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Secret Santa #1
The Secret Santa Wishing Well
The magic of Christmas has been lost to Jacob Winston. At the suggestion of his ill sister, Jacob takes a job as a Secret Santa at the mall, hoping to restore his Christmas spirit. Even that doesn't seem to work, until a special little boy ambles up to make a very special wish...
Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex-husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter's existence and doesn't provide for the son he does. This Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last, until her son Ben's kind actions lead a stranger to them.
Ah, but it's Christmas time and the magic has begun.
When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, their feelings grow stronger and stronger.
With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life. Now, if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past.
Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true—for everyone after all.
Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex-husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter's existence and doesn't provide for the son he does. This Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last, until her son Ben's kind actions lead a stranger to them.
Ah, but it's Christmas time and the magic has begun.
When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, their feelings grow stronger and stronger.
With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life. Now, if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past.
Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true—for everyone after all.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2012
432 people are currently reading
837 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Lynn Barrett
88 books1,237 followersNo matter where she goes, USA Today Bestselling author Nikki Lynn Barrett hears voices in her head. Instead of calling her crazy and locking her up, her family realizes it's just a product of being an author and allows her to write the stories so that the voices shut up.
But they don't. And probably never will. There's no need to lock her up, Nikki knows she'll never escape the voices, not until each and every last story is written. And for every story she writes, about ten or more ideas pop up.
When she isn't slaving away at her computer writing books that will probably make you cry and keep you in suspense, Nikki plots to take over the world one book at a time. What? It's a sickness. One she can't escape!
Books aren't her only addiction, though. Nikki can be found making up parodies to drive her son crazy, and bantering back and forth with her husband, who somehow manages to steal her away from the fictional world she lives in all the time.
Nikki lives in Arizona with her husband and son, where she can be found using every creativity outlet she can find through music, photography, handcrafted things, and random interests that she may pick up from time to time.
But they don't. And probably never will. There's no need to lock her up, Nikki knows she'll never escape the voices, not until each and every last story is written. And for every story she writes, about ten or more ideas pop up.
When she isn't slaving away at her computer writing books that will probably make you cry and keep you in suspense, Nikki plots to take over the world one book at a time. What? It's a sickness. One she can't escape!
Books aren't her only addiction, though. Nikki can be found making up parodies to drive her son crazy, and bantering back and forth with her husband, who somehow manages to steal her away from the fictional world she lives in all the time.
Nikki lives in Arizona with her husband and son, where she can be found using every creativity outlet she can find through music, photography, handcrafted things, and random interests that she may pick up from time to time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
November 21, 2012
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this book and I enjoyed every minute of it. This story begins with a man named Jacob who is dressed as Santa and feeling very negative about the season as his sister is very sick. Along comes a little boy named Ben who inspires Jacob and shows him that maybe he shouldn't be so down and maybe it is time to participate in the season. Jacob is so touched by Ben's "wish" to Santa, that he nominates Ben for a special award and he becomes involved in the life of Ben, his mother, Cheyenne, and his baby sister. A relationship develops with Cheyenne and Jacob that is heart warming, and at times sizzling as well. Not all is wine and roses though. Cheyenne has an ex-husband to deal with that tends to bring negative situations around when he comes. Also, Jacob has his own heart ache as his sister is in the hospital dying. Will these hurdles be overcome so that they can all have their happily ever after? This story takes you on a heartfelt journey with laughter,tears, and even frustration at times. It is a wonderful emotional ride that I enjoyed to the fullest!
The characters were so endearing to me and I fell in love them almost immediately. Little Ben was such a sweet little guy that would thaw even the coldest heart. His determination to be "the man of the house" for his mother just melted me, as well as his innocence, pure heart, and desire to make the world a better place. His mom was a typical hard working single mom who just wants the best for her kids, and will do whatever it takes to make that happen. She exhausts herself just so her kids can have the quality of life that she wishes them to have. How can anyone not respect a woman like that? It is refreshing to read a romance book that has a realistic situation and characters in it for a change.
Jacob, the "hero" in the story, is a man that I fell in love with right away. His willingness to accept Cheyenne's children as part of the package in the relationship is so admirable. Also, even though he is going through his own heartache, he is there for Cheyenne and Ben through their trials while putting his own on the back burner. He is just an all around good hearted man and to top it all off, he is sexy too!
This story is a beautiful story packed full of emotion and many feel good moments. Nikki Barrett is able to capture the relationship between the children and how they interact with their mom and Jacob to a tee. There were some laugh out loud spots in the story where I could relate so well to them. I adore this story and it will be one that I enjoy bringing off my shelf each Christmas to become absorbed into the lives of some characters who are so easy to love! I recommend this to lovers of romance and feel good stories with a shot of sizzle on the side, you won't regret it!
The characters were so endearing to me and I fell in love them almost immediately. Little Ben was such a sweet little guy that would thaw even the coldest heart. His determination to be "the man of the house" for his mother just melted me, as well as his innocence, pure heart, and desire to make the world a better place. His mom was a typical hard working single mom who just wants the best for her kids, and will do whatever it takes to make that happen. She exhausts herself just so her kids can have the quality of life that she wishes them to have. How can anyone not respect a woman like that? It is refreshing to read a romance book that has a realistic situation and characters in it for a change.
