents die, Kara discovers she was adopted and sets out to find her birth parents. Her search leads her to a Florida cattle ranch run by a handsome cowboy named Ben who has a surprising collection of ranch hands.

This wonderful novel is told in "He said-She said" style: Kara and Ben take turns narrating the story. This clever device enables us to know them intimately; they are real, thoughtful people with complicated pasts and loving hearts. We fall in love with the folks at Ben's ranch - his ailing little brother, Kara's mentally-challenged birth parents, even the abuseded horse, Estrela.

The story is fast-paced, full of humour, romance, down-home Florida culture, and some villains you'll love to hate. Nothing is wasted; all the story elements are well-developed and resolve quite satisfactorily. This beautifully-written story is about finding happiness when it's least expected. Heartily recommended.

A MUST READ, 22 Feb 2008
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldnt put it down. You cant help falling in love with all the characters in the story, I didnt want it to end. This is the first book by this Author I have read but it certainly wont be the last. You must take the time to read this book. For all you may know what happens next its a thoroughly enjoyable read.

another gem, 23 Dec 2007
Another wonderful story writen by Ms Smith.
A book to keep and read again sometime in the future!

a heartwarming romance with vivid characters!, 12 Dec 2007
My praise for A Gentle Rain goes beyond words as it left me with a rainbow of emotions when I closed this book.

When Kara stumbles upon secrets of her past it is up to her if she wants to find out more. And Kara does find more....when she arrives at a ranch in Florida owned by Ben Thocco she gets acquainted with its colorful people. In a matter of days Kara is a part of this new world, with a new job and new people to get to know. And a mare that has taken a liking to her and proves to the rest of the world what Ben Thocco, his brother Joey and Ben's crew: Mac, Lily, Miriam, Bigfoot, Roy, Dale, Cheech and Possum all along knew. Still choices need to be made to uncover the secrets of the past or to let it remain in the past as love and family are found in an unexpected place...

I'm still pondering on words as this emotionally gripping story leaves me with blurry eyes, a warm heart and a grin on my face all at once. I believe this to be the strength of Deborah Smith's writing, she's able to tell a story of the heart, of people that I can meet just by stepping out into the world. The romance soars high in A Gentle Rain but it is the characters that Deborah Smith portraits that drew me into their lives and emotions. Ben had me from the moment he appears in the story! It's just his down-to-earth behavior with a sense of humor that is purely his own and his loyalty to those he cares for that just had me at his hello. His past reveals itself in layers throughout the story and gives a reaction with Kara that just keeps me on the edge of my seat wondering when it all will be in the open, how will they react and above all, will love prevail!

This book is told from two perspectives, from Ben's side and Kara's and it took me a moment to feel the rhythm of it, but then it adds a dimension, a depth to it that I highly appreciated. I do feel that Kara was the center of this story and her growth as a person was one I enjoyed from start to finish. I could relate to Kara so easily and there for felt her journey as she felt it, with all the high and low points and many endearing moments. Those moments were often related to the crew on Ben's ranch. Mac and Lily paint a beautiful picture of two people who simply love one another and that love has nothing to do with how smart you are but is just plainly something you feel in the heart. Joey, in all the trials of life he gives the lesson that all things should be savored in life, even the smallest pleasures can reward you with the brightest of smiles. Each character there on the ranch has such an outspoken personality that they, in their own way, make a lasting impression. From shy and quiet to brash and bold they possess a zest for life that teaches Kara to embrace life in all its possibilities.

What I truly was in awe of was how Deborah Smith gave voice to challenged characters who want to live life on their own terms making me fall for each of them. A Gentle Rain is told with a love for the contemporary romance genre and that though it holds moments of true pleasure, humor and love, it also is a story with moments that are painfully real which gave some blurry eyed moments. This gave a true feel to this tale and a human face to the emotions of the characters but also swept me away in all their thoughts and feelings that particularly reverberate with me. The love between Ben and Kara is simmering, carefully testing the strength of it and shines when they each come to know one another making me curl up on the couch with another cup of tea, knowing I will not close this book until I read the very last page.

