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Four Seasons #4
A Winter Flame
Tis the season to be jolly… But can Eve find happiness through the frost?
Eve has never liked Christmas. So when her adored elderly aunt dies, the last thing she is expecting is to be left a theme park in her will. A theme park with a Christmas theme …
And that's not the only catch. Her aunt's will stipulates that Eve must run the park with a mysterious partner, the exotically named Jacques Glace. Who is this Jacques, and why did Aunt Evelyn name him in her will?
But Eve isn't going to back down from a challenge. She's determined to make a success of Winterworld, no matter what. Can she overcome her dislike of Christmas, and can Jacques melt her frozen heart at last?
Eve has never liked Christmas. So when her adored elderly aunt dies, the last thing she is expecting is to be left a theme park in her will. A theme park with a Christmas theme …
And that's not the only catch. Her aunt's will stipulates that Eve must run the park with a mysterious partner, the exotically named Jacques Glace. Who is this Jacques, and why did Aunt Evelyn name him in her will?
But Eve isn't going to back down from a challenge. She's determined to make a success of Winterworld, no matter what. Can she overcome her dislike of Christmas, and can Jacques melt her frozen heart at last?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Milly Johnson
42 books1,916 followersMilly Johnson was born in Barnsley, raised in Barnsley and still lives in Barnsley. She writes about strong women, often having a renaissance, all ages and has just released her 21st novel, The Happiest Ever After. Do check out her website for up to date news and appearance dates.
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
December 19, 2016
3.5 stars
This turned out better than I thought it would, but I had to stick with it till the very end.
I found Eve a difficult character to like, in spite of the fact that I wanted to give her every excuse for her bad behavior. I also had a hard time warming up to Jacques. For some reason, I didn't feel the chemistry that MJ is known for creating between her leading man and lady.
But towards the end, these two snuck into my heart and the feelings evoked by the descriptions of Winter land won me over. I'm not sure I would have reacted the same had I read it outside of the holiday season. Timing is everything.
This is not the best in the series, but I'm glad I read it.
This turned out better than I thought it would, but I had to stick with it till the very end.
I found Eve a difficult character to like, in spite of the fact that I wanted to give her every excuse for her bad behavior. I also had a hard time warming up to Jacques. For some reason, I didn't feel the chemistry that MJ is known for creating between her leading man and lady.
But towards the end, these two snuck into my heart and the feelings evoked by the descriptions of Winter land won me over. I'm not sure I would have reacted the same had I read it outside of the holiday season. Timing is everything.
This is not the best in the series, but I'm glad I read it.
November 14, 2021
3.7 stars. This is my first Christmas romance or book in general for this year, while I'm not a person that likes to start early on Christmas I do enjoy the books. It had a good mix of cozy, fluffy Christmas themes but also some serious bits. Even though it's probably (hopefully) going to be my least favorite it was still quite enjoyable. Didn't get me in holiday mood but it's only November still!
December 24, 2016
Why didn't I love this story more? A Winter Flame is a pleasant enough read and a lot to like, especially . Unfortunately, it didn't draw me in till the last 25% and I didn't feel as connected to the characters. I will give this author another chance. This read wasn't a waste of time.
November 30, 2015
5 Words: Christmas, love, death, change, festive.
Honestly? This wasn't what I expected at all. I've read a lot of mixed reviews for this author, and been recommended her books and warned against them more times than I can count. So I was a little apprehensive when I first picked it up but I'm glad I did. It made me laugh and want to cry.
This book is the perfect winter-warmer. It gives you the warm-fuzzies inside and makes you smile, and it made me feel enough about the characters to want to give the main character a slap around the face to get some sense into her.
Honestly? This wasn't what I expected at all. I've read a lot of mixed reviews for this author, and been recommended her books and warned against them more times than I can count. So I was a little apprehensive when I first picked it up but I'm glad I did. It made me laugh and want to cry.
This book is the perfect winter-warmer. It gives you the warm-fuzzies inside and makes you smile, and it made me feel enough about the characters to want to give the main character a slap around the face to get some sense into her.
January 13, 2015
'Tis the season to be jolly… But can Eve find happiness through the frost…?
Eve has never liked Christmas, not since her beloved fiancé was killed in action in Afghanistan on Christmas Day. So when her adored elderly aunt dies, the last thing she is expecting is to be left a theme park in her will. A theme park with a Christmas theme…
This book was fun, well written, and romantic. I also thought that you didn't need to read it during the Holidays but it also brightens your Christmas tree if you do.
Eve is a Grinch who needs to find love and the spirit of Christmas. She is left a theme park by her odd aunt, which by the way... is awesome. I mean I have played enough Roller Coaster Tycoon to want a theme park of my own. However, there is always a BUT, and the BUT of this story is that the aunt left half of the theme park to a stranger as well. So Eve has to deal with her hatred of Christmas, owning a theme park, and this good-looking French stranger. Doesn't it sound like it could be the perfect Holiday movie?
Eve has never liked Christmas, not since her beloved fiancé was killed in action in Afghanistan on Christmas Day. So when her adored elderly aunt dies, the last thing she is expecting is to be left a theme park in her will. A theme park with a Christmas theme…
This book was fun, well written, and romantic. I also thought that you didn't need to read it during the Holidays but it also brightens your Christmas tree if you do.
