A Christmas Ghost Story: A Chilling Tale for Dark Days and Long Nights by Kim Newman

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

I just received this novella, A Christmas Ghost Story by Kim Newman, and I'm eager to read it. I love the title and I love the cover. It's the perfect story for this Halloween season. So, what is the story about? Well, according to the blurb I read:

From the acclaimed author of Anno Dracula, the perfect gift for those who love the dark fantastic imaginations of Neil Gaiman and T. Kingfisher, this is a nightmarish tale of a haunted Christmas set deep in the British countryside not too long ago. Cosy traditions are made twisted and terrifying as a mother and son grapple with their painful past.

Lynda and her teenage son Rust prepare for Christmas, hanging fairy lights and making decorations. The first door of the advent calendar is opened, but the chocolate inside tastes off. Rust receives his first Christmas card, it's unsigned and the message is aggressive rather than festive.

The cards keep coming, one each day and each more sinister than the last, and a frightened Lynda recalls a seasonal TV show from her childhood that featured similar happenings, and while she remembers it vividly, there is no evidence that it was ever broadcast…

As their Christmas cheer is gradually poisoned, with real dead robins replacing plastic ones, the turkey rotting in the freezer and Rust becoming increasingly unwell, Lynda begins to wonder if her childhood Christmases were in fact as joy filled as she remembers…

A terrifying tale of seasonal dread from a master of horror.

Whoa! How creepy does that sound? How is a TV show only Lynda remembers coming true? Who is sending those cards? Why is her son getting sick? Who is determined to scare them to death? What is happening? Yikes! Okay, this sounds like a fun one. And, I can't wait to read it! I'm going to need a cuppa,  a cozy reading spot, and my copy of A Christmas Ghost Story this weekend. Talk about perfect reading plans. 

And now, I'm off to tackle some more books on my TBR list. Hope you are all having a wonderful week. Happy reading!

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

Death Comes At Christmas edited by Marie O'Regan and Paul Kane

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

I love anthologies. They are always such fun to read. Eighteen authors all writing about the same topic, but in such different ways - who wouldn't love that? Am I right? So, of course I was excited to get my hands on a copy of this lovely, Death Comes At Christmas edited by Marie O'Regan and Paul Kane. I mean, c'mon, it has Christmas in the title and the theme is murder-mysteries. How could I resist? My favorite holiday and my new favorite genre - Hurrah!  So, I grabbed a huge cuppa and settled in for a long night with my new favorite book. And let me just say, what a treat it was! 

I really enjoyed reading stories by some of my favorites (C. L. Taylor, Claire McGowan, J. T. Ellison) and reading stories by new-to-me writers (Belinda Bauer, Angela Clarke, Tina Baker) - talk about a fun a festive mix. There were locked-room mysteries, cozy mysteries, and some dark and twisty stories - all of which made for an exciting and thrilling reading experience. I would happily recommend Death Comes At Christmas to fans of murder mysteries and anyone looking for their next great read - you are going to LOVE this book to bits! Make sure to grab a copy ASAP. Or gift a copy to your favorite bibliophile. Either way, make sure to check this book out. 

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

You Better Watch Out: A Thriller by James S. Murray and Darren Wearmouth

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

From international bestselling authors James S. Murray (better known as "Murr" on the hit TV show Impractical Jokers) and Darren Wearmouth, comes You Better Watch Out, a suspenseful, serial killer thriller that leaves you wondering, is Christmas really the best time of the year? 

Forty-eight hours until Christmas, Jessica Kane wakes up with blurred vision, ears ringing, and in excruciating pain. A gash in her head and blood running down her face, the last thing she remembers is going for a run and something or someone hitting her in the head. It doesn't take her long to realize she is trapped in an unknown, deserted town with five other strangers who share similar stories of being attacked and stranded there. Unsure why and how they got there, she knows one thing for certain, she has to find a way out. That becomes nearly impossible when someone is meticulously orchestrating their deaths, one by one, and the only thing Jessica can do is watch the life leave their eyes. The fenced-in town is the killer’s very own playground and there's nowhere left to hide... she better watch out because she could be next.

my thoughts:

Love, love, loved this highly entertaining and engaging Christmas horror story. You Better Watch Out is a fun and terrifying read - the perfect blend of mystery and gore. 

