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Nightingale Square #5
That Festive Feeling
Holly has the place to herself this Christmas. It’s not her place, though – she is house-sitting for friends who live on Nightingale Square – just there to keep the place warm and cosy and only for long enough for her to sort her life out. Newly single and finding herself unsure about next steps for her career, she plans to hunker down and make some life decisions.
To clear her mind, she sets off on early morning walks around a nearby lake and bumps into May, an older lady who is also new to the area, and her dapper Dachshund Monty. Quickly, a firm friendship blossoms. Then when Holly meets Bear, a rather large and rather attractive man, at the local pub, and his rescue dog Queenie, her stay at Nightingale Square suddenly feels even more appealing.
As the community comes together for the season’s festivities, Holly must start thinking about where her life will take her next. Some big decisions need to be made, but distractions close to home make thinking about the future more tricky than ever…
Will she get that festive feeling this Christmas…?
To clear her mind, she sets off on early morning walks around a nearby lake and bumps into May, an older lady who is also new to the area, and her dapper Dachshund Monty. Quickly, a firm friendship blossoms. Then when Holly meets Bear, a rather large and rather attractive man, at the local pub, and his rescue dog Queenie, her stay at Nightingale Square suddenly feels even more appealing.
As the community comes together for the season’s festivities, Holly must start thinking about where her life will take her next. Some big decisions need to be made, but distractions close to home make thinking about the future more tricky than ever…
Will she get that festive feeling this Christmas…?
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2023
168 people are currently reading
1180 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Swain
31 books1,225 followersAlthough passionate about writing from an early age, Heidi Swain gained a degree in Literature, flirted briefly with a newspaper career, married and had two children before she finally plucked up the courage to join a creative writing class and take her literary ambitions seriously.
A lover of Galaxy bars, vintage paraphernalia and the odd bottle of fizz, she now writes contemporary fiction and enjoys the company of a whole host of feisty female characters.
Heidi can be found at the keyboard at all hours of the day and night and quite often scribbling longhand in her car during her lunch break. She lives in stunning south Norfolk with her wonderful son and daughter and a mischievous cat called Storm.
A lover of Galaxy bars, vintage paraphernalia and the odd bottle of fizz, she now writes contemporary fiction and enjoys the company of a whole host of feisty female characters.
Heidi can be found at the keyboard at all hours of the day and night and quite often scribbling longhand in her car during her lunch break. She lives in stunning south Norfolk with her wonderful son and daughter and a mischievous cat called Storm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
August 29, 2024
*Cosy Xmas Read *
This is the last of the books that feature Nightingale Square. In this instalment we meet Holly. She is looking for a place to stay as her life has not panned out how she thought. She never wanted children and she thought her husband was on the same page as her until he wasn’t.
With her marriage behind her and needing to move out due to the house sale she decides to ask her parents if she can stay with them. They have never seen eye to eye but reluctantly agree. Then at the 11th hour a friend living in Nightingale Square offers her the chance to house sit. When she rings her parents to let them down they struggle to hide their relief.
Holly decides when she goes to the square she will hide away. She has met some of them before when she was with her ex husband.
With Christmas approaching fast she wants some downtime to figure out her next move.
She loves to go for walks and bumps into May. She is an older flamboyant lady with a delightful Dachshund named Monty. They strike up a firm friendship. Holly has never known a warm relationship like May’s and as they get to know each other the feeling is mutual.
Holly then meets Bear aka Teddy who is large, powerful and muscular. She is instantly attracted to him and they get off on the wrong foot. You can instantly see Heidi Swain’s ingredients working with the assumptions, misunderstandings and barriers in the way.
Holly started out wanting to hibernate in the house but, what will her life look like once the colourful residents in the square get hold of her? Will she be single all the way?
A touch predictable but a cosy and lovely read as Heidi Swain weaves all the pieces together
This is the last of the books that feature Nightingale Square. In this instalment we meet Holly. She is looking for a place to stay as her life has not panned out how she thought. She never wanted children and she thought her husband was on the same page as her until he wasn’t.
With her marriage behind her and needing to move out due to the house sale she decides to ask her parents if she can stay with them. They have never seen eye to eye but reluctantly agree. Then at the 11th hour a friend living in Nightingale Square offers her the chance to house sit. When she rings her parents to let them down they struggle to hide their relief.
