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Making Spirits Bright
A heartwarming collection of holiday tales features Fern Michaels's “Making Spirits Bright”, in which Melanie McLaughlin uses her “just-for-the-holiday” sham marriage to Bryce Landry to adopt two orphaned siblings and give them a real home for Christmas. Simultaneous. (romance).
601 pages, Hardcover
First published October 25, 2011
333 people are currently reading
1126 people want to read
About the author
Fern Michaels
427 books6,533 followersFern Michaels isn’t a person. I’m not sure she’s an entity either since an entity is something with separate existence. Fern Michaels® is what I DO. Me, Mary Ruth Kuczkir. Growing up in Hastings, Pennsylvania, I was called Ruth. I became Mary when I entered the business world where first names were the order of the day. To this day, family and friends call me Dink, a name my father gave me when I was born because according to him I was ‘a dinky little thing’ weighing in at four and a half pounds. However, I answer to Fern since people are more comfortable with a name they can pronounce.
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
December 28, 2011
Four contemporary Christmas-themed novellas.
Typical of the genre in many ways. I found the first, by the headliner Fern Michaels, to be badly written and to have annoying characters. The other three varied in quality but were, without exception, better than the Michaels in almost every respect.
Not my favorite in the genre (anthologized Christmas novellas) by any stretch of the imagination. I'm only vaguely interested in reading any of these authors again, which is my test for one of these. Oh well--better luck next Christmas!
Typical of the genre in many ways. I found the first, by the headliner Fern Michaels, to be badly written and to have annoying characters. The other three varied in quality but were, without exception, better than the Michaels in almost every respect.
Not my favorite in the genre (anthologized Christmas novellas) by any stretch of the imagination. I'm only vaguely interested in reading any of these authors again, which is my test for one of these. Oh well--better luck next Christmas!
December 26, 2018
I have read the first two books in this set, Making Spirits Bright and Runaway Christmas. Both were excellent books. Kept me interested from the start to the finish. I would highly recommend the set to anyone interested in a good romance.
December 5, 2012
"Sugar, Spice & Romance Sprinkled with Mistletoe”
I have always enjoyed Ms. Michaels’ novels, and now, three literary stars join her in this volume—Elizabeth Bass, Nan Rossiter and Rosalind Noonan. With Fern Michaels’ “Making Spirits Bright”, we are introduced to wealthy graphics Designer Melanie McLaughlin
who, even though she seems to have it all, condo, car, her own business, plus friends and “Fur-Family”, lacks 2 precious items in her life—a special someone (that is until she is reunited with friend from long ago, the extremely handsome Bryce Landry) and her heart aches for motherhood. Melanie summons her courage and calls the “World Adoption Agency”, ready to complete the first steps in acquiring a family of her own. What a chaotic and nerve-wracking time! Melanie and Bryce begin to get closer and closer as, unknown to Bryce, Melanie survives her meeting with Adoption Agency Manager, caustic Olga Krause. Melanie is well prepared and all goes well until Ms. Krause informs her that the agency requires a private meeting with her husband. Uh-Oh! She doesn’t have one! Will that cancel her dreams of a long-awaited family? Will Bryce bow out of their possible relationship after he learns of Melanie’s maternal plans?
In “Runaway Christmas” by Elizabeth Bass, we identify with 13 yr. old Erica’s sadness at Christmastime. Not only is she missing her Mom, but her Dad has remarried and she’s coping with her new Step-Mom, Leanne and infant Step-Sister, Angelica, plus snarky and pregnant Aunt Laura and Uncle Webb have no Christmas Spirit, not even a tree! Erica feels unwanted, invisible and surrounded by babies and babies-to-be. When Uncle Webb advises her to keep her eyes open and grab an opportunity when it presents itself, he never could have imagined the adventure that would unfold. Who would understand how she feels? None other than Laura’s nemesis and former Step-Sister, Heidi who lives and works in Brooklyn, N.Y.—a long way from Texas! Erica, Laura, Heidi, and even Erica’s Dad, William learn a lot about the true meaning of Christmas.
