Review of Christmas Promises (Sugarville Grove #4) by Tess Thompson

 

Laney Gray thought she had her life all figured out—until her fairytale wedding turned into a public betrayal. Jilted at the altar and humiliated by the very people she trusted most, Laney flees the city for Sugarville Grove, the picturesque small town where she once spent her happiest summers. Seeking solace in her aunt’s charming bookstore, Laney hopes to piece her life back together in time for Christmas.

What she doesn’t expect is to run into Nolan Hayes—the quiet, bookish boy who stole her heart one magical summer. Now an English professor with a steady presence and a smile that still makes her knees weak, Nolan is no longer the shy teenager Laney remembers. But as their paths cross amidst twinkling lights and snow-covered streets, the connection between them feels as familiar—and as powerful—as ever.

Laney may be a city girl out of her element in Sugarville Grove, but as she works to rebuild the bookstore’s holiday traditions, she finds herself drawn not only to the town’s simple charms but also to Nolan’s quiet strength. Yet, both carry scars from the past—hers from a shattered engagement, and his from a heartbreak he’s never shared.

Can the magic of Christmas help Laney and Nolan find the courage to take a second chance on love? Or will old wounds keep them from the happy ending they’ve been waiting for all along?

Heartwarming and full of small-town charm, Christmas Promises is a cozy holiday romance about healing, hope, and the unexpected gift of a second chance.

Available on Amazon (KU!)

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Check out the entire Sugarville Grove series by Clara Pines and Tess Thompson!

**My thoughts**

Christmastime is a great time for second chances and true love. Laney was supposed to be married, but it blew up in her face in the most obnoxious way. I can't blame her for wanting to run away and find something that brings her peace and happiness. This is my fourth trip to Sugarville Grove, and I have to say I could use a break there, myself! Even better is when you run into your long lost love from those younger, happier days. You'd be surprised how often that unrequited love will return in your favor, especially in these small towns!

Laney and Nolan fall right back into each other's lives, like they had never been apart. You know that it's meant to be. It's understandable that others may have some reservations about them rekindling so quickly, especially since Laney just escaped a doomed wedding. Nolan has his own past devastating heartbreak. But when you know, you know, right?

I admit that I was fully cheering them on, while also thinking, slow down a bit and make sure this is really what you want and need! I mean, you know that it is, but I've gotten a bit more apprehensive in my old age. Simultaneously, I'm a bit envious of her having the chance to start over, to find a new path in life that has love and success. I really want my own Sugarville Grove!

And can I just say that I need a spinoff that features Aunt Edna and more details about her long lost love, Max? That story thread definitely had me sighing. 

I love these families and I love this town. It's going to be hard to wait for the next installments, but I'm sure looking forward to them!

Review of Sweet Surrender (Sugarville Grove #3) by Clara Pines

 

Becca can handle his rambunctious twins in the classroom. But teaching their dad to open his heart would take a Christmas miracle…

Zane Lawrence doesn’t need anything but the family dairy farm and his seven-year-old twin boys for his life to be complete. The single dad works hard all day and chases the boys around the farm all night. His life is a little chaotic – but there’s a delicate balance to it.

So when a pretty young teacher at the boys’ school tries to interfere with some big ideas about their education, Zane isn’t about to let her throw their world off-kilter. After all, she’s new to the school and Sugarville Grove. And it’s bad enough that she’s meddling in his business, but the fact that he’s desperately attracted to her makes him furious with himself.

New teacher Becca Hawthorne sees the Lawrence twins struggling despite their potential and reaches out to their dad right away, excited about her first opportunity to make a real difference. It's crystal clear how much Zane Lawrence loves his boys, so Becca doesn’t expect him to be so offended at her attempts to help. Anyone can see that the man has deep wounds, but his reaction to her feels almost personal. She’s not about to let it stop her from fighting for his kids, though.

When he finally relents, Becca is sure that her dealings with the single dad are over. But for some reason, she suddenly finds herself bumping into Zane Lawrence at every turn. Whether it’s the store, the post office, or the flurry of holiday events in town, she can’t seem to stop seeing the handsome cowboy everywhere she goes.

Did Santa send these lonesome souls a pair of holiday matchmakers for Christmas? And how long can they keep denying what seems so obvious to everyone else before they finally surrender?

Welcome to Sugarville Grove, where clean & wholesome small-town romance awaits you on every corner. Life is sweet in Sugarville Grove! Be sure to read the whole series!

Available on Amazon (KU!)

(affiliate links included)

Check out the whole series by Clara Pines and Tess Thompson!

**My thoughts**

I don't care what time of year it is. I'm always a sucker for a good Christmas small town romance. And I have truly fallen in love with Sugarville Grove as I've been reading through this series.