Eve is a Grinch who needs to find love and the spirit of Christmas. She is left a theme park by her odd aunt, which by the way... is awesome. I mean I have played enough Roller Coaster Tycoon to want a theme park of my own. However, there is always a BUT, and the BUT of this story is that the aunt left half of the theme park to a stranger as well. So Eve has to deal with her hatred of Christmas, owning a theme park, and this good-looking French stranger. Doesn't it sound like it could be the perfect Holiday movie?
October 8, 2021
Winter flame is the fourth and final book in the Four Seasons series.
Each book stands entirely on its own therefore can be read any which way you prefer.
The previous books were wonderful and bubbly and just good fun and A Winter Flame was no exception.
This novel features a magical winter theme park that is twinkly, glittery and romantic with cosy cabins and an enchanted Christmas tree forest.
This festive novel will make you feel so very christmassy - filled with everything you’d anticipate in a yuletide themed book - elves, reindeer, snow ponies and of course, Santa.
Two characters who dazzle in this story is the handsome Captain and the heroine with ‘beautiful christmas tree eyes.’
The supporting characters are adorable and one minor character effin Effin Williams, the Welshman supervising Winterworld’s construction will have you in stitches with his cutting remarks, and the Poles working for him are a real hoot.
Omg, ‘The Daily Trumpet’ newspaper misprints and apologies were a scream, they’ll have you rolling on the floor laughing, I kid you not.
And the smartarse-y banter from the handsome Captain will keep you grinning throughout the pages of this tale.
I adored this book. The characters were well developed. The plot was fantastic. The writing was lovely and some words used were fresh and creative. Filled with love, some sadness, lots of humour and holiday magic I would give more than 5 stars if I could as this story made me smile and guffaw on almost every page.
Oh, and the animals…so cute!
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2021: #49 - A book from your TBR pile chosen at random
Each book stands entirely on its own therefore can be read any which way you prefer.
The previous books were wonderful and bubbly and just good fun and A Winter Flame was no exception.
This novel features a magical winter theme park that is twinkly, glittery and romantic with cosy cabins and an enchanted Christmas tree forest.
This festive novel will make you feel so very christmassy - filled with everything you’d anticipate in a yuletide themed book - elves, reindeer, snow ponies and of course, Santa.
Two characters who dazzle in this story is the handsome Captain and the heroine with ‘beautiful christmas tree eyes.’
The supporting characters are adorable and one minor character effin Effin Williams, the Welshman supervising Winterworld’s construction will have you in stitches with his cutting remarks, and the Poles working for him are a real hoot.
Omg, ‘The Daily Trumpet’ newspaper misprints and apologies were a scream, they’ll have you rolling on the floor laughing, I kid you not.
And the smartarse-y banter from the handsome Captain will keep you grinning throughout the pages of this tale.
I adored this book. The characters were well developed. The plot was fantastic. The writing was lovely and some words used were fresh and creative. Filled with love, some sadness, lots of humour and holiday magic I would give more than 5 stars if I could as this story made me smile and guffaw on almost every page.
Oh, and the animals…so cute!
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2021: #49 - A book from your TBR pile chosen at random
December 17, 2015
Sul blog ---> http://www.leggereromanticamente.com/...
Non tutti amano il Natale, c'è chi non lo sopporta proprio, cercando di tenersi alla larga da qualsiasi cosa lo rappresenti, come la protagonista di questa storia, Eve, una donna che fino a cinque anni prima era sempre sorridente e piena di vita, ma a cui il destino ha deciso di strappare la persona a lei più cara. Da allora si è chiusa a riccio e non ha mai più fatto entrare nessuno nel suo cuore.
Quando la vecchia prozia muore lasciandole in eredità la metà di un parco a tema invernale di cui lei ignorava del tutto l'esistenza, Eve si ritrova così a dover collaborare con il misterioso beneficiario congiunto, Jacques Glace.
Eve, di professione organizzatrice di eventi, superato lo shock iniziale prende la notizia come una sfida professionale, ma non si fida per nulla di Jacques, arrivando addirittura a pensare delle assurdità sul suo conto.
Eve non ha proprio idea di come lui abbia conosciuto la sua stramba prozia e per quale motivo lei abbia deciso di lasciare ad un estraneo metà dei suoi beni più preziosi.
Jacques è un uomo affascinante, un po' civettuolo, molto disponibile con tutte le persone che lavorano nel parco ed è anche determinato a fare un buon lavoro e portare a termine quello che la simpatica vecchietta aveva iniziato. Anche il lettore scopre le carte che lo riguardano un tassello alla volta proprio come la protagonista della storia, nonostante alcune cose siano facilmente intuibili.
Se vi aspettate una storia romantica con svariate scene passionali tra i due protagonisti siete completamente fuori strada, questo è un romanzo di crescita e di speranza, alla fine i protagonisti riusciranno ad avere un loro lieto fine, ma ci arriveranno molto gradualmente. Entrambi hanno provato il dolore e la perdita, ma per Eve la ferita non è mai guarita, ha bisogno di superare quello che è successo in passato e iniziare a vivere davvero nel presente. Il tutto in un'ambientazione magica e da sogno di un parco che più che a tema invernale è a tema natalizio, grazie alla presenza di Babbo Natale, renne, pony bianchi, elfi, alberi di natale, decorazioni e attrazioni natalizie che lasciano a bocca aperta.
