I haven’t read a book by this author that I didn’t love. The ways she develops the characters and shares the lives around them is what always brings me back to her books. I appreciate the Christian aspects of her writing. In a world that is full of so much sadness her books always bring me joy. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

Denise Hunter writes the BEST stories. Riverbend Gap is FANTASTIC. I loved every second of this story and I am so sad my time with these characters is over. This story is so engaging I read it well past my bedtime. It is an unputdownable book! If you know me, you know I’m not a fan of the love triangle trope. Riverbend Gap is a love triangle story, BUT it works so well. It’s a testament to Hunter’s masterful storytelling skills. In fact, I don’t think this story would work as well if it didn’t have the love triangle. The love triangle in this story lends to the perfect blend of angst and tension between the protagonists, Katie and Cooper. I love how respectful Katie and Cooper work to be towards the third character in their triangle. They do everything in their power to refrain from feeling the chemistry and love towards one another in order to not hurt the feelings of someone else. This restraint, this romantic tension, is what kept me turning pages well into the night. I needed to know how Katie and Cooper would get to their happily ever after.

I loved two things about this story. Well, I loved more than two things, but for the sake of this review, I will limit myself to only two. First, I love that this story revolves around unique family blends. There is Katie who was part of a loving and nurturing foster family. Then there is Cooper who grew up in a step-family situation. What I LOVE about this is that both childhoods illustrate healthy love and respect and nurturing relationships. The stereotype that blended families and foster families are somehow less than or filled with violence has always bugged me. I come from a blended family and my step-dad was the BEST father a girl could have ever wanted. So I do take it personally when step-families are shown as being less than or ugly. In Riverbend Gap, Hunter does an excellent job of illustrating just how blessed a child can be in families that look different or are structured uniquely than what is typical.

The second aspect to this story that I loved is the discussion on blessing. There is a moment in this story where Cooper is having a man-to-man with his stepfather and Cooper tells his stepfather that he knows God blessed him in the family department. Yeah, Cooper would have loved it if his biological father never ran out on him, his brother, and his mother, BUT he recognizes that God used that bad and turned it into good because it brought Cooper’s stepfather and sister into his life. God turned a broken situation into one that could become something that produced a beautiful family. If this isn’t a blessing, I don’t know what it. Not only does this remind me of my own blessings where God brought my stepfather, stepsister, and stepbrother into my life, but it also reminded me of Genesis 50:20 — “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” There are so many “bad” moments in life that God uses to turn to good, to abundant blessings. The issue is one of perspective. Are we looking back and recognizing all of God’s blessings in our lives? Or are we choosing to only see the bad? What a great set of questions for us all to consider today.

Riverbend Gap is another home run by Denise Hunter. I loved this book so much and HIGHLY recommend it. Make sure to put this book on your To-Be-Read list and grab a copy as soon as it releases on the 19th. You will not want to miss this story!

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Another good read from Denise Hunter. This is the first in a new series I hope to continue to read. The setting was near where I went to college, so I could picture it. The small town was great to read about. Kate and Cooper had an attraction to each other from the beginning.

This is a Christian fiction and God is definitely a part of their lives, but it is not preachy and doesn't feel fake - it felt natural - a part of the characters lives. They showed grace and forgiveness to each other the way God showed it to them.

As in most romance books, you know where the story is going to end. This one did not disappoint!

If you're a fan of Denise Hunter, you certainly have something to look forward to. Riverbend Gap is book one of a new series A Riverbend Romance. I was totally immersed in the first book and can't wait for Mulberry Hollow the next installment to the series!

There were so many characters in this book that were fighting against where they came from. Whether it was an alcoholic father, a drug addicted mother, the loss of a parent or a split family. They were all in some ways successful in overcoming the odds and yet there were still times the past would rear it's ugly head.

The romance at the center of this book was faced with impossible odds. I can't tell you how that worked out. My heart broke many times and soared with hope many times during this read. I came to care for these folks and you will too. This author writes the best characters. They are flawed and perfect at the same time making them believable.

This book is one of those satisfying reads that will color your world for days after you finish reading it. It puts a good feeling in your heart and hope for this world. I can't stop thinking about these characters. I think you're going to love this book as much as I do.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from #ThomasNelson, #FirstEditions and #Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I enjoyed getting to know this family and this small-town! The Robinson's were a great family, albeit with their flaws but they genuinely loved and accepted each other. Katie was such a good character! She had strength but was not without her insecurities and was a very realistic herione. Cooper was a great guy, but I felt that his story was a little more complicated than it had to be. And I wasn't that fond of the romance because well, it had big negative ramifications for all of the characters that I don't really feel was necessary for the story. Overall, I enjoyed the writing and can't wait to revisit this family!

