I’m not normally one that likes novellas because they feel incomplete and inauthentic but not once did I feel this way about this novel. There is no tI’m not normally one that likes novellas because they feel incomplete and inauthentic but not once did I feel this way about this novel. There is no time wasted on the drama or the suspense, dropping you into the direst of situations all surrounding a sweet, baby boy. Even without knowing many details about these characters I still felt like I knew them, which is an astonishing feat and shows off the incredible writing talent of Danielle Grandinetti.
Reading about an icy blizzard was the perfect reprieve on a hot, summer night and is perfect for those of us that love a little Christmas in July. I have adored Casper’s character in previous novels and loved seeing him get some redemption as he’s finally able to gain clarity about himself. Eira Mae is a pure soul and seeing her and Casper interact with sweet baby Lewis huddled up in the cabin during the blizzard were such sweet moments, and my favorite part of this novella. I loved seeing them bond and make the best out of a not-so-ideal situation.
Time always seems to feel like it’s on fast forward when you’re reading a novella, but I didn’t feel that way with this Christmas gem whatsoever. The pacing was perfection, and I could feel the blanket of peace as much as the characters could feel the blanket of ice-cold snow landing atop the small cabin in the middle of nowhere. I am enjoying this festive Christmas novella series so much and I can’t wait to see who will be blessed by the cabin next!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Being able to see a beautiful blessing instead of how that blessing came about is very powerful premise, and exactly what we see in Her Christmas HealBeing able to see a beautiful blessing instead of how that blessing came about is very powerful premise, and exactly what we see in Her Christmas Healing. It’s obvious that Jillian still has things that she has to deal with but the fact that she is focusing on her baby, and getting her life back together, shows what strength this woman has within.
“Like Joseph told his brothers, what was intended for evil, God used for good,” and this is fleshed out in Jillian’s life as she deals with an unexpected pregnancy that came about in the most horrific way possible. Now she is back in Hope Crossing hoping for a fresh start and back in Gabriel’s life, the ties that bind these two pulling them together once again.
This was a sweet escape that gave me hope. God really can, and does, use all things for His good and glory. This was a tough subject to tackle, but it was handled with such grace and mercy, and I could see this story benefiting many.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Talk about a couple that can’t catch a break! The Marine’s Deadly Reunion is Jake Fisher’s mission to find his sisters murderer while also adjusting tTalk about a couple that can’t catch a break! The Marine’s Deadly Reunion is Jake Fisher’s mission to find his sisters murderer while also adjusting to life as the guardian of his eighteen-month-old niece, Emma. Daria is his childhood best friend who is now a cop hoping to protect Jake and Emma while also trying to solve the case herself.
There is something endearing about this novel that kept me hooked, and I found myself reading until the wee hours of the morning. I craved to see how everything played out and who was behind all of these malicious attacks. Though I was pretty sure who was the mastermind what I wasn’t prepared for was the twist ending, which was an actual surprise. Even when everything was revealed I still questioned if that was the truth, which goes to show how much it shook me.
Sweet baby Emma is the bright spot in this otherwise darker read, and all of the bonding moments between her, Jake, and Daria were some of my favorites. Though I did enjoy the characters I found myself struggling to bond with the main pair, as I felt like we only got to scratch the surface with both Jake and Daria, and I would’ve liked more character development and time to bond with these two.
Other than that, it was a nice, quick read that kept my rapt attention throughout. The action was almost nonstop, and I was almost constantly trying to guess who was behind it all. Though I didn’t get too vested in the characters I still enjoyed this novel nonetheless and think it’s another great Love Inspired novel.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I am feeling the pull to the holiday season early this year and decided to dive into my holiday reads with a sweet Love Inspired romance.
Ben and McKeI am feeling the pull to the holiday season early this year and decided to dive into my holiday reads with a sweet Love Inspired romance.
Ben and McKenzie have both lost sight of what matters in their lives. Ben is too focused on his career to be bothered by his young daughter, leaving her with his parents while he pursues his medical aspirations. McKenzie is working the same job in the same small town she’s worked at since high school and has allowed her fear to keep her frozen instead of moving forward. The pair were friends in high school but grew apart when Ben confessed feelings that weren’t reciprocated and then moved away. Now he’s back in town for the holidays and they are again back in one another’s lives.