Una storia toccante, dolce e romantica che tocca il cuore.
Lettura natalizia consigliata a chi non cerca il classico romance.
Non tutti amano il Natale, c'è chi non lo sopporta proprio, cercando di tenersi alla larga da qualsiasi cosa lo rappresenti, come la protagonista di questa storia, Eve, una donna che fino a cinque anni prima era sempre sorridente e piena di vita, ma a cui il destino ha deciso di strappare la persona a lei più cara. Da allora si è chiusa a riccio e non ha mai più fatto entrare nessuno nel suo cuore.
Quando la vecchia prozia muore lasciandole in eredità la metà di un parco a tema invernale di cui lei ignorava del tutto l'esistenza, Eve si ritrova così a dover collaborare con il misterioso beneficiario congiunto, Jacques Glace.
Eve, di professione organizzatrice di eventi, superato lo shock iniziale prende la notizia come una sfida professionale, ma non si fida per nulla di Jacques, arrivando addirittura a pensare delle assurdità sul suo conto.
Eve non ha proprio idea di come lui abbia conosciuto la sua stramba prozia e per quale motivo lei abbia deciso di lasciare ad un estraneo metà dei suoi beni più preziosi.
Jacques è un uomo affascinante, un po' civettuolo, molto disponibile con tutte le persone che lavorano nel parco ed è anche determinato a fare un buon lavoro e portare a termine quello che la simpatica vecchietta aveva iniziato. Anche il lettore scopre le carte che lo riguardano un tassello alla volta proprio come la protagonista della storia, nonostante alcune cose siano facilmente intuibili.
Se vi aspettate una storia romantica con svariate scene passionali tra i due protagonisti siete completamente fuori strada, questo è un romanzo di crescita e di speranza, alla fine i protagonisti riusciranno ad avere un loro lieto fine, ma ci arriveranno molto gradualmente. Entrambi hanno provato il dolore e la perdita, ma per Eve la ferita non è mai guarita, ha bisogno di superare quello che è successo in passato e iniziare a vivere davvero nel presente. Il tutto in un'ambientazione magica e da sogno di un parco che più che a tema invernale è a tema natalizio, grazie alla presenza di Babbo Natale, renne, pony bianchi, elfi, alberi di natale, decorazioni e attrazioni natalizie che lasciano a bocca aperta.
Una storia toccante, dolce e romantica che tocca il cuore.
Lettura natalizia consigliata a chi non cerca il classico romance.
January 8, 2021
Another glorious novel by Milly Johnson. The more I read her books, the more I love them. This particular one I loved because it had a Christmas theme (who wouldn't?) and the descriptions of some of the ice-cream Eve's cousin Violet was making made my mouth water.
I really, really loved this book and had heard nothing but good things about it, so I literally couldn't wait to give it a read. From the start I really felt for Eve, she was holding on to Jonathan so much that she herself was wilting away. The candle burning in her home was her token of love for him and it was so sad to see her depend on it's burning.
When Eve inherited the Christmas theme park, that's where it all got so interesting and I couldn't put it down. I simply loved the descriptions about what was going to be included in the park and all about Violet's new ice-cream flavours. I was a bit dubious of Jacques at first but as the story went on I started loving his bubbly and very kind character.
All of the other characters in the book were all lovely as well, such as Thomas the Tank and Effin. As well as many others such as Aunt Susan, Evelyn and even lovely Holly the reindeer. Every part of this book was simply magical and I loved every minute of it - I was sad when it ended! I loved the Christmas wedding, the Christmas ice-cream flavours and I even loved the slightly dysfunctional train that runs around the park! The descriptions of the Christmas trees wrapped in lights with snowflakes dancing down from the sky just sounded so delightful - it'll definitely leave you feeling festive.
Overall, a lovely magical Christmassy novel. I adored the Christmas theme park and wish there was one that was just like this! 5 stars once again to the lovely Milly Johnson. You need to read this!
I really, really loved this book and had heard nothing but good things about it, so I literally couldn't wait to give it a read. From the start I really felt for Eve, she was holding on to Jonathan so much that she herself was wilting away. The candle burning in her home was her token of love for him and it was so sad to see her depend on it's burning.
When Eve inherited the Christmas theme park, that's where it all got so interesting and I couldn't put it down. I simply loved the descriptions about what was going to be included in the park and all about Violet's new ice-cream flavours. I was a bit dubious of Jacques at first but as the story went on I started loving his bubbly and very kind character.
All of the other characters in the book were all lovely as well, such as Thomas the Tank and Effin. As well as many others such as Aunt Susan, Evelyn and even lovely Holly the reindeer. Every part of this book was simply magical and I loved every minute of it - I was sad when it ended! I loved the Christmas wedding, the Christmas ice-cream flavours and I even loved the slightly dysfunctional train that runs around the park! The descriptions of the Christmas trees wrapped in lights with snowflakes dancing down from the sky just sounded so delightful - it'll definitely leave you feeling festive.
Overall, a lovely magical Christmassy novel. I adored the Christmas theme park and wish there was one that was just like this! 5 stars once again to the lovely Milly Johnson. You need to read this!
December 18, 2022
11/28/22 rereading on audio.
12/17/2022 Still 4 stars. No change from original below review! Nothing to Add!