Jacob, the "hero" in the story, is a man that I fell in love with right away. His willingness to accept Cheyenne's children as part of the package in the relationship is so admirable. Also, even though he is going through his own heartache, he is there for Cheyenne and Ben through their trials while putting his own on the back burner. He is just an all around good hearted man and to top it all off, he is sexy too!
This story is a beautiful story packed full of emotion and many feel good moments. Nikki Barrett is able to capture the relationship between the children and how they interact with their mom and Jacob to a tee. There were some laugh out loud spots in the story where I could relate so well to them. I adore this story and it will be one that I enjoy bringing off my shelf each Christmas to become absorbed into the lives of some characters who are so easy to love! I recommend this to lovers of romance and feel good stories with a shot of sizzle on the side, you won't regret it!
December 3, 2012
This was given to me by the author for review.
I have to tell you that this time of the year I tend to get very jaded just like Jacob was. My husband is currently battling cancer and the anger and helplessness that he feels in regards to his sister,Ada's illness, is something I understand well.
Cheyenne is a single mom raising a son, Ben and a daughter named Desi. Her ex-husband, Eric, doesn't want anything to do with baby Desi since he doesn't think she is his but likes to pretend he has a relationship with her son, Ben. Ben is an amazing kid who likes to help with food pantries and always seems more concerned with others.
Jacob takes a part time job at the local mall playing Santa at his sister's request. She knows he is suffering and she hopes this will help him find his missing Christmas spirit. Jacob is at the point where he wants to quit the job and then he meets Ben. Ben wants to make a wish into the secret santa wishing well. Jacob is impressed that his wish is for his mom and not for the lastest video game.
Chance meeting later and a news report on Ben's good deeds, leads Jacob to nominate Ben for a community award. Spending time with Cheyenne and the kids allows Jacob to realize how much he is beginning to care for this amazing family. When Jacob's sister dies and he realizes that Cheyenne's dad is the surgeon who couldn't save her, he is devestated. Storming out of the house in anger, Jacob feels like he has blown the love of an amazing woman and Cheyenne is confused. When Ben goes missing after a fight at his father's place, Jacob is devestated to think that he wasn't there for the boy and goes out of his way to bring him home. What happens when you realize that the magic of Christmas is real and that you are being given the gift of a lifetime?
This is a magical read for the holidays and I highly recommend it to all!
I have to tell you that this time of the year I tend to get very jaded just like Jacob was. My husband is currently battling cancer and the anger and helplessness that he feels in regards to his sister,Ada's illness, is something I understand well.
Cheyenne is a single mom raising a son, Ben and a daughter named Desi. Her ex-husband, Eric, doesn't want anything to do with baby Desi since he doesn't think she is his but likes to pretend he has a relationship with her son, Ben. Ben is an amazing kid who likes to help with food pantries and always seems more concerned with others.
Jacob takes a part time job at the local mall playing Santa at his sister's request. She knows he is suffering and she hopes this will help him find his missing Christmas spirit. Jacob is at the point where he wants to quit the job and then he meets Ben. Ben wants to make a wish into the secret santa wishing well. Jacob is impressed that his wish is for his mom and not for the lastest video game.
Chance meeting later and a news report on Ben's good deeds, leads Jacob to nominate Ben for a community award. Spending time with Cheyenne and the kids allows Jacob to realize how much he is beginning to care for this amazing family. When Jacob's sister dies and he realizes that Cheyenne's dad is the surgeon who couldn't save her, he is devestated. Storming out of the house in anger, Jacob feels like he has blown the love of an amazing woman and Cheyenne is confused. When Ben goes missing after a fight at his father's place, Jacob is devestated to think that he wasn't there for the boy and goes out of his way to bring him home. What happens when you realize that the magic of Christmas is real and that you are being given the gift of a lifetime?
This is a magical read for the holidays and I highly recommend it to all!
December 19, 2012
Really enjoyed this story. I become very overwhelmed at the holidays. It is very easy to miss the simple things. This story helps remind you of what is really important.
November 19, 2023
Lovely Xmas story with all the drama and romance you need ❤️
December 18, 2018
Sweet Christmas story
This story pulls at your heartstrings. A little boy wants a daddy to take care of him and his younger sister so his mommy doesn't hAve to work so hard. He goes to the mall and talks with the mall Santa and makes a wish in Santa's wishing well. This little boy really touches Santa's heart with his wish. Santa is trying to find his own Christmas spirit by working as Santa in the mall at the request of his dying sister. The magic of Christmas being these families together but they have some bumps i the road along the way
Very sweet Christmas story. A nice cozy read sitting by the fireplace with a nice hot cocoa.
This story pulls at your heartstrings. A little boy wants a daddy to take care of him and his younger sister so his mommy doesn't hAve to work so hard. He goes to the mall and talks with the mall Santa and makes a wish in Santa's wishing well. This little boy really touches Santa's heart with his wish. Santa is trying to find his own Christmas spirit by working as Santa in the mall at the request of his dying sister. The magic of Christmas being these families together but they have some bumps i the road along the way
Very sweet Christmas story. A nice cozy read sitting by the fireplace with a nice hot cocoa.