Their story is sweet but there wasn’t really anything that made this novel special. I was hoping for something more that never came, which made me a little wistful. Ben’s character really rubbed me the wrong way. He comes across as selfish and self-centered and honestly, he never truly redeemed himself to me. I am glad that his eyes were eventually opened, especially when it came to sweet little daughter Megan, but I still found myself struggling to like him. I know that him and McKenzie have a past friendship and, not to be harsh, but I didn’t see much for her to fall in love with. I did, however, see how well McKenzie balanced Ben out, as she is a selfless and giving individual, and she truly one of the characters that redeemed this story for me.
The dance classes brought me right back to my dance classes as a child, making me feel all the nostalgic feels, and I loved that! The recital especially brought back bittersweet memories for me, but it was my favorite part of the entire novel. Ben stepping up and doing what he did solidified his relationship with his daughter, which is what I was rooting for most of all, and to see it come to fruition was wonderful.
Overall, this was a nice, relaxing escape. I would’ve loved to have seen a little something unexpected, even if it was something small. The characters are truly what makes this novel, and I adored the picturesque small-town setting. I absolutely adored Megan and Bailey and the dance aspect brought back fond memories that I had long forgotten about. I just wish there had been a little something more.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I have been anticipating this fifth book for a bit and I am pleased to say that it was well worth the wait. Cari Lynn Webb is the queen of catching yoI have been anticipating this fifth book for a bit and I am pleased to say that it was well worth the wait. Cari Lynn Webb is the queen of catching you up in a story, so you never feel lost despite this series being five novels deep and I love that about her. No matter where you jump in, or if you haven’t been in this series in awhile, you’ll never feel lost. I will say, you appreciate the growth of the Sloan family as a whole a lot more if you read the series from the beginning, so I highly recommend reading the series in its entirety if you can.
His Christmas Cowgirl is the love story of horse trainer Josh Sloan and barrel racer Vivian, who is having a run of bad luck when we first meet her. Viv is on the cusp of greatness but needs a little help from her friends, which comes in ways she would’ve never dreamed. Josh is content in his life, or so he thinks, focusing on his career and family and shutting everything else out until Vivian is suddenly in his life and turns everything upside down. Isn’t love always that way?
From their first meet cute it’s obvious it’s love at first sight, though that is a feeling they both fight, but I was rooting for them from the start. They are both such sweet and driven characters and it’s obvious to everyone that there perfect for one another. I had a hard time putting this novel down as I had to see their story play out, as well as find out what happens at the Stampede!
Like the rest of the novels in this series, His Christmas Cowgirl is filled with charm, humor, and characters that you just can’t help but love. I’ve been wanting to be adopted by the Sloan family since the first novel, and this book makes that feeling even stronger. The Christmas element adds that little extra magic to an already wonderful story and I know that if you haven’t read it already, you’re going to love it.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I have been consuming a lot of Love Inspired Suspense novels lately due to the fact that they are quick and satisfying reads with strong characters anI have been consuming a lot of Love Inspired Suspense novels lately due to the fact that they are quick and satisfying reads with strong characters and clean content. Christmas Forest Ambush is no exception, and is one of my favorites in this series so far.
The action is swift and immediate, instantly plunging Lucy and Boone into a run for their lives from an unknown pursuer. Lucy is a social worker who has temporary custody of Boone, a young boy whose parents were attacked, with one dead and the other in a coma. Lucy does not like the forest (a girl after my own heart) but she is willing to fight her fears to protect young Boone from danger as they are attacked while driving through Sumter National Forest. Noah, a forest ranger who loves the woods, comes upon the pair and is thankfully able and willing to help them run from the danger.
The characters are truly what sets this novel apart from the rest of the Love Inspired Suspense novels. I cannot even begin to imagine the emotions that are coursing through poor Boone. To have your father murdered in cold blood, and your mother in a coma fighting for her life, all while being chased by someone that wants to harm or kill you…that is heavy! Then factor in his young age and it is almost too unbelievable to fathom. What I loved the most about this novel was that the three main players are not related in any form, yet they all have this automatic protectiveness for one another. With the selfishness that abounds in our culture I found this fact immensely satisfying.