A Winter Flame has The bones of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Emotionally closed up due to her fiance getting killed on Christmas 5 years prior, our heroine channels all of her energy into her successful business, distancing her friends and family, and leaving her personal life on the shelf. Lo and Behold, she inherits a Christmas Theme Park from a beloved aunt which she is forced to co-own and develop with a handsome quirky and mysterious stranger whom she suspects of nefarious motives. Of course, need I say that all is not as it seems, and we all know how this will end?
Populated with a few characters from another novel, it puts a bow on one of the romances with a beautiful wedding. This one has the humor and entertaining pop culture references of the previous 4 novels I’ve read, but not as angsty or serious as some. It is also not as hilarious as some either. Our heroine, Eve, will make you want to choke her: she really is stubbornly blind to what is so obvious and reaches crazy conclusions based on evidence that should have pointed her to the light. But that’s what was intended! Anyway, I really liked the lightness of it. It was a fun book, with a few emotional scenes and a few surprises as well.
12/17/2022 Still 4 stars. No change from original below review! Nothing to Add!
A Winter Flame has The bones of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Emotionally closed up due to her fiance getting killed on Christmas 5 years prior, our heroine channels all of her energy into her successful business, distancing her friends and family, and leaving her personal life on the shelf. Lo and Behold, she inherits a Christmas Theme Park from a beloved aunt which she is forced to co-own and develop with a handsome quirky and mysterious stranger whom she suspects of nefarious motives. Of course, need I say that all is not as it seems, and we all know how this will end?
Populated with a few characters from another novel, it puts a bow on one of the romances with a beautiful wedding. This one has the humor and entertaining pop culture references of the previous 4 novels I’ve read, but not as angsty or serious as some. It is also not as hilarious as some either. Our heroine, Eve, will make you want to choke her: she really is stubbornly blind to what is so obvious and reaches crazy conclusions based on evidence that should have pointed her to the light. But that’s what was intended! Anyway, I really liked the lightness of it. It was a fun book, with a few emotional scenes and a few surprises as well.
May 27, 2023
Ending the year with this wholesome-to-another-level book!
5 solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A must read for everyone who is a fan of - cute, fluffy, feel-good with a dollop of humour content 🫶🏼
Oh definitely read it around or on Christmas for full feels ✨🎄🎅🏼
5 solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A must read for everyone who is a fan of - cute, fluffy, feel-good with a dollop of humour content 🫶🏼
Oh definitely read it around or on Christmas for full feels ✨🎄🎅🏼
December 23, 2019
An addictive writing style you could easily enjoy in one sitting or quickly between life getting in the way of reading. Eve to be honest isn't the most likeable leading lady and her relationship with Jacques is a mysterious one too. However it works and Eve finally starts becoming more human around him. I enjoyed the scenes with the family of reindeer. The Daily Trumpet just adds to the entertainment factor the rubbish it prints and reprints. I wouldn't hesitate to read another book by Milly Johnson and love the mention of Yorkshire places such as Meadowhall. I love reading books about London and New York but it does make a different story in a good way to be a different setting such as Yorkshire.
September 8, 2019
Olvastam már Milly Johnsont, szóval nem voltak felé irreális elvárásaim. A könnyed karácsonyi sztorit megkaptam. De annyira sablonos, és annyira hervasztó, hogy már az elején kimondatja az egyik főszereplővel, hogy úgyis mi lesz a végkimenetel… Persze, tudtam én, hát egy romantikus karácsonyi történetben mégis mi lehetne…? De ah… egy picit hagyhatott volna még bizonytalanságban.
Egyébként pont jó volt egy kicsit kiszellőztetni az agyamat a sok ünnepi komolyságtól.
Egyébként pont jó volt egy kicsit kiszellőztetni az agyamat a sok ünnepi komolyságtól.
February 2, 2017
Christmas Chick-lit. I seem to have developed a liking for cheesy romance. Can't seem to get enough of it!
This was an Amazon recc and it sounded right up my alley. Eve, who hates Christmas because of some pretty dire festive season's gone by has inherited a Christmas theme park and must run it jointly with a mysterious gentleman named Jacques Glace (which made me immediately think of Jack Frost and was a great choice of name).
It sounded great on paper but once started it didn't take me very long to develop a very strong dislike to the leading lady, Eve. We're to believe that she takes an instant dislike to Jacques because he's too friendly, happy and nice for her liking and she thinks he's up to something because nobody could be that nice just for the sake of it. She sneers when she talks to him (and about him) while everyone round her seems to think he's lovely. Here's the thing...HE IS LOVELY!!! It's that easy. He's nice, she's not. For most of the book I felt like grabbing Eve and shaking her and telling her to get over herself. I thought she was a brat, and a bitter, twisted one at that. The things she says and does to that poor man! I felt like grabbing him too and telling him to run like the wind to get away from her, he could do better. Not really what you want to feel in a romance.
The other characters were great and reading about how the theme park was progressing was the only thing that kept me going. Some of the moments were quite touching and actually the park sounded pretty cool and I'd probably visit it if it were real...but Eve spoiled it for me. Honestly, when I read about how she met the 'love of her life' it was laughable (and he sounded like a proper arse into the bargain, for his part in the proceedings).
