Shelter Mountain: A Virgin River Novel

I would rate this book more than 5 stars if I could. The characters of Preacher and Paige were so well written and along with all the ancillary characters, made this such an enjoyable read. This was my favorite of the series.

I really didn't enjoy this book. I bought it thinking it would be as good as the first but was sorely disappointed. The storyline was good but far too predictable. I knew how it would end before I ever came close to finishing the book. This was my first experience with harlequin and I am walking away with a bad taste in my mouth.

Carr is one of those rare authors who can rip out your heart, and put it back together all the better for the events you’ve lived through in the lives of her loveable characters. She shows that hope exists in the darkest corners of our lives. This well written novel brings Virgin River to life in an excitingly suspenseful manner that had me on my toes while also completely engaging my emotions. The beautiful scenery combines with the exciting yet also low key lives of the characters to paint a quaint picture of this small town that has me dying to move there.

The characters definitely made this novel for me. Carr creates a wonderfully realistic cast that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. Seeing Preacher come to life in so many different ways was fantastic. His heart is as big as he is and I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. Countered with Paige’s vulnerability and newfound strength this was a real couple that was easy to connect with. Surrounded by the rest of the strong, approachable individuals who live in and around Virgin River, Carr has a winning cast that truly does her story justice.

Once again Carr has taken me to Virgin River, and created a seamless novel that I can’t stop thinking about. I’ll definitely be reading it time and time again.

Rating: 3.5 stars __Contains explicit graphic sexual content
Note: 2nd in the Virgin River series of more than 20 books.
WARNING: this soap opera style format, with so many supporting characters and subplots, is confusing if you are not reading the series in order.

EASY READ. Engaging, but difficult storyline, nice small town feel, spectacular setting, empathetic characters, a strong family theme, and sweet interactions between the hero and the heroine's young son. HOWEVER, the storyline continues from first book, the vocabulary limited, the dependency romance is weak, yet another character named John, and revisiting the sexual relationship between now seventeen-year-old Rick and fifteen-year-old Liz, with an tragic unplanned pregnancy is contrived, depressing, and does NOT add to the storyline.

THE STORY revolves around battered wife, Paige Lassiter, her three-year-old son, Christopher, and shy, ex-marine John Middleton, nicknamed Preacher. As the story opens, badly beaten and fleeing her abusive husband, Paige arrives in Virgin River where John/Preacher is just closing the bar. Seeing her bruises and realizing she is in deep trouble, he invites her to stay. Gradually, he convinces her that he can protect and help both her and her son. Spending time together, they develop feeling for each other, but both must overcome their past fears and confront her violent husband, if they want a future together.

OVERALL, storyline that holds the reader's attention. The VIRGIN RIVER series includes 20 novels and short stories organized into at least five subseries. This first subseries includes, Virgin River, Shelter Mountain, and Whispering Rock.

You may also enjoy the complex characters and storytelling of N. Bruhns, A. Stuart, or E. Palfrey. For sweet, funny, heart touching romances, try Susan Fox, Cara Colter, or Nikki Logan.

After reading the first book in this series I wondered what the character named Preacher's story was about. I also didn't read the novels in order so there were comments in future stories that made me even more curious about how he met and fell in love with his wife and son. I loved the story and especially became very fond of Preacher and how he came out of his shell upon meeting this frightened young woman and her son who were trapped in an almost impossible situation of horrible abuse (but thankfully very little was graphic, Carr is such a good writer that the reader sees the full picture without a lot of blood and gore). As always the reader can count on Carr to offer a happy ending (like most romance novel I suppose).

I love this series. I have re-read it again and again. The series builds a community, and this one defines a key character - "Preacher" , and introduces his love, Paige - while continuing the story of Jack and Mel, and all of the other characters that make Virgin River such a wonderful place to visit. Funny, heartwarming, and yet dealing with serious subjects such as domestic violence - Ms. Carr does a great job, as always.

Not the best romance I've ever read, not the best from Robyn Carr. She obviously got better as she wrote this series, and much better yet with the Thunder Point series. In this novel, she does seem to be fixated on genitalia. If this were a true story, I could understand describing the effects of a groin injury to a man but since it's fiction, the extensive detail about the malfunctions of a man's penis are really TMI. And she's as graphic in kind of a nauseating way about feminine parts and pregnancy issues as well, edging into just gross. The grammar is rather rough as well, perhaps she had a less than adequate editor. She uses the word "whew" frequently for instance, as if these ex Marines have limited vocabulary. The relationship between the briefly highlighted subjects, Preacher and Paige isn't as believable, smooth and enjoyable as it could be. Paige is a cry baby (as well as the other women) and Preacher lacks something, I'm not sure what, missing the boat as a really credible and interesting character. The potential was there at the beginning but by the last few chapters of the book, it seemed Carr herself lost focus. She seemed to entertain herself once again writing graphic passages about pregnancy issues and making Mel seem more like Audra off of an old Big Valley episode (a change after the earlier chapters where she seems like a shrew.) She forgets the real issues of pregnancy however when she describes the pregnant Mel "hopping" and jumping up on a bar stool. Seven months along, I could only imagine a pregnant woman climbing slowly on a bar stool or up in the seat of a . I'm still a fan and I hope this series gets better. As for a great read, this one just doesn't get it.