Katie has been through a lot in her life. Her Mom left Katie and her brother, and they lived in foster care. They were very lucky to be placed with a great family, but it was large and Katie often felt overlooked. Then last Christmas her brother died, leaving her alone. She moved to Riverbend, where her birth mother lives, in hopes of rekindling some kind of relationship with her.

A freak accident puts Katie's life in danger, and the deputy sheriff, Cooper, comes to her rescue, keeping her safe and calm until rescuers arrive. It was an emotional wait, and Katie shared more feelings than expected with Cooper, and he was intrigued. All ends up well, at least until Katie realizes that her knight in shining armor is her boyfriend Gavin's brother!!

I won't write spoilers, nor do I like recounting the plot. I enjoyed this book, the first in a new series, set on the edge of the Appalachian Trail, and am looking forward to the next in the series.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

4.25/5⭐️

Hunter is an author of contemporary Christian romance books. I’ve read several of hers, and this one is the beginning of a new series.

Cooper is a sheriff’s deputy running for sheriff in the small Appalachian town of Riverbend Gap, NC. While out riding in the mountains he rescues Katelyn (a new local nurse) from a dangerous situation. They have an instant connection. But neither knows that she is his brother’s new girlfriend…until they meet at a family dinner. Complications escalate from there.

I enjoyed this one. Other than the obvious issue, Cooper has commitment issues and Katelyn has abandonment fears as she grew up in foster homes and has recently lost her beloved brother. They are both well drawn characters, and I admired that even with the forbidden attraction, they strived to do the right thing.

This is a story of family (both real and those wished for), of courage in the face of persecution and of ultimately trusting in your faith to see you through the tough times. I loved this one just as I have her previous books and look forward to book two.

My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelson for providing me the free early arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

Sometimes you just need to escape into a great romance novel. And this book was that great escape. Kate & Copper literally fell for each other while her car was dangling off a cliff with her in it. Cooper, a cop was there for the rescue of her body and her heart. Unfortunately, he later finds out Katie is his brother, Gavin's, girl. Katie fits in good with the Robinson family. She was college roommates with Avery the sister, and she found the mother she never had growing up in Lisa. But things change when a brief kiss between Cooper and Kate changes everything. There is tension and family and drama and love in this story and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to #TheFirstEditions, #ThomasNelson&ZondervanFiction, #netgalley and @denisehunter for an ARC of this delicious story.

Always a fan of Denise Hunter's books. Riverbend Gap is her latest standalone book (though I hope that we will see more books about the Robinson family in the future.) I loved the tension and the love triangle between Cooper, Gavin, and Kate. The romance was sweet and though predictable, Denise Hunter knows how to capture the reader and get them to cheer for certain characters. If you love romance novels, this one won't disappoint.

This book was so good! It hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. The story is full of family drama and forgiveness. I can't put into words how wonderful this book is. It's a heartwarming story that you don't want to miss. Loved it! I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson--FICTION via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This book grabs you from the very beginning and starts out with quite a "bang". It's the first book I have read from this author. She's excellent. It won't be the last book I will be reading.
I enjoyed the conflict that arises and I kept wondering how they would resolve the problems, which were many! There were several smaller story lines that appear throughout the book to keep you on your toes. It was a very interesting book.

It was a clean romance with lots of interesting turns. I really enjoyed it.

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

I've been a fan of Denise Hunter for quite a while now and I love her heartwarming stories.
This book has all the ingredients for a feel good story. It's just Hunter's style of writing.
This book is about family. Sometimes it's just not the family you were born into but friends and whoever God puts into your life can form a family.
Love, trust and forgiveness is also a part of this story.
I didn't want to put it down.
The cover of this book is absolutely stunning!
My thanks for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own. I was NOT required to write a positive review.