Though you feel like you’re catching this story in the middle of the narrative I never once felt lost. My mind whirled with the question, “Why?” a lot, wondering who would do something like this to innocent people, especially with one of them being such a young child. These questions spurred me on, to the point that I had a hard time putting this novel down.
I truly enjoyed this novel so much and love how the author was able to paint such a vivid narrative that instantly drew me in and kept me riveted until the end. The thread of faith throughout is uplifting and the ending is satisfying. It is the perfect ending to this clean suspenseful read.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
This series is always so much fun to read and The Grinch and the Fruitcake is no exception. This story features two of the goofiest and most fun charaThis series is always so much fun to read and The Grinch and the Fruitcake is no exception. This story features two of the goofiest and most fun characters in the series, Oliver Twist and Breezie Malone. The pair seems to be practically perfect for one another in every way but one: Christmas. Oliver is head over heels gaga over all things Christmas and Breezie sees herself closer to the Grinch. Oliver’s goal is to bring his girl onto his side of thinking and show her the magic of Christmas one glimmering tradition at a time.
Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas but even I do not go as hard as Oliver! This man is like the energizer bunny that is full of Christmas cheer and strives for perfection in everything he does. I can see why Breezie feels like she can’t measure up to his unrealistic expectations, but I love seeing how his positivity and focus helps elevate her character while she brings Oliver down to more realistic expectations. It’s not about what gets done but who does the doing with you that matters.
Like the rest in the Too Busy for Love series, The Grinch and the Fruitcake has several moments that are tongue in cheek, as well as a few moments that had me giggling. Though there are amusing moments there are also moments with real heart, and I loved seeing the tenderness balanced with the laughter.
This series continues to get better and better, and this is truly the perfect holiday read. It gets you into the spirit of the season while also not taking a lot of time out of your busy holiday season. The characters are lovable, the setting bright and cheery, and the story full of heart and amusement. What more could you want?...more
Imagine being so scared of losing another person that you can’t even allow yourself to fully surrender your heart to another and see what is right in Imagine being so scared of losing another person that you can’t even allow yourself to fully surrender your heart to another and see what is right in front of you. That’s where we find Q, one of the four main characters of this story. Having lost so many that are close to him he holds poor Hope at arms length, his fears overriding almost every aspect of his life. Hope has to be one of the most patient women on the planet, but even her patience is waning at this point in her and Q’s relationship, so I trip to her family’s for the holidays is to clear her head and to reassess her relationship.
Their story parallels to Seth and Cassidy’s, newlyweds who are in the process of adopting sweet little Benji, a child that has seen quite a bit of trauma for such a young age, and it is during this adjustment period that the pair finds themselves growing apart from one another while they try to create a family. For those of us that have started a marriage out with children this is beyond relatable.
It’s pretty obvious that there are missing pieces to this story that I have missed since I haven’t read the rest of the series yet, but the author still did a great job of filling in the gaps, and for that I am grateful as I never felt lost. In saying that, I don’t think reading it as a standalone did it justice. I feel like this would’ve had so much more impact if it was read in the context of the series. Since I was able to get to know Q, Hope, Seth, Cassidy, and Benji on a deeper level it has piqued my curiosity and I do plan on reading the rest of this series in the near future. There are moments where my heart swelled when I saw Seth and Benji bonding, and it’s not hard to root for these characters whatsoever.
Also, one random tidbit that I have to note is the fact that there is a side character with my name! I don’t see the correct spelling of my name very often so when I saw this character it put a huge grin on my face. It’s the little things, I guess.
Overall this was a quick read that has surprising depth and heart and I’m glad I got a chance to be introduced to this series.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Talk about feeling all the feels! The Christmas in the Crosshairs anthology truly has everything: heart-pounding suspense, action, adventure, and of cTalk about feeling all the feels! The Christmas in the Crosshairs anthology truly has everything: heart-pounding suspense, action, adventure, and of course friendship and love as the Elite Guardians find themselves in some pretty unique situations. This is how you do an anthology!
