All This Time – Melissa Tagg – Walker Family #4 – Published 28 September 2017

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Synopsis

Ten years ago, Bear gave up everything—his freedom and his reputation—for his mess of a family. But after years of distance and too many attempts at starting over, he finally has a new life doing noble work in Brazil . . . until his past catches up to him once again. Suddenly he finds himself back in Maple Valley, charged with the care of his missing brother’s children, convinced he’s out of second chances to make his life count. And yet, with every day that passes, these kids, this quirky town and the woman he never stopped missing help patch the holes in his heart. Maybe this is the fresh start he’s been longing for all along. But as his newfound hope grows, so does the mystery surrounding his brother’s activities—and when the threat reaches into the lives of those he loves, it’s clear he can’t run away this time.

Raegan Walker is fine. She’s happy working a slew of part-time jobs, still living in her childhood bedroom and rarely venturing from her hometown. At least, that’s what she tells everyone . . . and herself. But she can’t help wondering what might’ve happened if she hadn’t abandoned her art so many years ago—and if Bear McKinley had never left. When Bear returns and she’s commissioned for a painting that just might revive her artistic ambition all in one week, it’s time to finally reach for more than fine. But doing so means facing the fears that have held her back all this time, including admitting the secret she’s kept from Bear and her family. With her dream and her heart on the line, how much will Raegan have to risk to finally chase her happy ending?

My thoughts

As I finished this amazing book I was torn in equal parts. Half of me was shouting yes, yes, YES! Because it really was that good. I knew it would be good. I have read and loved every single book and novella in this gorgeous Walker Family series, I have longed for Raegan and Bear’s story, and yet I was still surprised by just how much I loved this sorry. But while I was internally celebrating (because who wouldn’t love that ending) I was also mourning. Because this is the last book. Have I mentioned how much I love this family? Perhaps Melissa Tagg could be persuaded to extend the series. I would be totally up for a novella about Chase Walker. Or what about a book set in the future a little, I’m sure Jamie or even Erin have a story to tell…


Raegan gave her heart to Bear McKinley years ago, but she knew they were never going to have a future, especially when he left for Brazil. But now he is back in Maple Valley, bringing with him his young niece and nephew. While Bear wrestles with his past and the memories he can’t seem to outrun, Raegan is unsure of her future and if she can risk her heart again.

This fourth book in the Walker Family series is everything that I have loved about the whole series all wrapped up in one book. A family so strong and connected, even if they might sometimes annoy each other with their meddling, a small town that loves celebrations and events, soul searching, faith affirmation, and, of course, sweet romance.

I have long been awaiting Bear and Raegan’s story, and it didn’t disappoint. Bear is carrying a whole load of baggage. It’s lucky he has such wide shoulders, but his past is finally catching up with him. It was awesome to finally gain more pieces of his story, but equally heartbreaking. It’s easy to see why Raegan loves him so very much. We also learn a lot more about Raegan. She is an easy character to relate to, someone who has let fear impede on her dreams. But helping Bear with his niece and nephew, slowing prying his secrets from him and facing his past head-on together, give Bear and Raegan their chance for a future.

I loved the end of this book, loved the suspense and surprise of it all. And yes, while it is really sad to have reached the end of this series, I can delight in a really well-written story and a beautiful romance.

More information

Category: Fiction

Genre: Christian contemporary.

Themes: Family, grief, children, guilt, crime, art, murals, mission, ex-convicts.

Published: 28 September 2017.

Format: Paperback, ebook.

Find it on Goodreads