This one particularly caught my heart because Becca is a teacher. She has a unique insight into Zane's twin boys and what makes them tick. But of course, she is practically fighting an uphill battle with some people who think she is stepping out of place. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can catch something that everyone else hasn't yet seen! So her struggles in trying to help these twin boys are very familiar to me, having been in education for the past 30 years.

Only I've never had a hottie single dad like Zane be a part of the picture like this.

Life would have been more interesting had I found a Zane in my younger years!

And I completely understand why Zane is so cranky about people trying to help him out. Outside of his family, he has had to do so much on his own when it comes to his boys. I get that desire to just want to do it yourself so that you know it gets done the way you want. It's going to take someone special to be able to break through all of that. Of course, Becca is going to be that person.

This is another cold weather story that melted my heart and even may have sprung a tear or two. I'm still not a fan of super rushed romances, instead prefering an epilogue to flesh out what happens next. But I forgive it in this series because I like it so much. 

There are more Lawrences in the brood, so I'm looking forward to seeing what happens to each of them as this series continues. I hope it continues for a while!

I received a requested ARC of this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Promise of Tomorrow (Castaway Christmas #2) by Tess Thompson

 

He’s the humble son of a chauffeur. She’s a prisoner in her father’s mansion. Can he break her free from her ivory tower or will darkness prevail?

Millicent Cashmere appears to have the life of luxury. But inside the walls of the Cashmere Manor darkness and family secrets permeate every aspect of young Millicent’s life. A prisoner in her own home, she’s forbidden to have friends or go to school. She has only books to keep her company.

For years Teddy Hill admired pretty Millicent from afar with no idea of the difficulties she endured from her abusive father and his evil housekeeper. When a tragic turn of events changes everything, Teddy must find a way to protect naïve Millicent from a world that wants to cast her aside.

Can these unlikely lovers forge a life together in the worst of circumstances? Historical romance fans will love this turn of the century story about forbidden love, family secrets and second chances.

In this second installment of the Castaway Christmas Series, readers will revisit old friends Wesley, Luci and Sadie as Teddy and Millicent find themselves in Castaway. A heartwarming tale of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and community!

Available on Amazon

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Check out the whole Castaway Christmas series!

**My thoughts**

In this installment of this beloved series, we have another pair who come from opposite sides of the tracks, if you will, yet are completely drawn to each other. I had slight VC Andrews flashbacks with Millicent being forced to basically stay hidden in her room all the time and being abused by her father and his horrible housekeeper. Then we have the dear sweet Teddy, whose father is the gardener. The two meet by chance when they are young and instantly connect. Fast forward several years later and the unspeakable happens to Millicent. Teddy is determined to take care of this poor naive girl and so they make their way east to the town of Castaway and we reconnect with Luci and Wesley and their families.

One would assume that Millicent would be the worldly one, having grown up in a home of riches and that Teddy would have been more sheltered due to his societal status. In fact, it is the opposite. Millicent only knows of the world through books and is so naive otherwise. Teddy is the one who is able to introduce her to the simple things in life and has all the wisdom. He is so protective of her. I lean into his character as that sort of big brother that I always wanted. Millicent is the sweet girl I want to take under my wing. I'm so happy that they have found each other. They both really come a long way, with Millicent finding an inner strength that she never knew existed.

Plenty of other characters in this book will also tug at your heartstrings. And there are a couple of other bad eggs. A couple of twists and family secrets add to the intrigue.

There are so many other characters in this series whose stories I would love to catch up on. I hope one day Tess is inspired to come back it and tell them.

Read my review of Book 1: Come Tomorrow.

Review of Holiday Hideaway: A Short Story by Mary Kay Andrews

 

From New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews comes a charming holiday romance about a newly single thirtysomething whose unauthorized vacation rental turns into a hilarious game of hide-and-seek when the new owner unexpectedly shows up.

Tilly Farriday isn’t feeling very jolly this season. Recently divorced and broke, she’s squatting in one of her rental agency’s properties until her new home is ready. The sprinkles on top of the burnt Christmas cookie that is her life? The new owner shows up early, forcing Tilly to hide in the attic to save her job…and what remains of her dignity.

George Holloway is here to sell his granduncle’s house—and to reconsider whether he and his fiancée are right for each other. Amid home repairs, George notices strange noises and missing food, but as much as he gets his rental agent on the phone, Tilly dodges every invitation to meet. He’s sure that someone’s here with him, and it’s certainly not the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present, or Future.

As Tilly and George circle each other, they both wonder where their lives are headed and if, maybe, meeting each other is just the Christmas miracle they need.