December 10, 2016
Jacob did not have the Christmas spirit. In fact he didn't want anything to do with Christmas. When his gravely ill sister suggested he become a mall Santa he gave it a try. It didn't work well for him and he was going to quit. That was until little Ben came to make a wish for his mother. Ben helped Jacob appreciate the season. Jacob was so impressed with the little boy that he nominated him for an award. Jacob became involved with Ben's family - his mother, Cheyenne, and baby sister. Jacob and Cheyenne are attracted to each other and begin a relationship. Neither are wanting to have someone in their lives. Jacob is just too down in the dumps because his sister is dying and Cheyenne's ex not only made her feel inadequate but was not trustworthy. She didn't want to get stuck with another man like him.
This story shows what a difference adding the right person to your life can make. Even though Jacob, Cheyenne and her children were happier together, their lives were not easy. Cheyenne's ex would pop in late at night drunk, rambling about wanting to see Ben. He didn't believe the baby was his so he didn't want anything to do with her. Jacob kept getting calls updating him on his sister's health which never made him feel better. Cheyenne was worried about him and the secrecy when he would come back clearly upset but not say anything to her about the call.
Ben was only 6 years old but tried to take on the responsibilities of "the man of the house". He was so cute and always considerate of others - wanting to help them. Once Jacob met Ben and his family, he was a great guy. He liked the children as well as Cheyenne and accepted them as part of having a relationship with her. Cheyenne was a tough single mother who lived for her children. She was a wonderful mom and did whatever she could to make her kids happy. Thanks to her ex-husband, Cheyenne was very insecure, thinking nobody would want her.
This is a sweet Christmas story proving wishes can come true.
This story shows what a difference adding the right person to your life can make. Even though Jacob, Cheyenne and her children were happier together, their lives were not easy. Cheyenne's ex would pop in late at night drunk, rambling about wanting to see Ben. He didn't believe the baby was his so he didn't want anything to do with her. Jacob kept getting calls updating him on his sister's health which never made him feel better. Cheyenne was worried about him and the secrecy when he would come back clearly upset but not say anything to her about the call.
Ben was only 6 years old but tried to take on the responsibilities of "the man of the house". He was so cute and always considerate of others - wanting to help them. Once Jacob met Ben and his family, he was a great guy. He liked the children as well as Cheyenne and accepted them as part of having a relationship with her. Cheyenne was a tough single mother who lived for her children. She was a wonderful mom and did whatever she could to make her kids happy. Thanks to her ex-husband, Cheyenne was very insecure, thinking nobody would want her.
This is a sweet Christmas story proving wishes can come true.
September 29, 2013
If you're looking for a book that brings the meaning of Christmas and the magic of the season to you this one is it. You have Jacob whose Christmas spirit is missing, but a little boy makes a wish at his wishing well and his life changes forever. Single mom Cheyenne is struggling raising her two little ones. With her son's big giving heart this will be the season to remember.
This book is a fast easy enjoyable read. It leaves your heart feeling good and a smile on your face. Definitely what I'm looking for in a Christmas romance.
This book is a fast easy enjoyable read. It leaves your heart feeling good and a smile on your face. Definitely what I'm looking for in a Christmas romance.
December 17, 2012
I loved this story. I could not put the book down, I was touched by Bens wish it was hard not to cry how amazing the little boy was. This was one of the best romantic Christmas story I have read.
December 22, 2012
I love stories that grab me emotionally and that's exactly what this story did. I highly recommend this book. And be prepared to not only read the words, but feel them as well.
Bravo!
Bravo!
November 12, 2017
Simply Wonderful!
If you're dying to read a Christmas story that not only has a lot of heart and makes you smile and tear up, look no further! This was drama filled, but also there were a lot of uplifting moments as well. Chey and Jacob were meant to be! There sure are a lot of single mothers struggling not just at Christmastime, but daily. Death also isn't pickey as to when it visits. Seeing two hearts come together despite being so tortured is a beautiful thing. Add in two sweet kids and an incredible best friend and you've got an amazing story and a heartfelt plot. Whether you choose to read this during the holidays or another season, I'm sure it will touch your heart as well ♡♡♡♡
If you're dying to read a Christmas story that not only has a lot of heart and makes you smile and tear up, look no further! This was drama filled, but also there were a lot of uplifting moments as well. Chey and Jacob were meant to be! There sure are a lot of single mothers struggling not just at Christmastime, but daily. Death also isn't pickey as to when it visits. Seeing two hearts come together despite being so tortured is a beautiful thing. Add in two sweet kids and an incredible best friend and you've got an amazing story and a heartfelt plot. Whether you choose to read this during the holidays or another season, I'm sure it will touch your heart as well ♡♡♡♡
July 19, 2018
Another must read by Nikki Lynn Barrett
Nikki’s way with telling the story makes you feel as if you’re right there in it. You feel the different emotions right along with the characters. Her spell binding way of writing will keep you wanting more. This book fits all of these criteria and you won’t want to put it down. Filled with a sense of family and love and the hardships that come and go with them. I highly recommend The Secret Santa Wishing Well. It’s a must read.