Rosalind Noonan’s “Home for Christmas” finds single Mom, Jo Truman, her cousin, Molly and 5 yr. old daughter working hard in their store, “Cousin’s Christmas Shop”. Sad memories of Jo’s late fiancé’/famous skier/ Ava’s Father, Shane Demerit haunt Jo, especially when a rude customer keeps poking at the past. But things take a wild turn when Jo learns the identity of the woman’s husband, Sid Diamond who has come to town to purchase large amounts of real estate, demolish the centuries-old structures and build one of his world famous spas in their place! This includes “The Cascade House”, where Jo’s family works and even Jo and Molly’s shop! In the midst of all the turmoil, a special person from Jo’s past arrives from his stint in Afghanistan. Both he and Jo have to come to grips with their past and present, then, perhaps their yuletide will shine brightly. If you have read Nan Rossiter’s “ Words Get in the Way” and “The Gin and Chowder Club”, you will be familiar with Asa Coleman and his son, Noah. We find Asa coming face-to-face with haunting memories of a love and friendship he is sure will never be equaled. Son, Noah will always be a reminder and Maddie Carlson is now a special part of his life and hopes to be more if she can help him past the memories and remove his blinders. Along with Asa’s parents, fond remembrances turn into the first of many wonderful Christmases to come. Don’t miss this heart-tugging volume—it will warm you like something fresh from the oven! Nancy Narma
I have always enjoyed Ms. Michaels’ novels, and now, three literary stars join her in this volume—Elizabeth Bass, Nan Rossiter and Rosalind Noonan. With Fern Michaels’ “Making Spirits Bright”, we are introduced to wealthy graphics Designer Melanie McLaughlin
who, even though she seems to have it all, condo, car, her own business, plus friends and “Fur-Family”, lacks 2 precious items in her life—a special someone (that is until she is reunited with friend from long ago, the extremely handsome Bryce Landry) and her heart aches for motherhood. Melanie summons her courage and calls the “World Adoption Agency”, ready to complete the first steps in acquiring a family of her own. What a chaotic and nerve-wracking time! Melanie and Bryce begin to get closer and closer as, unknown to Bryce, Melanie survives her meeting with Adoption Agency Manager, caustic Olga Krause. Melanie is well prepared and all goes well until Ms. Krause informs her that the agency requires a private meeting with her husband. Uh-Oh! She doesn’t have one! Will that cancel her dreams of a long-awaited family? Will Bryce bow out of their possible relationship after he learns of Melanie’s maternal plans?
In “Runaway Christmas” by Elizabeth Bass, we identify with 13 yr. old Erica’s sadness at Christmastime. Not only is she missing her Mom, but her Dad has remarried and she’s coping with her new Step-Mom, Leanne and infant Step-Sister, Angelica, plus snarky and pregnant Aunt Laura and Uncle Webb have no Christmas Spirit, not even a tree! Erica feels unwanted, invisible and surrounded by babies and babies-to-be. When Uncle Webb advises her to keep her eyes open and grab an opportunity when it presents itself, he never could have imagined the adventure that would unfold. Who would understand how she feels? None other than Laura’s nemesis and former Step-Sister, Heidi who lives and works in Brooklyn, N.Y.—a long way from Texas! Erica, Laura, Heidi, and even Erica’s Dad, William learn a lot about the true meaning of Christmas.
Rosalind Noonan’s “Home for Christmas” finds single Mom, Jo Truman, her cousin, Molly and 5 yr. old daughter working hard in their store, “Cousin’s Christmas Shop”. Sad memories of Jo’s late fiancé’/famous skier/ Ava’s Father, Shane Demerit haunt Jo, especially when a rude customer keeps poking at the past. But things take a wild turn when Jo learns the identity of the woman’s husband, Sid Diamond who has come to town to purchase large amounts of real estate, demolish the centuries-old structures and build one of his world famous spas in their place! This includes “The Cascade House”, where Jo’s family works and even Jo and Molly’s shop! In the midst of all the turmoil, a special person from Jo’s past arrives from his stint in Afghanistan. Both he and Jo have to come to grips with their past and present, then, perhaps their yuletide will shine brightly. If you have read Nan Rossiter’s “ Words Get in the Way” and “The Gin and Chowder Club”, you will be familiar with Asa Coleman and his son, Noah. We find Asa coming face-to-face with haunting memories of a love and friendship he is sure will never be equaled. Son, Noah will always be a reminder and Maddie Carlson is now a special part of his life and hopes to be more if she can help him past the memories and remove his blinders. Along with Asa’s parents, fond remembrances turn into the first of many wonderful Christmases to come. Don’t miss this heart-tugging volume—it will warm you like something fresh from the oven! Nancy Narma
January 3, 2026
What a great 4 short stories collection! They were Hallmark worthy and definitely G-rated. Each one was written by a different author. Yet, they made for light, pleasant Christmas enjoyment. Very happy the library discarded this book so I could buy it.
November 1, 2011
MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT Fern Michaels; Elizabeth Bass; Rosalind Noonan; Nan Rossiter
4 stories for the price of one, you can't go wrong!
Making Spirits Bright by Ferm Micahels
This is just one story out of 4 in this Christmas book. This tale is of a woman that shuts down her PC during the holidays so you can devote
her whole time to the holidays and friends and fmaily. She cares for the little girls down the street and attends parties that arise suddenly.
She also meets up with her friends brother and they spend several days together, doing everything: skiing, chopping down a real Christmas tree
and traveling for a short holiday. She get antsy about having children and starts the adoption process and wonders if her being single is going
to be a problem. Tragic things happen that lead to a wonderful finish. They would make a prefect fit with one another but there are others to consider.
I rate this book a 5 out of 5, it's easy to follow with a handful of characters. Love the holiday season, the decorations, food, festivities, friends
and family. Like that this is so up todate with events that have made the paper - the octomom was one mention. This is only one out of 4 so I know the
rest will be just as good as this first story.