The Virgin River Series has been on my TBR list for quite awhile. When I recently got book one, Virgin River in audio format, I was thrilled at how good it was. Thérèse Plummer continues as the narrator and again does a wonderful job of voices the characters of every one from 3 year old Christopher to crotchety old Doc. She totally makes the book come alive.

This story is mostly about Preacher and Paige... mostly. About half the book is Preacher & Paige, a quarter of the book is Jack & Mel and the baby, and the other quarter is split between Rick & Liz and Bree & Mike. Oh yes, I can see that we will be revisiting these 2 couples later down the line. I really liked that we got to return to Jack & Mel and the consequences from Rick & Liz are addressed from book one. But I wish we had more with Preacher & Paige. Though looking back, neither one of them is overly complicated. They are simple people wanting a simple life. There is a sweetness there that is attractive and lovely, but let's face it, also a bit boring. So I am glad that we got to check in with the other characters, making this more an ensemble story.

I am about to get a bit spoilery, but I need to vent. A solid theme in this book was maternity. At one point, Mel, Paige and Liz were all pregnant. However, Mel's is the only child that survives. I understand that in reality things happen, but it just left a bad taste in my mouth the way it was set up. It wasn't enough to keep me from getting the next book, but other smaller things now annoy me more, like how everyone use "buddy" all the time. The more that pulls me out of the story, the more I find that irritates me in the story. Anyone else have that problem?

This was a very emotional book: physical abuse, miscarriage, death and near death, multiple divorces. But I didn't have the emotional connection that could have made this book a real tear jerker. And I don't think it was just the maternity thing. I have book 3, Whispering Rock, but I think I am going to take a small break first to make sure it's not just a my mood issue. Overall I liked the book, was really pleased about the narrator and enjoyed the town, so I went with 3 stars.

A wonderful mix of interesting characters, stories continued from Virgin River, a sweet and patient romance, a really awful bad guy, a cute kid, tears for a young couple, joy for a new baby, neighbors working together to rescue a new & beloved resident and a boy who goes off to become a man. I absolutely loved the slow and patient romance of Preacher & Paige and Preacher’s love for Paige’s son Chris. It was wonderful watching Paige get over her evil abusive husband, even though I was on pins & needles waiting for the real conclusion to that story. I also loved Mel’s cool & calm handling of the birth of the baby as much as I loved Jack’s handling of it. I cried for Lizzie & Rick. A wonderful ending also. I’ve already started the next book and can’t wait to experience Brie & Mike’s story.

Romances tend to stick to a fairly defined pattern and reading multiple series by the same author can tend to get them confused.

The series is called Virgin River which is a bit ironic given the number of pregnant women, none of them virgin births. We return to Jack and Mel, the bar Jack runs with Preacher and Rickie after school, the clinic across the road, and the other small-town characters plus the strays that show up at their doorstep. Although nominally a romance novel this is more about life in small town mountainous Northern California. Confronted are issues of spousal abuse and teenage pregnancy. Hard to believe that people with a mindset like Paige’s brother Bud exist, or rather I’d like to think they don’t.

Thankfully, I have never been the victim of abuse. That being said, I think Robyn Carr handled the subject very tactfully.

In reality, it would be a wonderful thing if all abuser could/would get what they deserve. Unfortunately, that's not how the real world works. But this is a romance novel so we get the gritty, but we also know we're going to get the happy ending. And it was wonderful to read about a particular confrontation in middle of the road in Virgin River. I'm not going to have spoilers here, I just want to say how great it would be if all of the abused could have a Preacher or Jack in their lives.

I'm sure there are many things an abused person goes through emotionally that weren't exactly touched on in this story. I felt as though Ms. Carr wanted to tell the tale, give some good information along the way, but not overwhelm the reader with sadness. I liked that she had the character of Mel talk to Preacher about what could happen with Paige, the kinds of emotional and psychological reactions she could have, without bogging the story down with the details.

Of course along the way the reader was given glimpses of more potential romances on the horizon in this series. I'm anxious to learn more about Jack's and Preacher's buddies and read about them all finding love.

Reviewed at Another Look Book Reviews

I really enjoyed this book two, Shelter Mountain. I was a bit worried after not loving book one as much as I thought I would but Shelter Mountain redeemed it for me. I am very happy to continue on with the series and I've already got Whispering Rock on deck ready to go after I finish this review.

A pet peeve of mine is when an author introduces a secondary character in one book and then when that secondary character gets their own book, its like the author created a completely different character. That peeve or mine did NOT happen here. Robyn Carr was true to Preacher's character from Virgin River book 1. What the author did do was give Preacher his own fabulous story. He was still the quiet, reserved and shy man that he was when he was introduced. The only thing that changed was that we understand and know more about him. Preacher is worth knowing.

Preacher's real name is John. The nickname given to him by his fellow marine brothers really suited him. He may look completely bad ass but he is the quintessential gentle giant. Paige fell in love with John not because he was a super hunky alpha hero but because she was drawn to his protective demeanor and she felt safe. Cherished. John treated her as a respected woman and gave her time to heal from her abusive past. As she fell in love with John, she then began to see him as the attractive man he was. From the inside and then out. Oh man. I just loved how this attraction grew. It wasn't out of lust or need. Their story got me hook, line and sinker.