So, what is this story about? Well, it's a mystery and the whodunit is most definitely intriguing. Okay, so, Jessica went out for a run and was attacked. She wakes up to find herself in a deserted town. She's not alone. Five other people have also been attacked and are waking up in that deserted town, too. Her goal is to get out. The only problem is that people start to die. Yep, someone is out to kill them and Jessica has to figure out how to save herself ASAP. Whoa! How crazy and terrifying does that story sound? I know that I couldn't wait keep reading to find out who was behind all of this and why. Also, who would survive? Yikes! And, that is all I will share, because this was a fun one and you should definitely check it out. It's a fast-paced read chock full of horror - akin to a slasher film. I really enjoyed it - mainly because it's perfect for this Halloween season, although I would definitely read it at Christmas, too. It was fun and that is exactly what I wanted. So, I would happily recommend You Better Watch Out to anyone looking for an entertaining story - you'll enjoy this one. Make sure to check it out! 

Thank you to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this book!

Cold Snap by Lindy Ryan

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

Hmm...not sure what to make of this one.  Cold Snap by Lindy Ryan is a novella that explores grief. I know that doesn't really provide any information, but I honestly can't say what happened, because I'm still not sure what happened. So, here goes...

It's nearly Christmas and Christine has packed up a few bags and taken her son to a cabin in the woods for the  holiday. Her husband had planned and booked this trip months ago. Except, her husband is dead. He died falling from the roof when he was putting up Christmas lights on the house. She was right there when it happened and she can't stop unseeing it. So, yeah, things are definitely hard at the moment and for some reason she thinks leaving the house behind for a bit will help. Maybe. The only thing is that her son isn't talking to her and the cabin is a dump. Oh, and she keeps hearing her husband's voice calling to her. Yeah, the holiday trip quickly turns into a holiday nightmare, and that is all I can really share. Mainly, because I'm not exactly sure what happened in the story. I know that she forgot to pack food. I know that she lies about the cabin having wi-fi to her son. I know that their cat gets killed. I know that a moose shows up. And, I know that she is hearing her husband's voice. That's all I know. The story ends and I don't really understand what happened to Christine or her son, or the moose. 

Suffice it to say, I was immersed in the story from the beginning and I was intrigued to try and figure out what was going on, but in the end, I was left with a lot of questions. So, I'm not sure what I would rate this one. Hmm...Cold Snap is definitely more mystery than horror.

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

Lovelight Farms by B. K. Borison

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

Two best friends fake date to reach their holiday happily ever after in this first romantic comedy in the Lovelight series.

A pasture of dead trees. A hostile takeover of the Santa barn by a family of raccoons. And shipments that have mysteriously gone missing. Lovelight Farms is not the magical winter wonderland of Stella Bloom’s dreams.

In an effort to save the Christmas tree farm she’s loved since she was a kid, Stella enters a contest with Instagram-famous influencer Evelyn St. James. With the added publicity and the $100,000 cash prize, Stella might just be able to save the farm from its financial woes. There’s just one problem. To make the farm seem like a romantic destination for the holidays, she lied on her application and said she owns Lovelight Farms with her boyfriend. Only…there is no boyfriend.

Enter best friend Luka Peters. He just stopped by for some hot chocolate and somehow got a farm and a serious girlfriend in the process. But fake dating his best friend might be the best Christmas present he’s ever received.

my thoughts:

Loved this sweet holiday romance to bits! Talk about the perfect Christmas treat! Lovelight Farms by B. K. Borison is the first story in the Lovelight series and it is the BEST! 

Stella owns Lovelight Farms, a Christmas tree farm. She loves the place, Except, it is riddled with problems and finances are in the red. So, she decides to enter a contest hosted by a famous Instagram influencer - cash prize of $100,000.  If she wins, the prize will go a long way in helping her keep Lovelight Farms. The only problem is that she lied and said she owns the place with her boyfriend - she doesn't have a boyfriend. Yikes! Luckily for her, best friend, Luka steps in and pretends to be her boyfriend. Everyone they know is happy for them and pretty much expected it to happen sooner or later. Of course, fake dating leads to mixed signals and lots of emotions. And, that is all I will share about this stellar story. You have to read it for yourself to find out what happens. Make sure to check it out!

I would happily recommend this amazing story to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read - you are going to fall in love with Lovelight Farms!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Death On A Winter Stroll: A Merry Folger Christmas Mystery by Francine Mathews

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

No-nonsense Nantucket detective Merry Folger grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and two murders as the island is overtaken by Hollywood stars and DC suits.