Urgh! The story was a good one and the characters were great but I just wish Eve hadn't been so mental. She ruined it for me. So wrapped up in her own little miserable world and with the personality of a rottweiler she wasn't really romance material. I don't know why Jacques put up with her. How he kept on smiling and being nice was beyond me.
I think I was supposed to feel sorry for Eve, for all the rubbish Christmas' she'd had in the past and for her horrible life in general, but I didn't. Crappy lives and Christmases are no excuse for the level of rudeness she showed towards others and certainly not to someone who is going out of their way to be nice to her.
The story was well written though and judging by all the other 5 star reviews I'm in the minority in regards to how I felt about it. I just couldn't get past my severe dislike of Eve. Oh, and there were far, far too many cultural references too. I lost count of the TV shows and famous people used as tools to convey a feeling, mood, look, action, on and on and on...
Great, if you know who Alan Carr the chatty man is or what the kiss David Beckham gave Posh after his affair looked like, or what Lord Sugar sounds like, or any number of other name drops, but if like me you don't... it's too much.
This was an Amazon recc and it sounded right up my alley. Eve, who hates Christmas because of some pretty dire festive season's gone by has inherited a Christmas theme park and must run it jointly with a mysterious gentleman named Jacques Glace (which made me immediately think of Jack Frost and was a great choice of name).
It sounded great on paper but once started it didn't take me very long to develop a very strong dislike to the leading lady, Eve. We're to believe that she takes an instant dislike to Jacques because he's too friendly, happy and nice for her liking and she thinks he's up to something because nobody could be that nice just for the sake of it. She sneers when she talks to him (and about him) while everyone round her seems to think he's lovely. Here's the thing...HE IS LOVELY!!! It's that easy. He's nice, she's not. For most of the book I felt like grabbing Eve and shaking her and telling her to get over herself. I thought she was a brat, and a bitter, twisted one at that. The things she says and does to that poor man! I felt like grabbing him too and telling him to run like the wind to get away from her, he could do better. Not really what you want to feel in a romance.
The other characters were great and reading about how the theme park was progressing was the only thing that kept me going. Some of the moments were quite touching and actually the park sounded pretty cool and I'd probably visit it if it were real...but Eve spoiled it for me. Honestly, when I read about how she met the 'love of her life' it was laughable (and he sounded like a proper arse into the bargain, for his part in the proceedings).
Urgh! The story was a good one and the characters were great but I just wish Eve hadn't been so mental. She ruined it for me. So wrapped up in her own little miserable world and with the personality of a rottweiler she wasn't really romance material. I don't know why Jacques put up with her. How he kept on smiling and being nice was beyond me.
I think I was supposed to feel sorry for Eve, for all the rubbish Christmas' she'd had in the past and for her horrible life in general, but I didn't. Crappy lives and Christmases are no excuse for the level of rudeness she showed towards others and certainly not to someone who is going out of their way to be nice to her.
The story was well written though and judging by all the other 5 star reviews I'm in the minority in regards to how I felt about it. I just couldn't get past my severe dislike of Eve. Oh, and there were far, far too many cultural references too. I lost count of the TV shows and famous people used as tools to convey a feeling, mood, look, action, on and on and on...
Great, if you know who Alan Carr the chatty man is or what the kiss David Beckham gave Posh after his affair looked like, or what Lord Sugar sounds like, or any number of other name drops, but if like me you don't... it's too much.
December 18, 2016
First time reading this author & I loved it! Very easy to relate to the characters. Wonderful story that was just the right mix of emotional and funny. Definitely will be reading Milly Johnson again.....
June 10, 2013
listened to the audio book while I walked my dog. I loved every second of this story.
December 31, 2014
A Winter Flame.
Finalmente una vera favola natalizia.
Dopo due deludenti (a dir poco) letture a tema Natale, il libro di Milly Johnson mi ha rappacificato con il genere.
La storia di Eve e del suo amore inconsolabile, mi ha commosso (il titolo originale è perfetto!). Ho sperato che Jacques riuscisse a fare breccia nella sua corazza e alla fine sono rimasta sorpresa dal background del “capitano”.
Molto carina anche la storia secondaria tra Violet e Pav.
Libro zuccheroso perfetto per il periodo.
Pieno di citazioni carine (alcune troppo British).
P.S. comunque è il Tardis, non la Tardis.
Tre stelle e mezzo
Finalmente una vera favola natalizia.
Dopo due deludenti (a dir poco) letture a tema Natale, il libro di Milly Johnson mi ha rappacificato con il genere.
La storia di Eve e del suo amore inconsolabile, mi ha commosso (il titolo originale è perfetto!). Ho sperato che Jacques riuscisse a fare breccia nella sua corazza e alla fine sono rimasta sorpresa dal background del “capitano”.
Molto carina anche la storia secondaria tra Violet e Pav.
Libro zuccheroso perfetto per il periodo.
Pieno di citazioni carine (alcune troppo British).
P.S. comunque è il Tardis, non la Tardis.
Tre stelle e mezzo
October 27, 2012
I absolutely loved this book. I could picture the characters and setting as vividly as if I was watching a film. It was a lovely heartwarming story about Eve who is left half of a Winter themepark to run with a complete stranger, Jacques. She hates Christmas- but gradually sees the new theme park take shape and soften her views!
She is one of my favourite authors.
She is one of my favourite authors.