Available on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I wanted to love this short Christmas story. It had so much potential. And yes, I did greatly enjoy it. But there was one giant plot point that I just couldn't get past. Tilly is hiding in the attic of this house, okay. BUT SHE HAS HER DOG WITH HER. You cannot tell me that dog would have been silent enough to facilitate their stealth occupancy of the upstairs of this house. I do not know a single dog who would have stayed that quiet when a stranger entered the premises. And how would she really hide all evidence of a dog? *sigh*

Outside of that, I enjoyed the chemistry between Tilly and George. Other than the dog, it's a fun way for these two to almost literally stumble upon each other. There's a fun twist in their families' histories in the area that also brings them together. You could even flesh this story out into a longer novella or full book. It would make for a fun Netflix movie. But again, just not with the dog also hiding out upstairs.

Review of Come Tomorrow (Castaway Christmas #1) by Tess Thompson

 

Come Tomorrow

One chance meeting. A single act of kindness. Can young soulmates find each other in adulthood, or will hidden truths tear them apart?

1904 Twelve-year-old Luci Quick never forgot the boy who saved her life that fateful Christmas Eve. But when he disappeared without a word after bringing her food, she was forced to focus on raising her baby sister when her mother suddenly died. Now six years later and struggling to make ends meet with an alcoholic and gambling-addicted father, the poverty-stricken woman can’t believe her hero has returned… and he’s all grown up.

Wesley Ford’s world changed after helping the girl who still haunts his dreams. When he was whisked away to boarding school at fourteen, he feared he’d never see her again. But now free to come back following his father’s death, the wealthy heir is shocked to discover Luci and her sibling never escaped their rundown shack.

With fate dealing her another opportunity for happiness, Luci seizes the day when an offer of help turns into an unexpected proposal. But before they can settle into their future, Wesley must face painful family secrets that could tear them apart forever.

Can a Yuletide miracle make a wish for love come true?

Come Tomorrow is the first book in the uplifting Castaway Christmas historical romance holiday series. If you like feel-good tear-jerkers, engaging characters, and sweet magical realism, then you’ll adore Tess Thompson’s Edwardian rags-to-riches story.

Buy on Amazon

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Check out the whole Castaway Christmas series.

**My thoughts**

I've said it a hundred times, but Tess Thompson's historical romances are some of the only ones I will ever read. It has never been my favorite genre, but her books suck me in every time. And she has a special talent for bringing the magic to those Christmas ones. The Castaway Christmas series is one that I have reread every single year since this first book came out. Few books carry that distinction.

Wesley is fortunate enough to have grown up in a wealthy home, but his home life leaves a lot to be desired with an abusive father and rather absent mother. Somehow the young man still has maintained a heart of gold. So when he comes upon Luci in the woods, living with her own abusive father and a newborn sister for whom she cares since their mother died at childbirth, it's no surprise that he wants to do whatever he can to help them. Plus there's just something about Luci that draws him in. Soulmates of sorts?

Luci is an amazing young woman who has been dealt a terrible hand of cards. Her mother has just passed away shortly after giving birth to her younger sister. Her father is a raging alcoholic who is addicted to gambling and really couldn't care less about the family he has at home. And yet she strives to overcome the odds and learn how to be the adult in charge of her family. She also feels a connection to the young man who has figured out that they exist in the woods and wants to help. Few others who know of their existence want to help.

So many secrets and so much undue prejudice being foisted upon the teenagers forces them apart for a long time. True angels on earth become unofficial parts of their families and help pave the way for these fated partners to find their way back to each other again. It's a beautiful rags to riches story that somehow is even more beautiful than that phrase implies. And there are so many twists with all of the secrets in their pasts.

Their love story isn't the only one that unfolds in this novel, either. As often happens with Tess's holiday books, I needed a couple of tissues for this one.

And I have to give a special shoutout to the dog, Atlas. He needs his own tissue.

I just love this heartwarming series and also love the second book in it. I have dreams of there maybe being a third installment one day.

Read my review of Book 2: Promise of Tomorrow.

Review of The Backup Princess (Royally Kissed #1) by Kate O'Keeffe

 

When a Texas gal punches a prince instead of curtsying, you know this isn't your grandmother's fairy tale.

Taking the bull by the horns is child's play compared to ruling Malveaux. Yet here I am, a Texas girl turned princess, swapping tacos for a tiara.

Then I meet Europe’s most eligible bachelor, the irritatingly handsome Prince Alexander, and accidentally deck him instead of curtsying.

Oops.

I’d feel bad if he wasn’t such a self-satisfied jerk.

Now, I'm racing against a royal clock that ticks with the urgency of a preening peacock, trying not to let down my newfound country or my own wild heart. Alexander? He's a walking contradiction, with a smirk that heats my blood and eyes that tell tales of a depth I didn't expect.

Decisions aren't exactly my rodeo, but this time, my choice could cost me my new crown—or lead to a love story that rewrites my happily ever after.

Will this Texas girl rise to the royal challenge, or is this one fairytale destined to end with the slipper never found?