Nantucket Police Chief Meredith Folger is acutely conscious of the stress COVID-19 has placed on the community she loves. Although the island has proved a refuge for many during the pandemic, the cost to Nantucket has been high. Merry hopes that the Christmas Stroll, one of Nantucket’s favorite traditions, in which Main Street is transformed into a winter wonderland, will lift the island’s spirits. But the arrival of a large-scale TV production, and the Secretary of State and her family, complicates matters significantly.
 
The TV shoot is plagued with problems from within, as a shady, power-hungry producer clashes with strong-willed actors. Across Nantucket, the Secretary’s troubled stepson keeps shaking off his security detail to visit a dilapidated house near conservation land, where an intriguing recluse guards secrets of her own. With all parties overly conscious of spending too much time in the public eye and secrets swirling around both camps, it is difficult to parse what behavior is suspicious or not—until the bodies turn up.
 
Now, it’s up to Merry and Detective Howie Seitz to find a connection between two seemingly unconnected murders and catch the killer. But when everyone has a motive, and half of the suspects are politicians and actors, how can Merry and Howie tell fact from fiction?
 
This latest installment in critically acclaimed author Francine Mathews’ Merry Folger series is an immersive escape to festive Nantucket, a poignant exploration of grief as a result of parental absence, and a delicious new mystery to keep you guessing.

my thoughts:

A murder mystery at Christmas - yes, please! I absolutely LOVE cozy mystery novels and how much cozier can you get than a holiday murder master, right? Luckily for me, Francine Mathews has penned a new one for her popular series, A Merry Folger Nantucket Mystery Series, titles, Death On A Winter Stroll. First off, the title alone will hook you. I mean, c'mon, 'death', 'winter stroll' - how creepy and mysterious does that sound? That title alone grabbed my attention. Secondly, the book's cover. Seriously, how much more 'winter stroll' can we get? I loved it! All that snow, the narrow passage under the trees, that fogged out looking exit - it all screams BEWARE! Perfect for a murder mystery! Third, I've always heard great things about this series and I've had it on my TBR list, so I was super excited when I was given the opportunity to read the newest book in the series. Talk about perfect timing! I just loved settling down with a huge cuppa, a warm blanket, and this book during this holiday season - perfection! And, fourth, the book! It was awesome! I absolutely LOVED Death On A Winter Stroll! It may be the seventh book, but it was a great introduction for me into the series, which I will now be reading ASAP in 2023. 

So, what's to love about the actual story? Well, the superb writing for one. Mathews has written a terrific story chock full of mystery, murder, politics, celebrity, and post-COVID life - all of which makes for quite an intriguing read. And the characters are unforgettable - I just loved getting to know Police Chief Meredith (Merry) Folger! And, the town of Nantucket itself was a wonderful character, too. Plus, the mysteries that need to be solved ASAP are just too good! I couldn't help but try to figure out whodunit - always fun when reading a mystery. All in all, Death On A Winter Stroll is storytelling at its very best!

I would happily recommend this book to fans of the series and to anyone looking for their next holiday read - you are going to fall in love with this series! Make sure to check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Once Upon a December: A Novel by Amy E. Reichert

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

A one-of-a-kind Christmas market offers holiday magic in the new romance from the author of The Kindred Spirits Supper Club.

With a name like Astra Noel Snow, holiday spirit isn't just a seasonal specialty--it's a way of life. But after a stinging divorce, Astra's yearly trip to the Milwaukee Christmas market takes on a whole new meaning. She's ready to eat, drink, and be merry, especially with the handsome stranger who saves the best kringle for her at his family bakery.

For Jack Clausen, the Julemarked with its snowy lights and charming shops stays the same, while the world outside the joyful street changes, magically leaping from one December to the next every four weeks. He's never minded living this charmed existence until Astra shows him the life he's been missing outside of the festive red brick alley.

After a swoon-worthy series of dates, some Yuletide magic, and the unexpected glow of new love, Astra and Jack must decide whether this relationship can weather all seasons, or if what they're feeling is as ephemeral as marshmallows in a mug of hot cocoa.

my thoughts:

Love, love, loved this cozy, feel-good romance! Once Upon a December by Amy E. Reichert is a magical love story set during the holiday season. Astra is newly divorced and it's been a difficult time for her. Luckily, she has her friends to cheer her up and the holiday season to look forward to. In fact, she's excited to hit up the Milwaukee Christmas market - talk about the perfect way to kick off December. As for Jack, well, he's worked at his family's bakery for as long as he can remember. Their bakery is part of the Julemarked, which means that every month is December for them. Say what? Yep, they live in an alternate dimension where December never ends. Talk about Christmas addicts! Oh, and it turns out that Astra and Jack have met before - at the Christmas Market - only she can't remember him, because that is part of the magic of the Julemarked. Well, this year is different. Jack is ready to follow Astra outside of the Julemarked and see what he has been missing out on all of these years. They have a connection and can't help but fall in love. Except, December will end and Jack will have to leave...or will he? 