The way John handled Paige's young son, Chris was also so admirable. Their time together was precious. The only thing that annoyed me about little Chris was his lack of use in the book. It was as though Chris needed to be there for the story but he was usually napping or having a bath and occasionally he was colouring. Not a big deal as this situation often happens with young characters.

Shelter Mountain also had quite a few side stories. Jack and Mel from Virgin River have a baby and what an awesome scene that was! Mike Valenzuela, one of John and Jack's marine buddies makes quite a few appearances. (No doubt as he moves into his own story Whispering Rock) The other major side story was that teen love affair that I didn't care for in Virgin River, Rick and Liz. Well their little story was quite powerful in Shelter Mountain and this is where the tears were shed.

The ending was gripping and had a great climatic conclusion. I really got to know these characters in Shelter Mountain and I still want to keep knowing them. I look forward to the next book.

Teasers: fixed a bear leg, fireside chats, candlelight birth, the mysterious cowboy drug trafficker Dan

I am not usually a women's fiction reader, but occasionally a book or series will come along that just grabs me. The Virgin River series by Robyn Carr has grabbed me from the first book.

Yes, there is romance, but not the bodice ripping kind that sets my teeth on edge, just a nice meet a new person fall in love kind of romance that builds around the storyline and does not seem to jump out of nowhere catching you completely off guard.

However, like most romances, the male characters are a bit farfetched. I have never personally met a burley mountain man that melts like whipped cream in hot chocolate. Not to say that they do not exist, but that is definitely a woman's creation.

What I do like about Robyn Carr's books is that the end of one flows effortlessly into the next. The next story seems to take up where the previous one ended without a glitch or a feel that you need to play catch up. New characters are introduced in a subtle way that makes you wonder, "What is their story", and low and behold, that is the path you are taken down.

Shelter Mountain begins when late one evening Preacher is closing the bar and a young mother and her child arrive scared and bruised. John "Preacher" Middleton has not had much experience with women, but he knows pain when he sees it and he knows that this young woman is in trouble and if she will let him, Paige Lassiter has found the man that will protect her from an abusive husband and a life on the run.

I like where Robyn Carr said that she doesn't have villains, she has issues, and that is why she writes women's fiction. She is drawn to capable female characters. That is what I like too. There are no victims in her books, there are just women that find themselves in difficult situation and they find, with the help of friends and community, a way through to the other side.

Paige shows up at Jack Sheridian's bar and grill in Virgin River one rainy night with her small son. Preacher, the cook, a tough looking ex-Marine, can tell she's in trouble, and he offers her a room to stay in. Preacher soon discovers she's a battered wife running from her abusive husband. While Paige plans to make her way to safehouse and start a new life in hiding and on the lam, Preacher tries to convince her to stay in Virgin River and fight her husband in court. He quickly becomes enamored with her child and attracted to the pretty and vulnerable young woman, who has to decide if she's strong enough to stand up to her husband.

I'm enjoying the Virgin River series so far, and this book is almost as strong as the first one. Discovering the big, tough hero is sexually inexperienced is an interesting twist, and it's nice to continue getting to know Jack and Mel from book 1, though they get almost as much screen time as the leading couple. In fact, there are quite a few side plots that distract us from Preacher and Paige's romance, but all of those plots develop the sense of place and community. What I'm loving about this series is the depth of character development and how well those characters communicate, though the series, thus far, seems light on sexual tension. This is a sweet, rather than steamy, romance.

I'm way behind by reading Shelter Mountain at this point, because I've already read every other Virgin River book before getting to this one. Even so, I have to say that I love THIS book the best of all. Although, after reading the others, I'm well aware of who each character is and what they all mean to each other, it wasn't until I got partway through (I'm not quite halfway through Shelter Mountain but I only brought it home yesterday!) this book that I realized how sweet and sad Paige was by the time she reached Virgin River, and how totally wonderful Preacher is. What a guy! What a hero! I love them both so much!

I wish now I'd managed to read Shelter Mountain much earlier. But then, I didn't even read Virgin River first.

I highly recommend Shelter Mountain to anyone wanting to get an idea of how movingly well Robyn Carr writes, and how fabulous her characters are. They're all nearly impossible not to love.

This is a great book, close to perfect.

Shelter Mountain by Robyn Carr is a poignant tale that will leave a tear in your eye and a warm glow in your heart.

Shelter Mountain was a touching story about a woman trying to get away with her son from an abusive husband and finding love in the most unexpected place at the most unexpected time.
Paige was a very strong character even though she did not believe so. I really felt for both her and her son Christopher (who is one of the cutest kids ever). Paige went through so much hurt in her life and she was still able to believe that there might be a chance of happiness for her and Christopher.
John aka Preacher is a former marine and never had time for much romance in his life. That was until Paige Lassiter came into his bar. I loved Preacher the most because he was such a kind and loving man. You wouldn't know it by looking at this giant of a man, but he is extremely patient and skilled with his hands (very sexy). He takes Paige and her son in and does everything he can to help them and eventually he falls in love with his new charges.
The only real problem I had with this story is that it didn't focus on the starring couple as much as I would have liked. It was constantly switching to different characters points of view and I really wished the author would have focused a bit more on the main characters.
If you are looking for a heartwarming contemporary romance I highly recommend "Shelter Mountain" by Robyn Carr.