MEDAL WINNER AT THE READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK AWARDS



The Princess Diaries meets The Hating Game in this in this dizzyingly romantic modern royal romcom for grown-ups, where an American girl's unexpected ascent to royalty collides with a fiery romance with a hot neighboring prince. The Backup Princess is a closed-door romance with all the sizzle but without the spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after. It’s Book 1 in the brand new series, Royally Kissed.

If you enjoyed "The Selection" by Kiera Cass, the "Modern Royals" series by Aven Ellis, or Emma St. Clair's "Sweet Royal Romcom" series you'll love this modern royal romance.

Buy on Amazon

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Check out the entire Royally Kissed series!

**My thoughts**

I can always count on Kate O'Keeffe to pen a unique take on a common trope that keeps me completely engaged and wanting more. I'm madly in love with this series, which hooked me from that opening line in the book description. I loved the nod to The Princess Diaries when Maddie discovers her royal heritage and has to decide whether or not to take the crown when it is her time. (And there are also some other little moments that fellow Princess Diaries book fans will pick up on.) I felt nods to the real royal family saga with abdication and untrue gossip and stereotypes of the hottie princes. And yet, Maddie and Alex are their own characters with their own story. 

It's a classic enemies-to-lovers trope as well, because Maddie can't stand Alex when she meets him. And while their nations are friendly, they are also in competition. They even admit that they are attracted to each other, but aren't sold on getting together at first. And then the attraction takes over.

I also love Alex's sisters, though Amelia can be a bit uptight. You know there are plenty of stories to come. This new chapter in the histories of Ledonia and Malveaux are just getting started, and I'm here for the ride!

Review of Second Chance in Paradise by Jennifer Peel

 

Second Chance in Paradise

Doctoral student Holland Reeves may have aced every class she’s ever taken, but when it comes to life outside her lab, she’s beginning to realize she doesn’t have one. In fact, she has more meaningful relationships with test tubes and pipettes than with people. Wishing to change that, she reluctantly agrees to attend an old friend’s wedding. The only problem is, it means she has to return to Paradise. The small coastal town that once upon a time lived up to its name, that was, until he—Porter Clairborne—left her without even saying goodbye. It’s fine, it’s all fine. She has better things to do than be ridiculously happy and in love. Things like finding a cure for heart disease.

But when she returns to Paradise, she gets way more than she bargained for. Porter, the prodigal son, has returned—unbeknownst to her—and he has more on his mind than just helping his family’s business, the Clairborne Resort. He’s determined to win back the woman who captured his heart several summers ago. Lucky for him, Holland has a little mishap that forces her to stay in Paradise a lot longer than she expected.

Now together, Holland and Porter must decide if first love deserves a second chance. Will Paradise once again live up to its name? Or will it remain a town of broken dreams?

USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Peel presents a beautiful second chance romance full of sizzling kisses and heart-tugging moments. It’s the perfect beach read.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I admit that it took me a couple of tries to get through this one. When I first started reading it, I was somehow confused by the characters and their relationships and who was whom. [But I think that was more of a ME thing than a writing thing. No idea what was going on in my mind then.] And then it took me a little bit to get used to Holland and her way of thinking and looking at the world. I saw her as a neurodivergent character, which I love seeing more of in books. She even had me trying to see how much of the periodic table I could remember from my chemistry days.

I recognized bits of myself in her, especially the high anxiety causing her to tunnel in on her scientific work and needing a push from others to engage in the outer world. I felt the awkwardness of having someone take you under their wing as their surrogate child and not feeling like you quite deserve that much unconditional love from outside the family. I was very proud of her for giving in and going to her friend's wedding and then letting Porter and his family take care of her.

And then there is Porter. I would love to have a Porter in my life. He fully embraces Holland for who she is and loves her quirks. He's determined to show her who she really is and to rectify what went wrong in their past. To be honest, I don't think they would have worked out as well had they just stayed together in the first place. They clearly needed some time apart to become the best version of their coupledom. And how can you not when in a place like Paradise?

Holland and Porter aren't the only second chance story happening in this book. And the other one truly had me in tears. Worth the read once I was able to get into it.

The Seaside Strategy (Hilton Head Island Romance) by Elana Johnson

We’re so excited to be sharing the final book in Elana Johnson’s HILTON HEAD ISLAND ROMANCE trilogy–The Seaside Strategy is coming August 16th!

Sweetwater Promise by January Bain

 

Small town meets big city and history meets the present in this new book from January Bain. Read an excerpt from Sweetwater Promise and then follow the tour for more. Best of luck in the giveaway!