What a fun and sweet story! I just loved getting to know Astra and Jack, watching them fall in love during the holiday season - how romantic! Of course, can their love survive post-Christmas? That is the question. And, Reichert does an amazing job answering it. She's created a delightfully whimsical story that is perfect for this holiday season. So, make sure to pick up a copy and dive right in. You are going to LOVE it!! I did and I happily recommend it to fans of Reichert and to anyone looking for a new holiday read. Make sure to check out Once Upon a December!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Home Sweet Christmas: Wishing Tree #2 by Susan Mallery

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery's second book set in the small town of Wishing Tree, Washington is the witty and heartfelt story of two friends who expectedly find the person--and the place in which--they belong this Christmas, for fans of Elin Hildebrand, Robyn Carr, and Susan Wiggs.

This small-town life wasn’t supposed to be for Camryn Neff. But after her mother died, Camryn moved home to Wishing Tree, Washington to care for her teenaged twin sisters and run the family wrapping paper business, Wrap Around the Clock. She loves her sisters and would do anything for them but, when they head off to college, she’s excited to move back to Chicago and restart her real life, completely attachment-free. So when a prospective client schedules a meeting and announces Project: Jake’s Bride, a plot to find a wife for her son, Camryn is completely disinterested. And when this client announces that Camryn is a candidate, she’s horrified. Being tied down is the last thing Camryn needs right now. She has no choice but to tell Jake what his mom is planning. But Camryn never expected to genuinely like him so much…

River Best knows all about the danger of keeping secrets. After all, she’s had her heart broken and her world rocked by secrets a few times now and she won’t ever let it happen again. New to Wishing Tree and a little shy, River is looking to get involved in the community so she lets her friends talk her into running for Snow Queen, one of the town's honorary hosts of all Christmas events. She never expected to be drawn to Dylan Tucker, her Snow King. As the season progresses, River starts to trust him more and more and wonders if he's the one. But little does River know that Dylan is keeping a secret from her, one that threatens everything between them.

my thoughts:

Cozy holiday novels are my jam! I just loved Home Sweet Christmas by Susan Mallery! First off: Christmas.  Second: Wishing Tree - small town living! Third: falling in love during the holidays sounds like a Hallmark movie to me! So, how could I resist this sweet and heartwarming story, right? I couldn't! I had to read the book. Grabbing a cuppa, I settled down with this story and wound up spending the day with it - loving every minute of it, I might add. What a great book! Oh, and did I mention that this is the second book in Mallory's Wishing Tree series - well, it is and don't worry, it makes for a great standalone read. I know I enjoyed the book and I've never read the first book in the series - of course, now that I've read Home Sweet Christmas that is about to change. 

Camryn has been living in Wishing Tree taking care of her sisters and running the family business. She moved there when her mother passed away. However, her younger sisters are heading off to college and now it's time for Camryn to go back to her old life in Chicago - her real life. Except, a new client seems to believe that Camryn could be the potential 'bride' for her son. Say what? Yep, Jake's mom wants him married and she has a list of potential wives and Camryn is on that list. How crazy, right? The only thing is that when Camryn meets Jake, she finds herself liking him...a lot. Hmm...perhaps Chicago isn't in the cards for Camryn anymore and Wishing Tree is truly where she belongs? Oh, and did I mention River. Yep, she's another gal who wants a fresh start and she's chosen Wishing Tree to start over. She's got secrets to keep and a broken heart to mend, so she's all about her friendships at the moment.  And her friends are all about getting River to run for Snow Queen. So, she goes for it and winds up falling for the Snow King, Dylan. Say what? Yep, a royal romance may just be afoot in Wishing Tree. 

Talk about a delightful and fun story! I just loved getting to know the citizens of Wishing Tree and reading all about their holiday traditions during the Christmas season - what a treat! I just loved this book to bits! I would happily recommend Home Sweet Christmas to fans of Mallery and to anyone looking for their next holiday read - you will LOVE this book!! Check it out!!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Snowed In for Christmas by Sarah Morgan

 

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

What happens if the only Christmas celebration you want to attend is one you haven't been invited to? USA Today bestselling author Sarah Morgan delights with this hilarious and heartwarming Christmas cracker of a novel!