Riverbend Gap
Denise Hunter
October 19, 2021

Cooper Robinson was out cycling in the mountains on his day off from the sheriff's department. As a deputy he had seen his share of accidents, criminal activity, and domestic violence. So many beautiful days like this one has him out relaxing and enjoying the majestic Appalachian Mountains that surround his Riverbend Gap, North Carolina home. While he took the curve he noticed recent tire marks on the road. As he came around the bend they were on the straightaway. He slowed to examine the marks closely. Next to the cliff he saw the tire skid and climbed down through the foliage. There, stuck in a tree off the downhill slide was a car dangling. He reached the driver side and found a young woman in tears, afraid to move. The cut on her head was bleeding but her worst fear made a cracking sound as she rolled down the window to speak with him. The tree could not support the Honda much longer. He knew he would have to call the fire department for help. Neither cell phone worked. He had to convince Katelyn Wallace to hang tight with no movement until he returned after calling for support from the road above.
This marvelous novel by Denise Hunter was a heartwarming read. From start to finish Cooper and Katelyn were a delightful pair to encounter. Family and friends gave great support to this story but as we all know small towns can be rather two-sided when it comes to their relation. Riverbend Gap is a new series by Hunter. She has given us several hometown sets that give us hope and comfort. Her latest novel, Riverbend Gap is published by Thomas Nelson Publishing.of Harper Collins. It will be available on October 19, 2021. Her fans are awaiting this new series as I have. She blends such understanding and joy in her characters. If she is a new author for you, take a chance on Riverbend Gap. It is truly a tremendous read. Enjoy!

This story is as beautiful as the cover. Denise Hunter writes lovely Christian romances. In Riverbend Gap, Katie ends up getting between two brothers and causing ripples in a family that she desperately wants to be a part of. Gavin has been depressed since suffering several losses, but is showing signs of coming out of it once he starts seeing Katie. Cooper is known as the guy who won't commit, but when he meets Katie and they share several highly emotional encounters, he know he wants more with her. Katie won't come between the brothers--she just won't.

There's a side mystery going on in the story that just make it richer. Overall, this is just a wonderfully fulfilling read that leaves your heart warm and glowing.

Thanks to Thomas-Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.

Denise Hunter has become one of my favorite romance authors and so when I saw this, I decided to try out this ARC!

Riverbend Gap is the first book of the Riverbend series. The story starts with Katelyn who gets her car stuck and a handsome cop named Cooper Robinson. The two instant started having feelings for each other but there's one teeny weeny problem--Kate is already dating Cooper's brother Gavin. The story itself talks about how Kate become a part of the Robinson family and at the same time how she is dealing with her conflicted feelings towards Cooper.

I really enjoyed reading this book! I actually rooted for Kate and Cooper in the book and so badly wanted them to get together, which they did! The writing was really good and the author did a great job of drawing the reader into the story. Both Kate and Cooper are likable characters, and I also like how Kate's relationship with her foster family was outlined in the story and how despite the fact that both Kate and Cooper try to be friends, they are both struggling with feelings for each other. This maybe a typical romance novel with the couple getting back together but then, I thought this story was truly heartwarming, engaging and unputdownable, with you probably rooting for Kate and Cooper to start dating with each other!.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.

There’s a reason Denise Hunter is one of my favorite authors of all time. She never disappoints! I’ve been looking forward to this new series for quite some time and can’t wait to see where the other books lead. Katelyn and Cooper, oh my, their chemistry continued to build and build throughout each page! The Robinsons were all lovely, but these two characters stole the show. The ending was perfection!

I would be content reading a whole series just on these two characters alone!

I was gifted a complimentary copy of Riverbend Gap in exchange for an honest review. Loved this book!
#RiverbendGap #NetGalley

First I love Denise's books. Her stories are always positive and give me hope. Kate is dating Cooper's brother. Kate has trust issues and fear of rejection. Kate and Cooper have baggage from their past. Childhood wounds go deep for both of them. After his childhood past Cooper just wants to be respected. Kate and Cooper have chemistry. Neither of them wants to risk heartache. Kate is strong and resilient. Cooper is honorable. Kate finally opens herself up to Cooper. This book is wonderful start to this series. My favorite quote from the book. Sometimes family is not the situation you are born into but the people who have chosen to love you along the way. Very excited for the next book in this series.

This book centered around my least favorite story trope - lover’s triangle between siblings. That being said I am a huge fan of Denise Hunter’s writing and I think for the most part it was believable. Her character development is so spot on, that I could understand every character’s motives and actions. I liked them all but Gavin was the one character I never quite clicked with and wanted to know more about him. I’m hoping he gets his own story and HEA.
4.5 stars

The thing I love about Denise Hunter, is that I can always count on her to deliver a stirring but clean romance that holds my attention at every turn of the page. Her latest novel, Riverbend Gap, is a testament to her skillful storytelling ability. I adored the complexity of the characters, the situations they struggled through, and the message of healing and forgiveness. Hunter wove all these elements with expert care, creating a story that came alive before me. As this is only the first book in Hunter’s newest series, I know I will fall more in love with her characters as each book releases.

This book is a guaranteed win! I strongly recommend each and every one of Hunter’s books.

I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

If you are looking for a sweet romance with a bit of religion, then this is the book for you. Denise Hunter weaves wonderful tales built around the characters faith. This is one of those wonderful books. Settle in for a sweet romance that will give you all the feels.