Holly decides when she goes to the square she will hide away. She has met some of them before when she was with her ex husband.
With Christmas approaching fast she wants some downtime to figure out her next move.
She loves to go for walks and bumps into May. She is an older flamboyant lady with a delightful Dachshund named Monty. They strike up a firm friendship. Holly has never known a warm relationship like May’s and as they get to know each other the feeling is mutual.
Holly then meets Bear aka Teddy who is large, powerful and muscular. She is instantly attracted to him and they get off on the wrong foot. You can instantly see Heidi Swain’s ingredients working with the assumptions, misunderstandings and barriers in the way.
Holly started out wanting to hibernate in the house but, what will her life look like once the colourful residents in the square get hold of her? Will she be single all the way?
A touch predictable but a cosy and lovely read as Heidi Swain weaves all the pieces together
December 12, 2023
3 - 3.5 ⭐
Cute front cover, lovely village setting and a fab friendship between Holly and May.
I'm in the minority with my rating 😏 I just felt the book dragged on longer than necessary in parts.
An easy but predictable Festive read 💕
Cute front cover, lovely village setting and a fab friendship between Holly and May.
I'm in the minority with my rating 😏 I just felt the book dragged on longer than necessary in parts.
An easy but predictable Festive read 💕
December 11, 2023
Set against the backdrop of a new beginning in an unfamiliar locale, this slowburn romance weaves a tender love story that captivates from start to finish. The narrative unfolds with a delightful pace, allowing the audience to savor each moment as characters navigate the intricacies of budding affection. The author masterfully crafts an atmosphere of anticipation and connection, making the reader eagerly anticipate each turning point.
One of the charming elements that elevates this tale is the inclusion of some irresistibly cute dogs. These furry companions add a heartwarming touch to the narrative, creating moments of joy and shared warmth. Their presence not only enhances the emotional depth of the story but also serves as a delightful thread that weaves through the evolving relationship.
The exploration of a fresh start in a new place adds a layer of relatability, as characters navigate the challenges and discoveries that come with unfamiliar surroundings. The author skillfully intertwines the themes of new beginnings and blossoming love, creating a narrative that resonates with those who appreciate the beauty of second chances and the magic of starting anew.
In conclusion, this slowburn romance is a delightful journey filled with tenderness, new beginnings, and the undeniable charm of adorable canine companions. A perfect read for those who crave a heartwarming story that seamlessly blends the sweetness of love with the joys of embracing change.
One of the charming elements that elevates this tale is the inclusion of some irresistibly cute dogs. These furry companions add a heartwarming touch to the narrative, creating moments of joy and shared warmth. Their presence not only enhances the emotional depth of the story but also serves as a delightful thread that weaves through the evolving relationship.
The exploration of a fresh start in a new place adds a layer of relatability, as characters navigate the challenges and discoveries that come with unfamiliar surroundings. The author skillfully intertwines the themes of new beginnings and blossoming love, creating a narrative that resonates with those who appreciate the beauty of second chances and the magic of starting anew.
In conclusion, this slowburn romance is a delightful journey filled with tenderness, new beginnings, and the undeniable charm of adorable canine companions. A perfect read for those who crave a heartwarming story that seamlessly blends the sweetness of love with the joys of embracing change.
December 13, 2023
I'm not doing well with my festive reads this year! Again this one fell a bit flat for me and the characters felt one-dimensional. I really enjoyed May and Holly's friendship and the dogs. I just wasn't invested in the romance and felt the reasons they weren't together were somewhat trivial and could have been worked out with some honest conversations. 2.5 stars for me
November 23, 2023
simply lovely
That Festive Feeling is the loveliest of books; a warm hug on a chilly day; a future filled with possibilities; a rainbow of emotions and colors to brighten the dullness of disappointment. Holly, Bear, May, Monty and Queenie are a delightful cast of characters who felt like friends and family as I read their heartwarming story. Grab a cup of cocoa, put on a festive holiday sweater, and enjoy this book this holiday season!
That Festive Feeling is the loveliest of books; a warm hug on a chilly day; a future filled with possibilities; a rainbow of emotions and colors to brighten the dullness of disappointment. Holly, Bear, May, Monty and Queenie are a delightful cast of characters who felt like friends and family as I read their heartwarming story. Grab a cup of cocoa, put on a festive holiday sweater, and enjoy this book this holiday season!
