3.75 stars The Gift, by Freida McFadden, is an enticingly eerie novella about Stella, a worn out woman who is working two jobs to put her husband throu3.75 stars The Gift, by Freida McFadden, is an enticingly eerie novella about Stella, a worn out woman who is working two jobs to put her husband through school, but desperately wants a gift for him for their first Christmas together. When an odd, old woman is found in the coffee shop where Stella works at closing on Christmas Eve, she senses Stella’s dilemma and offers her a trade from her unusual pawnshop. But the gift, which seems perfect, comes at a high price in more ways than one. The Gift is a very quick, compelling read, and though brief, it captures a complete short story with a twisty, creepy plot that is horrifyingly entertaining....more
Sweet Christmas Conundrum is a later novella in the Sweet Cove paranormal cozy mystery series. I accidentally read it out of order, but it was perfectSweet Christmas Conundrum is a later novella in the Sweet Cove paranormal cozy mystery series. I accidentally read it out of order, but it was perfectly enjoyable anyway with only a few minor spoilers. Though short, this story is fully fleshed out, an intriguing mystery, and most importantly, an absolutely atmospheric, Christmasy story.
The mystery begins when the widowed Mrs. Bell, who is struggling to run her family’s Christmas tree farm on her own, has a series of incidents that threaten the safety of her Bart, her farm manager. They seem far too coincidental to be excused as anything other than intentional and targeted. Bart is gruff and grumpy and not well-liked, but who would take it to the extreme and harm him because of it, or even worse?
Our favorite sisters, with the sweet Mr. Finch and the quintessential cats are called in to help investigate this mystery. They succeed in unraveling it, only to discover a surprising twist at the end. What makes this story especially appealing is that it is full-to-bursting with festive, holiday cheer, sweet traditions, a warm, family gathering, and a setting that encapsulates Christmas. It was a genuine treat to read....more
4.25 stars The Christmas Wager, is an easy, breezy, feel-good Christmas story that is engaging and entertaining. This story follows a format we’ve seen4.25 stars The Christmas Wager, is an easy, breezy, feel-good Christmas story that is engaging and entertaining. This story follows a format we’ve seen before, but I enjoyed it nonetheless, and found the town, it’s residents and traditions to be delightful.
Bella Ross works for a highly competitive commercial real estate company based in LA. Her boss has sent her to acquire a struggling Christmas novelty shop in the small town of Maple Falls, Colorado. To add pressure to this deal set right before Christmas, if Bella can secure the property for a given price, she will receive a sizable promotion, and her career aspirations are her highest priority. Once there, Bella tries to lowball the owner, an elderly gentlemen, until Jesse, his grumpy grandson walks in and things get complicated. The asking price escalates until they are at a standstill and the only way to resolve the matter is to enter into an unorthodox business deal, a secret Christmas wager. Whoever can win the upcoming, town-celebrated, holiday games, gets their price for the business.
As you can imagine, Bella and Jesse move from enemies to something a little warmer, always keeping in mind their precarious relationship and secret deal. There is, admittedly, a bit of dread reading this knowing what’s bound to happen, as one can imagine. I also thought that the male lead’s reaction was a little over-the-top and not in keeping with his previous character traits, and the end was a bit rushed. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and wouldn’t mind living in a town like Maple Falls, myself.
The Christmas Wager isn’t necessarily an original plot line, but I found it to be charming, easy-to-read and get caught up in, and festively atmospheric. It’s a feel-good, fun read and I’m so glad I picked it up....more
3.75 stars The Naughty, The Nice and the Nanny is a mildly Christmas themed novella by Willa Nash and Devney Perry.
This single dad romance is short, b3.75 stars The Naughty, The Nice and the Nanny is a mildly Christmas themed novella by Willa Nash and Devney Perry.
This single dad romance is short, but fully fleshed out and a sweet story. Maddox Holiday desperately needs a nanny for a week over the holidays for his feisty, young daughter. Her last nanny fled the wild girl and her antics, as did her own mother, and Natalie, the new nanny with her warm, magical ways knew Maddox back in high school years ago. She’s shocked to discover that she is now working for her old crush, and that his daughter just wants more of her father’s attention.