The Miller family Christmas is legendary – it’s the kind of perfect festive gathering that advertising exec Lucy has only ever read about. Until now. Because this year, she needs to get Ross Miller on board with a new contract, and he’s not taking her calls. So she has no choice – she’ll gatecrash the Miller Christmas, get Ross’s signature, then disappear before her envy at their epic family celebrations gets too much.

The Miller sisters couldn’t be more different – tough cookie doctor Alice despairs of soft-hearted nanny Clemmie – but they are united by two things. A wish to see their disreputable older brother Ross settle down, and horror at their parents’ well-meaning interrogations every Christmas! Especially this year, with both women hiding life-changing secrets they do not want dissected over the Christmas turkey. So when a woman shows up on their snowy Highland doorstep, asking for Ross, and their grandma mistakes her for Ross’s new girlfriend, an opportunity presents itself

Before she knows it, Lucy has been invited to stay for the holidays, as the newest Miller plus-one. Her ‘boyfriend’ is furious, but the chemistry between them is as tempting as it is surprising. It’s shaping up to be either Lucy’s worst Christmas of all, or the best mistake of her life….

my thoughts:

Wow! I loved this book! Snowed In for Christmas by Sarah Morgan is excellent! Talk about a fun holiday story about romance and the 'crazy' that only family can bring out in you. 

Lucy is an ad exec and she needs to get Ross Miller to sign a new contract ASAP.  Except, he's not taking her calls. So, she decides to gatecrash his family's legendary Christmas to get his signature. Except, things don't exactly go as planned. Yeah, it turns out that she gets mistaken for his new girlfriend and well, his sisters need a distraction, so let's just say, Lucy gets more than she bargained for. Oh, my!

Morgan has created a magical Christmas story that will reel you in right from the start. I loved getting to know Lucy and the Miller family - they are such an interesting and relatable cast of characters. Plus, the dynamic between Lucy and Ross is sizzling! Oh, and, the holdiay season is the perfect setting to fall into - who doesn't love Christmas!?! And, did I mention the craziness that the holidays inspires when it comes to  family - yep, it's all there. Snowed In for Christmas is the perfect book to kick off the holdiay season - it makes for such a fun and sweet read! Talk about a delicious holiday treat!

I would happily recommend Snowed In for Christmas to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read - check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Midnight In Everwood by M. A. Kuzniar

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

The Nutcracker for adults, perfect for fans of Robert Dinsdale’s The Toymakers, Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus and Stephanie Garber’s Caraval

’It was a rainy day that the magic came, and once magic has entered your life, you stay in its glittering clutch forever’

Nottingham, 1906

Marietta Stelle longs to be a ballerina but as Christmas draws nearer, her dancing days are numbered. At the wishes of her family, she will be obligated to marry and take up her place in society in the New Year. But when a mysterious toymaker, Dr Drosselmeier, purchases a neighbouring townhouse, it heralds the arrival of magic and wonder in her life. Although Drosselmeier’s magic is darker than Marietta could have imagined…

When he constructs an elaborate theatrical set for her final ballet performance, Marietta discovers it carries a magic all of its own. As the clock chimes midnight, Marietta finds herself walking through a land of snow-topped fir trees leading to a frozen sugar palace silent with secrets and must find a way to return home.

In the darkness of night, magic awaits and you will never forget what you find here…

my thoughts:

Midnight In Everwood by M. A. Kuzniar is a whimsical treat! I absolutely LOVED it to bits! Talk about a delectable read! 

Kuzniar's novel is a retelling of The Nutcracker, but for adults - and it is fantastic! We get Christmas, a ballerina, a mysterious toymaker, dark magic, romance, and adventure. I don't want to say much about the story, but if you've read Hoffman's The Nutcracker, then you already have some idea of what this book may be about. Either way, this magical story is one that you must experience for yourself. You just have to meet Marietta, her friends, and learn all about Everwood, and the wicked toymaker. Plus, you'll want to find out what happens to them all - will Marietta escape Everwood? Will Marietta find true love? Will this story have a happy ending? Believe me, you will enjoy getting lost in Kuzniar's fantastical world - it truly is a beautiful story filled with hints of inspiration from the original story, The Nutcracker. I just loved this book so much! It made me think of Christmas and all its magic. What a fun book!

I would happily recommend Midnight In Everwood to fans of The Nutcracker and to anyone looking for a magical read - you will fall in deep with this book. Enjoy!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Midnight In Everwood

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Meet Me In London: A Novel by Georgia Toffolo

(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

What do you do when your fake engagement starts to feel too real?