In book 2 of the virgin river series Jack's partner in the bar John 'preacher has his turn with romance. One evening while preacher is getting ready to close the bar in walks Paige and her son Christopher. In a matter of moments Preacher realizes this woman is in trouble. As time goes by we find out she has being physical and emotionally abuse and is running from her husband Wes. As a reader am not necessarily crazy about series books and will not be reading all 20 but I will say these first two books were great. I like how Preacher took charge of Paige issue and was willing to be a friend if that was all she was offering I thoroughly enjoyed reading up on Mel and Jack loved it. I like the interaction of other previous characters and see how the author set the stage for the other books. I will probably read Mike and brie love story since I am sure Mel and Jack will be brought be back. These books have heart a dose of reality and course pure and true love.

Wet from the rain and carrying her sleeping child, Paige Lassiter happens upon Jack's Bar and Restaurant seeking shelter. John "Preacher" Middleton was just about to close for the night when this battered and bruised young woman walked in, plainly in need of aid. Paige has had enough of her husband's abuse and with an unborn baby to protect, she's determined to finally escape. Preacher knows this woman is a flight risk, but he welcomes her to spend the night and does all he can to watch over her and her three year old son, Christopher. The following morning Paige is still determined to run, but Preacher gently points out the possibility of her being charged with kidnapping if she crosses state lines and offers her an alternative. If she stays in Virgin River and pursues a divorce and custody, Preacher promises to her that she and her children will always be safe because he and the rest of the town will be there watching over them.

Yet another lovingly romantic and oh-so-funny addition to the Virgin River series. Shelter Mountain was not so much focused on Paige and Preacher as it was on the entire town and it's inhabitants. Filled with young love and new love, there is definitely something in the water when it comes to Virgin River. With Preacher and Mel, and eventually Jack, standing behind Paige, she and her son Christopher are immediately enfolded into the group and it was wonderful to see Paige and Preacher's romance blossom. The first half of the book is mostly reserved for our spotlight couple, Paige and Preacher, but the middle is reserved for Jack and Mel and the foibles and follies and the occasional heartbreak that is pregnancy. The third half finishes up the saga between Paige and her now exhusband and the entire town rallies around her.

This book was definitely romantic and sweet but I will forever love it because of the humor. Reading about Paige and Preacher's beginning stages was so funny. One of my favorite parts was how Preacher was definitely receiving the steamy looks Paige was throwing his way, if not interpreting them correctly. This great big teddy bear of a Marine might be wholly comfortable with an M-16 and a troop of fellow soldiers hunting down terrorists, but put him in the same vicinity as a hot-to-trot female and this shy guy doesn't know what to do. Luckily he has his good buddy Jack to show him what's what in regards to that mysterious and elusive thing known as the female orgasm. Trust me, it was priceless. Also priceless was Mel's pregnancy and the eventual delivery. But amid all the humor and lovesick mooing, life in Virgin River continues on with it's ups and downs. You will have to be a fan of the town in order to appreciate the joy and to suffer through the tragedies.

Shelter Mountain is a wonderful addition to the series and I'm so happy I was able to enjoy it. This beautiful little story is not to be missed and I can't wait for more.

Loved Preacher's story. It is an absolute must read.

John "Preacher" Middleton is about to close the bar for the night when a woman and her three year old son walk in the front door. A former Marine who has seen more than his fair share of pain, Preacher is well aware of a crisis when he sees her walk in. This young mother is covered in bruises and Preacher wants to protect them, and pummel the person who left his mark on her. It doesn't take long for Paige to stir up emotions in this huge tough guy. He has fallen for her and her son.

Paige is a young mother who has been through hell with her ex husband. When he shows up in Virgin River, Preacher knows his very own future with this lovely young woman and her son hangs in the balance.

Former Marine John "Preacher" Middleton works as a cook at the restaurant owned by his former commanding officer Jack Sheridan in remote VIRGIN RIVER, California. Preacher lives a quiet life with no women and a few social events with the other vets from his former unit.

Soaked to the bone Paige Lassiter enters the restaurant carrying her three years old son Christopher. She is on the run from her abusive former spouse, but Preacher assumes it is his scary looks that frighten winners of tough men contests are the reason she is so terrified. However, he also knows he likes her calling him John and somehow her waif like bruised condition reanimates something Preacher thought was dead as he vows to keep and her child safe from that SOB of a "car door" if he ever arrives in the Redwoods. As she works in his kitchen, Paige falls in love with the gentle giant; he reciprocates and includes her son in his heart. When the enemy arrives he will find his ex-wife's protector is a formidable adversary.

Robyn Carr shows her talent with the second Virgin River tale as this exhilarating thriller stars the enigmatic Preacher and the domestic abuse victim. The story line is driven by their slowly changing relationship as she brings out the obvious protectiveness in John but also a "romantic" side while peeling potatoes. The suspense comes late as it should in this superb sequel.