Deadly Holiday Hijack by Kate Angelo is what kicks off the suspense and man does it deliver! The cheesy one-liners made by Grey at the beginning made this a hard story to take seriously at first, but once the action really kicked off it got really serious real quick. I cannot even begin to imagine the terror of the hostages in that church, and think the author did a wonderful job of putting the reader right there in the room with them.
Though it is a novella that does not take away from the action or suspense one bit. If anything, I feel like it might’ve amped it up even more, and though I haven’t read any of the other books in this series I found myself instantly vested in these characters and their nightmarish plight. I definitely want read the rest of this series now!
Silent Night Siege by Kelly Underwood is the second novella and it was so cute! It wasn’t as heart-pounding as the first book, with a much slower pace, but there was still plenty of suspense to keep me turning the pages. I adore Preston and Laila as a couple and loved being able to see them grow closer to one another in the face of incredible odds. There is a moment that these two share together that made me swoon so much that it will stay with me for awhile. So powerful!
Christmas Snowstorm Standoff by Sami A. Abrams closes out the anthology and had to be my favorite as it was the culmination of the three stories, ending with the most perfect winter wedding ever! I liked that the action didn’t seem too far-fetched and the characters were believable with true concerns. I also loved getting to finally see the entire Elite Guardians team together!
With a swoony proposal and a wedding that gleams with holiday magic, Christmas in the Crosshairs was perfection! All of the characters relate to one another so masterfully, and even though I haven’t read this series yet I never once felt lost or that I didn’t connect with the characters. I cannot wait to get to read the rest of this series and love that I didn’t have to read it first to enjoy these novellas. Action packed with love and family, Christmas in the Crosshairs is a must read for the holiday season and beyond!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Addie and her young son Oliver are being hunted and Addie doesn’t know why. After her officer husband was killed in the line of duty a few years ago AAddie and her young son Oliver are being hunted and Addie doesn’t know why. After her officer husband was killed in the line of duty a few years ago Addie has been looking over her shoulder ever since, and now there is a bounty is on her own head and she has no clue as to why. Isaiah is the bounty hunter that is hired to bring Addie in, but after meeting her it is quickly apparent that Addie is not a criminal, and he goes from hunting Addie to protecting her and Oliver.
For a Love Inspired Suspense, this is one of the best novels that I’ve read! The tension starts from the first page and never lets up, your mind is constantly working with the characters as you all try to figure out the mystery of who’s behind the bounty. I quickly felt a connection with these characters and their seemingly hopeless situation, questions swirling around as I read. Who would want to harm this sweet woman and her innocent child?
One thing that really bonded me to this novel was sweet, little Oliver. He is a type 1 diabetic, which is a very serious condition that my youngest son also suffers from. I appreciated the author’s attention to detail and just how important blood sugars, insulin, having healthy snacks, and even staying on a consistent eating schedule is for a diabetic. It is a struggle that is very real, and it was nice to see a character that mirrors the same worries that I do as a mother to a diabetic child.
One of my favorite parts of the novel was the Bender family reunion. It was such a sweet moment! Seeing other characters from the series come back was a great touch, and really helped make this reunion all the sweeter, and provided the perfect break from the chaos.
I really loved this novel. I didn’t feel on the edge of my seat as much as I felt invested in the characters and story as a whole. I guessed early on who was behind the assassination attempts, yet I had to continue to read to find out what would happen to this innocent trio. The writing and flow are sheer perfection and it’s the perfect length to read in one sitting, if you feel so inclined, which is essential if you plan on reading this during the bustling holiday season. Highly recommend!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
This is the perfect holiday season read, full of charm and holiday magic! There is something magnetizing about this story, to the point that I devoureThis is the perfect holiday season read, full of charm and holiday magic! There is something magnetizing about this story, to the point that I devoured it as quickly as a scrumptious Christmas cookie.
Finding Their Christmas Home is a sweet second chance romance featuring David and Jenny. Growing up together, David and Jenny went from friends to something more, but a painful breakup has had them out of one another’s lives for fifteen years. By chance, they are together again for the holiday season while each are struggling at a personal crossroads. David’s wife abandoned him and their twin daughters and all he wants is to give them the best Christmas ever while Jenny’s professional life is in limbo. Who would’ve thought that could be possible with his ex?