Review of The Forgetful Bride by Debbie Macomber

 

She was NOT married to Joseph Rockwell! Caitlin hadn't even seen him in almost twenty years. He was now a successful Seattle contractor, who happened to be renovating the office where Cait worked as a stockbroker. But one thing hadn't changed–Joe Rockwell was still a terrible tease, telling everyone he an Cait were husband and wife. Oh, sure, they'd been "married" in a pretend ceremony when she was eight. She wished Joe would stop bringing that up. Couldn't he see he was embarrassing her–especially in front of her boss, Paul? She was in love with Paul. No, Joe insisted, she was in love with him. And on Christmas Day, he proved it.

Review of The Rancher's Wyoming Twins by Virginia McCullough

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

I always enjoy reading Virginia McCullough's books, and this starter to a new series is no exception! Find out more about it and read my review. Best of luck in the giveaway!

The Rancher's Wyoming Twins

(Back to Adelaide Creek #1)

By Virginia McCullough

Clean Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

March 29, 2022 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Her worst enemy...
Could bring her heart home

Heather Stanhope wants to despise the man who now owns the ranch her family lost. But Matt Burton is raising his late sister’s adorable twins, loves horses, and is known for his loyalty and honesty. Sneaking into Adelaide Creek for her friend’s wedding, Heather hopes to avoid Matt, but fate and family have them crossing paths. Heather knows falling for Matt means risking her heart, but it’s a risk she can’t resist.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository

**My thoughts**

Heather is one of the first heroines I've related to so well in a while. She has left the town where she grew up because her parents' business finally failed and her home was sold. She feels like she has nothing left there. Except she did come back for best friend's wedding and is now facing the man who bought her family land. (My childhood home was also at my parents' business. And when they decided it was time to let it go, we moved out of town. It's still strange to go back to see it and when you see people who remember your family name, though it's fading years later and your parents are gone.)

The biggest difference, I guess, is it wasn't an attractive man raising his twin niece and nephew who took over my family land. So that's where our similarities diverge. I kind of like her version a bit better. I think I would have preferred someone like Matt taking over. He's handsome and kind and determined.

I wasn't surprise that Heather started to feel a pull back to her roots, especially when she realized how much her hometown actually misses her. Connecting with Matt and his family is just icing on the cake. I understand her conflict in deciding to change up her career a bit and having to say goodbye to children you once worked with and so much more. But there is also something about being in the town that your family did so much to shape and reengaging with your family history.

So for me, this book was just much about Heather's growth as it was the sweet romance slowly blossoming between her and Matt. It's a story of lasting friendship, acknowledging family history and your roots, and learning how to let go and move on. I appreciated these multiple layers and look forward to revisiting this town again!

I received a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

About the Author

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia McCullough has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.

Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.

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Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-gift card & a $25 Etsy e-gift card (INT)

Ends May 4, 2022

ENTER HERE

 

Review of The Pet Doctor of Emerson Pass (Emerson Pass Contemporaries #3) by Tess Thompason

He’s a small-town veterinarian with a love for animals and naps. Haunted by a childhood trauma, she’s terrified of men. Can the truth about her past bring them closer together or tear them apart forever?

Breck Stokes is back where he belongs. After years at university, he’s returned to Emerson Pass and taken over his mother’s veterinarian practice. He loves the small ski community, spending time with his buddies and healing big and small animals. The moment he meets lovely but reserved Tiffany Birt, he’s drawn to her in ways he can’t explain. Can he break through her walls to win her heart?

Tiffany Birt is Emerson Pass’s favorite wedding planner. She’s accepted she’ll never be a bride herself but loves helping couples plan their perfect small-town wedding. In addition, she has good friends and her precious dog, Muffy. However, her well-ordered exterior hides a painful past. One she must keep hidden or risk being pulled back into the cult she ran from as a teenager.

When her past explodes onto the national news, she’s forced to confront her demons and accept help from Breck and her two best friends. Will she at last be free or will the dangerous men she ran from ruin all chances for happiness and love?

This gripping and heart wrenching third installment in the Emerson Pass Contemporaries is a friends-to-lovers tale that will tug at your heartstrings. Pre-order this clean and wholesome romance today!

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

First and foremost, I LOVE THIS COVER. It is adorable.

This is the third installment of Tess Thompson's Emerson Pass Contemporaries series. The characters we meet in this one are the descendants of those in the Emerson Pass Historicals with new people who have come to this charming small town. And while each installment works quite well as a standalone, you will maximize your enjoyment by reading the two series in their alternating release order.

In this one, we have Breck, who is descended from the town's first female vet, Poppy. He continues to embody the kindness and charm that is so innate with the original Barnes family and their closest friends.

And then we have Tiffany, who has escaped a wretched life akin to what you see in A Handmaid's Tale. 

(Something I have been noticing lately in Tess's books are subtle nods to familiar classics - whether intentional or not. I like it.)

Understandably, Tiffany is skittish about trusting people, especially men. But this just makes Breck an even better match for her, due to his gentle nature.