There is not a heavy-handed Christmas story, but if you’re looking for a quick-reading, tender romance with a small dose of spice, and a happily-ever-after, this book is definitely for you.
3.25 stars Baking Spirits Bright is the second book in the True Confections Mystery series by Sarah Fox. This is a lightly, Christmas-themed story with3.25 stars Baking Spirits Bright is the second book in the True Confections Mystery series by Sarah Fox. This is a lightly, Christmas-themed story with a baking competition at it’s center. This story is set in the small town of Larch Haven, Vermont, a charming and unique town that allows no motorized vehicles, other than golf carts and foot traffic. It’s has connecting canals, much like the city of Venice, and in winter, the citizens skate along the canals like their very own frozen freeways. It’s picturesque and truly one-of-a-kind.
When one of the competitors is murdered during the competition, there appears to be many suspects with a host of secrets, and multiple mysteries that need solving. Becca, the chocolatier at True Confections Candy Shop and baking competition contestant, cannot help but involve herself. She is naturally curious and feels compelled to investigate, even though her boyfriend and policeman has urges her not to for her own safety. In this edition, I did find her character to be a bit aggravating in her pushiness and overly inquisitiveness, and disingenuity to her boyfriend, but that’s often what makes a cozy mystery what it is and draws the amateur sleuths and common citizens into the process.
Baking Spirits Bright wasn’t quite as engaging for me as the previous mystery, but it does proffer a number of red herrings and options for culprits. I enjoyed the delightful town, the family bonds, the friendship between Becca and Dizzy, and the growing romance between Becca and Sawyer. I look forward to the next installment and will be sure to carry-on with this cozy series....more
4.5 stars Sweet Spirits Three is the 13th book in the Sweet Cove Mystery series by J.A. Whiting, and particular story is set in the Christmas season. T4.5 stars Sweet Spirits Three is the 13th book in the Sweet Cove Mystery series by J.A. Whiting, and particular story is set in the Christmas season. These are simple, sweet, festive cozy mysteries with a paranormal element and strong family bonds. I find these stories delightful, refreshing and a joy to read. The crimes interesting and varied, and the plot is always entertaining.
Sweet Spirits Three has a Peeping Tom prowling about peeking into windows and scaring the women of the town. The culprit seems to be escalating when a woman is murdered at a public event. Jenna, one of the Roseland sisters, has seen spirited visions of her twin, Angie, in mortal danger. This prompts the sisters, Mr. Finch, and the cats to step into action assisting Chief Martin in solving this crime.
There are several suspects in this mystery, and though the criminal wasn’t all that difficult to suss out, the unraveling of the crime with it’s intriguing characters and the side stories they provided, as well as the ongoing, overarching plot, made this story fun. These mysteries are short and easy-to-get through, perfect as a palette cleanser for heavier books, or as a sweet, endearing cozy to brighten your day....more
Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-off is the second book in the Beacon Bakeshop cozy mystery series by Darci Hannah. It’s a festive continuation of Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-off is the second book in the Beacon Bakeshop cozy mystery series by Darci Hannah. It’s a festive continuation of this engaging cozy, paranormal series. Lindsey is the owner of the Beacon Harbor Bakeshop, set in a repurposed lighthouse in a quaint harbor town in Michigan. Her bakery is known for it’s delectable bakery creations and the occasional appearance of the friendly ghost and former lighthouse keeper who warns Lindsey of imminent danger.
When a celebrity-judged bake-off is thrust upon the community of Beacon Harbor during their busy holiday season, Lindsey steps in to help out her fellow business owners. The friendly competition becomes something a bit uglier when the celebrity judge pits each of the final contestant against one another. He carries on with some under-handed bribery and brings out the worst in the overly competitive, and rather arrogant bake-off creator.
As the plot continues, accusations fly, shenanigans occur, some band together to help one another and others turn on each other. Lots of delicious baking takes place, and a guest appearance is made by a very helpful and special someone who shows up just in the nick of time. This book is filled with Christmas delights in terms of tasty treats, fanciful festivities and mistletoe. It’s intriguing, entertaining, and a jolly good time. I highly recommend this fun series....more
4.75 stars A Winter in New York, the latest release from Josie Silver, is a charming, touching story that perfectly sets the mood for the holidays.