Runaway Christmas by elizabeth hass
In this story we find Heidi, she runs a bake shop in NY. Her idea for Christmas this year is to not decorate her apartment and watch Avatar. Her niece in Texas feels
left out with a new baby on the way in the family. Heidi gets a free tree, drags it home and there are problems. Up top of everything else she forgets about the cash
box in a plastic bag from the shop. Now the landlady and the nanny upstairs need her. What else can go wrong, oh plenty more. It's called an ice storm and effects everything.
Maybe there won't be a Christmas at all? I rate this story a 5 out of 5, light reading with some intrigue. Easy to follow and in the spirit of the holidays.
Home for Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Just started this story and am in love with it. set in Woodstock, NH as Jo is heading up the mountain with others there is a talk about
the area, the Old Man in the Mountain is a spot I've recently wanted to see with my spouse. The trip is in the works as we speak as he's never
been there. Jo runs a Christmas shop and has finally made a lot of money selling trees fully decorated. so much money she no longer has to work
at nights at the ski lodge cleaning for them. her spouse was killed on the slopes and she's heading up there to ward off others from going down
the icy terrain. Her daughter is well looked after by a live in cousin as she goes to college for her nursing degree. ah-yeah and wicked=love the
New England slang! this story reminds me of my family-they even have a swear jar. he's just back from the war and is disfigured and doesn't allow
her to even see him til they've met many times. as they begin to care for one another she wants to keep him in the dark about their relationship
and other things that are finally brought out the day before Christmas. Will they be able to get through it or does he leave?
Christmas on Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter
Maddie helps her teacher friend and child for the holidays. They travel to the Cape Cod house where the boy remembers his previous parents and
certain things. Traditions are a must: carrots for the reindeer, cookies and eggnog for Santa, Mass the night before where Noah is given a special
thing to do, makes him feel real special. The surprise Noah gets when he wakes up in the morning has a two fold meaning. What a precious story this
is and the characters are also in another of Nan's books: the gin and chowder club. I rate this book a 5 out of 5, easy to pay attention to what's
going on with the characters, their surroundings and the Christmas traditions.
4 stories for the price of one, you can't go wrong!
Making Spirits Bright by Ferm Micahels
This is just one story out of 4 in this Christmas book. This tale is of a woman that shuts down her PC during the holidays so you can devote
her whole time to the holidays and friends and fmaily. She cares for the little girls down the street and attends parties that arise suddenly.
She also meets up with her friends brother and they spend several days together, doing everything: skiing, chopping down a real Christmas tree
and traveling for a short holiday. She get antsy about having children and starts the adoption process and wonders if her being single is going
to be a problem. Tragic things happen that lead to a wonderful finish. They would make a prefect fit with one another but there are others to consider.
I rate this book a 5 out of 5, it's easy to follow with a handful of characters. Love the holiday season, the decorations, food, festivities, friends
and family. Like that this is so up todate with events that have made the paper - the octomom was one mention. This is only one out of 4 so I know the
rest will be just as good as this first story.
Runaway Christmas by elizabeth hass
In this story we find Heidi, she runs a bake shop in NY. Her idea for Christmas this year is to not decorate her apartment and watch Avatar. Her niece in Texas feels
left out with a new baby on the way in the family. Heidi gets a free tree, drags it home and there are problems. Up top of everything else she forgets about the cash
box in a plastic bag from the shop. Now the landlady and the nanny upstairs need her. What else can go wrong, oh plenty more. It's called an ice storm and effects everything.
Maybe there won't be a Christmas at all? I rate this story a 5 out of 5, light reading with some intrigue. Easy to follow and in the spirit of the holidays.
Home for Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Just started this story and am in love with it. set in Woodstock, NH as Jo is heading up the mountain with others there is a talk about
the area, the Old Man in the Mountain is a spot I've recently wanted to see with my spouse. The trip is in the works as we speak as he's never
been there. Jo runs a Christmas shop and has finally made a lot of money selling trees fully decorated. so much money she no longer has to work
at nights at the ski lodge cleaning for them. her spouse was killed on the slopes and she's heading up there to ward off others from going down
the icy terrain. Her daughter is well looked after by a live in cousin as she goes to college for her nursing degree. ah-yeah and wicked=love the
New England slang! this story reminds me of my family-they even have a swear jar. he's just back from the war and is disfigured and doesn't allow
her to even see him til they've met many times. as they begin to care for one another she wants to keep him in the dark about their relationship
and other things that are finally brought out the day before Christmas. Will they be able to get through it or does he leave?
Christmas on Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter
Maddie helps her teacher friend and child for the holidays. They travel to the Cape Cod house where the boy remembers his previous parents and
certain things. Traditions are a must: carrots for the reindeer, cookies and eggnog for Santa, Mass the night before where Noah is given a special
thing to do, makes him feel real special. The surprise Noah gets when he wakes up in the morning has a two fold meaning. What a precious story this
is and the characters are also in another of Nan's books: the gin and chowder club. I rate this book a 5 out of 5, easy to pay attention to what's
going on with the characters, their surroundings and the Christmas traditions.