October 12, 2024
I think Nightingale Square has to be my favourite Heidi Swain setting, so I was so excited to be visiting again this Christmas! It’s a wonderful community and whenever I now visit Norwich I imagine the Grow Well crew are around me!
Holly was a fantastic new character, I liked her desire to move to the square and to give herself a break from her old life and some time to concentrate on what she wants to do in her future. As always, despite her desire to keep herself to herself she is soon drawn into the lovely community and finds herself some new friends in the process.
May is simply adorable, the perfect breath of fresh air for Holly! Monty is just so cute and I loved that he was as flamboyantly dressed as his quirky owner!
And Bear, well he strode into the story and totally stole my heart! (Sorry Finn!) And I would have happily driven off into the sunset in his horse box home!
A beautiful story about friendship and taking a chance on a new start, so uplifting to see Holly make connections and to realise that she can achieve her dreams.
A gorgeous slow burn love story, some gorgeous dog characters and an ending that made me sigh with pleasure, this book definitely gave me all the feels! ❤️
Holly was a fantastic new character, I liked her desire to move to the square and to give herself a break from her old life and some time to concentrate on what she wants to do in her future. As always, despite her desire to keep herself to herself she is soon drawn into the lovely community and finds herself some new friends in the process.
May is simply adorable, the perfect breath of fresh air for Holly! Monty is just so cute and I loved that he was as flamboyantly dressed as his quirky owner!
And Bear, well he strode into the story and totally stole my heart! (Sorry Finn!) And I would have happily driven off into the sunset in his horse box home!
A beautiful story about friendship and taking a chance on a new start, so uplifting to see Holly make connections and to realise that she can achieve her dreams.
A gorgeous slow burn love story, some gorgeous dog characters and an ending that made me sigh with pleasure, this book definitely gave me all the feels! ❤️
February 15, 2024
It was great seeing old characters and meeting new. A nice Christmas story.
October 12, 2023
Another sweet festive read from Heidi. Her books are always a treat and the Christmas ones always make me feel like curling up by a roaring log fire, snowing outside. The story was easy to get into with a satisfying ending. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 20, 2023
I loved this Christmas book, which is about a woman called Holly who moves to Nightingale Square, where she meets an older woman called May, a man called Bear, and his dog Queenie. She feels close to them, and they have a nice time together. This is a lovely heartwarming book, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I recommend it highly, as well as Heidi's other books, which are all wonderful!
November 16, 2023
A new book in the NIghtingale Square, yuppi, right?
Not so.
The first half of the book was slow, very slow and felt very repetitive. The second half of the book felt also slow, to be honest, but at least felt less repetitive. Although it was actually all the same, only put in different words, repeating the same situations, getting back and back again to the same thoughts and problems. The character of Bear was absolutely not my pair of shoes, assuming things, deciding about things and altogether feeling very flat and gah, and all the other characters, oh my god, they felt so stereotyped!
I finished reading this book two days ago and already forgot about it. Sadly. I was expecting something more and not same old, same old. I think I am probably too old for Heidi Swain's books - her characters don't grow up with me, like those of many others authors, where they mature and have other, more realstic, problems. I'm not saying it's bad or wrong, I'm just saying that I am probably not the right audience for Swain's books anymore. Yes, it was festive, yes, it was heart - warming, but mostly it was lifeless.
Not so.
The first half of the book was slow, very slow and felt very repetitive. The second half of the book felt also slow, to be honest, but at least felt less repetitive. Although it was actually all the same, only put in different words, repeating the same situations, getting back and back again to the same thoughts and problems. The character of Bear was absolutely not my pair of shoes, assuming things, deciding about things and altogether feeling very flat and gah, and all the other characters, oh my god, they felt so stereotyped!
I finished reading this book two days ago and already forgot about it. Sadly. I was expecting something more and not same old, same old. I think I am probably too old for Heidi Swain's books - her characters don't grow up with me, like those of many others authors, where they mature and have other, more realstic, problems. I'm not saying it's bad or wrong, I'm just saying that I am probably not the right audience for Swain's books anymore. Yes, it was festive, yes, it was heart - warming, but mostly it was lifeless.
December 15, 2023
This was our book club Christmas read. I didn’t not enjoy it, I liked the main characters and the story, but felt the storyline moved slowly. But a nice cheery Christmas read.