With A Gentle Rain Deborah Smith gives us a novel where the background of Florida is a canvas for a breathtaking romance story between a man and a woman. Each has a past that entwines them in the present and gives them and their family a chance for a love filled future.

Reviewed by Leontine
Courtesy of Realms on our Bookshelves

An amazing read, 10 Jul 2008
I first read this book over 8 years ago & was so hooked by it I had to read it in one go! I couldn't put it down! It's rare that a book has made me laugh, cry, angry & frustrated & this one did all of that. The relationship between Claire & Roan was sweet, innocent & romantic all in one. I love Claire's spirit & Roan's determination to prove he's good. I read this book over & over - so much so that I wore it out & tried for years to find a new copy but was told it was out of print. Boy am I glad to find it on here!

I loved it, 25 Aug 1999
The bond that developed between Claire and Roan was so strong that I didn't want to put the book down until I found out what happened at the end. Great Work Deborah Smith!!! I look forward to reading more of your work.

The characters come alive - a book you will not want to end., 24 Aug 1999
As an avid reader of many different types of books (including romance), I am pretty picky about the quality of writing. Deborah Smith enchants the reader with her knowledge of children's reactions and expressions. In this book she makes you want to live in the Georgia Mountains. You will love Claire and Roanie as children and as adults. A lot of romance fiction writers rely on sex to make the novel a good read. This has a rare blend of true, touching romance that reminds me of Lvyrle Spencer. Rarely has a book come alive from the pages for me. I highly recommend this one and I warn you - you will be tired for work in the morning, because you can't put this book down!

Disappointed!, 20 Jul 1999
A wonderful first half outlining the special bond between the hero and heroine as they grew up. I couldn't wait for them to be reunited. But as adults they didn't have the same chemistry and the plot becomes very contrived. Ultimately I had to force myself to finish this one.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, 25 Jun 1999
This is one of the best books that I have ever read! The characters are friends, then they become closer. They don't just start "doing it" right away! (I would hope not, Claire is only five years old when the book begins!)

These characters show what "True Love" really is. They care about each other and they help each other out. When you read some of the letters that Roan writes to Claire, you will wish that Roan would move to wherever you live and sweep you off your feet! There's also a surprise in the book that will melt your heart!

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!

"It was Shangri-la with cattle and palm trees.", 30 Mar 2008
Kara grew up in the Brazilian rainforest with her famous environmentalist parents. The best American finishing schools and Ivy League colleges prepared her for a life among the jet-set but when her parents die, Kara discovers she was adopted and sets out to find her birth parents. Her search leads her to a Florida cattle ranch run by a handsome cowboy named Ben who has a surprising collection of ranch hands.

This wonderful novel is told in "He said-She said" style: Kara and Ben take turns narrating the story. This clever device enables us to know them intimately; they are real, thoughtful people with complicated pasts and loving hearts. We fall in love with the folks at Ben's ranch - his ailing little brother, Kara's mentally-challenged birth parents, even the abuseded horse, Estrela.

The story is fast-paced, full of humour, romance, down-home Florida culture, and some villains you'll love to hate. Nothing is wasted; all the story elements are well-developed and resolve quite satisfactorily. This beautifully-written story is about finding happiness when it's least expected. Heartily recommended.

A MUST READ, 22 Feb 2008
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldnt put it down. You cant help falling in love with all the characters in the story, I didnt want it to end. This is the first book by this Author I have read but it certainly wont be the last. You must take the time to read this book. For all you may know what happens next its a thoroughly enjoyable read.

another gem, 23 Dec 2007
Another wonderful story writen by Ms Smith.
A book to keep and read again sometime in the future!

a heartwarming romance with vivid characters!, 12 Dec 2007
My praise for A Gentle Rain goes beyond words as it left me with a rainbow of emotions when I closed this book.