Iri4.75 stars A Winter in New York, the latest release from Josie Silver, is a charming, touching story that perfectly sets the mood for the holidays.
Iris has narrowly escaped a troubled relationship, has recently lost her mother, and is trying to move-on by moving from the UK to New York City, a place where her mother was once truly happy. Iris happens to secure a job as a chef in a noodle shop and strikes up a friendship with the owner. In a self-protective manner, she has isolated herself to a small circumference and doesn’t venture out often. When Bobby, the noodle shop owner, her landlord, and close friend convinces the foodie in her to visit a local cuisine festival, she enjoys herself immensely, but more importantly, she discovers a place from her mother’s past that was meaningful and holds a story from a long time ago. Iris makes a connection with Gio, the owner of Belotti’s gelato shop, based on the need to recreate a long-held family recipe, and the two form a complicated, but tenderly sweet relationship that has many facets and far too many secrets.
This story starts strong and engaging, slows a bit in the middle, but the conclusion is utterly delightful. The family in this story is the epitome of the loud, loving, close-knit, Italian family that is nothing short of enviable. The descriptions are so vivid they are tangible, and the hurts the two characters are dealing with run deep and have left scars. Though I was frustrated by the lack of communication and the many missed opportunities to tell the truth, it made more sense towards the end.
A Winter in New York is a heartwarming and feel-good holiday story and a favorite of the season....more
4.25 stars The Gingerbread House in Mistletoe Gardens is Jaimie Adman’s latest Christmas release. Her books are one-of-a-kind. They are charming, cozy4.25 stars The Gingerbread House in Mistletoe Gardens is Jaimie Adman’s latest Christmas release. Her books are one-of-a-kind. They are charming, cozy, cultural, clean romances that have a fairytale quality pervading them, though they are set in the real world with real world problems. Each story has a creative theme with an almost magical feel, allowing the reader to get lost in the pages, making the story feel other-worldly and a pure fictional escape.
This particular novel is set in winter in a small, quaint, Welsh town. The beloved Mistletoe Gardens with it’s famed mistletoe legacy is on the brink of demolition to make room for a more lucrative high-rise complex. The quirky residents are outraged and in search of a solution to save this historical site. Essie is thrust into action, high on dreams and ideas, and short of self-belief. When local curmudgeon Joss, who has taken over his late father’s failing construction business, is recruited to assist her in building a life-sized gingerbread house, he reluctantly agrees. The two brainstorm ways to make this unusual concept a reality, all while grappling with a tight timeframe, in an attempt to garner publicity and support for the garden. As they work together, a gradual friendship is built, which in time turns into something more, and the two help heal one other’s issues and pain from the past.
The one thing that did detract a bit from my enjoyment of this story was Essie’s mother. She was absolutely awful throughout the entirety of the novel until the very end, and by then it was a little too late for me to wholly revise my view of her. The turnaround of the headstrong, main male character was also a bit abrupt. That said, The Gingerbread House in Mistletoe Gardens is a festive and delightful tale, and another wonderful addition to Ms. Adman’s fanciful, feel-good stories....more
4.25 stars The Christmas Fix, by Lucy Score, is the second book in the Fixer series. This is my first Lucy Score book and it will not be my last! Aside4.25 stars The Christmas Fix, by Lucy Score, is the second book in the Fixer series. This is my first Lucy Score book and it will not be my last! Aside from the spice, which I’m personally not a fan of, the writing, the characters, the fun plot along with it’s message, as well as the camaraderie between the characters is delightful and makes this story a joy to read.
This enemies to lovers story features Catalina King, a fixer-upper reality TV show creator and host, who shows up in Merry, Connecticut after a catastrophic storm. Her intention is to help the town rebuild, with her network’s backing and funding, just in time for Christmas…their main season of revenue. She has connections, money, and publicity to throw into the undertaking, that the town on it’s own doesn’t have access to. She also has a personal connection to the town, so despite the potential for great ratings on television, she truly cares about people and helping them out.