Harriet Klausner

4.5 stars! This is my new favorite series. I didn't realize it at first so have just read the 2nd book and now I have to go back and read Virgin River. This book made me laugh and brought tears to my eyes (babies being born always makes me cry). After attempting to read some "fifty-shades-like" new romance novels where the men are crude and obnoxious, I realize they just aren't for me. Shelter Mountain is a romance with substance where the characters are kind and decent. I also really like the setting--a mountain town; it just appeals to me. The story revolves around one couple John ("Preacher") and Paige but also spends time delving into the relationships of other couples and town residents. It's a series and you can clearly see who's going to end up together, as well as follow those who've already gotten together. It's not a nail-biter-- you know what's going to happen. Nonetheless, I enjoyed my time with these well-developed characters, their struggles and joy, in a pretty setting in the mountains

First time to read a Robyn Carr book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. She grabbed me from the beginning and kept me interested throughout the story. Preacher John was a gentle giant and you were so happy to see him come out of his shell with Christopher and Paige. Picturing a huge man making cookies with a scared little boy melted my heart. Of course you knew it was only a matter of time before Paige sees the man inside the outward exterior and falls in love. Very romantic and sweet! Great to see nice guys win!
My only complaint is her use of curse words, which included the F-word and taking God's name in vain.

I love this whole series. The people are real, the town seems so real, and the situations are just like the ones people go through in everyday life. The story flows so effortlessly, that before you know it, you've come to the end, but yet it still leaves you wanting more. This series is just that addicting.

This author doesn't leave you hanging like some of the author's are doing today. No, she finishes each story with a happy ever after, but in a way you crave more. More of the people who live there, more of what will happen next, or who will show up in town next. When you write this well, you don't need to play games to get people to buy your books, you just let you work speak for itself.

I would not only highly recommend this book, but the whole series, too.

A former Marine, John "Preacher" Middleton has found peace in Virgin River, California. Working as a cook in his best friend's bar, Preacher does what he loves most; he cooks. When closing up one night, Preacher is surprised to see a soaked woman carrying a child in. Virgin River is a small town and strangers are few and far between. Never feeling strong emotion for any woman, Preacher is somewhat shocked by his urge to protect Paige Lassiter and her son, Christopher.

Paige Lassiter is on the run. Leaving after almost getting beaten to death by her husband, Paige intends to change her identity to protect herself and her son. Hoping to find somewhere to stay the night, Paige ends up on the road that leads to Virgin River. With the weather so bad that she can hardly see, Paige can do nothing more than take the kindness of a stranger. John Middleton looks like he's as far from a guardian angel as a man can get. Already leery of men, Paige accepts his offer to stay the night but insists on leaving in the morning.

This is an amazing story of love and courage. While content in his life, Preacher never expected to have feelings as intense as the ones he has for Paige and Chris. Vowing to protect them both, Preacher is a solid presence that Paige so desperately needs. Paige soon finds herself falling for Preacher. While they are both sure of their feelings, they each have doubts that the other will receive those feelings well. Preacher doesn't want to run Paige off by telling her how he feels. Paige doesn't want to have to leave because Preacher doesn't feel the same way she does. Fortunately the misunderstanding does not dominate the book. There are a lot of returning secondary characters that will make you laugh and cry. Robyn Carr has a unique gift of bringing the reader right into the pages and making them want to stay.

I will preface this by saying that I loved the story of Preacher and Paige
with a few exceptions.... Preacher was portrayed as a little TOO naive about
women and relationships....In the beginning of the book I felt that Paige was
portrayed as dumber than she was - just my opinion....
I felt there was too much of Jack and Mel (book one) than there should have
been even though this Virgin River series is a continuation from one book to the
next.....Though the author kind of sums up the story of the previous book in
the next one - reading it out of sequence will ruin it for you....
I'd read Wild Man Creek over a year ago not realizing it was like book 13 of this series
(and the very first Robyn Carr book I'd ever read)
Nevertheless, Robyn Carr writes a wonderful well written story that's a fast pace read...

I gave this book four stars. This series is really very good.

Preacher works as a cook in the bar of Virgin River. When a battered woman, Paige, and her young son Chris wander into the bar one day he is compelled by a need to protect her. He offers her a place to stay. Preacher quickly comes to love both Paige and Chris, and must fight to keep them safe from Paige's abusive ex-husband. In addition to their story, the book adds to Mel and Jack's story from book one, as well as Rick and Liz. The stories are all very touching without being overly sappy.

I love the characters and the town that Carr has managed to create. There's a lot of rich emotion and story here. My complaint for the series is that the author doesn't spend enough time on her main couple. I would really liked to have seen more of Paige's character developement, for example. Other then that, I highly recommend this series to contemporary romance fans.

John "Preacher" Middleton is a former Marine who works as a cook in his buddy Jack's bar. Preacher is used to being alone--his parents died when he was young and he's never had a serious relationship. In fact, one of the reasons he enlisted was to get a band of brothers who would be like his family. Because instinctively Preacher knew that he would end up alone. So he takes comfort in his friends, in fishing and cooking in the small town of Virgin River, and in reading books and looking things up on the Internet. It's not much, but it's his life, and he's content. That is until the night a woman with a bruise on her face and a split lip walks into the bar, cradling her young son in her arms. Instantly every protective instinct in Preacher is aroused and he wants not only to find out who did this to her, but to make sure he never gets the chance to do it again.

Paige Lassiter stops into Virgin River after getting lost on her way to a safe house for battered women. She has just fled from LA with her son in tow after being viciously beaten by her husband. This isn't the first time Paige's husband has raised his hand to her and she knows it won't be the last. That's why she has to get out. For herself. For her son. And for the baby she's carrying. When she stumbles into Virgin River she has no idea the type of protective instincts these men have and that they will do anything to take care of her and make sure that she's safe. But Paige has a hard time trusting people and it will take everything Preacher can do to ensure that she's welcome in their small town, that they will look out for her no matter what, and that she can have a life as more than a man's punching bag.