When Kara stumbles upon secrets of her past it is up to her if she wants to find out more. And Kara does find more....when she arrives at a ranch in Florida owned by Ben Thocco she gets acquainted with its colorful people. In a matter of days Kara is a part of this new world, with a new job and new people to get to know. And a mare that has taken a liking to her and proves to the rest of the world what Ben Thocco, his brother Joey and Ben's crew: Mac, Lily, Miriam, Bigfoot, Roy, Dale, Cheech and Possum all along knew. Still choices need to be made to uncover the secrets of the past or to let it remain in the past as love and family are found in an unexpected place...

I'm still pondering on words as this emotionally gripping story leaves me with blurry eyes, a warm heart and a grin on my face all at once. I believe this to be the strength of Deborah Smith's writing, she's able to tell a story of the heart, of people that I can meet just by stepping out into the world. The romance soars high in A Gentle Rain but it is the characters that Deborah Smith portraits that drew me into their lives and emotions. Ben had me from the moment he appears in the story! It's just his down-to-earth behavior with a sense of humor that is purely his own and his loyalty to those he cares for that just had me at his hello. His past reveals itself in layers throughout the story and gives a reaction with Kara that just keeps me on the edge of my seat wondering when it all will be in the open, how will they react and above all, will love prevail!

This book is told from two perspectives, from Ben's side and Kara's and it took me a moment to feel the rhythm of it, but then it adds a dimension, a depth to it that I highly appreciated. I do feel that Kara was the center of this story and her growth as a person was one I enjoyed from start to finish. I could relate to Kara so easily and there for felt her journey as she felt it, with all the high and low points and many endearing moments. Those moments were often related to the crew on Ben's ranch. Mac and Lily paint a beautiful picture of two people who simply love one another and that love has nothing to do with how smart you are but is just plainly something you feel in the heart. Joey, in all the trials of life he gives the lesson that all things should be savored in life, even the smallest pleasures can reward you with the brightest of smiles. Each character there on the ranch has such an outspoken personality that they, in their own way, make a lasting impression. From shy and quiet to brash and bold they possess a zest for life that teaches Kara to embrace life in all its possibilities.

What I truly was in awe of was how Deborah Smith gave voice to challenged characters who want to live life on their own terms making me fall for each of them. A Gentle Rain is told with a love for the contemporary romance genre and that though it holds moments of true pleasure, humor and love, it also is a story with moments that are painfully real which gave some blurry eyed moments. This gave a true feel to this tale and a human face to the emotions of the characters but also swept me away in all their thoughts and feelings that particularly reverberate with me. The love between Ben and Kara is simmering, carefully testing the strength of it and shines when they each come to know one another making me curl up on the couch with another cup of tea, knowing I will not close this book until I read the very last page.

With A Gentle Rain Deborah Smith gives us a novel where the background of Florida is a canvas for a breathtaking romance story between a man and a woman. Each has a past that entwines them in the present and gives them and their family a chance for a love filled future.

Reviewed by Leontine
Courtesy of Realms on our Bookshelves

An amazing read, 10 Jul 2008
I first read this book over 8 years ago & was so hooked by it I had to read it in one go! I couldn't put it down! It's rare that a book has made me laugh, cry, angry & frustrated & this one did all of that. The relationship between Claire & Roan was sweet, innocent & romantic all in one. I love Claire's spirit & Roan's determination to prove he's good. I read this book over & over - so much so that I wore it out & tried for years to find a new copy but was told it was out of print. Boy am I glad to find it on here!

I loved it, 25 Aug 1999
The bond that developed between Claire and Roan was so strong that I didn't want to put the book down until I found out what happened at the end. Great Work Deborah Smith!!! I look forward to reading more of your work.

The characters come alive - a book you will not want to end., 24 Aug 1999
As an avid reader of many different types of books (including romance), I am pretty picky about the quality of writing. Deborah Smith enchants the reader with her knowledge of children's reactions and expressions. In this book she makes you want to live in the Georgia Mountains. You will love Claire and Roanie as children and as adults. A lot of romance fiction writers rely on sex to make the novel a good read. This has a rare blend of true, touching romance that reminds me of Lvyrle Spencer. Rarely has a book come alive from the pages for me. I highly recommend this one and I warn you - you will be tired for work in the morning, because you can't put this book down!