December 25, 2023
It was a little slower than I prefer. Although I loved May, I didn't connect with the other characters. The dogs, especially Monty were a nice touch
October 11, 2023
4.5 (rtc)
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for approving me for an ARC of this book. After enjoying Heidi’s previous books I was excited to start this one. Once again my lovely friend, Bex, buddy read this with me.
❄️Set in the idyllic community of Nightingale Square, this is the perfect story to cosy up with as the darker nights draw closer.
⛪At the centre of all of Heidi’s books is a strong sense of community. I love the comradery and banding together that this book showed. Spending time with the residents of Nightingale Square is like being enveloped in a warm hug!
🎁Whilst I did enjoy the romance between Holly and Bear I have to say that I loved May even more. She was a fascinating character who had me giggling on many occasions, especially when she was meddling.
🐕But the true stars of the show were Queenie and Monty. This lovable duo stole a piece of my heart and I would like to know when Tall Tales from Small Dogs is hitting our shelves?
⭐This was another brilliant read from Heidi Swain. Filled with festive spirit and a lot of love, this is the perfect escapist read!
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for approving me for an ARC of this book. After enjoying Heidi’s previous books I was excited to start this one. Once again my lovely friend, Bex, buddy read this with me.
❄️Set in the idyllic community of Nightingale Square, this is the perfect story to cosy up with as the darker nights draw closer.
⛪At the centre of all of Heidi’s books is a strong sense of community. I love the comradery and banding together that this book showed. Spending time with the residents of Nightingale Square is like being enveloped in a warm hug!
🎁Whilst I did enjoy the romance between Holly and Bear I have to say that I loved May even more. She was a fascinating character who had me giggling on many occasions, especially when she was meddling.
🐕But the true stars of the show were Queenie and Monty. This lovable duo stole a piece of my heart and I would like to know when Tall Tales from Small Dogs is hitting our shelves?
⭐This was another brilliant read from Heidi Swain. Filled with festive spirit and a lot of love, this is the perfect escapist read!
October 19, 2023
4-4.5*
Read this book for:
🎄Community vibes
🎄Found Families
🎄Plenty of festive cheer!
This was my first book by the author & certainly won’t be my last. I finished this book late last night & now can’t wait for December to come knocking 🫶🏻🤭🤶
Things I loved:
❤️All the cute little characters. May in particular was an absolute gem.
❤️The Romance
❤️Monty & Queenie 🐕
❤️All the character growth
❤️The warm fluffy feeling I felt reading this book. Literally if I could use one emoji to describe this book it would be: 🥰
Things I struggled with:
❤️Some of the chapters were a little longer than I like but that’s me & my preference!
If you’re looking for a cheesy, romantic, fuzzy festive book to get you in the mood for Christmas, then this is the one for you!! I challenge you not to smile whilst reading this book 🥰🥰🥰
Read this book for:
🎄Community vibes
🎄Found Families
🎄Plenty of festive cheer!
This was my first book by the author & certainly won’t be my last. I finished this book late last night & now can’t wait for December to come knocking 🫶🏻🤭🤶
Things I loved:
❤️All the cute little characters. May in particular was an absolute gem.
❤️The Romance
❤️Monty & Queenie 🐕
❤️All the character growth
❤️The warm fluffy feeling I felt reading this book. Literally if I could use one emoji to describe this book it would be: 🥰
Things I struggled with:
❤️Some of the chapters were a little longer than I like but that’s me & my preference!
If you’re looking for a cheesy, romantic, fuzzy festive book to get you in the mood for Christmas, then this is the one for you!! I challenge you not to smile whilst reading this book 🥰🥰🥰
December 6, 2023
I love all of Heidi Swain’s books set in Nightingale Square. They have fabulous character development for the main female character but just as important to me, it’s always easy for me to identify with them (even when they’re not my age) and feel the emotional ups and downs that they do.
In that Festive Feeling, 30-year-old Holly has had no room for spontaneity in her life and with the breakup of her marriage, needs to find somewhere to live. In Nightingale Square, Neil and Mark need a house sitter for a while … the perfect opportunity for Holly to figure out where she’s going to live and what she’s going to do about her career. She’s hoping to keep her head down – if you’ve read any of these stories you’ll know just how impossible that is 🙂 Such a fab community who are honest and really care. You know she’s going to find it hard not to get drawn in … especially when there’s a performance at The Chapel that needs volunteers.