Jenny is a natural nurturer, doing a phenomenal job with these twin girls that she is meeting for the fist time. Jenny and Reba share the bond of dealing with an unfortunate illness, but she also extends grace to the defiant twin, Rowe who is taking her frustrations and aggressions out on everyone. Jenny is also great with her grandmother, who is starting to show medical issues of her own. It’s clear she wants to make everyone happy while also trying to work through her own issues.
David is a strong male lead that lets all the women in his life shine. He has a quiet strength, even as he’s personally struggling to keep it all together. It’s clear from the beginning that David and Jenny have a connection, and when they’re together they bring the best out in one another. I loved being able to witness them get this second chance and to see them go from two individuals that are struggling to all four of them becoming a family and thriving. It’s truly touching to see forgiveness, personal growth, and the importance of focusing on faith and family to heal being fleshed out.
I thought the characters for well developed, grounded, and true to life. I wish Christmas House really existed because it sounds like a magical place that I wouldn’t mind visiting! This novel has all the warm, fuzzy holiday feels and is the perfect holiday season read.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I have really enjoyed the Home to Harmony series thus far, and Hannah has been a favorite character of mine, so I was really looking forward to readinI have really enjoyed the Home to Harmony series thus far, and Hannah has been a favorite character of mine, so I was really looking forward to reading her story. Hannah has been keeping a secret from everyone, including her closest friends: her estranged husband Daniel has no idea that he has a daughter with her. We see the effects of Hannah’s secret coming out when Daniel comes back into town to file for divorce and quickly finds out the truth.
I felt quite a bit of annoyance with both of the main characters throughout the novel. The fact that Daniel has to be all secretive because of his “star status” is super annoying and it’s so bad that it even starts to annoy Daniel himself! Once his paranoia switches from being self-centered to protecting his family my opinion changed, but this is when Hannah started to annoy me by being blind to this fact. Daniel is overall a good guy and it’s obvious he wants to do right by her and their daughter, but Hannah is focused on everything else and not what Daniel is having to deal with.
Let me just say, I can’t imagine how infuriating it must be to have to fight to keep your privacy as a celebrity. I know there’s glitz and glamour mentality that goes along with being famous, but to not be able to just live your life without a camera being shoved in your face 24/7 has to be hard, so I ended up giving both Daniel and Hannah a pass. They are in a tough situation and once I pondered this fact it’s clear they were both trying to protect Olivia, just in their own ways.
Though they had their annoying moments overall Daniel and Hannah are pretty likable. I love that both partners acknowledge early on that they’ve both made mistakes and choose to self-reflect and look towards the future instead of playing the blame game, which is something many adults can’t do. I also adored sweet little Olivia but I felt like there were moments where her dialogue did not fit her age. What five-year-old uses the word “luminous” to describe a Christmas tree?? I know this little girl is shown to be a bit more mature for her age but let’s be real. When I read this part it took some of the literary magic out of Olivia’s character and I hate that.
Overall, Her Homegrown Christmas Wish was a decent read. Though I did struggle to connect with the characters they both did show growth and put their family first, which is something I will always admire. This was not one of my favorites of the series, which shocked me since Hannah has been a favorite character of mine since the first novel, but maybe I had hyped it up too much in my own mind. This novel is part of a series but it can easily be read as a standalone, though I will say that reading the rest of the series first does give the characters even more depth.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Elias and Tasha are both at a crossroads in their lives. Both of them have so much of their identity attached to their careers and Elias is absolutelyElias and Tasha are both at a crossroads in their lives. Both of them have so much of their identity attached to their careers and Elias is absolutely miserable being the gopher at his family’s law firm in Berry Lake and Tasha gets the rug pulled out from under her when her parents sell the family ice rink without her knowledge. This was a hiding place for the professional skater and Tasha decides to take a holiday vacation alone to Berry Lake to get away from everything, take stock of her life, and see if she can get clarity as far as her future.