Disappointed!, 20 Jul 1999
A wonderful first half outlining the special bond between the hero and heroine as they grew up. I couldn't wait for them to be reunited. But as adults they didn't have the same chemistry and the plot becomes very contrived. Ultimately I had to force myself to finish this one.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, 25 Jun 1999
This is one of the best books that I have ever read! The characters are friends, then they become closer. They don't just start "doing it" right away! (I would hope not, Claire is only five years old when the book begins!)

These characters show what "True Love" really is. They care about each other and they help each other out. When you read some of the letters that Roan writes to Claire, you will wish that Roan would move to wherever you live and sweep you off your feet! There's also a surprise in the book that will melt your heart!

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!

Disappointing, 28 Jan 1999
It took me many many weeks to get through the book. I rarely will not finish a book once I begin as I feel there's usually some good in it. I'm not finding it here! The characters are at times (few) interesting, but rather shallow. There isn't much to the plot either. I'll not be looking for more from this author, sorry to say.

Could not put it down---and it was during finals week!!!, 18 Dec 1998
This was the first book I read by Deborah Smith, and I was so impressed! Venus was the perfect main character, because she was so wonderfully different. The entire cast of characters were amazing, and I loved the beautiful setting. If you have not read anything by Smith, I strongly recommend this book. It is so wonderful!!! You will not be able to put it down!!! Good Job, Deborah!!!

A heartwarming and wacky read!, 16 Dec 1998
This is the first story by Deborah Smith that I have read, and at first the first person point of view took getting used to, but I quickly got involved and interested in the story. The characters in the book are well-developed and the remembrances of the past are easily woven into the story in such a way that they don't interfere with keeping the present-day story on track. It is also a great love story between Venus and Gib, as well as a great read with the very interesting Arinelli sisters and even more interesting characters in the Cameron family. Definitely an enjoyable reading/romance adventure.

a bit pretentious and precious for my taste, 04 Nov 1998
I was disappointed by both the over blown style of writing and the plot

Absolutely terrific!, 10 Oct 1998
I adored this book. I didn't know if the author could top her last incredible read--A Place To Call Home--but this book absolutely won my heart. The "bear" scene alone was worth the price of the hardcover. I can't wait for Deb's next effort!

"It was Shangri-la with cattle and palm trees.", 30 Mar 2008
Kara grew up in the Brazilian rainforest with her famous environmentalist parents. The best American finishing schools and Ivy League colleges prepared her for a life among the jet-set but when her parents die, Kara discovers she was adopted and sets out to find her birth parents. Her search leads her to a Florida cattle ranch run by a handsome cowboy named Ben who has a surprising collection of ranch hands.

This wonderful novel is told in "He said-She said" style: Kara and Ben take turns narrating the story. This clever device enables us to know them intimately; they are real, thoughtful people with complicated pasts and loving hearts. We fall in love with the folks at Ben's ranch - his ailing little brother, Kara's mentally-challenged birth parents, even the abuseded horse, Estrela.

The story is fast-paced, full of humour, romance, down-home Florida culture, and some villains you'll love to hate. Nothing is wasted; all the story elements are well-developed and resolve quite satisfactorily. This beautifully-written story is about finding happiness when it's least expected. Heartily recommended.

A MUST READ, 22 Feb 2008
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldnt put it down. You cant help falling in love with all the characters in the story, I didnt want it to end. This is the first book by this Author I have read but it certainly wont be the last. You must take the time to read this book. For all you may know what happens next its a thoroughly enjoyable read.

another gem, 23 Dec 2007
Another wonderful story writen by Ms Smith.
A book to keep and read again sometime in the future!

a heartwarming romance with vivid characters!, 12 Dec 2007
My praise for A Gentle Rain goes beyond words as it left me with a rainbow of emotions when I closed this book.

When Kara stumbles upon secrets of her past it is up to her if she wants to find out more. And Kara does find more....when she arrives at a ranch in Florida owned by Ben Thocco she gets acquainted with its colorful people. In a matter of days Kara is a part of this new world, with a new job and new people to get to know. And a mare that has taken a liking to her and proves to the rest of the world what Ben Thocco, his brother Joey and Ben's crew: Mac, Lily, Miriam, Bigfoot, Roy, Dale, Cheech and Possum all along knew. Still choices need to be made to uncover the secrets of the past or to let it remain in the past as love and family are found in an unexpected place...