December 21, 2025
Nice collection of 4 different stories by 4 different authors who put a healthy dose of Christmas magic and cheer....all stories are nice and got meaningful moments and really loved this book....
July 27, 2013
Curl up by the fireplace and escape with four delightful Christmas stories. Finding love, starting a family, second chances and most of all enjoying the holiday season are major themes in each story.
Making Spirits Bright by Fern Michaels
Melanie McLaughlin runs a successful business and lives with her two beloved pets Odie and Clovis. While watching her best friend’s girls, Amanda and Ashley, Melanie starts to feel the pangs of not having a family of her own. After some soul searching, Melanie decides not to wait for Mr. Right and she contacts an adoption agency. Unfortunately, the adoption agency prefers perspective parents to be married. When Bryce Landry comes back to town, Melanie begins to wonder if she might have found the love and the family she has wanted for so long.
Making Spirits Bright is a fast paced story that flows easily. The chemistry between Melanie and Bryce is a bit awkward at the start. As the story progresses, their relationship grows to a slow burn. The relationships between Melanie and her friends are realistic and heart warming. Especially, the heartfelt moments Melanie has with Amanda and Ashley. The story comes to a satisfying end that will not disappoint the reader. Michaels’ captures the magic of Christmas and the importance of always believing in your dreams.
Runaway Christmas by Elizabeth Bass
Heidi Bogue, the owner of the Sweetgum Café, has the perfect Christmas planned. Heidi has been looking forward to spending the day alone in her pajamas watching movies. Erica, Heidi’s thirteen-year-old niece, also has the perfect Christmas planned. Erica concocts a plan to leave Texas and travel to New York to be with Heidi. A snowstorm, a runaway nanny, an adorable toddler and an unexpected guest are not what Heidi planned. Sometimes in life, those random moments of chaos, lead to a lifetime of bliss.
Runaway Christmas is a delightful story that will put a smile on your face. The dialogue is snappy and there are a lot laugh out loud moments. Bass introduces many characters at the beginning of the story. As the plot progresses, the characters and their back stories come together seamlessly. The character of Laura and her issues with pregnancy are quirky and fun. The interaction between Heidi and the secondary characters provide many humorous moments. Heidi’s developing relationship with Patrick is tender. Bass weaves the elements of humanity, compassion and love into delicious story. Relax, unwind and get comfortable in the Sweetgum Café.
Home for Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Jo Truman is co-owner of Cousins’ Christmas Shop in lovely Woodstock, New Hampshire. Jo, determined to put the past behind her, works hard to support herself and daughter, Ava. Memories of the past begin to rise to the surface after Clarice Diamond visits Cousins’ Christmas Shop. Shortly thereafter, Sam Norwood, an old friend comes back to Woodstock after serving in Afghanistan. As Sam and Jo begin to discover their feelings for each other, Jo must fight for the future of her family and Woodstock.
Rosalind Noonan has crafted a well-written short story with multi-dimensional characters. Determination, forgiveness and family values are at the core of Home for Christmas. Noonan captures the essence of the picturesque small New Hampshire town. The chemistry between Jo and Sam sizzles from the start. As the story develops, their relationship deepens and they both begin to heal. The issues associated with returning to civilian life and dealing with injuries from the war is told in a realistic and honest tone. Home for Christmas is a story that will warm your heart and bring a tear to your eye
Review by Lisa
Book Provided by Publisher
Review Originally Posted @ Romancing the Book
Making Spirits Bright by Fern Michaels
Melanie McLaughlin runs a successful business and lives with her two beloved pets Odie and Clovis. While watching her best friend’s girls, Amanda and Ashley, Melanie starts to feel the pangs of not having a family of her own. After some soul searching, Melanie decides not to wait for Mr. Right and she contacts an adoption agency. Unfortunately, the adoption agency prefers perspective parents to be married. When Bryce Landry comes back to town, Melanie begins to wonder if she might have found the love and the family she has wanted for so long.
Making Spirits Bright is a fast paced story that flows easily. The chemistry between Melanie and Bryce is a bit awkward at the start. As the story progresses, their relationship grows to a slow burn. The relationships between Melanie and her friends are realistic and heart warming. Especially, the heartfelt moments Melanie has with Amanda and Ashley. The story comes to a satisfying end that will not disappoint the reader. Michaels’ captures the magic of Christmas and the importance of always believing in your dreams.
Runaway Christmas by Elizabeth Bass
Heidi Bogue, the owner of the Sweetgum Café, has the perfect Christmas planned. Heidi has been looking forward to spending the day alone in her pajamas watching movies. Erica, Heidi’s thirteen-year-old niece, also has the perfect Christmas planned. Erica concocts a plan to leave Texas and travel to New York to be with Heidi. A snowstorm, a runaway nanny, an adorable toddler and an unexpected guest are not what Heidi planned. Sometimes in life, those random moments of chaos, lead to a lifetime of bliss.