Tiffany's past comes back in a horrible way, though possibly a little predictable if you're as familiar with Tess's works as I am. True to small town life, her friends rally around her to help - with that sweet bit of romance thrown in as well.

Overall, it's another enjoyable book in this series, perfect to curl up with for a cozy evening. I will say that I don't feel quite as much heart in the contemporary branch as I do in the historical branch. That's funny for me because I am not usually a fan of historical fiction. But I do continue to love this town and watching the Barnes family legacy unfold over the generations. I'm already looking forward to Huck and Stormi's story.

I received a request review copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Find more of Tess Thompson's books on Amazon here.

Read my reviews from the Emerson Pass Historical series

The School Mistress

The Spinster

The Scholar

The Musician

Read my reviews from the Emerson Pass Contemporary series

The Sugar Queen

The Patron

The Pet Doctor

Review of When Christmas Comes by Debbie Macomber

 

Enjoy this classic Christmas romantic comedy that inspired the Hallmark Channel original movie Trading Christmas. Only from New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.

Through a website, Charles Brewster, history professor avowed grinch, arranges to swap houses for the holiday with Emily Springer, widowed mother of one. So Emily goes to Boston—but finds that her daughter has gone to Florida. And Charles arrives in Leavenworth to discover that it’s not the quiet prison town he thought it was—it’s a Santa’s village in Washington! The place is full of Christmas trees, Christmas music and…elves.

Meanwhile, Emily’s friend Faith Kerrigan travels to Leavenworth to visit her and instead finds Charles. Then Charles’s brother, Ray, shows up at his home in Boston to discover that he isn’t there—but Emily is.

Through all the mix-ups and misunderstandings, amid the chaos and confusion, romance begins to emerge in unexpected ways. Because everything changes at Christmas!

Originally published in 2004

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * Google Play 

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Oh, it's one of the super predictable Christmas books, but I don't care. I loved it! When Emily and Charles decide to escape their mutually miserable Christmas seasons, they have no idea what's in store. They're going to find friendship and love and mend some family fences. And there are plenty of quirky mishaps along the way that had me literally laughing out loud. 

Hallmark has made this into a movie called Trading Christmas. Though I haven't seen this movie, I knew right away while reading this that it was perfect for adapting.

Click on a book title below to read my review of these other Debbie Macomber novels.

Call Me Mrs. Miracle

The Christmas Basket

The Forgetful Bride

Friends -- And Then Some

On a Snowy Night (An Anthology)

The Perfect Christmas

The Snow Bride

When Christmas Comes

Review of The Christmas Basket by Debbie Macomber

That summer—more than ten years ago, while they were still in high school—Noelle McDowell and Thomas Sutton fell secretly in love. Secretly because their mothers had been locked in a bitter feud for decades. But despite the animosity between Sarah McDowell and Mary Sutton, Noelle planned to elope with Thom. Until he jilted her.

This Christmas Noelle McDowell is home to celebrate the holidays with her family. (After all, December 25 is also her birthday.) Unfortunately, Noelle's feelings about home—or rather, her hometown of Rose, Oregon—were changed forever the day Thomas Sutton broke her heart.

This Christmas the feuding mothers find themselves working together to fill Christmas baskets for charity. What irony! And what an opportunity for reconciliation…if only they could see it.

This Christmas Noelle and Thom discover they're still in love. Regardless of their mothers' reactions, they want to be together. Is that possible? Can old rivalries be set aside? Will Sarah's Christmas daughter have a second chance with Mary's charming son?

Maybe she will…this Christmas!

Goodreads * Amazon

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**My thoughts**

I can always count on Debbie Macomber for a heartwarming romance that is going to give me a much needed escape in my day. And while I read this Christmas story on a warm summer’s day, I still felt the holiday spirit and all of those warm fuzzies.

Not only is this a story of a second chance romance, but a story of rekindling friendships. The McDowells and Suttons have had a roller coaster of a relationship over the past several years. Clearing up misunderstandings goes a long way in healing. The Christmas season is a great time to do so.

This one will have you laughing out loud and maybe cause a little misting in the eyes as well. I loved it.

Click on a book title below to read my review of these other Debbie Macomber novels.

Call Me Mrs. Miracle

The Christmas Basket

The Forgetful Bride

Friends -- And Then Some

On a Snowy Night (An Anthology)

The Perfect Christmas

The Snow Bride

When Christmas Comes

Read an excerpt from Life's Too Short for White Walls by Liz Flaherty

 

Still reeling from her divorce, Joss Murphy flees to Banjo Bend, Kentucky, where she'd been safe and happy as a child. The family farm is now a campground. Weary and discouraged, she talks owner Ezra McIntire into renting her a not-quite-ready cabin. With PTSD keeping him company, Ez thrives on the seclusion of the campground. The redhead in Cabin Three adds suggestions to his improvement plans, urging color and vibrancy where there was none.

