Four Stars

It’s been a few years since I read VIRGIN RIVER, so when I received an opportunity to reread and review the book, I jumped at the chance. How could I forget how much I love this series? Sure, I adore the Netflix series, but the book is also wonderful! Reading Jack and Mel’s love story for the second time was an absolute joy.

Robyn Carr has the unique ability to make me want to quit my job and move to wherever her books are set. Her settings and characters pull the reader in and make them feel warm and fuzzy, even when the characters are having a difficult time. Mel’s struggles moving to a new town didn’t deter me from dreaming about life in Virgin River!

Jack is such a dreamboat! When I first read this book, I remember thinking he was hot and kind but SUPER old (lol he’s only 40!). Now that I’m a more mature reader, I appreciate his quiet, steady support and see the romance of his actions in such a different light. The way he takes care of Mel is so endearing. Who can blame the woman for falling head over heels?? He stole the show for me by the end of the book.

Is this book perfect? No. I thought Jack’s insta-love for Mel was a lot, and the way he treated the woman he was with at the beginning of the book rubbed me the wrong way. I also found one particular plot twist to be ridiculous considering the occupation of the character in question. But sometimes you just have to let things go and enjoy the story, and Ms. Carr always makes that pretty easy.

Overall, rediscovering the small, quaint, but not perfect Virgin River town. Re-falling in love with the book was so fun. I have been a Robyn Carr fan for years, and I am glad I reread book one before season two on Netflix and before I start RETURN TO VIRGIN RIVER, which releases next week. The only downfall? Now I want to reread the whole series!! I just downloaded SHELTER MOUNTAIN… Preacher, here I come!

**I received a free copy of this book in order to provide an honest review**

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