With the help of Higgins, Elias’s foster pup, Tasha and Elias have a meet cute and it was adoration at first sight that was quickly realized to be something deeper. A relationship with an expiration date is always a recipe for disaster, but the heart wants what the heart wants, which is why Elias and Tasha decide to throw caution to the wind, not label anything, and live in the magical, holiday moment, something my romantic heart greatly appreciates.
Let me just say The Berry Lake Cupcake Posse is hands down one my all-time favorite clean romances series, so it felt amazing to be back in my favorite place with some of my favorite characters. Not all the main Posse gals are in this story, but all of them are mentioned and it got me even more excited for the next Cupcake Posse novel.
The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane has the same flavor of the series, though this is not officially apart of the actual series. The magical feel of Berry Lake itself, with all of the picturesque cast of characters and setting, paired with the enchanting feel of the holiday season, made this novel sheer perfection. I rooted for Elias and Tasha both personally and professionally, but Higgins was actually my favorite part of the story. He is such a cute little matchmaker and companion for Elias and helped bring out the best in him.
The writing and flow is perfect and I felt like it was almost too short. I wanted more!! This truly was the perfect holiday read and was my favorite of 2022.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Christmas time brings with it some sweet stories with Hallmark vibes that are sugary sweet, and a little too perfect, and that’s where America’s FavorChristmas time brings with it some sweet stories with Hallmark vibes that are sugary sweet, and a little too perfect, and that’s where America’s Favorite Christmastown landed for me. It’s a quick read that was so squeaky clean that it lost its luster for me. I think what was missing for me was what made Icicle Creek so special. It was so focused on pushing Alexis and Justin together that I feel like the whole premise of the novel was lost. Where were the details of the ultimate Christmastown??
I felt like it tried too hard to reach a level of unattainable perfection. None of the main characters possessed any flaws whatsoever, their town is picturesque, and the main characters relationship goes unbelievably fast, and disappointed me most of all. I’m usually a sucker for happy endings but this was just too unrealistic for me, which left me finishing the book with mixed feelings.
Overall it’s a cute story, but there was really no conflict, and I felt like there needed to be more tension. I also wish the focus would’ve been more on the town itself and what made it America’s Favorite Christmastown. I love this author, and the writing itself was on point, but the sugary sweetness was a little too sweet for me.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I am beyond excited to be reviewing one of the best holiday novels of 2022. Once Upon a Winter Wonderland will have you humming Walking in a Winter WoI am beyond excited to be reviewing one of the best holiday novels of 2022. Once Upon a Winter Wonderland will have you humming Walking in a Winter Wonderland while you read through one of the craziest lead ups to a Christmas wedding that I have ever heard!
Whatever could possibly go wrong with a wedding goes wrong in the days leading up to Boone and Vivien’s wedding, characters that were introduced in Then Came You, one of my favorites from the Deep Haven series, and Once Upon a Winter Wonderland is four unique stories focused on those in and around the chaos.
It felt good to be back in Deep Haven! This novel is full of characters, some I have had the pleasure of previously being introduced to, and others new to me, but everyone charming nonetheless. The length of each novella is perfect for a quick read, and I loved how seamlessly they each tied in with one another. There is a flow from one story to the next without any effort, and while being four separate novellas they are also formed into one cohesive narrative, which was perfection!
This was hands down one of the best holiday novels I’ve read this season, and could quite possibly end up being one of my favorites this season! It’s got drama without being overly dramatic, suspense, love, stepping out in faith, all with oodles of holiday goodness. It has such a unique charm and vibe that I just ate up and honestly, as far as holiday reads go, it can’t get much better than this!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Reviewing one novella: The Christmas Tree Cowboy by Melissa McClone
The Christmas Tree Cowboy is such a sweet and wholesome story! I’ve only read one oReviewing one novella: The Christmas Tree Cowboy by Melissa McClone
The Christmas Tree Cowboy is such a sweet and wholesome story! I’ve only read one other book in the Bar V5 series, so I was pretty unfamiliar with all the characters, but honestly that didn’t matter. There is definitely in endearing charm to this story, and during this holiday season I am so here for that!