Aspiring clothes designer Victoria Scott spends her days working in a bar in Chelsea and her evenings designing vintage clothes, dreaming of one day opening her own boutique. But these aspirations are under threat from the new department store opening at the end of her road. She needs a Christmas miracle, but one is not forthcoming.

Oliver Russell’s Christmas is not looking very festive right now. His family’s new London department store opening is behind schedule, and on top of that his interfering, if well-meaning, mother is pressing him to bring his girlfriend home for a visit. A girlfriend who does not exist. He needs a diversion. Something to keep his mother from interfering while he focuses on the business.

When Oliver meets Victoria, he offers a proposition: pretend to be his girlfriend at the opening of his store and he will provide an opportunity for Victoria to showcase her designs. But what starts as a business arrangement soon becomes something more tempting, as the fake relationship starts to feel very real. But when secrets in Victoria’s past are exposed, will Oliver walk away, or will they both follow their hearts and find what neither knew they were looking for?

my thoughts:

What a delightful holiday read! I just LOVED Georgia Toffolo's latest book, Meet Me In London. It was such a cute and fun story. Perfect for a chilly day - just grab a cuppa and settle down somewhere comfy and dive right in.

Meet Me In London introduces us to Victoria and Oliver. She's an aspiring fashion designer, while he works for his family's business. The two are not having a happy Christmas season - Victoria's dreams are upended by the opening of a new store, while Oliver's department store is running behind schedule and his  mum wants him to bring his girlfriend home. What girlfriend? Oliver doesn't have one. Yikes! So, when Victoria and Oliver meet, he figures out a way to help Victoria and himself - pretend to be his girlfriend and he will find a way to help her out with her fashion design business. Say what? Talk about an unusual business arrangement. Suffice it to say, feelings start to show and secrets get revealed.  Soon, Oliver and Victoria are confused, hurt, and unsure about what to do. Can love really be the answer? Hmm...I suppose you'll have to read to find out. 

Overall, Toffolo has created an entertaining romance that will brighten your holiday season. Meet Me In London is a treat to read. Definitely check it out!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!

A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale by Karen Schaler

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

A “sweet Christmas charmer…” – Publishers Weekly

This feel-good, humorous, and heartwarming new Christmas romance, about the power of believing in yourself to find your happily ever after, is from the Emmy Award-winning writer of the Netflix sensation A Christmas Prince and Hallmark’s beloved Christmas Camp, the movie and novel. This enchanting escape is just what your heart needs this holiday season…

A charming Christmas village, a storybook castle, a royal ball, and a gorgeous prince are the last things New York City reporter Kaylie Karlyle expects to find on her holiday freelance assignment to Europe. But when the family she’s interviewing turns out to be the royal family of Tolvania, Kaylie has a meltdown when the quirky queen wants her to write a Christmas fairy tale for the spunky, young princess. Kaylie must battle the princess’s father, who doesn’t trust the media, and her own insecurities about writing anything beyond the news.

To spark inspiration for the fairy tale, the queen recruits the prickly Prince Alexander to show Kaylie the family’s most spectacular royal holiday traditions. And sparks definitely fly when the only thing Kaylie and the prince agree on is that they’re both more “bah humbug” than “ho, ho, ho.”

But somewhere between sleigh rides and snow angels, merrymaking and mistletoe, upside-down Christmas trees, and a legendary Christmas crown, Kaylie and the prince open their hearts to Christmas and start believing in themselves and each other. It’s a real-life fairy tale in the making until Kaylie discovers a secret about a royal Christmas heirloom that jeopardizes everyone’s happily ever after. Can the magic of the season save this holiday happy ending?

Bonus Content: Includes delicious royal Christmas recipes and holiday activities.

my thoughts:

Christmas is my favorite holiday and so when I was offered the chance to read Karen Schaler's latest holiday tome, A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale, I jumped at the chance. First off, I've read Schaler's Christmas-themed stories and have LOVED them all.  Secondly, I have also watched the two holiday films she wrote, A Christmas Prince for Netflix, and Christmas Camp for Hallmark - I LOVED them both!! Thirdly, Christmas anytime of the year is my cup of tea, so I just knew that I was in for a treat with A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale.  Suffice it to say, I LOVED the book to bits.