Neither is looking for love, yet the attraction they share is undeniable. Can the comfort of campfires, hayrides, and sweet kisses bring these two lost souls together?

Preorder for April 20, 2022

Amazon * BN

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Read an excerpt:

“Not…I don’t think about suicide.” That wasn’t true. He thought about it frequently, but not with any intent in mind. “There was sniper fire in Iraq—” Nothing like jumping into the middle of the story. “I should have been prepared. It was my team, my responsibility to keep them safe. I didn’t do it. Two people died.” He still woke in the middle of the night seeing their faces. No one had blamed him―even the team members’ wives hadn’t. They’d offered him more comfort at their husbands’ funerals than he’d deserved.

It should have been him. He was the pilot. It was his team.

It should have been him.

“Please.” Just the one word, spoken softly beside him, gave pause to the siege of his thoughts. He turned just enough to see her face and catch a glimpse of shimmer in her eyes. “I value you,” she said. “All the people here do. You give them a safe place and sometimes, like when we’re gathered up at the pavilion, you’re an instrument of hope for some of them. You need to value yourself, Ezra McIntire.”

Before he could look away, she lifted her hands…small, warm, and capable…to frame his face. Her eyes, still damp, still shimmering, held his gaze for a moment before they drifted closed and her lips touched his. Timorously at first, as if she were doing something she hadn’t in a long time, and then deeper. Warmer.

Ez didn’t know, as she pulled away and he drew her in for more, if knowing her…holding her…would allow him to value himself. But he did understand, from that first suggestion of a kiss, that he valued her, and that these moments shared on the porch of the old farmhouse were the best ones he’d had in more time than he could remember. Value. Yes, value.

USA Today bestselling author Liz Flaherty started writing in the fourth grade when her Aunt Gladys allowed her to use her portable Royal typewriter. The truth was that her aunt would have let her do anything to get her out of her hair, but the typewriter and the stories it could produce caught on, and Liz never again had a day without a what if… in it.

 
She and Duane, her husband of at least forever, live in a farmhouse in central Indiana, sharing grown children, spoiled cats, and their grandkids, the Magnificent Seven. (Don’t get her started on them—you’ll be here all day.) To find out more about her, stop by http://lizflaherty.net/ or sign up for her newsletter at http://eepurl.com/df7dhP.

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

Review of Her Christmastime Family by Tara Randel

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the book tour for Her Christmastime Family by Tara Randel! I love this series so much! Today I'm sharing my review. And if you follow the tour, you'll have a chance to read an exclusive excerpt over at Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters, one of my other sites. Enjoy the tour and best of luck in the giveaway!

Her Christmastime Family

(The Golden Matchmakers Club #2)

By Tara Randel

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 271 Pages

November 30, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A holiday match…
For a lifetime of love!

Creating new Christmas traditions is a priority for single mom Faith Harper. But the handsome widower next door, police officer Roan Donovan, is struggling to make the season merry for his two girls. Sunny Faith could brighten the holiday for Roan. And the way he protects his daughters touches her heart. Will facing their challenges together unite their families…and build a love to weather all seasons?

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**My thoughts**

I love this series! I love this group of people who have the younger generation's best interests at heart and work at fixing them up without being obnoxiously interfering and obvious about it. Plus there is a bit of romance brewing within that group! And fear not, each book works as a standalone.

Faith and Roan are just perfect for each other right out of the gate. They rely on each other to help with being single parents. And the kids just naturally fit together and have fun. They also learn a lot from each other and grow so much. It's a nice, slow burn of a friendship that develops into so much more. And it's not just two adults getting together, it's two families. And with it all happening around Christmas, it is extra magical and wonderful.

I loved watching them evolve and can't wait to find out what happens next in this adorable small town!

I received a requested review copy from Prism Book Tours. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

Stealing Her Best Friend's Heart

(The Golden Matchmakers Club #1)

By Tara Randel

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

July 27, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A home renovation…
Could change this friendship forever

Heidi Welch has her eye on the perfect home…until Reid Masterson buys it! Now Heidi has one last chance to get back the home of her dreams from her childhood friend and longtime crush. If she helps Reid with the renovations, he'll sell her the house. But “just friends” seems just about impossible…especially when friendship keeps getting in the way of falling in love.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.

Website | Goodreads | BookBub | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

Prize #1: Signed print copy of His Honor, Her Family and Stealing Her Best Friend’s Heart, a Christmas ornament and a $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

Prize #2: $10 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

Ends December 22, 2021

ENTER HERE

 

Review of Worth Letting Go by Amanda Kelley

 

We are thrilled to share Amanda Kelley's Contemporary Romance from her Worthy Series, Worth Letting Go with you today! Check out an excerpt and my book review.