Loved the characters. Holly’s friendship with May is very nurturing and perfect for Holly to explore who she really is; Bear is gorgeous inside and out. It was great touching base with the characters we’ve known from before!
A few favourites:
The pooch shoot – OMG how adorable (and a touch of humour too)
Wynter’s Trees – I loved this setting in Underneath the Christmas Tree and was excited to be going back there (even if it was for a short time!)
The creative theme throughout the story
Most of all though I loved Holly pushing past her limits and boundaries to find out important things about herself. Her attitude towards embracing change dusted off a little on me too.
This is a ‘will they, won’t they’ with a difference. I found it a refreshing change to have barriers different from the norm in a romance read.
That Festive Feeling is another Heidi Swain story that has made me feel as if I’ve been wrapped up in a big snuggly hug. It doesn’t get better than this!
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/that-...
In that Festive Feeling, 30-year-old Holly has had no room for spontaneity in her life and with the breakup of her marriage, needs to find somewhere to live. In Nightingale Square, Neil and Mark need a house sitter for a while … the perfect opportunity for Holly to figure out where she’s going to live and what she’s going to do about her career. She’s hoping to keep her head down – if you’ve read any of these stories you’ll know just how impossible that is 🙂 Such a fab community who are honest and really care. You know she’s going to find it hard not to get drawn in … especially when there’s a performance at The Chapel that needs volunteers.
Loved the characters. Holly’s friendship with May is very nurturing and perfect for Holly to explore who she really is; Bear is gorgeous inside and out. It was great touching base with the characters we’ve known from before!
A few favourites:
The pooch shoot – OMG how adorable (and a touch of humour too)
Wynter’s Trees – I loved this setting in Underneath the Christmas Tree and was excited to be going back there (even if it was for a short time!)
The creative theme throughout the story
Most of all though I loved Holly pushing past her limits and boundaries to find out important things about herself. Her attitude towards embracing change dusted off a little on me too.
This is a ‘will they, won’t they’ with a difference. I found it a refreshing change to have barriers different from the norm in a romance read.
That Festive Feeling is another Heidi Swain story that has made me feel as if I’ve been wrapped up in a big snuggly hug. It doesn’t get better than this!
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/that-...
November 16, 2024
Another trip to Nightingale Square and I really enjoyed it. Such a cosy little, will they or won't they story. Holly takes on a house sitting job for her friends, whilst she's deciding what to do with her life and her job.
Whilst out on a walk she strikes up an unlikely friendship with May and her dog, Monty. Then she meets Bear and his dog Queenie. Bear starts to get under her skin and Holly is so unsure what to do.
I loved the friendship between Holly and May. I honestly could have bashed Holly and Bear's heads together quite a few times (in a good way though lol). Nightingale Square seems like such a lovely place and it's nice how they all look out for one another.
Whilst out on a walk she strikes up an unlikely friendship with May and her dog, Monty. Then she meets Bear and his dog Queenie. Bear starts to get under her skin and Holly is so unsure what to do.
I loved the friendship between Holly and May. I honestly could have bashed Holly and Bear's heads together quite a few times (in a good way though lol). Nightingale Square seems like such a lovely place and it's nice how they all look out for one another.
December 3, 2024
A perfect Festive feel good read
A perfect snuggle up for Christmas. Great characters, the right amount of misunderstandings, making up and full on family life. A sprinkling of community spirit. A celebrity who saves the Christmas play. And two almost human dogs. What’s not to love! Happy Christmas x
A perfect snuggle up for Christmas. Great characters, the right amount of misunderstandings, making up and full on family life. A sprinkling of community spirit. A celebrity who saves the Christmas play. And two almost human dogs. What’s not to love! Happy Christmas x
December 10, 2024
Easy read and fine story
December 13, 2025
Another lovely cosy romantic lighthearted story by Heidi .
Cosy, small town vibes that hits the spot and make you want to live in Nightingale square .
Cosy, small town vibes that hits the spot and make you want to live in Nightingale square .
January 3, 2026
An adorable festive fueled story, from displacement to fun, romance and found family full of feeling. Plenty of adorable pawesome adventures and lots of holiday spirit.