Runaway Christmas is a delightful story that will put a smile on your face. The dialogue is snappy and there are a lot laugh out loud moments. Bass introduces many characters at the beginning of the story. As the plot progresses, the characters and their back stories come together seamlessly. The character of Laura and her issues with pregnancy are quirky and fun. The interaction between Heidi and the secondary characters provide many humorous moments. Heidi’s developing relationship with Patrick is tender. Bass weaves the elements of humanity, compassion and love into delicious story. Relax, unwind and get comfortable in the Sweetgum Café.
Home for Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Jo Truman is co-owner of Cousins’ Christmas Shop in lovely Woodstock, New Hampshire. Jo, determined to put the past behind her, works hard to support herself and daughter, Ava. Memories of the past begin to rise to the surface after Clarice Diamond visits Cousins’ Christmas Shop. Shortly thereafter, Sam Norwood, an old friend comes back to Woodstock after serving in Afghanistan. As Sam and Jo begin to discover their feelings for each other, Jo must fight for the future of her family and Woodstock.
Rosalind Noonan has crafted a well-written short story with multi-dimensional characters. Determination, forgiveness and family values are at the core of Home for Christmas. Noonan captures the essence of the picturesque small New Hampshire town. The chemistry between Jo and Sam sizzles from the start. As the story develops, their relationship deepens and they both begin to heal. The issues associated with returning to civilian life and dealing with injuries from the war is told in a realistic and honest tone. Home for Christmas is a story that will warm your heart and bring a tear to your eye
Review by Lisa
Book Provided by Publisher
Review Originally Posted @ Romancing the Book
October 28, 2011
Making Spirits Bright by Fern Michaels
Melanie McLaughlin is a single lady living with her three year old dog Odie and her newly adopted cat, Clovis. Melanie loves spending time with her best friend Stephanie's daughters Amanda and Ashley. Melanie longs to have children of her own and begins looking into adoption as a single parent, thus begins an adventure of love. Will Melanie be approved for adoption? Will Melanie find a special person to love?
This is a story of believing in yourself and believing in your dreams. Making Spirits Bright was a delightful read.
Runaway Christmas by Elizabeth Bass
This story is centered around a 13 year old girl named Erica. After the death of her mother Erica has been feeling a little left out. Her Father has her stepmother Leanne but where does Erica fit in? Her Aunt Laura isn't into Christmas this year. Aunt Laura is pregnant and fighting morning sickness. Erica comes up with a plan to go to New York to spend Christmas with her step-Aunt, well sort of, Heidi.
At first I wasn't sure where this story was going. The more I read, the more I liked the story line. This story was about people opening their hearts and their lives to make a bad situation into a good one. Each person involved worked together in a time of need. This story has a wonderful Christmas ending. Curl up in a chair, wrap yourself in a blanket, drink some hot cocoa, have some warm cookies and enjoy this story. I did!
Home For Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Jo Truman loves her small town of Woodstock where she grew up. A perfect place to raise her 5 year old daughter Ava. Jo is co-owner of Cousins' Christmas Shop with her cousin Molly.
Sam Norwood returned to his home in Woodstock after serving 4 years in Afghanistan. Because of injuries that Sam suffered in Afghanistan he plans to stick close to home.
While growing up together, Sam has always had feelings for Jo but Jo was interested in his best friend Shane. Now that Shane is gone, would Jo be interested in him or is he too hideous looking?
I loved how the author slowly brought two lonely hearts together. One felt as though they could never be loved because of outward appearances. The other felt their child should come first at all cost.
This is a delightful story that will warm your heart!
Christmas On Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter
Asa, Asa's son Noah, and Asa's best friend Maddie spend the Christmas season together on Cape Cod with Asa's parents.
Maddie has feelings for Asa. She has for a long time. Will Asa ever share those same feelings? Is it possible that she, Asa, and Noah might become a family some day?
This Christmas story will capture your heart. It is a story about family, love, and special surprises at Christmas. This story leaves you with a feel good feeling. I smiled, I laughed, and yes I shed a few tears.
This is the first time I've read anything by Nan Rossiter. I am hooked! I have become a fan and I'm looking forward to reading many more books by her. Thank you for this very enjoyable Christmas read!
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Melanie McLaughlin is a single lady living with her three year old dog Odie and her newly adopted cat, Clovis. Melanie loves spending time with her best friend Stephanie's daughters Amanda and Ashley. Melanie longs to have children of her own and begins looking into adoption as a single parent, thus begins an adventure of love. Will Melanie be approved for adoption? Will Melanie find a special person to love?
This is a story of believing in yourself and believing in your dreams. Making Spirits Bright was a delightful read.