December 6, 2017
Nice wintery read but nothing out of the ordinary. I liked the setting with the Winter/Santapark but unfortunately I didn‘t really feel the chemistry between Jacques and Eve and in general I wasn‘t a fan of the characters.
March 7, 2019
It's a shame I forgot to read this in December. Now it's almost spring and the feeling would have been perfect in more winter winter.
Even though the main character wasn't very likeable, the rest of the story and setting were really lovely.
Even though the main character wasn't very likeable, the rest of the story and setting were really lovely.
November 21, 2017
Absolutely loved this book didn’t want the story to end.
November 16, 2019
Christmassy.
November 23, 2012
We meet Eve Douglas as she’s waiting at the solicitors after the death of her beloved great aunt Evelyn, who in the later months of her life, developed an obsession with Christmas. Expecting to be left her locket, she’s in total shock when she finds out that Evelyn bought land in the 60’s and has started a Christmas theme park … and another shock that Jacques Glace has been willed the other half (as well as half of the few million). Eve knows nothing about him but has to decide whether to partner him or resign.
Before meeting Jacques, Eve goes off on a research trip taking best friend Alison’s daughter, Phoebe. “White Christmas” is in the public eye for all the wrong reasons. She knows she can do a lot better. Her first meeting with Jacques is hilarious! He makes a very bold statement on leaving…
There is much more to A Winter Flame than Eve’s dislike of Christmas and a frozen heart (although obviously central … as not only did Jonathan die on Christmas Day but even before that, her childhood experiences left a negative feeling about everything surrounding the festive season). There are sub-plots weaving through. Eve’s cousin Violet is one of them. I cheered when I realised that Violet and Pav from White Wedding are also characters (you can read my review here). Max and Bel make a brief appearance too. I loved this. We continue finding our more about Violet’s relationship, which is nail-biting at one point and caused me tears of happiness at another.
Jacques is such an intriguing character. How did he know great aunt Evelyn? Why won’t he talk about his past? What is he hiding? This kept me hooked all the way through the story.
You all know I love to see a character grow and come into their own. Eve certainly does that with the help of Winterworld. There are some really touching moments with the reindeers and Christopher the snow pony. Santa makes her pause and reflect as well. Winterworld is an amazing invention … I could just imagine myself walking through the enchanted forest with Eve and feeling the magic tingling on my skin.
Magic … there is also a sense of the paranormal in a couple of scenes. I love the way Johnson adds these scenes to her stories.
I can’t finish my review without mentioning the humour. As well as Johnson’s inimitable humour throughout, her creation of the Daily Trumpet and the mistakes they make are hilarious (although one of the misprints is quite a major error in delaying knowledge – this thread is very cleverly crafted).
A Winter Flame is a seasonal tale that deals realistically and sensitively about bereavement and letting go, age differences in relationships, the parenting patterns that are inherited from previous generations … and living life to the full. It’s about family, friendships and love. It’s heart-warming and gives hope. I’ve been totally engrossed and have no hesitation in recommending A Winter Flame. This is definitely a story I will read again.
I would like to thank the publishers for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Before meeting Jacques, Eve goes off on a research trip taking best friend Alison’s daughter, Phoebe. “White Christmas” is in the public eye for all the wrong reasons. She knows she can do a lot better. Her first meeting with Jacques is hilarious! He makes a very bold statement on leaving…
There is much more to A Winter Flame than Eve’s dislike of Christmas and a frozen heart (although obviously central … as not only did Jonathan die on Christmas Day but even before that, her childhood experiences left a negative feeling about everything surrounding the festive season). There are sub-plots weaving through. Eve’s cousin Violet is one of them. I cheered when I realised that Violet and Pav from White Wedding are also characters (you can read my review here). Max and Bel make a brief appearance too. I loved this. We continue finding our more about Violet’s relationship, which is nail-biting at one point and caused me tears of happiness at another.
Jacques is such an intriguing character. How did he know great aunt Evelyn? Why won’t he talk about his past? What is he hiding? This kept me hooked all the way through the story.
You all know I love to see a character grow and come into their own. Eve certainly does that with the help of Winterworld. There are some really touching moments with the reindeers and Christopher the snow pony. Santa makes her pause and reflect as well. Winterworld is an amazing invention … I could just imagine myself walking through the enchanted forest with Eve and feeling the magic tingling on my skin.
Magic … there is also a sense of the paranormal in a couple of scenes. I love the way Johnson adds these scenes to her stories.
I can’t finish my review without mentioning the humour. As well as Johnson’s inimitable humour throughout, her creation of the Daily Trumpet and the mistakes they make are hilarious (although one of the misprints is quite a major error in delaying knowledge – this thread is very cleverly crafted).
A Winter Flame is a seasonal tale that deals realistically and sensitively about bereavement and letting go, age differences in relationships, the parenting patterns that are inherited from previous generations … and living life to the full. It’s about family, friendships and love. It’s heart-warming and gives hope. I’ve been totally engrossed and have no hesitation in recommending A Winter Flame. This is definitely a story I will read again.
I would like to thank the publishers for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2012
Eve doesn’t like Christmas. On top of a childhood full of disappointments, her boyfriend was killed in Afghanistan 5 years earlier on Christmas day. Unable to move on, she keeps a candle burning for him; as long as it’s alight he’s there with her in spirit. But when her great aunt dies, she leaves Eve something strange in her will: the plans to a winter theme park and the money to make it happen. There’s one catch. She must work together with a mysterious stranger and she can’t help but be suspicious.