Cowboys always tend to make me swoon (it’s the southern gal in me, I guess) but honestly the entire Tennyson family had me smitten from the get-go. I wasn’t too sure about Cody at first, but once the truth about why he iced Lyne all those years ago all was forgiven, and his true character shined through.
Having younger children in stories always seems to capture my heart, and adds just the perfect touch of innocence. Pair that with the fact that Lyne fits in perfect in the Tennyson world, despite her original misgivings, and the whole story of the Christmas Tree Cowboy, and you’ve got yourself one wonderful tale!
There are tender moments (especially the part with the ornaments at the beginning of the story) as well as moments with the crazy Tennyson children that had me grinning. This is truly a heartwarming story that has the perfect Hallmark-esque vibe that I love, and is the perfect holiday treat for this season!
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All views expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Charmed is the perfect way to describe how I felt about Bentonsport. The past immersing with the present is always a favorite troupe of mine, and I sCharmed is the perfect way to describe how I felt about Bentonsport. The past immersing with the present is always a favorite troupe of mine, and I simply adored the way the author brought this delightful town to life.
The story centers around Thomas Benton, an man that loves his life in Bentonsport 1869, but there is something missing. A late night visitor brings news that Thomas is going to receive a wonderful gift, and he awakes the next morning in a bed not his own, and time not his own. He has been transported to present day Bentonsport and has two weeks to find what he was sent to look for, though he doesn’t know what that something is.
Sarah Peterson also loves her life. Being Bentonsports professional baker, she loves life in this small, quirky town and all its inhabitants, but there is also something missing: someone to love. Thomas and Sarah are absolutely perfect for each other. From their first meeting you can see the sugary sweetness of their adoration for one another that grows into friendship and then into something more.
Throughout the entire story you get to witness Thomas discovering new technologies, and I loved seeing Thomas’s awe and fascination about modern items. Simple things we tend to take for granted are true marvels to him, while other changes in our modern world aren’t things he thinks should’ve been changed. I often agreed with his sentiments on that fact, and do believe that not all changes that have been made have been for the better.
In the beginning Sarah can see that there is something different about this new visitor, but she is so charmed that she pushes her questions aside and gets to know this unique traveler, which leads to a truly magical story.
There are so many wonderful scenes in this novel, but I would have to say that my favorite part was the snowball fight. How it started off with bubbled and ended up in a full-blown snowball fight was so stinking cute!! I could see this easily becoming a Hallmark movie. It’s got that Hallmark-esque charm that we all love, along with some swoon-worthy moments, but also had so much heart and truth to it, a realism despite the fantasy.
I could also go into all the delicious moments that had my mouth salivating, but I’ll let you experience that for yourself. I immensely enjoyed this novel so much, and it is hands down the perfect read to get you into the holiday spirit.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
It’s amazing what can happen when you open your heart and step out in faith!
I am a firm believer that opposites attract. I myself am married to my toIt’s amazing what can happen when you open your heart and step out in faith!
I am a firm believer that opposites attract. I myself am married to my total opposite in every since of the word, but there is something endearing about our match, even if there are some unique challenges. This is where we find Gideon and Becca, two halves of the same whole that compliment each other, even if it takes them both some time to see it.
Becca is a powerful and headstrong Amish gal that was refreshing to see. Though she is Amish she is not letting that deter her from breaking from the traditional and fighting to see this big, beautiful world. She is optimistic, energetic, and a hard worker that doesn’t meet a stranger. Everyone loves and knows Becca.
Gideon, on the other hand, can be summed up with one word: sourpuss. He is newly employed as Becca’s replacement at the local Indiana market, and is a transplant from Texas, a home that he left against his will, and he lets Becca know it. Add to this fact that he’s a loner, preferring to be farming in south Texas, rather than working in the “largest outdoor market in the Midwest” as an assistant manager, a position that requires a lot of human interaction. All he can talk about is Texas, and all Becca can talk about is Christmas, her favorite holiday. They both annoy each other for a good part of the novel, which goes into the friends to lovers troupe, and one that I always enjoy reading.