Nikki’s way with telling the story makes you feel as if you’re right there in it. You feel the different emotions right along with the characters. Her spell binding way of writing will keep you wanting more. This book fits all of these criteria and you won’t want to put it down. Filled with a sense of family and love and the hardships that come and go with them. I highly recommend The Secret Santa Wishing Well. It’s a must read.
March 14, 2018
What a wonderful story
I cannot believe it took me so long to read this book. You MUST get this book. What a fantastic story between two people that has issues that needs to be solved, which happened. Ben is the star of the book. Wished I had a son like him. He made this book a SIX star book. A MUST read.
I cannot believe it took me so long to read this book. You MUST get this book. What a fantastic story between two people that has issues that needs to be solved, which happened. Ben is the star of the book. Wished I had a son like him. He made this book a SIX star book. A MUST read.
December 8, 2017
sweet story but the editing drove me crazy; Ben is wearing a red shirt/black pants. Nope he is wearing a suit. He "led" her to the bedroom - he was carrying her!
November 15, 2013
Setting a story around the holidays is generally meant to build on the magic of the season. Romance novels often rely on whirlwind romances that in the real world would have family members staging an intervention based on the short amount of time they take, but in romance land, anything is possible. Add Christmas to that, and it becomes even more understandable. Anything can happen under the mistletoe! Magic is in the air! But in the Secret Santa Wishing Well, Christmas has to provide all the magic. The story is weak and the characters are one dimensional.
Cheyenne is a single mother, struggling to bring up two kids on her own. They live in a small apartment and she does something (I’m not sure we ever find out what) where she works too hard and comes home tired. She falls in love with Jacob who…I know we never find out what we does, but whatever it is, he’s apparently well off and can take a leave of absence from it to be a mall Santa because his sick sister wants him to because…Christmas spirit or something.
So, in no particular order, here are some of my issues with this book:
- Cheyenne’s father is a doctor, apparently a fairly successful surgeon. She is not estranged from her parents. We are never given any suggestion that they have anything but a good relationship, but Cheyenne seems to get no help or support from her family at all. Additionally, we later find out that Cheyenne’s father is a doctor at the hospital where Jacob’s sister is, which is close enough that Jacob visits every day, but apparently it is far enough away that Cheyenne’s parents have to come in early to visit for Christmas and stay with her. That makes no sense whatsoever.
- We know absolutely nothing about Jacob. He was secret Santaing because of reasons but other than that, we know nothing about his life or his job or anything else. That’s bizarre. We know his name is Jacob. We know he has a sick sister. The end. Also, everyone else in his family is sad about his sister dying, but even her husband and kids seem to be taking it better than Jacob is. It gives the whole thing a very weird “Jacob is the most important, no one else’s grief counts” vibe to the whole thing.
- Making Cheyenne’s dad the surgeon that Jacob blames for his sister’s death is just weird. It introduces a new conflict into a story that already has several potential conflicts (none of which are ever really resolved. Weeeee).
- The eldest of Cheyenne’s two kids, Ben, is improbably perfect. He collects canned food and bakes cookies for vets and makes selfless wishes at wishing wells and only wants everyone to be happy and he wins a prize for how totally selfless he is and also he’s SIX.
In conclusion – all of these issues combine to make a story that falls flat. An already awkward story becomes more so when all the pieces just don’t quite fit.
(2.5 out of 5)
Cheyenne is a single mother, struggling to bring up two kids on her own. They live in a small apartment and she does something (I’m not sure we ever find out what) where she works too hard and comes home tired. She falls in love with Jacob who…I know we never find out what we does, but whatever it is, he’s apparently well off and can take a leave of absence from it to be a mall Santa because his sick sister wants him to because…Christmas spirit or something.
So, in no particular order, here are some of my issues with this book:
- Cheyenne’s father is a doctor, apparently a fairly successful surgeon. She is not estranged from her parents. We are never given any suggestion that they have anything but a good relationship, but Cheyenne seems to get no help or support from her family at all. Additionally, we later find out that Cheyenne’s father is a doctor at the hospital where Jacob’s sister is, which is close enough that Jacob visits every day, but apparently it is far enough away that Cheyenne’s parents have to come in early to visit for Christmas and stay with her. That makes no sense whatsoever.
- We know absolutely nothing about Jacob. He was secret Santaing because of reasons but other than that, we know nothing about his life or his job or anything else. That’s bizarre. We know his name is Jacob. We know he has a sick sister. The end. Also, everyone else in his family is sad about his sister dying, but even her husband and kids seem to be taking it better than Jacob is. It gives the whole thing a very weird “Jacob is the most important, no one else’s grief counts” vibe to the whole thing.
- Making Cheyenne’s dad the surgeon that Jacob blames for his sister’s death is just weird. It introduces a new conflict into a story that already has several potential conflicts (none of which are ever really resolved. Weeeee).
- The eldest of Cheyenne’s two kids, Ben, is improbably perfect. He collects canned food and bakes cookies for vets and makes selfless wishes at wishing wells and only wants everyone to be happy and he wins a prize for how totally selfless he is and also he’s SIX.
