Aspen Crossroads by Janine Rosche

Aspen Crossroads
by Janine Rosche

ISBN-13: 9780593335758
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Berkley
Released: August 24th 2021

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Few in the community of Whisper Canyon have actually met Jace Daring, a handsome recluse who lives at Aspen Crossroads, the farm at the edge of town. But that doesn't stop the rumors about the multiple women who live with him. He must protect the truth--that his farm-to-table restaurant will provide new livelihoods for women rescued from human trafficking--or he risks the safety and futures of those relying on him. But he can't do it alone.

Haven Haviland has always been everyone's safe place to fall until one mistake closes her counseling practice and leaves her open to the town's gossip. Trusting men has gotten her in trouble before. However, accepting Jace's job offer to mentor the rescued women seems like the perfect way to right her wrongs.

When the mayor's campaign to clean up Whisper Canyon targets Aspen Crossroads, the restaurant comes under fire, dangers from the women's pasts are awakened, and Haven's sins are exposed for all to see. Jace would sacrifice himself to save Haven and the women under his care, but his efforts might not be enough.


My Review:
Aspen Crossroads is a contemporary romance. Jace passionately cares about rescuing women from human trafficking. He works for organization that helps set these women up with new skills and jobs--in this case, a farm-to-table restaurant. But the women need counseling as well, which would be better from a professional and a woman. Haven closed her counseling practice in shame because she broke her professional standards when a client manipulated her when she was hurting emotionally and needed someone to talk to. Desperate for a new job, she takes on helping these women who have learned not to trust or be vulnerable to anyone. Making an already difficult job even harder, the mayor's determined to get rid of the ex-prostitutes even if it means underhanded dealing.

The main characters were complex, well-developed, and reacted realistically to events. Neither Haven or Jace felt like they deserved or could handle a loving, romantic relationship. However, they were attracted to the kindness and caring that the other showed toward the hurting. They built each other (and others) up and helped them to heal and hope for a better future. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this intense novel.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.