I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Bridge
by Shanna Hatfield
Series: Archer Raines #1
Series Rating:
Published by Wholesome Hearts Publishing on October 7, 2025
Setting: Portland, Oregon
Genres: Romantic Mystery
Pages: 250
Format: ebook, Hardcover, Kindle, Paperback
Source: the Author
Goodreads
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Get Your Copy at: Amazon
One Bridge. Five Strangers. A Christmas Eve That Changes Everything.
On a bridge suspended above the Willamette River, five lives collide for a journey through hope and hardship in a suspenseful, heartwarming tale of courage, connection, and the magic of second chances.
Sergeant Archer Raines has worked every holiday all year for one reason: to finally spend Christmas with his wife. But when a desperate man threatens to jump from Portland’s St. Johns Bridge, Archer’s expert negotiation skills are required to defuse the situation.
Rosalee, a high-powered accountant and mom-to-be, only meant to swing by home for a forgotten phone and client file. Then her car is caught in the chaos on the bridge, she unexpectedly goes into labor, and her carefully planned world begins to unravel amidst the unfolding drama.
Exhausted nurse Nova just wants to make it home for Christmas after too many night shifts. When the pileup halts traffic and Rosalee’s baby is on the way, Nova puts her own plans on hold to help a stranger in need.
Carter, the owner of a busy tow truck business, regrets taking the call to clear the multi-car collision off the bridge. He’d intended to spend the day tackling last-minute holiday errands. Instead, he’s praying the lunatic pointing a gun at him doesn’t pull the trigger.
Fresh out of college and anxious to kick-start his career, Ian’s running late when his car won't start the morning of his big interview. His rideshare driver turns out to be a captivating girl with a penchant for aggressive driving that narrowly saves them from being part of the wreck on the bridge, sending Ian on an unexpected path of his own.
The Bridge is the perfect uplifting holiday read and a story of how one frozen moment can thaw even the loneliest of hearts.
The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield is a compelling Christmas story.
How will one man’s actions affect the lives of those on the bridge on Christmas Eve?
On Christmas Eve, amidst the rush and chaos of the holiday, we see how one man’s decision affects everyone, even those he doesn’t know. Ms. Hatfield weaves a story based on the St John’s Bridge in Portland, Oregon. She shows us how precious life is and how intertwined our lives are, even with strangers whom we see but may not recognize daily.
It starts with a man down on his luck, who has lost all hope, a police negotiator, a nurse, an accountant, a couple of tow truck drivers, a ride share driver, and a young man trying to get to an interview. They don’t know this, but their lives will be forever intermingled after this Christmas Eve. This is a different type of story than I am used to reading by Ms. Hatfield. However, I truly enjoyed the mix of suspense with her positivity and holiday spirit. She truly demonstrates that the human spirit is rooted in hope and a willingness to help others in need.
Five Stars
My rating for The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield is five stars. This is a fantastic story that unfolds over a twenty-four-hour period. Yet, it is wrapped up nicely with all the love and wonder of a Christmas holiday. If you are looking for an inspiring, suspenseful holiday story, I recommend this one.
Ms. Hatfield includes a recipe at the end for a Peppermint Lush holiday dessert. I am so looking forward to trying this one this holiday season.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield.
Until the next time,
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About Shanna Hatfield
USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes. When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:
Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- 2025 Cloak and Dagger JEN
- 2025 Goodreads RC JEN
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