October 20, 2023
This latest Nightingale Square story is the 5th in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I have to say what a treat it was to meet some lovely warm new characters and to catch up with the old ones, who have come to feel like friends now.
Newly divorced Holly is the main character that is with the exception of the two quirky dogs, Monty and Queenie who are unforgettable.
When Holly is offered to house sit for her friends Mark and Neil in Nightingale Square, Holly decides to take the opportunity to hanker down and rethink her life. This is all well and good in theory but the residents have other ideas and she is soon caught up with the festivities the community are involved with. Meeting May brings colour, friendship and joy into Holly’s life as May is a breath of fresh air. Mays son Bear stirs forgotten passion and romance in Holly that comes as a complete surprise.
This gorgeous festive story brought sparkle and warmth in abundance and I thought its book cover is perfect for the story.
My thanks to Net Galley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC.
Newly divorced Holly is the main character that is with the exception of the two quirky dogs, Monty and Queenie who are unforgettable.
When Holly is offered to house sit for her friends Mark and Neil in Nightingale Square, Holly decides to take the opportunity to hanker down and rethink her life. This is all well and good in theory but the residents have other ideas and she is soon caught up with the festivities the community are involved with. Meeting May brings colour, friendship and joy into Holly’s life as May is a breath of fresh air. Mays son Bear stirs forgotten passion and romance in Holly that comes as a complete surprise.
This gorgeous festive story brought sparkle and warmth in abundance and I thought its book cover is perfect for the story.
My thanks to Net Galley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC.
December 26, 2023
That Festive Feeling by Heidi Swain
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Holly has the place to herself this Christmas. It’s not her place, though – she is house-sitting for friends who live on Nightingale Square – just there to keep the place warm and cosy and only for long enough for her to sort her life out. Newly single and finding herself unsure about next steps for her career, she plans to hunker down and make some life decisions.
To clear her mind, she sets off on early morning walks around a nearby lake and bumps into May, an older lady who is also new to the area, and her dapper Dachshund Monty. Quickly, a firm friendship blossoms. Then when Holly meets Bear, a rather large and rather attractive man, at the local pub, and his rescue dog Queenie, her stay at Nightingale Square suddenly feels even more appealing.
As the community comes together for the season’s festivities, Holly must start thinking about where her life will take her next. Some big decisions need to be made, but distractions close to home make thinking about the future more tricky than ever…
Will she get that festive feeling this Christmas…?
My Opinion
Christmas is always a lovely time in Nightingale Square, and it was lovely to catch up with some old favourites as well as meeting the new characters. This could easily be read as a standalone, however it is better when read as part of the series. This is filling with Christmas spirit and will make for a great read over the festive season.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Holly has the place to herself this Christmas. It’s not her place, though – she is house-sitting for friends who live on Nightingale Square – just there to keep the place warm and cosy and only for long enough for her to sort her life out. Newly single and finding herself unsure about next steps for her career, she plans to hunker down and make some life decisions.
To clear her mind, she sets off on early morning walks around a nearby lake and bumps into May, an older lady who is also new to the area, and her dapper Dachshund Monty. Quickly, a firm friendship blossoms. Then when Holly meets Bear, a rather large and rather attractive man, at the local pub, and his rescue dog Queenie, her stay at Nightingale Square suddenly feels even more appealing.
As the community comes together for the season’s festivities, Holly must start thinking about where her life will take her next. Some big decisions need to be made, but distractions close to home make thinking about the future more tricky than ever…
Will she get that festive feeling this Christmas…?
My Opinion
Christmas is always a lovely time in Nightingale Square, and it was lovely to catch up with some old favourites as well as meeting the new characters. This could easily be read as a standalone, however it is better when read as part of the series. This is filling with Christmas spirit and will make for a great read over the festive season.
Rating 4/5
October 20, 2024
*Audiobook*
I know, I know, we haven't even hit Halloween yet, and here I am reading (listening to) a Christmas book. I put a reserve on this book through my local library, and it came up much sooner than anticipated. Don't hold it against me!
That Festive Feeling, what can I say other than it is what it is. There are absolutely no surprises here! It is a very inoffensive read - take that as you wish, some might see it as a positive, and some might see it as the height of negative praise. It's not intended as negative, but it is also not designed to imply that it's great. It's not. This book is written well enough to be entertaining, but the entertainment value is found in the clichés that riddle it. The characters are neither strong nor weak. They just are. They exist on the page, but they do not come to life. I never expected them to, though, in fairness.