Shelter Mountain is the follow-up to Virgin River (Virgin River Trilogy, Book 1), a novel about a small town that helped a broken woman put the pieces of her shattered life back together. Shelter Mountain is the same sort of story, and it's just as poignant, just as well written, and just as engaging. I'm not the type of person who cries when I read. I can watch Titanic (10th Anniversary Edition) and Love Story without tearing up. I'm just not a watering pot. But this book had me in shambles at least twice, and just hoping that there would be a happy ending. Which is the beauty of romance. Of course there was.

Preacher was introduced in Virgin River as the strong, silent type. He was the sort of guy who was always around, but who didn't have to say a lot to get his point across. He seemed like a loner, but a guy who was happy with it. And he was. Until he met Paige. It was like watching an avalanche the way this small, battered woman broke down the walls around his heart. She taught him how to feel, how to want more, how to be happy. He loved her son, protected him, taught him that all men aren't bullies and real men don't hit. I kind of fell in love with him a bit for it. Ok, who am I kidding. I fell in love a lot with him for it. And poor Paige. Jeez, it's hard for me to think of a more broken heroine. She endured the abuse and tried to make it better. And she did what she could to stop it. She had restraining orders, she'd left her husband before, and she had called the police. It didn't work. She was willing to resort to losing her identity to protect herself and her child when she found Virgin River and I was so happy that she did.

The Virgin River series has, thus far, been filled with dependable, strong men who protect their family and friends with all they've got and kind, empathetic women who just need a little support. I've loved it so far and look forward to grabbing the next book in the series, Whispering Rock (Virgin River Trilogy, Book 3).

Normally I get bored really fast with most contemperary novels with all of their bed hopping but these characters and the plot have depth - not like the marshmellow kind with two main characters constantly ending up in bed.

The only down side is her attempt to use the fricking language and our Lord's name [not allowed] Is she trying to immulate the men who don't know how to espress themselves?

Once again we have a great cast of characters with Mel and Jack Sheridan continuing their roles and not overshadowing John "Preacher" Middleton, at 32 - I like the bond between Jack and his Marine buddies.

Paige Lassiter is 29 and has a 3 year old son, Christopher - neither one of them see a scary brute of a man in Preacher - in fact Chrishopher doesn't take too much time to bond with the man.

Mike Valenzuela is introduced more fully as he is invited to recuperate in Virgin River after being shot in the line of duty and he askes Mel for help in rehibilitation of his muscles. He still hasn't gotten it altogether.

Mel is pregnant then along comes Rick's girl friend - she is 15 and is pregnant - almost a tragedy - great scenes of maturing and growing up.
Brie, Jack's baby sister is brought in to help Paige as she is a lawyer.

We learn more about Dr. John Stone and June & Jim Hudson [from the Grass Valley trilogy] Fiesty old Doc Mullins is still around.

Now who is this mysterious Dan that keeps showing up -- undercover maybe??
Will he get his story?
He suddenly appears and helps locate Paige and her ex after Lassiter kidnapps Paige. He wants to use her as bait to draw Preacher and Jack into a trap. [grin - they whupped Lassiter].

Oh What A Story! Most Excellent, except where she needs to clean it up.
Pure entertainment etc.,
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - the whole trilogy - Great concept.

How nice to learn the details of Preacher's venture into love after the arrival of little Christopher and his abused and frightened mother, Paige. For people interested in birth scenes, Mel's adds excitement when it looks like she'll be alone--until Jack shows up nearly at the last minute, preceding Dr. Stone by minutes.

Virgin River is a wonderful place, made better by memorable characters in this continuing series.

I absolutely loved this book and am on cloud 9 to see there are a total of 19 more stories to read! It was so refreshing to see a change from the normal "alpha male" Hero in every romance book. I have been reading her "Thunder Point" series-very good as well!

I was very surprised to find the characters from Virgin River not only appearing in this second book of the series but actively involved in the stories, not just as asides. We move on to Preacher's story but, true to the tempo set in the first book, the whole town is involved.

Carr has another winner in this second book in the series. While new characters are introduced, the stories of the original characters carry on. I'm loving this about the series and this book has the same charm as the first.

I'm on to the third book in the series.

Robyn Carr tackles the hard issues like spousal abuse. In this story Paige, a battered wife who is running away from her marriage and her abusive husband, finds a town where she is safe and makes a new life for herself. As usual, Carr draws her characters beautifully and pulls you into their lives with great skill. If this is your first Virgin River book, you'll be looking for the next one as soon as you finish this book.

I don't care for the parts in the book where one of the lead women characters has been and still is being physically/verbally abused by ex-husbands!! I definitely would have rated the book higher if it had not been for that!! The development of the 2 lead couples is good!!!

I plan on reading every single one of them if they continue as these first 2 have. They make me laugh & they make me cry. They are wonderfully sweet romance novels. Perfect for an easy escape from reality! One of my favorite parts is the way they are stories within stories. You should read them in order because the books are focused on a main couple, but they also incorporate other characters from past & future books.

I've really enjoyed what books I've read in this Virgin River series thus far - they keep me interested which is a delight I must add. Do read in order if possible if you intend to read this series though they are all stand alones but it's nice to know the history of this little place.

