Snowfall on Haven Point

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.)