The problem is Noah Yates, the city manager, does not want Cat with her reality TV show and cameramen there making a spectacle of his town and diverting attention from the work that needs to be done. He doesn’t think too highly of Cat, believes she’s in it only for the publicity and ratings, and doesn’t want his town overrun by cameras when he’s trying to rebuild. Cat wins, as she usually does, and despite the resistance and friction between the two, the results are indisputable. The two eventually move from enemies, to something quite the opposite, though tampered by the reminder that whatever they have will be temporary given Cat’s life. This slow-burn romance is sweet, a bit too steamy for my liking, but also hard won and hopeful.
This story is about community banding together, the power and possibiltity found in helping others, and how love can often find a way even when it seems impossible. The Christmas Fix is feel-good, festive and showcases the spirit of the season....more
Love, Holly by Emily Stone, is an emotionally impactful mesmerizing story that captured my heart! This is an incredibly moving story, and not the easiLove, Holly by Emily Stone, is an emotionally impactful mesmerizing story that captured my heart! This is an incredibly moving story, and not the easiest to read, but it is one that will leave a lasting impact.
When a tragic car accident causes a bitter separation between Holly and her sister Lily, Holly turns to a Dear Stranger letter writing program as therapy. Each person writes an anonymous letter at Christmas time to an unknown recipient. Each party has lost someone, or suffered in some way, and the letter and the writing process provide a cathartic comfort for sender and receiver. When Holly discovers some clues to the identity of the person she received a letter from, and feels a connection to this woman, she decides to find her and offer comfort and assistance. What follows is a fateful unfolding of events and personal links, as well as a forging of relationships that create deep, meaningful, purposeful bonds. Lessons are learned, insights are gleaned, love is fostered, wounds are healed, and hearts are broken.
This story is beautifully written, cleverly and creatively plotted, and powerfully poignant. This evocative tale will make you feel things, while breaking your heart and putting it back together again. It’s a charming story that offers depth and touches on thought-provoking topics with grace and clarity. I think I will make Emily Stone’s stories an annual tradition....more
Stalking Around the Christmas Tree, by Jacqueline Frost, is the fourth book in the Christmas Tree Farm mystery series. This is an atmospheric, festiveStalking Around the Christmas Tree, by Jacqueline Frost, is the fourth book in the Christmas Tree Farm mystery series. This is an atmospheric, festive, holiday mystery with an extremely cute cover. The setting is also quintessential Christmas taking place in Mistletoe, Maine on a tree farm that hosts “Reindeer games”, treats, trees, and an Inn run by Holly White.
There is a two part mystery in this story. When the ballet comes to town to perform, also being featured in the annual parade, a very public murder takes place. Also, Holly’s soon-to-be sister-in-law is being followed by a vehicle and receiving mysterious, threatening notes, that could potentially tie into her past. The timing could not be worse. Not only is this the busiest time of the year, but Holly and Sheriff Gray are soon to be married.
Since the ballet troupe is staying at her inn, Holly, of course, decides to investigate, despite her fiancé’s protest. In fact, she seems to be doing far more work on the case than he is, as the Sheriff. This cozy mystery is well-received by many, and I can see why. I, however, found the main character to be difficult to like. Holly seemed to not take her responsibilities very seriously, other than her fixation on the crime. She consistently put her own interests and needs before others, and overall seemed rather insensitive and inconsiderate and occasionally clueless. I also didn’t get the impression that she was overly invested in her upcoming nuptials.
That said, the reveal was surprising, the conclusion was sweet, and the inclusion of “Santa” was a nice touch. Thank you to MacMillan Audio for the audio-version of this book which added more interest to the plot and kept me invested through to the end. ...more
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 inBright 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....more
4.25 stars Emergency Contact, by Lauren Layne, is a sweet, modern day Planes, Trains and Automobiles retelling, of sorts. This adventurous, fated trip 4.25 stars Emergency Contact, by Lauren Layne, is a sweet, modern day Planes, Trains and Automobiles retelling, of sorts. This adventurous, fated trip is light on the Christmas factor, but humorous, romantic, and in spirit of the season.