I've read many (not yet all) of the Virginia River books - and I am a big fan of Robyn Carr's. Somehow I had missed this particular book - the 2nd in the series. Of course, all the books are stand alone - but I always wondered about the Preacher and Paige story. And now I am so glad I've read it. It was beautiful! Need I say more. Preacher is a wonderful guy. Thank you, Robyn Carr, for such beautiful books.

I just loved this story. I can't say enough about the Virgin River novels. You actually feel you are living right in the midst of the story. The characters are fabulous and the love and family atmosphere of Virgin River is overwhelming. If that was not enough, there is just enough well written suspense. With this book there were several different stories going on and it was just terrific. Be sure to read this book and this series!

Paige is on the run from her abusive husband with her young son Christopher
when she lands in Virgin River by mistake. Found by Preacher, an ex-military
man and she is welcome into the community with a new job and a place to stay.
But she worries when her husband will find her. What will the people of Virgin
River do when that happens? Must read.

I enjoyed Shelter Mountain. The topic of domestic abuse is handled very well by Carr here. And the love story between Faith and Preacher evolved slowly, sweetly. And we get to hear more about characters from book 1 as well as get introduced to a new character. And this is why I only gave the book 3 stars. While I do enjoy the feeling of community you get when reading a Robyn Carr novel, I thought she tackled a bit too much in book 2. I would have preferred the book to focus mostly on Faith and Preacher. But I don't want to undersell this book. This is a sweet, feel good love story.

AFter reading the first book Virgin River, I couldn't wait for this book to be released. I was not disappointed. It was everything I expected and more. I cried and laughed and cheered at the end. Now the wait begins for the next installments coming next month. I hope Robyn doesn't stop with 3 but continues on! There are lots of other characters that could have their own book!!! Robyn fans will not be disappointed and if you've never read one of her books, go find them and start. I've found myself thinking about my own life experiences that could match some of what happened here. It's a great read.

I have been a big fan of Robyn Carr for a couple of years now and many of her books are on my short list of favorites, but I must admit that I was really disappointed in the Virgin River series. Just seeing the name "Robyn Carr" made me buy all three books but in the end I felt like a problem with the series was the way the themes of domestic violence/rape were presented. I felt like these themes were just too obvious, there was no subtlety in their presentation. I understand an author's desire to write about a character who survives domestic violence, but it's important to keep in mind that you're writing about a character who is dealing with the issue--not creating a story around the issue--does this make sense? The biggest problem for me were that details about DV weren't well woven into the story. My biggest complaint about this series is similar to what another reviewer wrote about Carr's "Blue Skies"--we appreciate Carr's research and her respect for accuracy, but not when the little details interfere with the actual storytelling.

I did still enjoy the books, but just in an "okay" way. Compared to her other works, the Virgin River series really falls flat to me. I think the Grace Valley series is still one of her best, and another favorite of mine is "The House on Olive Street." If you're new to Carr's works, I would suggest those over Virgin River.

I'm now a devoted Virgin River follower! The first book (Virgin River) was amazing. This one is just as good! While I'm sure a person could read these out of order, I highly recommend starting with the first book and reading chronologically. Each book builds on the previous one. I wonder how large the town will be by the end of the series! LOL
This book had some light suspense in it. Not gripping suspense, but enough to keep you waiting.
Loved it!

And if there ever should be a movie, Preacher should be played by Vin Diesel!

A compelling love story about a woman who finds love after escaping an abusive relationship. The only disappointing part is their story ends , and I want to keep reading to find out about the other characters.

I loved this book even more than the first one. It was emotionally powerful (and wrenching) without resorting to any unbelievable plot devices. Every moment in this book resonates as honest, possible and even likely. It actually made me cry! Robyn really carried her characters through the whole story as true to life as I've ever seen. Of course, I also loved visiting with the characters from the first book. It just felt like I could drive there and be in Virgin River whenever I had time. Absolutely going on my keeper shelf!

First of all I loved not having the wait for the 2nd book in this series! I fell right back into Virgin River and enjoyed the immediate familiarity with the characters. The story was unique and stood on its own, but the way the story was tied into the first book made it even better. Robyn Carr's writing style makes you feel you are a part of these characters lives and I am so looking forward to the 3rd installment. Highly Recommended!!

I was really excited to get in this book, but found that most of it didn't even cover Paige and John. The author had way too many other stories going on. We had 3 other couples competing for the book which made it all rushed and crammed in. I felt that I didn't get a real romance story. Plus the author is really opinionated about everything woman related. She has opinions that don't need to get shoved down your throat every book.
If we could have had more of Paige and John I would have loved this book.

I love books in a series and this series is fabulous! I won't go into a story outline because that's already been done here; I'll just gush instead! I started the book after getting home from work one night and would have finished if my husband hadn't FORCED me to put it down and go to bed.

Such a great, entertaining read. The characters are so real you could almost reach out and touch them. I want a John Middleton of my own, please!

Do not, I reapeat do not, read the books out of order--you'll hate yourself if you do because there are continuing story lines throughout.

Virgin River
1. Virgin River (2007)
2. Shelter Mountain (2007)
3. Whispering Rock (2007)
4. A Virgin River Christmas (2008)
5. Second Chance Pass (2009)
6. Temptation Ridge (2009)
7. Paradise Valley (2009)

Second installment to Robyn Carr's VIRGIN RIVER SERIES. Love the continuation of the characters from the first book to introducing new ones in this book.