Would I recommend this book? As I said, it's inoffensive. It's not going to tax you. It's also not going to surprise you, but you probably will enjoy parts of it. It's not essential festive reading, but you could do worse.
I know, I know, we haven't even hit Halloween yet, and here I am reading (listening to) a Christmas book. I put a reserve on this book through my local library, and it came up much sooner than anticipated. Don't hold it against me!
That Festive Feeling, what can I say other than it is what it is. There are absolutely no surprises here! It is a very inoffensive read - take that as you wish, some might see it as a positive, and some might see it as the height of negative praise. It's not intended as negative, but it is also not designed to imply that it's great. It's not. This book is written well enough to be entertaining, but the entertainment value is found in the clichés that riddle it. The characters are neither strong nor weak. They just are. They exist on the page, but they do not come to life. I never expected them to, though, in fairness.
Would I recommend this book? As I said, it's inoffensive. It's not going to tax you. It's also not going to surprise you, but you probably will enjoy parts of it. It's not essential festive reading, but you could do worse.
December 10, 2023
I love Heidi’s books and couldn’t wait to read That Festive Feeling. It’s the perfect book to snuggle up with this December and it will make you smile but also look at life differently.
That Festive Feeling follows the story of Holly, recently divorced, homeless and missing the love of her job. For the festive months, Holly house sits for her friends in Nightingale Square in Norfolk and whilst there she has a plan: hunker down, chill out and figure out what house to buy.
But things turn out differently as Holly meets May and the unlikely duo become fast friends. With May in her life, Holly begins a new adventure full of new faces, new challenges, new ambitions and a new love.
Holly is strong, creative and so kind but also a bit stubborn and guarded. She’s the perfect match to Bear because they even each other out. Bear is charming, sweet and more relaxed than most but he gives Holly a lot to think about.
I really enjoyed reading their story and was glad to see other characters from Heidi’s previous books make an appearance. I’m so glad I read That Festive Feeling this December 😊
That Festive Feeling follows the story of Holly, recently divorced, homeless and missing the love of her job. For the festive months, Holly house sits for her friends in Nightingale Square in Norfolk and whilst there she has a plan: hunker down, chill out and figure out what house to buy.
But things turn out differently as Holly meets May and the unlikely duo become fast friends. With May in her life, Holly begins a new adventure full of new faces, new challenges, new ambitions and a new love.
Holly is strong, creative and so kind but also a bit stubborn and guarded. She’s the perfect match to Bear because they even each other out. Bear is charming, sweet and more relaxed than most but he gives Holly a lot to think about.
I really enjoyed reading their story and was glad to see other characters from Heidi’s previous books make an appearance. I’m so glad I read That Festive Feeling this December 😊
December 26, 2023
If I could do five plus stars for this I really would. I loved every single character and loved going back to nightingale square. This author is one of my favourites and has smashed it out of the park with this Christmas book. Our leading lady Holly is so not into Christmas but going to nightingale square it was inevitable that the community would grab her🥰 Meeting May whilst walking is my favourite friendship within the book. Yes we have romance but it’s that friendship that was the key and the two gorgeous dogs. I love the way the author portrays older protagonists and doesn’t stereotype. If you like animals and community then this is the Christmas story you should read.
October 15, 2023
Christmas back on Nightingale Square, what a festive treat! When Holly comes to house sit for friends on Nightingale square she has fallen out of love with her work and lost her mojo for life. When a chance meeting with May and her little dog Monty brings more happiness to her life than Holly can imagine . Then she meets Bear and his dog Queenie her life takes another massive turn. Taking us back to the beautiful beach town of Whybridge and a few familiar faces we follow the life’s of Holly and Bear. A beautiful story with characters old and new Christmas in Nightingale Square is definitely the place to be. Thanks you NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Uk for a chance to read an ARC.
October 9, 2023
Full of festive fabulousness and the magic that comes with a brilliantly written novel by Heidi Swain.