Kaylie is an investigative reporter in NYC and has just been let go of her job. Luckily for her, a friend is able to nab her a freelance writing assignment - the only catch, she has no idea what the actual assignment entails. Yep, it's a secret. So, Kaylie grabs her bag and boards a private jet to Tolvania. Once there, she finds out that instead of interviewing the Royal family for the assignment, the Queen wants her to write a fairy tale for granddaughter. Say what? Kaylie has never written a fairy tale and isn't so sure she is up to the task. However, she winds up taking it and soon finds herself being shown around the castle by a prickly prince named Alexander. Let's just say, the two soon become rather friendly and romance starts to blossom. Along the way, Kaylie also uncovers some truths about the royal family and the crown, which lead to some rather unhappy moments. However, as the true meaning of Christmas envelops the royal family and Kaylie in a snug hug, everything manages to find a way of working itself out in the best way possible. And, that is all I will write about this fantastic holiday book.  Just know that you are in for a treat. 

I would happily recommend A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale to fans of Schaler and to anyone looking for a holiday read - you will LOVE this book to bits! Check it out!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

From Karen Schaler, the writer of the Netflix phenomenon A Christmas Prince and Hallmark’s Christmas Camp comes this new heartwarming holiday romance. Mamma Mia meets The Bachelorette in Christmas Ever After…

While promoting her next novel, a Christmas love story, author Riley Reynolds is caught off guard when she’s asked during a live national television interview how she can write about romance when she still hasn’t found “the one” herself. Scrambling for an answer, she quickly answers that she has had great love in her past and that love inspired her novels. Little does she know that this one offhanded remark will turn her world upside down. Three of her ex-boyfriends see the interview, and each, believing she’s talking about him, shows up for her Christmas Camp book event at the Christmas Lake Lodge, determined to rewrite his happily-ever-after with her! Over the festive weekend, Riley’s old boyfriends compete to win her heart, pulling out all the stops while planning the most romantic Christmas dates on the planet. Despite herself, Riley starts falling for each guy- again-but for different reasons. As Riley revisits each relationship and discovers more about herself, she embraces the magic of Christmas and finally finds true love and her own Christmas ever after…

Bonus Content: Christmas Ever After includes delicious original Christmas recipes and fun holiday crafts and activities.

***Head over to Karen Schaler's website to sign up for her VIP newsletter for the latest on her many giveaways, special event and sneak peeks and much more!***

my thoughts:

Love, love, love!! What a fun book! Christmas Ever After is the perfect book to bring you some holiday cheer. I know it's still September, but the days are so dreary, that I can' help but look forward to the upcoming holiday season. And books are the best way to bring some of holiday excitement into your life, especially ones that read like a Hallmark movie.  So, I grabbed a huge cuppa, some chocolate chip cookies and settled down with my copy on a rainy day. I read and read and read until I got to the very end. Talk about a delightful read! Romance, a bit of drama, misunderstandings, old flames, and Christmas - what more could I want in a book!? 

Riley is promoting her new book when she's asked about "the One" and writing about romance. To quell any speculation about her lack of experience when it comes to falling in love, she dishes on a past romance that was the inspiration for her books. Not thinking much about her response, Riley heads off to her Christmas Camp event.  Unbeknownst to her, three ex-boyfriends saw the interview and are now convinced they are the inspiration for her books. So, what happens next? Well, they show up to her event and decide to woo her, again. Yep, it's a blast from the past experience for Riley and let's just say its surprising, funny, romantic, and nostalgic. Riley can't help but think back on each relationship and start looking at each guy as a new romantic partner...who will win her heart this time round? 

Schaler has written a terrific romance story that will hook you right from the start. You won't be a able to help but fall in deep with Riley and her suitors - cheering some on, trying to figure out who should be the one, and hoping for a Christmas love story ending. This is one book that you will thoroughly enjoy. reading. 

I would happily recommend Christmas Ever After to fans of Schaler and anyone looking for a holiday read - you will LOVE this book to bits!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Christmas Ever After  and the link to Karen Schaler's website - check them both out!!

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

My Bookish Christmas Wish List...

I'm running behind on all things Christmas this year. So much has been going on, that I am forever playing catch up. Or at least it feels that way. Anyhow, I am finally getting to my favorite holiday list...my wish list. Hurrah!

Well, here goes:

What do you think? A pretty good list, right? Well, definitely let me know if you think there are any titles I should add. And, what about you? What's on your wish list?

Hope you are having a great week! Happy reading!!

My Friday Five...

1.   I am finally free from helping my sister plan her wedding. Yep, the Big Day was this past weekend and it was fabulous.  She looked beautiful and happy and all of the things you want for someone you love. And the reception was so much fun. Loved it!! All of that planning, along with her Bridezilla behavior paid off in the end. Hurrah!!

