Customer Reviews

Sun Kissed (Wal-Mart Edition)

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(6)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(6)

 

 

This is not a book I would normally buy or even check out of the library because a) the cover did nothing for me and b) I'm not into "western saga" or inspirational types of romances. But I won this book in a contest, read it, and was pleasantly surprised.

Part of Anderson's Coulter family series, the stand-alone "Sun Kissed" deals with Tucker Coulter, a rising equine vet in Crystal Falls. Through some pretty unusual happenstance, he meets Samantha Harrigan over a battle with a mean drunk beating a horse. Though drawn to him, Samantha doesn't think she's going to see him again until a rash of horse poisonings on her ranch cause her to turn to him in desperation for help. As both work through the poisonings and other issues including insurance fraud and jealousy, attraction and affection grow.

Stereotyped plot? Yep. But Anderson made it work in many ways. First, I liked that the relationship between Tucker and Samantha was more about friendship and shared interests, with physical attraction thrown in for extra filip. This goes in direct contrast with a lot of romance authors today, who slap the attraction on the pages first and then remember that maybe it would be a good idea for the man and woman to have a couple of other things in common other than torrid sex (by the way, I say this as someone who writes steamy romance under a pseudonym).

Second, I was touched by Samantha's deep religious faith, and Tucker's respect for that faith. I didn't find it at odds that Samantha could be so attracted physically to Tucker, while adhering to old-fashioned values of waiting until matrimony, except for one very passionate scene -- again, kudos to Anderson for doing well on this issue.

Third, I appreciated that Samantha was far from the stereotyped "battered woman." Samantha, who underwent abuse from her first husband, could have ended up as someone who hated men and who shied away from any kind of physical relationship. While she was certainly skittish with Tucker, she didn't automatically fall into assuming he was cut from the same cloth as her ex. Spousal abuse issues aren't as black-and-white as the media makes them out to be, and Anderson demonstrated that very well through Samantha's character.

Fourth, Anderson's main characters were likeable. Samantha is an appealing blend of innocence and strength and the good news is, I didn't feel the need to shake her to face reality as I do with some heroines. Tucker, too, is a great guy -- though far from perfect. While restraint of his sensual urges might have seemed a little too good to be true, it isn't out of the ordinary on the part of many men.

And finally, I really appreciated that the reader didn't have to be familiar with Anderson's other books to read this one. One of my pet peeves is to HAVE to read a book to understand what's going on in a sequel. It never happened here -- a reader can pick up "Sun Kissed" and get a good, stand-alone story.

My one major gripe with this book was, as I mentioned above, the cover design. It did nothing to show a potential reader what might be inside. What the heck was going on with the white flowers on the pink background? And by the way, what's the deal with Samantha in a white, lacey dress and a straw hat on the sleeve? Samantha never put on a dress throughout the entire book, except at the very end. The visual depiction wasn't consistent with her character.

But if a reader doesn't judge this book by its cover, "Sun Kissed" is a good example of how a romance can focuse on aspects outside of the bedroom -- and still work very well.

From the back cover:

When Samantha Harrigan attends the local rodeo, she doesn't expect to wind up in jail. But that's precisely what happens when she tries to stop a drunkard from abusing his horse. At least she isn't alone. Tucker Coulter, a handsome local veterinarian, comes to her defense--and is arrested too.

The charges are dropped, but Sam's troubles have only started. Her champion quarter horses are falling ill and the culprit is poison. As the insurance beneficiary, Sam is the prime suspect. Unswayed by the rumors floating around town, Tucker offers to help prove her innocence. Sam, though, is uneasy about accepting his assistance--and about the way he makes her feel. If only she could believe in him the way he seems to believe in her...

And my review:

Catherine Anderson is firmly on my auto-buy list. I've yet to read a book by her that I didn't like. SUN KISSED was no exception.

I was a little worried if I'd like this story, since I hadn't really liked Tucker in his previous appearances in other "Coulter" books, but Catherine Anderson made him loveable here. It should also be noted that you don't have to have read any of the other books in the series to enjoy SUN KISSED, although it does add a lot, of course. Other Coulter books are (in order): PHANTOM WALTZ, SWEET NOTHINGS, BLUE SKIES, BRIGHT EYES, MY SUNSHINE, and now SUN KISSED. (Also, BABY LOVE (a sort of prequel to phantom waltz) and the two historicals KEEGAN'S LADY and SUMMER BREEZE are linked to the Coulter family series--just to keep it confusing!) And this isn't the last of them! There are more books planned, and I look forward to reading them all.

I'm usually reluctant to read series of "family" books, since they often start to all sound the same. And while there are similarities (the heros are almost identical in appearance; the heroines always tiny), the stories are all enjoyable, and I recommend them all.