Beautiful characters, a lovely setting and the promise of romance set at Christmas. As a reader you are drawn into the characters and the plot. Magnificent.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Beautiful characters, a lovely setting and the promise of romance set at Christmas. As a reader you are drawn into the characters and the plot. Magnificent.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2023
Want to get into the festive spirit? Heidi Swain’s books will always leave you feeling ready for the season and ‘That Festive Feeling’ is just perfect for doing just that.
Having created many wonderful settings for us, Nightingale Square is so special and even more so at Christmas time. It’s a strong community with a great cast of characters (or friends as us Swainettes see them).
Holly is a great addition to the characters we love so much. She is housesitting for characters we already have come to know a little about and all she wants is to hide herself away, have a quiet time to evaluate her life/options for roving forward. She is adamant that she will not be drawn in to all the frolics and activities in the square, not matter how much any of the neighbours try to cajole her. Even I know this is not realistic with the Nightingale Square residents and soon Holly is finding herself getting involved.
Holly does strive for some quiet independence and soon becomes friends with a dog walker called May. May is the absolute best, what a colourful breath of fresh air she is, I adore her and would love to have her tenacity and character. The bond formed between these two characters is gorgeous, really so heart warming and it’s very clear both are helping each other in so many ways.
After a collision with Bear, Holly’s festive season is about to get busier and perhaps a little more complicated than she expected. Bear lives in an ‘alternative’ home and is quite keen to show Holly she has options she had never considered.
An absolutely gorgeous story with friendship at the heart of it all. Encouraging people to take chances, make changes and putting a bit of trust in other people again. Although it is a romance, it gives us so much more – comedy, drama, heart warming messages of kindness and compassion. A story to inspire people to follow their hearts and dreams, think outside the box and to always add a little more colour to their lives.
Left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. Another Heidi Swain classic!!
Having created many wonderful settings for us, Nightingale Square is so special and even more so at Christmas time. It’s a strong community with a great cast of characters (or friends as us Swainettes see them).
Holly is a great addition to the characters we love so much. She is housesitting for characters we already have come to know a little about and all she wants is to hide herself away, have a quiet time to evaluate her life/options for roving forward. She is adamant that she will not be drawn in to all the frolics and activities in the square, not matter how much any of the neighbours try to cajole her. Even I know this is not realistic with the Nightingale Square residents and soon Holly is finding herself getting involved.
Holly does strive for some quiet independence and soon becomes friends with a dog walker called May. May is the absolute best, what a colourful breath of fresh air she is, I adore her and would love to have her tenacity and character. The bond formed between these two characters is gorgeous, really so heart warming and it’s very clear both are helping each other in so many ways.
After a collision with Bear, Holly’s festive season is about to get busier and perhaps a little more complicated than she expected. Bear lives in an ‘alternative’ home and is quite keen to show Holly she has options she had never considered.
An absolutely gorgeous story with friendship at the heart of it all. Encouraging people to take chances, make changes and putting a bit of trust in other people again. Although it is a romance, it gives us so much more – comedy, drama, heart warming messages of kindness and compassion. A story to inspire people to follow their hearts and dreams, think outside the box and to always add a little more colour to their lives.
Left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. Another Heidi Swain classic!!
November 17, 2023
As always, Heidi has delivered a perfect festive feel-good book!
I adored the characters, new and old, canine and human! Monty was a particular favourite as I have a mini dachshund, too. Holly was a delight, and May was joyous!
I always love being back in Nightingale Square, especially at Christmas time! I so wished I lived there!
This is my first festive read of the year, and it has started me off well! I'm all warm and cosy now!
I adored the characters, new and old, canine and human! Monty was a particular favourite as I have a mini dachshund, too. Holly was a delight, and May was joyous!
I always love being back in Nightingale Square, especially at Christmas time! I so wished I lived there!
This is my first festive read of the year, and it has started me off well! I'm all warm and cosy now!
December 7, 2023
First half was 4 stars - great village setting, wonderful secondary characters, multi generational friendships.
Second half went downhill - lots of lack of communication/miscommunication. The romance had a lot of potential, but then got dragged out and MMC came off judgemental. The slightly open door scene was very awkward/clinically described.
Fantastic narration - reminded me slightly of Michelle Dockery.
Second half went downhill - lots of lack of communication/miscommunication. The romance had a lot of potential, but then got dragged out and MMC came off judgemental. The slightly open door scene was very awkward/clinically described.
Fantastic narration - reminded me slightly of Michelle Dockery.
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