Julia McKay, also known as Marissa Stapley, is quickly becoming one of my new favourite authors no matter what genre she's writing in. As you may not know, some authors write in multiple genres and then use pen names so they aren't judged by their other novels. For example if someone is known for writing fantasy novels and then wants to write romance someone might be hesitant to pick up the title because they know their author for their other work. Marissa Stapley's novels aren't drastic of a difference and I would say you might enjoy all her books. I certainly have enjoyed all her novels that I have read.
Christmas at the Ranch reminds me of a winter version of Carley Fortune's novels. The story starts in Toronto where Emory is working out at the gym and suddenly sees her father on television. Not an unusual thing to see her father on tv - he's a wealthy businessman that is often in the news. But this time the news isn't good news and she is just learning that her father has been arrested.
Shocked and upset Emory races out of the gym and just drives. She needs to get away. When she finally comes to her senses she realizes she's driven to the beautiful town of Evergreen. It's a week before Christmas and the beginning of a blizzard.
Emory has been to Evergreen before. When she was 18 her parents rented a mansion to throw a large Christmas bash for all their friends. Not really Emory's style she spends most of the time reading in her room. But she's drawn out of the mansion when she hears noises and stumbles across 18 year old Tate.
Christmas at the Ranch unravels in alternating chapters with the story of their quick 18 year old romance and now meeting again 10 years later. Why did Emory drive to Greenwood?
The story takes place over the week before Christmas. Christmas at the Ranch definitely has some Hallmark vibes to it but it's not a full blown Christmas story for sure. I read it in September and I swear I felt the chill of the blizzard.