The winter theme park is a wonderfully silly idea for a festive novel and you’ll be pleased to know it’s better than the one that kept appearing on Watchdog last year! Whilst it does have its serious side, the best parts are the fun ones. There’s a host of wonderful bit-part characters, an amazing sounding ice-cream parlour, adorable reindeer and Santas. I wish that her niece had a bigger part as she is one of those children that comes out with very adult things. Not forgetting the error ridden local newspaper that has a lot to answer for!
At one point I decided I didn’t want Eve to get a happy ever after. Her bitterness, lack of trust and all-round anti-Christmasness goes just a bit too far. Yes, she has her reasons but her grief seems out of proportion. I mean she barely knew Jonathan before he was killed and he had left his previous long-term girlfriend after knowing Eve for one night! He doesn’t sound like the kind of man that would have stuck around for ever. I think it would work better if you feel a bit more compassion towards her. Though I suppose that’s the point of Christmas miracle stories… Miserable-person-discovers-joy-of-Christmas.
Milly’s books are fun and easy reads but there’s something about her writing style which prevents me from connecting with the characters. There were a few moments that succeeded, especially Eve's interactions with the reindeer. I probably enjoyed An Autumn Crush more but this has at least started to get me in the festive mood.
The winter theme park is a wonderfully silly idea for a festive novel and you’ll be pleased to know it’s better than the one that kept appearing on Watchdog last year! Whilst it does have its serious side, the best parts are the fun ones. There’s a host of wonderful bit-part characters, an amazing sounding ice-cream parlour, adorable reindeer and Santas. I wish that her niece had a bigger part as she is one of those children that comes out with very adult things. Not forgetting the error ridden local newspaper that has a lot to answer for!
At one point I decided I didn’t want Eve to get a happy ever after. Her bitterness, lack of trust and all-round anti-Christmasness goes just a bit too far. Yes, she has her reasons but her grief seems out of proportion. I mean she barely knew Jonathan before he was killed and he had left his previous long-term girlfriend after knowing Eve for one night! He doesn’t sound like the kind of man that would have stuck around for ever. I think it would work better if you feel a bit more compassion towards her. Though I suppose that’s the point of Christmas miracle stories… Miserable-person-discovers-joy-of-Christmas.
Milly’s books are fun and easy reads but there’s something about her writing style which prevents me from connecting with the characters. There were a few moments that succeeded, especially Eve's interactions with the reindeer. I probably enjoyed An Autumn Crush more but this has at least started to get me in the festive mood.
January 5, 2013
This was one of the books that got me into the Christmas spirit last year. The main character, Eve, does not look forward to Christmas since her fiance was killed on a tour of duty in Afghanistan. This becomes a problem when, following a visit to her Aunt's solicitor to read her will, she finds out her aunt has been secretly planning and building her own Christmas wonderland. Her aunt left her to continue with her dream, but stipulates that she must work with Jacques Glace, a mysterious man who Eve has never heard of before.
As with all of Milly Johnson's books, A Winter Flame is well written with a female cast who can be related to and feel like friends due to the style of writing Johnson is famous for. I really enjoyed the storyline - it has a Christmas theme, however it could be read at any time of the year and be enjoyed.
I really enjoyed the puzzle of who the mysterious Jacques Glace was. It added an air of mystery to the story and I enjoyed following Eve's actions into discovering who he was. I also enjoyed remeeting with characters from White Wedding, I hope that Milly Johnson will carry on with this and include past characters in more of her books.
I found this book to be one of those that I didn't want to put down, I had me entranced and I built up my own images into what the Winter wonderland would look like in real life - I would love someone to open up their own Winter wonderland, I know that I for one would visit it. I was able to loose myself in this book for hours at a time and would of finished it in one sitting if family life hadn't taken over!
I am already looking forward to Milly Johnson's next release.
Thank you to the publishers, Simon and Schuster, for sending me the book to review.
As with all of Milly Johnson's books, A Winter Flame is well written with a female cast who can be related to and feel like friends due to the style of writing Johnson is famous for. I really enjoyed the storyline - it has a Christmas theme, however it could be read at any time of the year and be enjoyed.
I really enjoyed the puzzle of who the mysterious Jacques Glace was. It added an air of mystery to the story and I enjoyed following Eve's actions into discovering who he was. I also enjoyed remeeting with characters from White Wedding, I hope that Milly Johnson will carry on with this and include past characters in more of her books.
I found this book to be one of those that I didn't want to put down, I had me entranced and I built up my own images into what the Winter wonderland would look like in real life - I would love someone to open up their own Winter wonderland, I know that I for one would visit it. I was able to loose myself in this book for hours at a time and would of finished it in one sitting if family life hadn't taken over!
I am already looking forward to Milly Johnson's next release.
Thank you to the publishers, Simon and Schuster, for sending me the book to review.
March 3, 2013
Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes
It's not that I was completely disappointed by Johnson`s latest novel because I found the plot line to be unique (not many books out there centre on the combined inheritance with a stranger of a partially completely winter wonderland theme park) but I really wish I`d been interested in the main character or felt some warmth towards her- it would have really improved my read.