2.  Books. I am compiling a list of books I want for Christmas. Yep, its that time again. I'm thinking some of the following would be lovely to receive. What do you think? Any recommendations for me?

Now, normally I would have already purchased these four books and read them by now. Except, lately my reading has been rather staid.  I've found myself rereading the Maisie Dobbs series and not really wanting to read much else. So, I'm hoping that compiling a bookish Christmas wish list will help inspire me to pick up a new book - my fingers are crossed.

3.  TV shows. I've been watching Housewives, TWD, and AHS 1984. First off, AHS 1984 was so much fun to watch. The 80s fashion, music, and horror movie inspirations threaded throughout was the BEST; plus, all of the familiar actors we love to watch in the AHS world were just awesome in their roles.  Definitely one of the best seasons Ryan Murphy has created. Can't wait for the next one. As for TWD, what is going on? One episode I'm loving the new group dynamics and the next episode I'm rolling my eyes with boredom. This show is just too much of a mixed bag for me lately. I'm not sure if I'll continue watching it next season. Such a disappointment.  Now, when it comes to the Housewives - OMG!! I am loving all of the shows. Right now they are showing OC, NJ, Atlanta, and Dallas. Talk about awesome!!

4.   Christmas TV movies.  Hallmark and Lifetime are showing Christmas movies all day long and it is AMAZING!! I am loving watching old favorites and the new one that come out each weekend. Its such a fun way to enjoy the holiday season. Plus, the movies are always fun - a bit of drama, romance, and Christmas (the perfect recipe!).  And, I just saw that OWN will be showing a few Christmas movies, too. Seems like every network wants to jump on the Christmas TV movie bandwagon. If I'm honest, I'm pretty partial to the Hallmark ones - they are the best ones (Nine Lives of Christmas, A Princess for Christmas, The Christmas Card, A Very Merry Mix-up and Once Upon a Christmas Miracle).

5. Music.  I've been watching Live From Here on Youtube and saw Sarah Jarosz sing a Dixie Chicks song to celebrate their birthdays.  I loved it. I'm a fan of the Dixie Chicks, so I was happy to hear their music on Live From Here. Of course, it inspired me to grab my Dixie Chicks CDs and listen to them as I wrote and edited this week. Such great music!

And, now I'm off to continue reading Maisie Dobbs. Hope you have a great weekend! Happy reading!!

We Met In December: A Novel by Rosie Curtis

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Following a year in the life of a twenty-something British woman who falls hard for her London flat mate, this clever, fun, and unforgettable romantic comedy is the perfect feel-good holiday read.

Two people. One house. A year that changes everything. 

Twenty-nine-year-old Jess is following her dream and moving to London. It’s December, and she’s taking a room in a crumbling, but grand, Notting Hill house-share with four virtual strangers. On her first night, Jess meets Alex, the guy sharing her floor, at a Christmas dinner hosted by her landlord. They don’t kiss, but as far as Jess is concerned the connection is clear. She starts planning how they will knock down the wall between them to spend more time together.

But when Jess returns from a two-week Christmas holiday, she finds Alex has started dating someone else—beautiful Emma, who lives on the floor above them. Now Jess faces a year of bumping into (hell, sharing a bathroom with) the man of her dreams…and the woman of his.

my thoughts:

Holiday romance novels are my jam. I absolutely LOVE to devour them along with a huge cuppa and some yummy sugar cookies.  Talk about the perfect combination - a love story during Christmas and some delectable treats.  What more could I ask for? Luckily, I was able to indulge in both thanks to Rosie Curtis' fantastic book, We Met In December.  Yep, I received the book and began reading it when November hit.  I made myself a delicious coffee and enjoyed some yummy sugar cookies as I settled on down to follow the story of Jess and Alex.  It was seriously the best reading experience this holiday season.

Jess lives in London and has moved into a house-share.  Being that Christmas is nigh, her landlord hosts a dinner for the roommates.  And who does Jess meet...Alex.  He's the guy sharing her floor in the house and he is most definitely someone she can picture a future with.  Yep, Jess is smitten with a capital, "S".  Except, when the holidays end, she finds Alex dating the woman who lives on the floor above theirs. Say what?! Seems like maybe Jess and Alex aren't on the same page when it comes to their romantic inclinations...or are they?

We Met In December is a sweet story that you won't want to miss. I absolutely LOVED it!! I would happily recommend this book to fans of romance stories - you will fall in deep with this one.

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: We Met In December

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!