I have read all of Robyn Carr's Books in the VIRGIN RIVER SERIES and would recommend purchasing her GRACE VALLEY SERIES BOOKS too. Very easy and flowing reads and I recommend them ALL!!

Overall, I enjoyed this book but am tired of the writer's focus on the female genitalia. Also, it seems that the writer is against the idea of using pain killer during labor. I like the way the town pulls together to help each other out.

SPOILERS
I have been trying to read this series for years. After hearing all the rave about this series, I picked up book after book, but was never able to finish even one. Finally, I encountered Shelter Mountain, the only book of the series that actually held my attention- for a time, anyways. By the end of the book, I was exasperated. Paige and Preacher were completely overshadowed by Mel and Jack. If I wanted to read about of Mel and Jack, I would have gone to the library and checked out THEIR story. What was this author thinking? I ended up just skipping the parts with Mel and Jack, which means that I skipped over a large chunk of the book. Another issue that I had with this book was the miscarriages. Apparently, this author has a thing with dead babies. One miscarriage, I can handle (barely). But two in one book? Isn't that a bit morbid for a romance? I just felt that the author took the easy way out with Liz and Rick's baby dying. It would have been nice to see them grow up, struggle, and prevail. I'm so disappointed. I'm done with this horrible, boring series. I will never read a book by this author again. The fraction of the story that did focus on Paige and Preacher was wonderful, but the book as a whole was dragged down by the author's inability to focus on the couple.

I love this series! I had already read many of the later books in the series and came upon this one I had missed. Delivers a nice, enjoyable read.
I like that there is not "heavy" sex scenes but you get the idea without all that graphic detail. I wish I lived in Virgin River!

I have fallen in love with this series, I cannot stop reading, from one book to another, as brick by brick she builds this wonderful town of different kinds of people,,,,,I wish there was such a place as this Virgin River, if only the world could be so lucky to build beautiful relationships like these.... Thank you Robyn Carr

What a touching story - some suspense but just a really interesting, joy of a book. The ending was perfect. I would definitely recommend it and will surely read some more of this author's books.

Nice Touch!!

This was my favorite of the Virgin River series. I guess because after reading the first book I had no desire to see Preacher in a romantic way. But I was proven wrong. I loved the way he was so hesitant and protective of Paige. The tenderness he showed with Christopher was super sweet. The slow build up until they finally dealt with thier feelings was paid off in the end. All in all a great read!!!!!

Spoiler Alert----Spoiler Alert

Ok, I don't usually write to many reviews on books, although I read most reviews on books I think I might buy. But I felt compelled to write a review on this book simply because I just can't let the sad story of Rick and Lizzy go without voicing my irritation on their very sad situation. I thought it was sad that she got pregnant in the first place. Being a labor and delivery nurse myself, I have had 14 and 15 y/o pregnant patients that I've delivered. (I will add that I have enjoyed reading these books because of my experiences and understanding of the medical terminology and how pregnancy, labor, delivery, recovery, postpartum evolves). But what I don't enjoy reading about is the loss of an advanced pregnancy in a romance novel. I can appreciate that we nurses have our own biased opinions about what we feel is best for our patients, be it, to keep the baby, adopt the baby out, of course there's the option of abortion up to a certain point, or have family raise the baby....etc... I just really felt strongly that this young vulnerable couple was denied the chance to raise this baby with the love and support of the community because the author didn't think that was the best option given their age and marital status and instead of stepping on some readers toes by suggesting adoption as a viable option or even allowing the storyline to show the struggles young parents face with raising children. I could never give one of my children up for adoption, but I've helped young people who didn't have a strong support system adopt their babies out and its one of the hardest things I've ever done in my job (aside from losing a baby either by fetal demise or neonatal complications leading to death)That option to me would have been better than reading about the loss of their baby in-utero. I would have enjoyed this story a heck of a lot more if they would have been able to keep their baby and raise him in this wonderful town of Virgin River. Too bad the author chose a more morbid storyline. I'm nervous to read the 3rd novel because I don't want it to depress me every time I read something about Rick and Liz and their loss and grieving. Furthermore, I'd have to agree with the other reviewers who have felt that Preacher and Paige's story was just a small pitch in this book. I love reading about Mel and Jack and I'd like for them to continue in future stories, but I hope the other characters she writes about will have a full story of their own and if I do end up reading the 3rd book I hope it will continue to show Preacher and Paige's story and the road they travel as well as Mel and Jack.
Raine (Arlington Wa)

Very nicely written. It was very hard to put down. And it made time slip away while walking on the treadmill! I was on a 30 minute walk when I realized 84 minutes had past! Whew I've never done that before.

I loved Virgin River and had to read this one as soon as I got it, it's a great book but I loved Virgin River much more there was more romance in the first one but a totally different kind in this one not as much steamy sex as in Virgin River but more in depth plot too. A great read.

The entire Virgin River series is excellent. Easy reading, three or four seaparate plots interwoven into each book, and surprises throughout. I have read all seven books in the series and wish there were more!

This is the second book in the virgin River series I thouorghly enjoyd every word . Robyn Carr is a wonderful author , She makes the characters come alive . The town of Virgin River with Shelter Mountain & all its characters seem very real to me when I'm reading about them