Eve is quite emotionally stilted because of her history - although as we make our way through the novel I suppose one cannot blame her for being wary- but it was difficult to believe in her intense distrust of Jacques (the other beneficiary). She takes her lack of trust to a level I just couldn't get on board with. For that reason I appreciated Eve’s cousin Violet so much more- she was warm and all-embracing and although she had her own reasons for distrusting men you could still feel she wanted to believe that love was possible for her again. Unfortunately I wanted to invite Violet to the party and forget to send Eve’s invitation.
The building of the winter/Christmas theme park was fun and this aspect of A Winter Flame was inviting. I loved the planning, the chaos and particularly the animals involved in the build. Jacques was fabulous and charming and served to point out Eve’s reluctance to enjoy life even more- he had endless patience.
This lack of warmth for Eve made A Winter Flame a bit difficult to embrace but I still feel Milly Johnson forms a well written story and has an affinity to put characters together with a good plot line. I just didn’t connect with this leading lady.
Thank you to Simon and Schuster UK for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
It's not that I was completely disappointed by Johnson`s latest novel because I found the plot line to be unique (not many books out there centre on the combined inheritance with a stranger of a partially completely winter wonderland theme park) but I really wish I`d been interested in the main character or felt some warmth towards her- it would have really improved my read.
Eve is quite emotionally stilted because of her history - although as we make our way through the novel I suppose one cannot blame her for being wary- but it was difficult to believe in her intense distrust of Jacques (the other beneficiary). She takes her lack of trust to a level I just couldn't get on board with. For that reason I appreciated Eve’s cousin Violet so much more- she was warm and all-embracing and although she had her own reasons for distrusting men you could still feel she wanted to believe that love was possible for her again. Unfortunately I wanted to invite Violet to the party and forget to send Eve’s invitation.
The building of the winter/Christmas theme park was fun and this aspect of A Winter Flame was inviting. I loved the planning, the chaos and particularly the animals involved in the build. Jacques was fabulous and charming and served to point out Eve’s reluctance to enjoy life even more- he had endless patience.
This lack of warmth for Eve made A Winter Flame a bit difficult to embrace but I still feel Milly Johnson forms a well written story and has an affinity to put characters together with a good plot line. I just didn’t connect with this leading lady.
Thank you to Simon and Schuster UK for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
November 27, 2012
This is a lovely heart warming read from Milly Johnson yet again. It made me feel all warm inside from the very first page because the characters are so likeable, the storyline sentimental and it is perfect to cozy up with on the settee while sipping hot chocolate. Now what could be nicer than that as winter and Christmas approaches ?
Of course the plot is predictable, of course the characters aren't terribly real, of course nobody inherits a theme park ! But just for once wouldn't it be lovely if it was all like this in real life ? And wanting it to be real life made me want to read it more. It's very simply but effectively written and there are newspaper clippings dotted within that made me laugh out loud. The story is told with tenderness and nothing is too deep to spoil the simplicity (which in my opinion is its charm).
I have loved all Milly Johnson's books so far and this one is perfect for this time of year. Just make sure you are in a Christmassy mood and have your tipple at the ready and you will love it as much as I. If you can't suspend belief or are unable to indulge in Christmas smaltz, don't spoil your reading with this one, it isn't for you. Leave it to those of us who leap into Christmas with excitement and sentimentality and will savour every page of this comforting , magical read.
Of course the plot is predictable, of course the characters aren't terribly real, of course nobody inherits a theme park ! But just for once wouldn't it be lovely if it was all like this in real life ? And wanting it to be real life made me want to read it more. It's very simply but effectively written and there are newspaper clippings dotted within that made me laugh out loud. The story is told with tenderness and nothing is too deep to spoil the simplicity (which in my opinion is its charm).
I have loved all Milly Johnson's books so far and this one is perfect for this time of year. Just make sure you are in a Christmassy mood and have your tipple at the ready and you will love it as much as I. If you can't suspend belief or are unable to indulge in Christmas smaltz, don't spoil your reading with this one, it isn't for you. Leave it to those of us who leap into Christmas with excitement and sentimentality and will savour every page of this comforting , magical read.
March 26, 2015
When Eve's Great Aunt dies, she leaves a surprise bequest of half a theme park to Eve, with the other half being owned by one Mr Jacques Glace. Eve is even more shocked to find out that the theme park is based around Christmas, a holiday she has avoided celebrating since her partner was killed on Christmas Day. Can Eve put aside her feelings to make the park a success, and can she work alongside Jacques, her mysterious new partner in the business?
Milly weaves a lovely tale here. I was engrossed as Jacques character and background were slowly revealed, and willed Eve along as her hatred for Christmas began to thaw. Sometimes emotional, the addition of the local newspaper snippets were great for lightning up the mood and had me laughing. A great read to curl up with on a dull day.
Milly weaves a lovely tale here. I was engrossed as Jacques character and background were slowly revealed, and willed Eve along as her hatred for Christmas began to thaw. Sometimes emotional, the addition of the local newspaper snippets were great for lightning up the mood and had me laughing. A great read to curl up with on a dull day.
January 10, 2017
Completely cheesy and predictable, but I enjoyed every page.
January 2, 2019
Fluffy and predictable yes but it was such an enchanting Christmas read. Milly’s books are a little tonic for the soul - loved it.
January 18, 2020
A really enjoyable, heart-warming, easy read.
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