Runaway Christmas by Elizabeth Bass
This story is centered around a 13 year old girl named Erica. After the death of her mother Erica has been feeling a little left out. Her Father has her stepmother Leanne but where does Erica fit in? Her Aunt Laura isn't into Christmas this year. Aunt Laura is pregnant and fighting morning sickness. Erica comes up with a plan to go to New York to spend Christmas with her step-Aunt, well sort of, Heidi.
At first I wasn't sure where this story was going. The more I read, the more I liked the story line. This story was about people opening their hearts and their lives to make a bad situation into a good one. Each person involved worked together in a time of need. This story has a wonderful Christmas ending. Curl up in a chair, wrap yourself in a blanket, drink some hot cocoa, have some warm cookies and enjoy this story. I did!
Home For Christmas by Rosalind Noonan
Jo Truman loves her small town of Woodstock where she grew up. A perfect place to raise her 5 year old daughter Ava. Jo is co-owner of Cousins' Christmas Shop with her cousin Molly.
Sam Norwood returned to his home in Woodstock after serving 4 years in Afghanistan. Because of injuries that Sam suffered in Afghanistan he plans to stick close to home.
While growing up together, Sam has always had feelings for Jo but Jo was interested in his best friend Shane. Now that Shane is gone, would Jo be interested in him or is he too hideous looking?
I loved how the author slowly brought two lonely hearts together. One felt as though they could never be loved because of outward appearances. The other felt their child should come first at all cost.
This is a delightful story that will warm your heart!
Christmas On Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter
Asa, Asa's son Noah, and Asa's best friend Maddie spend the Christmas season together on Cape Cod with Asa's parents.
Maddie has feelings for Asa. She has for a long time. Will Asa ever share those same feelings? Is it possible that she, Asa, and Noah might become a family some day?
This Christmas story will capture your heart. It is a story about family, love, and special surprises at Christmas. This story leaves you with a feel good feeling. I smiled, I laughed, and yes I shed a few tears.
This is the first time I've read anything by Nan Rossiter. I am hooked! I have become a fan and I'm looking forward to reading many more books by her. Thank you for this very enjoyable Christmas read!
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November 5, 2015
Making Spirits Bright:
This was a very cute story, but I wish she had done more research on the cat, it just wasn't very realistic at times. But while the animals were cute, they weren't part of the actual romance. Melanie really steals the show in this one in her quest to adopt a child. Her determination was amazing and was something she wanted with all her heart. Bryce was a great guy. He was fun and all, but a bit too much of "whatever you want I want". There really wasn't a conflict there. I don't need much, but a little would have been nice.
Runaway Christmas:
This was my favorite of the bunch! Heidi's world is really turned upside down this Christmas as everything seems to go wrong! Even the weather has it in for her and her dreams of a quiet, peaceful Christmas by herself are shattered. Her niece was just the right touch, but I'm not entirely sure how necessary she was to the story. It's almost as if she was added just to give another potential complication. There's a couple romances, and both are really sweet.
Home for Christmas:
This one had a back story and a lot going on for a novella. Very well layered, with a great small town versus big corporation running through it as well. Sam is a great hero - with lots of depth and a lot of development as we move along. Jo was a tad too sweet for my taste. Just a little to goodie.
Christmas on Cape Cod:
This one was my least favorite. A very sugary couple with a very sugary Christmas story. It just wasn't my style at all.
Overall, this was a great mix of Christmas tales. Some were better than others, but it was a great addition to my Christmas reading for the year.
This was a very cute story, but I wish she had done more research on the cat, it just wasn't very realistic at times. But while the animals were cute, they weren't part of the actual romance. Melanie really steals the show in this one in her quest to adopt a child. Her determination was amazing and was something she wanted with all her heart. Bryce was a great guy. He was fun and all, but a bit too much of "whatever you want I want". There really wasn't a conflict there. I don't need much, but a little would have been nice.
Runaway Christmas:
This was my favorite of the bunch! Heidi's world is really turned upside down this Christmas as everything seems to go wrong! Even the weather has it in for her and her dreams of a quiet, peaceful Christmas by herself are shattered. Her niece was just the right touch, but I'm not entirely sure how necessary she was to the story. It's almost as if she was added just to give another potential complication. There's a couple romances, and both are really sweet.
Home for Christmas:
This one had a back story and a lot going on for a novella. Very well layered, with a great small town versus big corporation running through it as well. Sam is a great hero - with lots of depth and a lot of development as we move along. Jo was a tad too sweet for my taste. Just a little to goodie.
Christmas on Cape Cod:
This one was my least favorite. A very sugary couple with a very sugary Christmas story. It just wasn't my style at all.
Overall, this was a great mix of Christmas tales. Some were better than others, but it was a great addition to my Christmas reading for the year.
December 31, 2021
I gave up on the first story after 3 chapters - too cheesy and not well written. The second story was pretty good, though very predictable. The third story would have been good but there were some things I didn't like about it. The gratuitous use of the word "wicked" (very cliche) and religious references. There was also a slightly sexist remark, which I didn't appreciate. The last story was very heartwarming, but predictable. Cheesy but cute. The writing was for very young adults. I would not recommend.
