The Promise of Rayne by Nicole Deese

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Waterfall Press (November 1, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1503937704
• ISBN-13: 978-1503937703

About the Book:

Rayne Shelby has spent her entire life trying to earn the approval of her high-powered family, with the hope of one day managing her late grandfather’s prestigious Idaho lodge. But when she makes a mistake that puts her future in jeopardy, she faces an impossible choice: defy her family or deny her dream. 

The only way to fix the mess she’s created is to enlist the help of her neighbor, Levi, the apprentice of her family’s greatest enemy. And if Rayne gets caught crossing the divided property lines, the consequences will be irreparable.

Levi Harding has never forgotten the August night he shared with Rayne when they were teens—or the way she later rejected him. Despite his warring instincts, he can’t ignore her plea for help or the spark that’s ignited between them. 

But now, as wildfires bear down on their town and family secrets are revealed, their newfound alliance might just go up in smoke.

My Thoughts:

Wow.  I was blown away the emotional power of Nicole Deese's latest novel, "The Promise of Rayne".  I lost count of how many times I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room after a scene with Rayne Shelby's uncle.  What a mean-spirited, controlling man!  Oh, how I wanted to reach into the story and smack him!

And her father...man up, stand up, and shield your daughter!  Watching him cave time and time again under the force of his brother was almost too much to bear.  The unhealthy dynamics of the Shelby clan were at times overwhelming...but in a good way.  Your compassion for Rayne will grow with every clash in the Shelby clan.

And then there was Levi...caught up in the maelstrom of the Shelby feud, and standing by Ford Winslow at every turn.  But his heart was growing tender toward Rayne, and he stood the chance of losing everything he'd worked for if he pursued her.

Shades of the fan favorite television drama "Dallas" are scattered through the book.  The thing that sets this book apart is the element of faith and the strength of genuine family.  This is some powerful and emotional reading, and it's worth the tears you'll shed as you turn the pages.

I'm very thankful to Nicole for my advance copy of "The Promise of Rayne".  I've become a new fan, and I can hardly wait to read more of her books.  I'm giving "The Promise of Rayne" my 'Oh, The Feels!' award, and handing you a ginormous box of tissues!

Until next time,

Mark Your Place.

Deena