When ambitious attorney, Katherine is hit by a car and ends up in the hospital, her ex-husband, Tom is called as her emergency contact. He’s headed home to propose to his girlfriend and he intends for it to be at midnight on Christmas Eve in keeping with his family tradition, one he didn’t adhere to with Katherine. Tom is too good of a guy to leave Katherine in the hospital alone, especially since her father, a great lover of all that is Christmas, died on Christmas when she was younger, making the holidays intolerable for her now. So with no other options, he brings Katherine along and a series of unbelievable mishaps occurs preventing them from their destination in the timely manner they had envisioned.
As the two go through various setbacks and trials, they are able, bit by bit, to talk, open up about what happened all those years ago, and see through their hurts and anger to what lies beneath. Emergency Contact isn’t necessarily original, but it is a well done, light-hearted, dual POV story that is entertaining, feel-good, and a relatively quick read for the busy season. ...more
3.25 stars Everyday is Christmas is the latest release from Karen Schaler, arguably one of the Queens of Christmas. Her stories are Hallmark worthy, tr3.25 stars Everyday is Christmas is the latest release from Karen Schaler, arguably one of the Queens of Christmas. Her stories are Hallmark worthy, truly. In fact, most have been made into movies on the festive channel and this story is no different. This is a modern-day Christmas Carol retelling to the T.
In this Christmas story, we follow Alexis Taylor, who after a tragic accident years ago, lost both of her parents. In order to deal with the pain, she hardened her heart to Christmas and to love and has turned her sole focus on building her company and making money, the only thing she believes she can count on. With this mindset, she has alienated her employees and does not tolerate Christmas in any form, unless it serves as a marketing tool. Like the famous tale, on Christmas Eve, while working late into the night, she receives a visit from her deceased mother who takes her on a journey of her life, helping her see that life is not worth living without love and joy, even at the risk of losing both.
This story is a very quick, predictable read, but also charming in it’s simplicity. I found the mother a bit odd and immature at times, but overall, this was a sweet story with a feel-good conclusion. ...more
4.25 stars A Royal Christmas, by Melody Carlson, is a delightful, modern day fairytale retelling. This short story is festive, feel-good and the perfec4.25 stars A Royal Christmas, by Melody Carlson, is a delightful, modern day fairytale retelling. This short story is festive, feel-good and the perfect length for the busy season.
Adelaide Smith lost her mother, whom she was very close to, and has since been struggling to put herself through law school. As soon as she quits her longtime barista job in search of something new, she receives notice that a DNA test revealed her status as next in line for the throne of a small, European kingdom. After some research, she takes the chance, makes the trip to the beautiful, but small country of Montovia, and seizes the opportunity she thought she’d never have of meeting her father. Her time with him is short, but sweet before he passes and she takes on the responsibility of Queen, honoring his last wish. Along the way Adelaide learns more about herself, finds love, and bonds with the people of this unique kingdom.
This is a classic, cozy, atmospheric tale, rich in culture and customs and ripe with the reminder that dreams sometimes do come true. It’s simplistic and predictable to a degree, but also refreshing in its faith and goodness. Ultimately, A Royal Christmas is a heartwarming and charming holiday novella....more
4.75 stars The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, by Susan Wiggs is an absolutely enchanting, feel-good Christmas story. This story is a delight! The cover is g4.75 stars The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, by Susan Wiggs is an absolutely enchanting, feel-good Christmas story. This story is a delight! The cover is gorgeous, the dogs were charming, the town is quintessential Christmas cheer, and the romance is heart-warming. The sentiment of not loving Christmas and the struggle of being surrounded by the season and all the frivolities everywhere you look was valid and realistic.
This story features Brenda, whose latest Christmas ends in disaster when she almost loses her new pup and finds out that her husband has been cheating. A past Christmas was also hauntingly sorrowful for her, and intrinsically tied into the holiday, the wintery cold, and pivotal heartbreak. When she is asked by her friend and fellow Underdogs volunteer, Dolly, to help drive a group of 11 dogs (in addition to her own) to the north to be placed in their forever homes, she reluctantly agrees. Brenda prefers to ignore Christmas and stay as far away from the cold as possible, but she cares deeply for the dogs and the organization. When a harrowing car accident occurs just a few miles outside of town, Brenda is forced to spend more time in the town than she originally planned, and steps in to take on greater responsibility than previously expected. The effects are significant and long-lasting. The story that follows is sweet, festive, insightful, and touching.