May 6, 2021
Thi s book contains 4 stories. by 4 different authors.
Making Spirits Bright - Fern Michaels - Melanie wants to adopt 2 orphaned siblings and give
them a home for Christmas.
Runaway Christmas - Elizabeth Bass - Heidi's 13 year old niece makes a surprise visit.
Home for Christmas - Rosalind noonan - Jo Truman finds herself needing a replacement to play
Santa Clause.... enters Sam Norwood
Christmas on Cape Cod - Nan Rossiter - Maddie and Asa Coleman - find love
Making Spirits Bright - Fern Michaels - Melanie wants to adopt 2 orphaned siblings and give
them a home for Christmas.
Runaway Christmas - Elizabeth Bass - Heidi's 13 year old niece makes a surprise visit.
Home for Christmas - Rosalind noonan - Jo Truman finds herself needing a replacement to play
Santa Clause.... enters Sam Norwood
Christmas on Cape Cod - Nan Rossiter - Maddie and Asa Coleman - find love
December 2, 2011
The Fern Michaels story was awful, basically a commercial for the Navigator & Uggs. The important part of the story was on 3 pages at the very end.
2nd story was depressing.
The 3rd & 4th were nice.
Sorry would not spend the money on this book.
2nd story was depressing.
The 3rd & 4th were nice.
Sorry would not spend the money on this book.
December 19, 2017
Four touching, loving and fun stories that remind you what the Christmas season is all about. What the true meaning is and how it isn’t just for the month of December. I absolutely loved all four of them and highly recommend this book for the Christmas season.
December 11, 2018
A nice Christmas story.
If you like mushy love stories then this one is for you. I love 💘Christmas and I love love stories. Since it's the season for love and you are feeling it, read this book. That's all I have to say. Merry Christmas.
If you like mushy love stories then this one is for you. I love 💘Christmas and I love love stories. Since it's the season for love and you are feeling it, read this book. That's all I have to say. Merry Christmas.
December 2, 2011
Like 4 mini Fa-la-la-la Lifetime holiday movies packaged up and sent to my Kindle in book form. :)
November 9, 2016
Good and light hearted, just what I needed from a book!
August 7, 2017
Great book.fern michaels story was my favorite. Want to hear more about the landrys :)
January 9, 2018
Great Christmas time read. I especially liked the last story by Nan Rossiter.
October 30, 2018
The first one was very slow and the plot was a little weird. But the other three were very pleasant.
December 23, 2018
3 books in one and each one has a moral to tell! I enjoyed them!!!
February 14, 2021
Great stories
June 24, 2022
Absolutely Fantastic
July 6, 2022
This short story was a terrific read; it ties in with other short stories in the book Mistletoe Magic
November 6, 2022
4 different and separate short stories by 4 different authors around the time of Christmas.
August 14, 2024
Nothing like good book with few stories to read and bring some memories of Christmas spirit.
September 14, 2025
New Relationships and Brighter Tomorrows
All the stories in the book are heart touching, and warm. It gives you a new meaning To a second chance
All the stories in the book are heart touching, and warm. It gives you a new meaning To a second chance
December 9, 2024
A disappointing collection.
The title story, by Fern Michaels (whose writing I have enjoyed in the past) was the worst of the batch. It was like she had the idea for two stories and just kind of muddled them together and then removed half of it. Nothing made sense. Less than a hundred pages, every conversation should be meaningful, but she had loads of throwaway comments. (A whole conversation with her friend's daughters about weddings; promises one daughter she can be her bridesmaid someday... then gets married in Vegas two chapters later. Why did we have this conversation!?) Is part of the problem the fact that my youngest sister was adopted out of foster care, so I spent most of this story going That's not how this works!? To me, it was very off-putting the way that the MC just decided she HAD to have a kid, and even though she just thought of this idea literally today, she wants the kid IMMEDIATELY - it just basically felt like the child was a commodity that she had the right to go out and buy like you would a puppy, and it gave me the icks. In the end, she marries a guy she barely knows and ends up with two small children, all at the same time. Definitely sounds like a recipe for happiness and not a complete mess...
Runaway Christmas was my favorite of the four. Teenager in Texas is having a rough Christmas since her mom died last year and now she's living with the dad/stepmom she barely knows. She decides to run away to visit her aunt in NYC, who owns a coffee shop. Meanwhile, the aunt is having a complicated few days and keeps getting saddled with various extra responsibilities (the neighbor's dog, for instance), and on top of everything else the power goes out at her house, so the coffee shop ends up being a kind of spontaneous shelter for the neighborhood. These characters were fun and the situation managed to stay just on the right side of ridiculous while still being funny.