I'm still pondering on words as this emotionally gripping story leaves me with blurry eyes, a warm heart and a grin on my face all at once. I believe this to be the strength of Deborah Smith's writing, she's able to tell a story of the heart, of people that I can meet just by stepping out into the world. The romance soars high in A Gentle Rain but it is the characters that Deborah Smith portraits that drew me into their lives and emotions. Ben had me from the moment he appears in the story! It's just his down-to-earth behavior with a sense of humor that is purely his own and his loyalty to those he cares for that just had me at his hello. His past reveals itself in layers throughout the story and gives a reaction with Kara that just keeps me on the edge of my seat wondering when it all will be in the open, how will they react and above all, will love prevail!

This book is told from two perspectives, from Ben's side and Kara's and it took me a moment to feel the rhythm of it, but then it adds a dimension, a depth to it that I highly appreciated. I do feel that Kara was the center of this story and her growth as a person was one I enjoyed from start to finish. I could relate to Kara so easily and there for felt her journey as she felt it, with all the high and low points and many endearing moments. Those moments were often related to the crew on Ben's ranch. Mac and Lily paint a beautiful picture of two people who simply love one another and that love has nothing to do with how smart you are but is just plainly something you feel in the heart. Joey, in all the trials of life he gives the lesson that all things should be savored in life, even the smallest pleasures can reward you with the brightest of smiles. Each character there on the ranch has such an outspoken personality that they, in their own way, make a lasting impression. From shy and quiet to brash and bold they possess a zest for life that teaches Kara to embrace life in all its possibilities.

What I truly was in awe of was how Deborah Smith gave voice to challenged characters who want to live life on their own terms making me fall for each of them. A Gentle Rain is told with a love for the contemporary romance genre and that though it holds moments of true pleasure, humor and love, it also is a story with moments that are painfully real which gave some blurry eyed moments. This gave a true feel to this tale and a human face to the emotions of the characters but also swept me away in all their thoughts and feelings that particularly reverberate with me. The love between Ben and Kara is simmering, carefully testing the strength of it and shines when they each come to know one another making me curl up on the couch with another cup of tea, knowing I will not close this book until I read the very last page.

With A Gentle Rain Deborah Smith gives us a novel where the background of Florida is a canvas for a breathtaking romance story between a man and a woman. Each has a past that entwines them in the present and gives them and their family a chance for a love filled future.

Reviewed by Leontine
Courtesy of Realms on our Bookshelves

An amazing read, 10 Jul 2008
I first read this book over 8 years ago & was so hooked by it I had to read it in one go! I couldn't put it down! It's rare that a book has made me laugh, cry, angry & frustrated & this one did all of that. The relationship between Claire & Roan was sweet, innocent & romantic all in one. I love Claire's spirit & Roan's determination to prove he's good. I read this book over & over - so much so that I wore it out & tried for years to find a new copy but was told it was out of print. Boy am I glad to find it on here!

I loved it, 25 Aug 1999
The bond that developed between Claire and Roan was so strong that I didn't want to put the book down until I found out what happened at the end. Great Work Deborah Smith!!! I look forward to reading more of your work.

The characters come alive - a book you will not want to end., 24 Aug 1999
As an avid reader of many different types of books (including romance), I am pretty picky about the quality of writing. Deborah Smith enchants the reader with her knowledge of children's reactions and expressions. In this book she makes you want to live in the Georgia Mountains. You will love Claire and Roanie as children and as adults. A lot of romance fiction writers rely on sex to make the novel a good read. This has a rare blend of true, touching romance that reminds me of Lvyrle Spencer. Rarely has a book come alive from the pages for me. I highly recommend this one and I warn you - you will be tired for work in the morning, because you can't put this book down!