Though on the surface Gideon and Becca seem to be opposites, they are both the “odd ones” in their families, and once they both steps out in faith, and stops fighting their situation, that’s when eyes and hearts are opened, and what God intended is fleshed out. This is such an endearing transformation, and one that I was in awe to witness.
“Love. Respect. First things first.”
This is sage advice from the wise old Nathan to Gideon in one of their deep discussions, and it is a mantra that sticks with Gideon throughout a large part of this novel. This whole scene really tugged at my heartrstrings and has stuck with me too! It is a mantra we all should abide by. If we all had our priorities straight just think how different our world would be!
This was such an enjoyable read for me that flew by way too fast! There were parts that I audibly chuckled at, parts I was smirking and nodding my head, and parts that I sighed with contentment, feeling all the feels as I read about these two wonderful people. A very character-driven novel that as the perfect flow and such amazing heart, I highly recommend An Amish Proposal for Christmas. It truly is amazing what can happen when you open your heart and step out in faith.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Dreams can come true, but sometimes it takes a community to reach them. This is exactly what Annalise finds out in A Christmas Bargain, as she takes oDreams can come true, but sometimes it takes a community to reach them. This is exactly what Annalise finds out in A Christmas Bargain, as she takes on a newly inherited Christmas tree farm with zero experience, but a lot of tenacity. Disaster keeps finding her at every turn, but she perseveres, and shows her strength early on. What I loved is that in these disastrous moments Hawkins, her knight in shining armor, happens to be there, saving the day, and getting her closer to her dream.
There is definitely a Hallmark vibe to this story but I am here for it! The tension is light, and mostly had to do with both Hawkins and Annalise projecting their past hurts on their current relationship, and Annalise’s fierce determination to do things on her own.
I literally loved every aspect of this story from the farming, being set in Hope Crossing (and bringing back some favorite characters!), all the Christmas things, but baby Olivia took the cake for me! I am such a sucker for baby talk! It gets me every time.
Mindy Obenhaus has such an amazing gift, writing such likable and relatable characters, and painting the most amazing word pictures. I pretty much read this novel in one sitting and caught myself smirking on more than one occasion.
Highly recommend this perfect holiday read!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! All the ingredients that I love in a clean romance are all combined in Seasoned with Love! Heather B. Moore has such an incredible kLOVE! LOVE! LOVE! All the ingredients that I love in a clean romance are all combined in Seasoned with Love! Heather B. Moore has such an incredible knack of getting you into her character’s lives and hearts. The moments are so vivid, the imagery sheer perfection, making me wish I could take a trip to Wyoming so I could enjoy those mountains and California to enjoy the picturesque sunshine!
The Prosperity Ranch series has been such an enjoyable series for me that I always squeal when I see that there is another installment coming soon. I’ll admit the first book in the series wasn’t a strong start, but each novel since has been better and better, and Seasoned with Love is hands down my favorite so far.
With Texas, as well as much of the country, dealing with record triple-digit heat, I appreciated the “Christmas in July” feel. The setting is actually during the holiday season, making me jealous of the cooler weather and snow as I’m sitting here sweating, and thanks to the wonderful imagery I could feel the delicious coolness.
What wasn’t chilly, but rather steamy, was the connection between the main characters, Roman and Cara. Their connection was palpable, electric from the first chance encounter, and grew quickly, their easy going personalities and good natures meshing well. Sweet little Ruby has been a favorite character of mine from this series, and I LOVED that she not only makes an appearance, but Roman’s young daughter Mia is also a main character, being apart of Roman and Cara’s budding relationship, and bringing that wonderful youth and innocence.
The whole pen pal idea was so cute, and I loved the spontaneity and the fact that the setting moves from multiple states, including my home own Lone Star State! I am not a cook by any means, but I appreciate what chef’s do, and love food, so hearing about the multiple confections that Cara makes throughout the novel was a real treat.
The ending was swift, but perfect in every possible way, a whirlwind that matches the couple perfectly, and I closed the book with a happy sigh and a sense of longing, hoping beyond hope that this will not be the last book of the series. I immensely enjoyed every moment I read Seasoned with Love and hated that I devoured it so quickly, but it was near impossible to put down, and was truly the perfect summer read for me....more
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