Being Catholic myself, I really liked how the heroine was Catholic. I, for one, felt that the religion issue was handled wonderfully, and that it wasn't over-the-top at all. But if you're easily offended by that sort of thing, maybe it will bother you. Still, it's not really an integral part of the story. The main themes are the romance and the mystery. Unfortunately, the mystery wasn't exactly groundbreaking. I had the whole thing figured out pretty quickly (even the twist at the end).

I only gave this book four stars, because I think that Catherine Anderson has done it better (especially the mystery part), so I expect a lot out of her. But I can still whole-heartedly recommend this book, especially if you're an animal lover. Also, check out her very best books, which are (in my humble opinion): ANNIE'S SONG, BABY LOVE, SEVENTH HEAVEN, PHANTOM WALTZ, COMANCHE MOON, and ONLY BY YOUR TOUCH. I've read this author's entire backlist (apart from her very early Harlequin Intrigue books) and every single story has been a keeper.

I recommend SUN KISSED to all romance readers, especially lovers of western romance, and animal lovers. The strong family-oriented theme of this book is truly heartwarming, as are the issues of a woman learning to trust again.

This is the kind of heartwarming, funny, romantic, endearing story I have come to expect from one of my all time favorite authors - Catherine Anderson. Tucker was such a sweetie and Samantha was his perfect match. I was not bothered by the religious/Catholic aspect of the story. In fact, given Samantha's character, it was appropriate. Being Catholic myself, with family members who had stopped practicing and went back to it, I smiled and laughed when the Coulters were all being swayed to return by their mother. I think CA didn't shove it down the readers' throats, but instead treated it with just the right amount of humor and lightness, while keeping the integrity of Samantha's character's beliefs.

I also disagree with the reviewer who thought there wasn't enough other Coulters in the story. Jake was great at the beginning and there was a lot of fun interaction between Tucker and Isaiah. The scene with Tucker asking for advice of his parents was hilarious. And I can't forget the scene with Jake's daughter and Tucker. That was pure Catherine Anderson magic.

I am sorry the Coulters are done. They were all great. This one is not to be missed. Sun Kissed will go on my keeper shelf!

I have been a reader of Catherine Anderson for many years now and have enjoyed all of her books, but this one was not on my high list. The plot was good though predictable, the characters were strong and entertaining but I guess the religious aspect of the heroine really left me feeling annoyed. I have no problem with Christianity and am used to reading about it in all of her books, but it has been relatively low key so I didn't feel that it dominated the story or was a factor in every move the character made. I guess I just don't see the point in feeling guilty over every thought, feeling or action made just because it might be a "sin" and felt that it controlled the character too much, not to mention that in the end almost everyone in the book is now wanting to become a Catholic. I liked her books before when the characters were okay with their faith but didn't overkill it. I also found the double standards between the herione and her brothers irritating, while it was not okay for her to indulge in pre-marital sex, the fact that her brother purcahsed a case of prophylactics was not a problem. While I'm sure that Catholics will love this book but as a non-Christian I found that it took my attention away from the story and only made me want to put the book down and move into something else. Other than that it was a lovely story and I do love the Kendrick-Coulter books, Baby Love is my absolute favorite C.Anderson novel.

Haven't read a Catherine Anderson book that I didn't like. This Coulter series is one of the best that I've read in a long time. Most series books hardly refer to the past characters. I want more!!!!

Tucker Coulter first notices Samantha Harrigan when she goes toe-to-toe with a man abusing his horse, and both Tucker and Sam wind up in jail for their trouble. When the vet next sees the lovely horse breeder, she's out of her head with worry over the spate of illness that is afflicting her precious steeds. As he works beside her to try and save them, Tucker sees how lovely she is inside as well as outside, and begins to fall in love. However, Sam is also the prime suspect when it turns out that her horses are being poisoned and she stands to benefit from the insurance. Now, he must help save not only her animals, but her as well.

***** You can bank on Catherine Anderson for telling a sweet romance that could almost, but not quite be placed in the inspirational category. I especially enjoyed the clear faith that Samantha displayed as simply part of her life, and how she evangelized Tucker without saying one preachy word. The plot was compelling and educational. What it all comes down to is this, if Catherine Anderson writes it, you need to read it. *****

Amanda Killgore

Author Catherine Anderson is firmly on my pre-order list. Why? Because Catherine Anderson wrote PHANTOM WALTZ -- a terrific love story that will remain forever in my heart. In fact, Ms. Anderson did such a fine job convincing me Ryan Kendrick and Bethany Coulter could dance; I immediately went out and bought John Michael Montgomery's Greatest Hits CD just to further absorb the magic! Of course, PHANTOM WALTZ is Book 2 in the Kendrick/Coulter series and Anderson's latest release, SUN KISSED, is Book 7.

Horsewoman, Samantha Harrigan, has witnessed Hell - courtesy of an ex-husband. Now it seems the man is back and determined to show Samantha that nightmare again! Someone is poisoning Samantha's Blue Roans and Samantha suspects her ex-husband. The local authorities also suspect someone . . . Samantha herself . . . and that astounds local veterinarian, Tucker Coulter.