Home for Christmas was okay, but this was one of those books where it felt like it was the middle of a series and the author just assumed you already knew all of her characters and their relationships and motivations. The FMC is a single mom and she's bizarrely obsessed with staying single because of ONE book she read that said that you shouldn't have "temporary men" drifting in and out of your child's life. Okay, that's fair, but she literally wants to marry this guy...??? The whole thing where she acted like she was embarrassed to be dating him just because she didn't want her (five year old) daughter to know about it just seemed dumb.
Christmas on Cape Cod would have been a perfectly pleasant story about a single dad and his son getting a puppy for Christmas, except the author couldn't be bothered to give me a one-page explanation as to what the heck was going on with their entire family relationship. Obviously the kid's mom is gone... eventually we find out she's dead. But then something something he was living with some other guy he called dad, but I guess that wasn't his real dad, because this guy is his real dad?? I THINK what happened is Guy A was dating Girl and she got pregnant and they broke up and Girl married Guy B and then a few years later Guy B died so the kid went back to Guy A, who is the actual birth dad. But then there is also this throwaway line about how Girl died WHILE GIVING BIRTH...??? It would have taken two paragraphs to explain to me the actual situation, but because it never happened, I spent the entire time in detective mode trying to figure out what the heck was going on with these relationships instead of actually enjoying the otherwise perfectly-fine story.
The title story, by Fern Michaels (whose writing I have enjoyed in the past) was the worst of the batch. It was like she had the idea for two stories and just kind of muddled them together and then removed half of it. Nothing made sense. Less than a hundred pages, every conversation should be meaningful, but she had loads of throwaway comments. (A whole conversation with her friend's daughters about weddings; promises one daughter she can be her bridesmaid someday... then gets married in Vegas two chapters later. Why did we have this conversation!?) Is part of the problem the fact that my youngest sister was adopted out of foster care, so I spent most of this story going That's not how this works!? To me, it was very off-putting the way that the MC just decided she HAD to have a kid, and even though she just thought of this idea literally today, she wants the kid IMMEDIATELY - it just basically felt like the child was a commodity that she had the right to go out and buy like you would a puppy, and it gave me the icks. In the end, she marries a guy she barely knows and ends up with two small children, all at the same time. Definitely sounds like a recipe for happiness and not a complete mess...
Runaway Christmas was my favorite of the four. Teenager in Texas is having a rough Christmas since her mom died last year and now she's living with the dad/stepmom she barely knows. She decides to run away to visit her aunt in NYC, who owns a coffee shop. Meanwhile, the aunt is having a complicated few days and keeps getting saddled with various extra responsibilities (the neighbor's dog, for instance), and on top of everything else the power goes out at her house, so the coffee shop ends up being a kind of spontaneous shelter for the neighborhood. These characters were fun and the situation managed to stay just on the right side of ridiculous while still being funny.
Home for Christmas was okay, but this was one of those books where it felt like it was the middle of a series and the author just assumed you already knew all of her characters and their relationships and motivations. The FMC is a single mom and she's bizarrely obsessed with staying single because of ONE book she read that said that you shouldn't have "temporary men" drifting in and out of your child's life. Okay, that's fair, but she literally wants to marry this guy...??? The whole thing where she acted like she was embarrassed to be dating him just because she didn't want her (five year old) daughter to know about it just seemed dumb.
Christmas on Cape Cod would have been a perfectly pleasant story about a single dad and his son getting a puppy for Christmas, except the author couldn't be bothered to give me a one-page explanation as to what the heck was going on with their entire family relationship. Obviously the kid's mom is gone... eventually we find out she's dead. But then something something he was living with some other guy he called dad, but I guess that wasn't his real dad, because this guy is his real dad?? I THINK what happened is Guy A was dating Girl and she got pregnant and they broke up and Girl married Guy B and then a few years later Guy B died so the kid went back to Guy A, who is the actual birth dad. But then there is also this throwaway line about how Girl died WHILE GIVING BIRTH...??? It would have taken two paragraphs to explain to me the actual situation, but because it never happened, I spent the entire time in detective mode trying to figure out what the heck was going on with these relationships instead of actually enjoying the otherwise perfectly-fine story.
December 6, 2022
I always enjoy Christmas books, and this was no exception. It included 4 short stories and some of them ended abruptly, and I felt they could have been longer to explain more. One was about a single lady wanting to adopt, one about a single lady thinking her Christmas would be watching movies by herself, one about a man who had been scarred in the war, and one about a girl who has loved her best friend who has no idea. I think my favorite and least favorite all tied into one was the first one.
August 2, 2020
I was not a fan of this. Several times I caught myself saying I must of read this before. It's too familiar. Then I realized it was the Fern Michaels Formula. Some things never change. That includes the framework to ALL of her books. The writing is really not that good. I think she's gotten used to writing the same thing over & over again & come to depend on the blind loyalty of her dedicated readers. (I'm thinking they may not get out much.) Read at your own risk.
December 10, 2017
This Christmas offering, with 4 different authors, under the banner of Fern Michaels, was a much better group of stories. The were light hearted, quick reads and made your spirits bright - perfect for this time of year. Have a merry Christmas!
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