In conclusion – all of these issues combine to make a story that falls flat. An already awkward story becomes more so when all the pieces just don’t quite fit.
(2.5 out of 5)
November 8, 2013
Cheyenne works hard to support her two kids and herself. The kids father doesn't help at all and denies the baby girl is even his. Jacob is not feeling the Christmas spirit and would rather be a Grinch this year. His sick sister convinces him it would help him to take a job as a Santa. When Ben Cheyenne`s son meets him and makes a wish he touches Jacob's heart. Cheyenne and Jacob meet and are immediately attracted to each other. As Christmas draws closer each one's past may drive them apart.
Cheyenne is such a wonderful character. Her kids come first and she never takes time for herself and when she does she feels guilty. She has been treated horribly in the past and at times has a hard time trusting people. She is a hard worker and extremely caring person. Jacob has anger building up in him but it is understandable. He is such a sweet guy and has a big heart. I connected with both these characters and the stuff they have went through. And the kids oh my they will melt your heart.
I love this author so so much. However she made me a sniveling mess as I read this book. I have been in both the characters footsteps and think the author did an amazing job in writing about what they are going through. This book is the perfect read not just for Christmas but anytime you want an emotional wonderful book. I love the plot of course and everything about this book. I wanted something good to happen to Cheyenne and kept hoping things would get better for her. Jacob I wanted so much to take away his hurt as well. I will say Ben stole the show sometimes with how awesome he is. He is a wonderful little boy. There is so much I could say about this book that I believe would turn into rambling. Take my word for it grab this book or any other by this author, get the tissues ready and fall in love with her books like I did.
Cheyenne is such a wonderful character. Her kids come first and she never takes time for herself and when she does she feels guilty. She has been treated horribly in the past and at times has a hard time trusting people. She is a hard worker and extremely caring person. Jacob has anger building up in him but it is understandable. He is such a sweet guy and has a big heart. I connected with both these characters and the stuff they have went through. And the kids oh my they will melt your heart.
I love this author so so much. However she made me a sniveling mess as I read this book. I have been in both the characters footsteps and think the author did an amazing job in writing about what they are going through. This book is the perfect read not just for Christmas but anytime you want an emotional wonderful book. I love the plot of course and everything about this book. I wanted something good to happen to Cheyenne and kept hoping things would get better for her. Jacob I wanted so much to take away his hurt as well. I will say Ben stole the show sometimes with how awesome he is. He is a wonderful little boy. There is so much I could say about this book that I believe would turn into rambling. Take my word for it grab this book or any other by this author, get the tissues ready and fall in love with her books like I did.
November 10, 2013
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
5 glowing wishes!
Hotness Factor: it's sweet, it's charming and no belly full of jelly (we checked
Okay I have to say it. I might be a little bias, I’m a Nikki Lynn Barrett fan. I read Baby Stetson this summer and loved it. I was more than happy to win a copy of The Secret Santa Wishing Well and then review it as part of its blurb tour.
It’s that time of the year again, sugar cookies, trips to Starbucks for a nonfat Eggnog latte (don’t burst my bubble), watching another crazy spinoff of A Christmas Carol… I haven’t seen a decent Christmas movie in ages! It’s forced and always with a deadline –Christmas day like it was the end of the world… What they should do is take a page on The Secret Santa Wishing. I’ll watch this movie. Heck I’ll cast it too.
Fade in… enters Jacob (Colin Egglesfield) in the life of Cheyenne (Jennifer Love Hewitt). He had lost hope for good reasons, she had lost hope for good reasons too. But then there’s Ben Cheyenne’s son and the best six year old I’ve ever read about and with a simple well in the middle of the mall, he brought these two lonely souls together… Fade out.
Like the pitch? Then you will love the story. It is about fate, family, loss and love and yes it’s a little corny at times but so are every Christmas story I’ve ever read or watched. It’s the time of the year of sweet corniness, for second chances, new love… So grab another nonfat eggnog latte (do not I repeat do not burst my bubble) and get your copy. Merry Christmas!
5 glowing wishes!
Hotness Factor: it's sweet, it's charming and no belly full of jelly (we checked
Okay I have to say it. I might be a little bias, I’m a Nikki Lynn Barrett fan. I read Baby Stetson this summer and loved it. I was more than happy to win a copy of The Secret Santa Wishing Well and then review it as part of its blurb tour.
It’s that time of the year again, sugar cookies, trips to Starbucks for a nonfat Eggnog latte (don’t burst my bubble), watching another crazy spinoff of A Christmas Carol… I haven’t seen a decent Christmas movie in ages! It’s forced and always with a deadline –Christmas day like it was the end of the world… What they should do is take a page on The Secret Santa Wishing. I’ll watch this movie. Heck I’ll cast it too.
Fade in… enters Jacob (Colin Egglesfield) in the life of Cheyenne (Jennifer Love Hewitt). He had lost hope for good reasons, she had lost hope for good reasons too. But then there’s Ben Cheyenne’s son and the best six year old I’ve ever read about and with a simple well in the middle of the mall, he brought these two lonely souls together… Fade out.