With rumors flying, Tucker Coulter is determined to stand behind the lady. However, when the handsome veterinarian offers his help, Samantha Harrigan flatly turns him down. Although, she desperately needs Tucker's assistance, Samantha is determined a man will never again control her life.

SUN KISSED and Anderson conclude the Kendrick/Coulter family jubilantly! Not only has Catherine Anderson come up with a satisfying read, but also SUN KISSED is swift, sassy, and lightly suspenseful. Remarkably, I was shouting 5 stars (10) for three-quarters of the book and then . . . some annoying problems surfaced. I found myself somewhat frustrated with the continued religious hoopla. One reference is fun, two or three is acceptable, and anything more shouts "overkill!" In addition, I was disappointed Ms. Anderson did not give more of the characters from the earlier books; in SUN KISSED, the author offers only brief references to these people. Over time, I have grown rather fond of these people and frankly, I wanted more! And finally, the "who-done-it-wrap-up" suddenly rushed to a too tidy close. Ok SUN KISSED may not be perfect, but I do recommend it, especially for all Anderson fans! Even with imperfections, Catherine Anderson proves again she is a powerful weaver of a fine romantic tale and personally, I can't wait to see what this author has in store for me next!

Grade: B+

MaryGrace Meloche.

It's not my style to NOT finish a book; actually this is the second time where I just cannot finish a book. I was less then halfway into the book and I could not continue reading.

This book was hollow! It lacked the charisma and romanticism that her other Coulter books have. Instead of this book being sweet it was just sappy and predictable.

It seems that every hero for Catherine Anderson is the exact replica of each other. In other stories she has described the hero the same exact way that she did in this story. Plus, they all seem to have 4 brothers and a perfect loving father and mother. Not that I have a problem with having 4 brothers but why is it the same scenario in every one of her stories. Then again maybe this is Catherine's way of starting another legacy of stories. I did not have a problem with the religious input that is being vetoed by other readers. Do not judge Catherine Anderson by this book, read her other Coulter books and you will not be dissappointed. I will continue reading her stories and I look forward to her next book.

Let me start by saying that I love Catherine Anderson. I own almost every book she's ever written, including some out of prints. That said, this book was horrible. I didn't even finish it. I bought it as soon as it came out, really looking forward to Tucker's story. I just don't know what happened to Catherine Anderson. Was she on vacation when this book was written? The plot line was the recycled abused divorced woman rescued by new gallant man. She's done that particular plot several times before, and its worked before. This time it just felt forced, not to mention bad bad bad. I was so disgusted that I had to come on here and warn others away. If you love her, skip this book, you'll continue to love her. If not, be warned to keep your expectations low. This is NOT a typical Catherine Anderson read.

As with every single Catherine Anderson book I've read, this one was excellently written and very engaging. I've not yet read a book of hers that didn't capture me and that I didn't thoroughly enjoy. She's a very vibrant and talented writer in the general romance genre.

Even though I enjoyed Sun Kissed a lot, I'll be honest and say that there was just something missing in it. I'm not quite sure what. The book was a quick read for me; it kept my attention and I couldn't wait to finish it, but it was lacking a certain spark that's existed in most of her other books. I think it had something to do with the balance between the characters & romance, and the plot of the story. Anderson usually has a very nice balance in her books. Sometimes they are more purely character and romance dramas, and other times, they're characters & romance with a mildly suspenseful plot added in. Either way, they're just nicely balanced, but in Sun Kissed, the suspense plot seemed to overwhelm the story.

I wouldn't go so far as to call the book a romantic suspense...it didn't have the frenetic pace of a suspense book, but the storyline of what was happening with Sam's horses was the purveying theme throughout the book. Pretty much every scene related to the horse situation and to me it just seemed to take away something from the book. It kept the characters and the romance from standing out like they do in most of Anderson's books. I would have liked a better balance there. I think it would have given the book more of the poignant sentimentality that you find in her other stories. Most of Anderson's books have been known to suck me in, chew me up and spit me out on the emotional-angst level, but Sun Kissed didn't. The potential was there, but the horse storyline just sucked up all the book's energy.

My only other gripe with the book is one I've had with Anderson before: that she doesn't utilize her past characters and storylines enough. Sun Kissed had guest appearances from a few of the past characters, but most of them were given only passing mentions, and that's just disappointing in such a family oriented series. I wanted more cameos from them and wanted to know more about how they were doing and what's been going on with them. Anderson created such special characters in her past books that they deserve a little more in her latter books.

Overall, it was sill a good/great book. I wasn't really disappointed in it, just found it lacking a bit of the magic I loved in her other stories. But I did like it. Tucker and Sam make a good couple. There wasn't a lot of physicality between them because the plot took up so much time and there was the religion issue, but oh well. I also enjoyed how, as she does in most books, Anderson drops in unexpected humor every so often. Some of the lines just crack me up. So if you're a reader of Anderson's books, especially the Coulter series, you'll probably like Sun Kissed.