Make sure to check below for more information, purchase links, and an amazing international giveaway from Amanda!

   

Goodreads ~ AmazonUS ~ AmazonUK ~

AmazonCA ~AmazonAU ~ Barnes&Noble ~ Kobo

(affiliate link included)

 Book Description: Harper Davenport is widowed, homeless, and nearly broken. So, in a moment of bravery—or possibly stupidity—she moves her and her six-year-old son, Greyson, back to the only place that has ever felt like home. Too bad starting over is exactly as hard as she feared it would be. The last thing she needs is for Kade Dawson to be her new boss. The man is talented, handsome, and ridiculously magnetic. He draws people in with his looks and hooks them with his personality. Harper is no exception, but she has more than herself to consider. Kade’s reputation is well earned, but lately, he’s been craving something more. As soon as Harper walks into his life, he’s captivated. Only…things are complicated. Despite his desperate attempts to keep things platonic between them, Harper still manages to become the best part of his day. He just doesn’t know if he can be the man she and Greyson deserve. Sometimes, falling back into old patterns is easier than taking a chance on something he knows will change everything. If Kade and Harper can manage to let go of the past, they might just be able to have a future they’ve both only ever dreamed of.

* Books in the Worth series can be read as standalones*

Read an excerpt:

“This is beautiful. Did you do this?” Harper looked back at him, and he nodded. “I’ve never seen anything like this at the shop.” She turned in a circle, looking at all of the finished and half-finished sculptures and artwork. “I had no idea. I thought you guys built furniture.”

She laughed in awe, and he felt it all the way to his groin.

Clearing his throat, he leaned back into his table and crossed his arms. “We do. I mostly just do this for fun.”

“Kade.” The way she said his name made his chest tight. “You’re amazing.”

Her bare cheeks pinked after she spoke, but her easy blush was something he cherished. It was an open window into the thoughts she didn’t speak.

“It’s not a big deal.”

She turned to him, pinning him with those golden eyes of hers. “Don’t do that. Don’t minimize yourself. Take the compliment.”

The bite of fire behind her words had his brows rising. He tilted his head, regarding her, for the first time noticing the tension in her shoulders.

She brushed her bangs back, uncomfortable with his scrutiny. “What?”

“You sure everything is okay?”

“Why? I complimented you, so something must be wrong?” She scoffed. “I’m not the one of us who decided to take a step back.”

Forget off. She seemed downright edgy.

“I’m right here, Harper. I didn’t go anywhere.”

“We both know that’s not true. Ever since we walked out of the ER, you’ve been behind this invisible wall, where we can’t reach you or you can’t reach us. I don’t know, but I know I don’t like it.” She took a deep breath. “I miss you. You’re right; you’re right here, but I still miss you. It’s ridiculous.”

He got up from his stool and walked over to her, needing to close the distance between them. His hand automatically reached out to cup her cheek, but he pulled it back, causing annoyance to flash through her eyes.

   

 **My thoughts**

Oh, this book has all the feels! I definitely had a few tears in my eyes by the time I got to the end. And I just realized it is actually the third book in the series, so now I need to go find the first two.

So that should tell you that it works well as a standalone. This is all about Harper and Kade. I suspected the other couples maybe had their own books, but did not feel I was missing anything to understand this story.

Back to Harper and Kade.

Harper was living a lie in her marriage, but didn't quite realize it until after his untimely death. Her life is turned completely inside out and she has lost just about everything, except her son Greyson. I give her major kudos for having the guts to completely relocate back to one place she briefly called home. She's pretty much on her own and used to the city life.

I love the small town life and how everyone steps up to hep each other, especially the newbie in town. I want Brooke to be my new best friend. And I also fell in love with Kade for everything he does to help Harper out.

Their relationship is a slow burn, cautious friendship that has to build in trust on a strong foundation before letting all else explode. This one felt very real to me. I absolutely loved it.

I received a requested copy from the author/publisher and Inkslinger. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

    

      

Enter Amanda's Giveaway to win one

SIGNED SET OF THE WORTH SERIES.

This giveaway is open Internationally!

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And check out the beautifully redesigned covers for Worth Holding On and Worth Fighting For!

They are all so gorgeous together!

      

Worth Holding On

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Worth Fighting For

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Meet Amanda:

  

Amanda Kelley was raised in a small town in Wyoming where she met and married her high school sweetheart. Today, they live in Northern Colorado where she is lucky enough to be a stay-at-home mom to two incredible sons. When she’s not attempting to write awesome love stories, she spends her days as an alarm clock, chauffeur, maid, nurse, chef, counselor, cheerleader, referee, finder of shoes and homework, giver of hugs, and pet whisperer. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.      

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