Like the pitch? Then you will love the story. It is about fate, family, loss and love and yes it’s a little corny at times but so are every Christmas story I’ve ever read or watched. It’s the time of the year of sweet corniness, for second chances, new love… So grab another nonfat eggnog latte (do not I repeat do not burst my bubble) and get your copy. Merry Christmas!
December 12, 2012
This review was posted at Under the Covers
I don’t know about you, but I like to read holiday romance stories that are sweet and full of awwww moments. And that’s exactly what I got from this book. It’s just what a holiday romance should be like!
Cheyenne Jensen recently divorced her good for nothing husband and is now struggling as a single mother of two. Her ex would be better completely out of the picture, but he’s still around a bit. When her son makes a wish in the mall’s Wishing Well after “meeting Santa” their life completely turns around.
Her son, Ben, is just adorable. I just wanted to hug him and squeeze him. He’s the sweetest thing, and I’m a sucker for a cute kid bringing two adults together. Kind of what happened here.
Jacob had taken his job as the mall’s Santa on his ill sister’s request, to help bring the spirit of the holidays back in his life. And meeting Ben and his sister, and then their mom, Cheyenne, was just what he needed. She seemed to fit him and changed his outlook on life in a short period of time.
It was sad at times to see how much the lack of a father figure had hurt Ben. He needed attention and love that he never got. And that’s what he asked for. A real family.
Short story but very sweet!
I don’t know about you, but I like to read holiday romance stories that are sweet and full of awwww moments. And that’s exactly what I got from this book. It’s just what a holiday romance should be like!
Cheyenne Jensen recently divorced her good for nothing husband and is now struggling as a single mother of two. Her ex would be better completely out of the picture, but he’s still around a bit. When her son makes a wish in the mall’s Wishing Well after “meeting Santa” their life completely turns around.
Her son, Ben, is just adorable. I just wanted to hug him and squeeze him. He’s the sweetest thing, and I’m a sucker for a cute kid bringing two adults together. Kind of what happened here.
Jacob had taken his job as the mall’s Santa on his ill sister’s request, to help bring the spirit of the holidays back in his life. And meeting Ben and his sister, and then their mom, Cheyenne, was just what he needed. She seemed to fit him and changed his outlook on life in a short period of time.
It was sad at times to see how much the lack of a father figure had hurt Ben. He needed attention and love that he never got. And that’s what he asked for. A real family.
Short story but very sweet!
October 10, 2013
The Secret Santa Wishing Well by Nikki Lynn Barrett
Genre: Contemporary Romance
I have to premise this by saying I don’t read a lot of holiday romance. It generally comes off feeling cliché and forced. I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read by Nikki Lynn Barrett so decided to give this one a read before her new book, On the 12th Date of Christmas is released next month.
I am SO glad I did!
Not to give away any spoilers, the story follows Cheyenne and Jacob as their worlds collide. As the two try to scratch together some sense of joy during a tumultuous Christmas season, the innocence of a child and a secret wish set in motion more than either could imagine.
Along with a beautiful holiday season, the author paints a picture many of us can relate to on some level. I saw so much of myself in Cheyenne before “my Jacob” came along. A woman full of doubt, fear, and little self-worth. Granted, it doesn’t take a man to show a woman her true value, but I know from experience it may take that certain man’s eyes and heart to bring that value to light.
Sometimes, as women and mothers, we get so lost in others we forget about ourselves. Nikki Lynn Barrett paints a beautiful story of love and self-discovery in The Secret Santa Wishing Well. I’m thankful I took the plunge! Well done!
***** 5 STARS
Genre: Contemporary Romance
I have to premise this by saying I don’t read a lot of holiday romance. It generally comes off feeling cliché and forced. I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read by Nikki Lynn Barrett so decided to give this one a read before her new book, On the 12th Date of Christmas is released next month.
I am SO glad I did!
Not to give away any spoilers, the story follows Cheyenne and Jacob as their worlds collide. As the two try to scratch together some sense of joy during a tumultuous Christmas season, the innocence of a child and a secret wish set in motion more than either could imagine.
Along with a beautiful holiday season, the author paints a picture many of us can relate to on some level. I saw so much of myself in Cheyenne before “my Jacob” came along. A woman full of doubt, fear, and little self-worth. Granted, it doesn’t take a man to show a woman her true value, but I know from experience it may take that certain man’s eyes and heart to bring that value to light.
Sometimes, as women and mothers, we get so lost in others we forget about ourselves. Nikki Lynn Barrett paints a beautiful story of love and self-discovery in The Secret Santa Wishing Well. I’m thankful I took the plunge! Well done!
***** 5 STARS
December 8, 2013
Another magical Christmas romance, This is the beginning of the story. A HUGE thank you to Nikki for providing me with an ARC copy of this to read and review for this tour.
I kind of did things backwords with this series. I read "On the 12th Date Of Christmas" first and this book second. DUH! So I knew that Cheyenne and Jacob got together .
This though showed me how two lost souls came together during hard times at Christmas. With everything going on they still managed to fit in a little Christmas love and spirit.
