Shelley Lawrence's Reviews > Bright Lights, Big Christmas

Bright Lights, Big Christmas, by Mary Kay Andrews, is a seasonally delightful Christmas rom-com that was a pleasure to read. This story takes place in a suburb, primarily a street corner in New York City where the Tolliver Tree Farm is set-up to sell their home-grown trees from the Tolliver Tree Farm in North Carolina.

This season, Kerry Tolliver is roped into aiding her brother Murphy, since her father is recovering from a heart attack. The conditions aren’t great, since they are forced to reside in an old, worn, but well-loved travel trailer without heat or running water in the winter months. Additionally, Kerry’s brother is reluctant to have her there and is resistant to giving her any leeway, despite her creative ideas for the business. Also, some mischievous competitors have set up shop across the street and are consistently up to no good. But Kerry is determined to make the best of it all and make as much money as possible to help her family’s farm.

I loved the young boy in this story and the older gentleman, and the addition of their side stories to the overarching plot. I also loved Kerry with her positive spirit and creative outlook. I didn’t care for the main male character and love interest, at times. He seemed quite presumptuous toward Kerry and especially quick to not only take an interest in her romantically, but also in demanding a kiss, and more, without even asking, even with his sleeping son in the room. Murphy, the gruff, recalcitrant brother, also wasn’t my favorite. He seemed filled with animosity for no reason at all.

I will say, this plot line reminds me a great deal of a movie I saw on the Hallmark channel in the past, so it makes me wonder if it was the inspiration for this story, or just a coincidence. Regardless, I really enjoyed Bright Lights, Big Christmas with it’s unique twist on the typical Christmas story. It was hope-filled, heartfelt and entertaining, while embracing the spirit of the season. It is definitely fun, feel-good seasonal read and one you’ll want to add to your list.