There were times when I didn’t care for how stubborn the main character was about her antipathy towards Christmas, though it was ultimately understandable. She was also unreasonably adamant about returning to her warm, “safe”, home in the south, despite how welcomed and idyllic her time in Avalon was. I was also a bit uncomfortable that Brenda was a primary reason why Adam wasn’t giving his ex-wife another chance. Despite all of that, this story was a joy to read. It was endearing, hopeful, humorous and heartfelt…the perfect, feel-good read for the season....more
4.75 stars The Book Club Hotel, by Sarah Morgan, is an absolutely engaging winter story about three friends who get together once a year for their week4.75 stars The Book Club Hotel, by Sarah Morgan, is an absolutely engaging winter story about three friends who get together once a year for their week-long book club. The three long-time friends are from very different walks of life, and have committed to take a week away at a hotel to enjoy one another’s company, discuss their annual choice of book, and catch up on one another’s lives. Each character has unique struggles they are facing, as we all do, and they face them with strength, intelligence and the support and encouragement of their friends.
The Book Club Hotel is utterly charming, relatable, and endearing. I love how distinctive each character is, how their bonds of friendship are enviably strong, and how the story has just the right amount of depth and inspiration. It is touching, atmospheric, and easy to get lost in the narrative. I highly recommend this seasonal story to all lovers of women’s fiction....more
4.5 stars Through the Snow Globe, by Annie Rains, is a sweet, delightful, ultimately uplifting Groundhog Day retelling of sorts. By its conclusion it e4.5 stars Through the Snow Globe, by Annie Rains, is a sweet, delightful, ultimately uplifting Groundhog Day retelling of sorts. By its conclusion it ended up being one of my favorite Christmas reads, but it didn’t start out that way.
The main character, Diana Merriman, is a by-the-book physical therapist who is angling for a promotion she thinks she wants. She avoids emotional entanglements with her patients because she deems them unprofessional. She’s also avoiding setting a wedding date to her beloved Linus, a toy store owner, because she fears his large family, having never had one of her own. They have an argument and Linus questions if he should have proposed in the first place. The next morning, Linus is hit on his bicycle while riding to work and ends up in a coma. Through some mystical means, Diana has the opportunity to see a loved one one more time and she is determined to find a way to save Linus from his fate.
Through much of the story Diana was immensely immature, rigid, and naive, and she almost ruined the story for me. She repeatedly came across as obtuse and inconsiderate which made for a frustrating reading experience. There were ample opportunities for Diana to talk to her fiancé and explain her feelings and issues, which would have resolved so many problems, but she chose to keep her concerns to herself. I wanted to advise her to accept input and advice from others who cared about her without being so easily offended, but I doubt she would have listened.
After multiple cycles through the worst day of her life, Diana has finally learned her life-impacting and necessary lessons. The overall plot arc and character evolution absolutely won me over in the end and converted my frustrated thoughts into contented ones. This is a story of self-reflection and discovery. It is hopeful, touching and magical. Through the Snow Globe is an endearing and heartwarming story, just like any good Christmas story should be....more
3.75 stars Snowed in for Christmas, by Sarah Morgan, is a family fiction novel that examines family dynamics with an introspective look at each charact3.75 stars Snowed in for Christmas, by Sarah Morgan, is a family fiction novel that examines family dynamics with an introspective look at each character’s particular personalities, background, history and motivations that affect their work, life choices and interpersonal relationships. The story has a touch of romance and elements of Christmas, but it’s really more about people and what makes them tick.
I found Snowed in for Christmas compelling and interesting, as well as heart-warming. I was drawn to the family and their close bonds, despite their very understandable differences and issues. I also really enjoyed the unique and varied characters and their individual stories and personality quirks.
I do think the novel would have been better if it had been shorter. About a third of the way through it began to feel rather repetitive and the pace and plot slowed. There was a case of insta-love which was surprising given one character’s history, but it was a still sweet and the story as a whole was endearing, feel-good and thoughtful and I enjoyed it....more
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