As I mentioned in my review for "On The 12th Date Of Christmas" I fell in love with Ben's character. In this book, he's so much more adorable, soo strong for a little boy who doesn't have a permanent father figure in his life, that is until Jacob shows up.
Cheyenne is a little dubious with letting another man into her life, after the hell she went through with the TWAT of an ex, but like any other women in the same situation, she deserves happiness and a shot at love.
With issues of his own Jacob is a little hesitant to let love in. With the sickness going on in his family, can he be there for Cheyenne and her kids. Can he give himself to her wholly?
Like I said in the beginning, another great Christmas read, I definitely enjoyed this story as well as Robin and Jonas's story :)
Great work yet again from Nikki, and I look forward to future books :)
I kind of did things backwords with this series. I read "On the 12th Date Of Christmas" first and this book second. DUH! So I knew that Cheyenne and Jacob got together .
This though showed me how two lost souls came together during hard times at Christmas. With everything going on they still managed to fit in a little Christmas love and spirit.
As I mentioned in my review for "On The 12th Date Of Christmas" I fell in love with Ben's character. In this book, he's so much more adorable, soo strong for a little boy who doesn't have a permanent father figure in his life, that is until Jacob shows up.
Cheyenne is a little dubious with letting another man into her life, after the hell she went through with the TWAT of an ex, but like any other women in the same situation, she deserves happiness and a shot at love.
With issues of his own Jacob is a little hesitant to let love in. With the sickness going on in his family, can he be there for Cheyenne and her kids. Can he give himself to her wholly?
Like I said in the beginning, another great Christmas read, I definitely enjoyed this story as well as Robin and Jonas's story :)
Great work yet again from Nikki, and I look forward to future books :)
December 7, 2013
A Christmas Confection...
A little boy's unselfish wish at a busy mall, a sad "Santa's Helper" by the name of Jacob, and some Holiday magic combine all the right ingredients for this heartwarming story.
To rekindle his Christmas spirit, Jacob's terminally ill sister suggests he find a part-time job doing something worthwhile. When six-year-old Ben happens along, he captures Jacob's heart--as does Ben's mother, after Jacob meets her. Cheyenne is struggling to hold her family together while contending with her nasty ex-husband, who refuses to acknowledge their baby daughter. Although she's hoping to make Christmas merry for Ben and Desi, the joy of the Holidays eludes them...until Jacob enters their lives.
Is Jacob the man that Cheyenne and Ben have been longing for? Or will he prove to be another big disappointment? More important, are Cheyenne, Ben, and Desi the family Jacob needs to make him whole again? Or will his anger and grief destroy any chances for a meaningful relationship with them?
Nikki Lynn Barrett's novel reminds us that not everyone experiences happiness over the Holidays, but that love is the greatest healer of all. Her sweet story is the perfect recipe for Christmas wishes and dreams that can come true, if we just believe...
A little boy's unselfish wish at a busy mall, a sad "Santa's Helper" by the name of Jacob, and some Holiday magic combine all the right ingredients for this heartwarming story.
To rekindle his Christmas spirit, Jacob's terminally ill sister suggests he find a part-time job doing something worthwhile. When six-year-old Ben happens along, he captures Jacob's heart--as does Ben's mother, after Jacob meets her. Cheyenne is struggling to hold her family together while contending with her nasty ex-husband, who refuses to acknowledge their baby daughter. Although she's hoping to make Christmas merry for Ben and Desi, the joy of the Holidays eludes them...until Jacob enters their lives.
Is Jacob the man that Cheyenne and Ben have been longing for? Or will he prove to be another big disappointment? More important, are Cheyenne, Ben, and Desi the family Jacob needs to make him whole again? Or will his anger and grief destroy any chances for a meaningful relationship with them?
Nikki Lynn Barrett's novel reminds us that not everyone experiences happiness over the Holidays, but that love is the greatest healer of all. Her sweet story is the perfect recipe for Christmas wishes and dreams that can come true, if we just believe...
January 16, 2013
The Secret Santa Wishing Well
Nikki Lynn Barrett
Novel
Expect the unexpected! Highly recommended!
This is a great story with the help of Christmas magic. It is a holiday contemporary romance, but it has some unexpected twists that keep the reader, well reading. I finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down.
The characters are developed enough to keep the story enticing and relatable. Jacob Winston is a nicely flawed character. His reactions to the various situations seem natural and not forced. Cheyenne is much the same way. She is easy to like and I found myself cheering her on when she needed encouragement and hugging her when times were tough. The children are adorable and Ben is my favorite little character.
The overall story flows very easily and transitions easily between Jacob and Cheyenne’s points of view. The plot twists are also well positioned and are right when you sort of least expect them. I saw some other reviewers say, “Read it with a box of tissues.” If you are easily moved to tears, then yes! Definitely have tissues handy. There were several points where I sniffled myself. I highly recommend this book.
Nikki Lynn Barrett
Novel
Expect the unexpected! Highly recommended!
This is a great story with the help of Christmas magic. It is a holiday contemporary romance, but it has some unexpected twists that keep the reader, well reading. I finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down.