Disappointed!, 20 Jul 1999
A wonderful first half outlining the special bond between the hero and heroine as they grew up. I couldn't wait for them to be reunited. But as adults they didn't have the same chemistry and the plot becomes very contrived. Ultimately I had to force myself to finish this one.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, 25 Jun 1999
This is one of the best books that I have ever read! The characters are friends, then they become closer. They don't just start "doing it" right away! (I would hope not, Claire is only five years old when the book begins!)

These characters show what "True Love" really is. They care about each other and they help each other out. When you read some of the letters that Roan writes to Claire, you will wish that Roan would move to wherever you live and sweep you off your feet! There's also a surprise in the book that will melt your heart!

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!

Disappointing, 28 Jan 1999
It took me many many weeks to get through the book. I rarely will not finish a book once I begin as I feel there's usually some good in it. I'm not finding it here! The characters are at times (few) interesting, but rather shallow. There isn't much to the plot either. I'll not be looking for more from this author, sorry to say.

Could not put it down---and it was during finals week!!!, 18 Dec 1998
This was the first book I read by Deborah Smith, and I was so impressed! Venus was the perfect main character, because she was so wonderfully different. The entire cast of characters were amazing, and I loved the beautiful setting. If you have not read anything by Smith, I strongly recommend this book. It is so wonderful!!! You will not be able to put it down!!! Good Job, Deborah!!!

A heartwarming and wacky read!, 16 Dec 1998
This is the first story by Deborah Smith that I have read, and at first the first person point of view took getting used to, but I quickly got involved and interested in the story. The characters in the book are well-developed and the remembrances of the past are easily woven into the story in such a way that they don't interfere with keeping the present-day story on track. It is also a great love story between Venus and Gib, as well as a great read with the very interesting Arinelli sisters and even more interesting characters in the Cameron family. Definitely an enjoyable reading/romance adventure.

a bit pretentious and precious for my taste, 04 Nov 1998
I was disappointed by both the over blown style of writing and the plot

Absolutely terrific!, 10 Oct 1998
I adored this book. I didn't know if the author could top her last incredible read--A Place To Call Home--but this book absolutely won my heart. The "bear" scene alone was worth the price of the hardcover. I can't wait for Deb's next effort!

An amazing read, 10 Jul 2008
I first read this book over 8 years ago & was so hooked by it I had to read it in one go! I couldn't put it down! It's rare that a book has made me laugh, cry, angry & frustrated & this one did all of that. The relationship between Claire & Roan was sweet, innocent & romantic all in one. I love Claire's spirit & Roan's determination to prove he's good. I read this book over & over - so much so that I wore it out & tried for years to find a new copy but was told it was out of print. Boy am I glad to find it on here!

I loved it, 25 Aug 1999
The bond that developed between Claire and Roan was so strong that I didn't want to put the book down until I found out what happened at the end. Great Work Deborah Smith!!! I look forward to reading more of your work.

The characters come alive - a book you will not want to end., 24 Aug 1999
As an avid reader of many different types of books (including romance), I am pretty picky about the quality of writing. Deborah Smith enchants the reader with her knowledge of children's reactions and expressions. In this book she makes you want to live in the Georgia Mountains. You will love Claire and Roanie as children and as adults. A lot of romance fiction writers rely on sex to make the novel a good read. This has a rare blend of true, touching romance that reminds me of Lvyrle Spencer. Rarely has a book come alive from the pages for me. I highly recommend this one and I warn you - you will be tired for work in the morning, because you can't put this book down!

Disappointed!, 20 Jul 1999
A wonderful first half outlining the special bond between the hero and heroine as they grew up. I couldn't wait for them to be reunited. But as adults they didn't have the same chemistry and the plot becomes very contrived. Ultimately I had to force myself to finish this one.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, 25 Jun 1999
This is one of the best books that I have ever read! The characters are friends, then they become closer. They don't just start "doing it" right away! (I would hope not, Claire is only five years old when the book begins!)

These characters show what "True Love" really is. They care about each other and they help each other out. When you read some of the letters that Roan writes to Claire, you will wish that Roan would move to wherever you live and sweep you off your feet! There's also a surprise in the book that will melt your heart!

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!