The characters are developed enough to keep the story enticing and relatable. Jacob Winston is a nicely flawed character. His reactions to the various situations seem natural and not forced. Cheyenne is much the same way. She is easy to like and I found myself cheering her on when she needed encouragement and hugging her when times were tough. The children are adorable and Ben is my favorite little character.
The overall story flows very easily and transitions easily between Jacob and Cheyenne’s points of view. The plot twists are also well positioned and are right when you sort of least expect them. I saw some other reviewers say, “Read it with a box of tissues.” If you are easily moved to tears, then yes! Definitely have tissues handy. There were several points where I sniffled myself. I highly recommend this book.
September 8, 2014
Well, I loved this book! I got it from Aspendawn Books via Net Galley. I've read some of Nikki Lynn Barrett books before and loved them.
Do you know what I liked about this book?
Well, we all imagine Christmas to be wonderful, happy and everyone enjoying themselves, but in actual fact, life goes on, and there are people there who are lonely, sad, or ill. And this was what it was like reading this book. REAL. His sister who he loves dearly, and would do anything for has cancer, she is dying, he feels hopeless and helpless.
It wasn't all doom and gloom, of course not, its Christmas, but it was real life.
I really really loved the fact that this author could take something that almost all of us have been through, maybe a family member, friends, and turn it around right in a Christmas book.
Of course, I didn't like the subject of cancer!!!! Of course not, but it brought home to me how we should treasure each and every day with our loved one.
Do you know what I liked about this book?
Well, we all imagine Christmas to be wonderful, happy and everyone enjoying themselves, but in actual fact, life goes on, and there are people there who are lonely, sad, or ill. And this was what it was like reading this book. REAL. His sister who he loves dearly, and would do anything for has cancer, she is dying, he feels hopeless and helpless.
It wasn't all doom and gloom, of course not, its Christmas, but it was real life.
I really really loved the fact that this author could take something that almost all of us have been through, maybe a family member, friends, and turn it around right in a Christmas book.
Of course, I didn't like the subject of cancer!!!! Of course not, but it brought home to me how we should treasure each and every day with our loved one.
September 11, 2013
This novella was sweet, I like sweet. I especially like sweet in my Holiday reads. Ms. Barrett is a fine writer who created engaging, likeable characters and put them in an enchanting situation. The primary couple was extremely detailed for a novella, and the secondary characters were richly drawn as well; superb job on the heroine's son. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and especially the ability the author has to draw the reader into a fantastical, magical story, and make us believers on the journey to happily ever after. Great job. Now I will look for longer works by this extremely capable author.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2015
The magic of Christmas has been lost to Jacob Winston. Hoping to restore his Christmas spirit, he takes a job in the mall as a Santa helper. Cheyenne needs to ditch the ghost of Christmases past. Her son Ben’s kind actions bring Jacob into their lives. Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true- for everyone after all. Really nice, emotion packed holiday story. I loved reading Jacob and Cheyenne's story. It was an easy paced, fast read for me. Really enjoyed it! Can't wait to read "On the 12th Date of Christmas" next!!!
December 2, 2013
In the case of our Heroine, Cheyenne the bulk of her stress is caused by an ex-husband turned dead beat dad, Eric. Forced to raise two children on her own she works hard to provide, and still try to maintain an upbeat attitude. I couldn’t help but admire her as she pulled twelve hour shifts, and still managed to donate her time to charity.
Want to know about the hero? Check out the full review at http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
Want to know about the hero? Check out the full review at http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
March 23, 2015
This book gives you hope and Ben is such an awesome little boy. Cheyenne has her hands full being a single mom of two kids. Jacob is upset about his sister's illness. Jacob's sister suggests he get a job as a Santa and he meets Ben and than Cheyenne. It gets interesting watching these two work through their individual problems and how they have to get past their individual fears to move forward.
February 3, 2013
I read this book several days ago and I am just now getting to write my review. I just want to say that this is the kind of story that will bring tears to your eyes.
If you have no spirit of Christmas left and just want the holidays to be over with, you need to read this and it will show you the real reason of Christmas.
Thank you Nikki for such a great book to read.
If you have no spirit of Christmas left and just want the holidays to be over with, you need to read this and it will show you the real reason of Christmas.
Thank you Nikki for such a great book to read.
July 18, 2016
Secret Wishes
What a fabulous story that definitely brings the true meaning of Christmas to life. Love, compassion, heartache and a child's innocence are included in this uplifting and heartbreaking HEA.
You will laugh, cry, scream in anguish and wholeheartedly love along with the characters~
What a fabulous story that definitely brings the true meaning of Christmas to life. Love, compassion, heartache and a child's innocence are included in this uplifting and heartbreaking HEA.
You will laugh, cry, scream in anguish and wholeheartedly love along with the characters~
February 11, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book. I have always had a hard time reading holiday themed novels, but this one really brought the feeling of Christmas and the meaning of the holidays back for me. I just wish it was longer! :-)
June 8, 2014
This was a very enjoyable read. It moved along at a great pace, has amazing characters and a story that will keep you interested and entertained from the moment that you pick it up till the moment that you finish it.
This is a great read that I am glad that was able to read.
This is a great read that I am glad that was able to read.
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