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Holiday Countdown #5
Countdown to 4th of July
"I want the record to show I was against this from the beginning!"
Fireworks aren't the only thing waiting to explode when Grace is forced into action with only twenty days to renovate a hotel AND plan a 4th of July wedding.
The hotel's renovations are more extensive than promised. The bride, still traumatized from a past failed wedding, has lingering fears and doubts. And someone is trying to sabotage the wedding.
For Grace, every day unfolds fresh new drama, testing her wit, resilience, and patience. Will she keep her cool or pop off like a rocket?
"Countdown to 4th of July" is a heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and a community rallying together in the face of adversity. This story brings to life an unforgettable 4th of July, with a cast of characters that will have you rooting for love, friendship, and a successful wedding day!
Fireworks aren't the only thing waiting to explode when Grace is forced into action with only twenty days to renovate a hotel AND plan a 4th of July wedding.
The hotel's renovations are more extensive than promised. The bride, still traumatized from a past failed wedding, has lingering fears and doubts. And someone is trying to sabotage the wedding.
For Grace, every day unfolds fresh new drama, testing her wit, resilience, and patience. Will she keep her cool or pop off like a rocket?
"Countdown to 4th of July" is a heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and a community rallying together in the face of adversity. This story brings to life an unforgettable 4th of July, with a cast of characters that will have you rooting for love, friendship, and a successful wedding day!
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 6, 2025
This may be my favorite book of the series to date!
One thing I love is a good redemption arc, especially Rebekah's redemption arc. It was nice to see her get to figure out the type of person she wants to date, not someone her parents have picked for her. It's sad that they've cut her off, but she's doing just fine in Winterwood and her friendship with Grace is one that I would love to have.
Shelley...ugh, what a piece of freaking work that woman is. And Greg? Ew. Just EW. Talk about a walking red flag. Come to think of it, so is Shelley. How Evie got stuck with that woman as her sister is beyond me. Their parents were just awful & I wanted to rip her father a new one after the NERVE he had!
I say this in every review, but my editor's brain kept picking out the grammar and punctuation issues, hence why I only rated this book, like the four before it, three stars.
One thing I love is a good redemption arc, especially Rebekah's redemption arc. It was nice to see her get to figure out the type of person she wants to date, not someone her parents have picked for her. It's sad that they've cut her off, but she's doing just fine in Winterwood and her friendship with Grace is one that I would love to have.
Shelley...ugh, what a piece of freaking work that woman is. And Greg? Ew. Just EW. Talk about a walking red flag. Come to think of it, so is Shelley. How Evie got stuck with that woman as her sister is beyond me. Their parents were just awful & I wanted to rip her father a new one after the NERVE he had!
I say this in every review, but my editor's brain kept picking out the grammar and punctuation issues, hence why I only rated this book, like the four before it, three stars.
July 4, 2026
Countdown to 4th of July by Dianna Houx (2023)
Holiday Countdown #5
+201-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-200
Genre: Holiday > Fourth of July, Advent Novel, Family, Novella, Romance, Domestic Fiction
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for suggestive language
Featuring: Series Reading Order List, June, Grandmother, Tourism, Bed & Breakfast Inn, Guests, Wedding Planning, Renovations, Relationships, Family Dynamics, Drama, Characters and Storylines From Previous Books, Fake Dating, Drama, Gossip, Sabotage Mystery, Vicenarian, Sex - Insinuated; Afterword - Letter from Author, Link to Lessons from a Jilted Bride to get Evie and Jake's Backstory; Series List with Blurbs
My rating: 📆🇺🇸🎆👰♀⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 49 of 201 Fifteen Days till 4th of July Chapter 6 - I want to love it, but it is a bit dull. There are some moments, but the continuity is a bit lacking; it's all over the place.
Countdown to 4th of July had a pretty slow start, but once the momentum picked up, the story actually turned into something substantial. That said, I did have an issue with the plot being spread a bit too thin—not to mention it being slightly ridiculous. Ultimately, my biggest disappointment was the distinct lack of actual Independence Day activities for a holiday-themed book.
Thankfully, the brief fake-dating storyline saved the day and was easily the highlight of the entire story.
I still feel like this series hasn't quite found its footing. Instead of focusing on and perfecting her B&B endeavors, Grace seems to be constantly taking on entirely new projects in every single book. While I'm pausing for now, I'll pick this series back up when Halloween rolls around for Book 6.
Recommend to others: Sure. It's a cozy read, and if you're easily entertained, it's quite funny.
Holiday Countdown
1. Countdown to Christmas (2022)
2. Countdown to Valentine's Day (2023)
3. Countdown to Easter (2023)
4. Countdown to Mother's Day (2023)
5. Countdown to 4th of July (2023)
6. Countdown to Thanksgiving! (2024)
7. Countdown to Halloween (2023)
8. Countdown to Christmas Eve! (2025)
9. Countdown to New Beginnings (2025)
10. Countdown to a Wedding (2025)
11.Countdown to Mardi Gras! (2026)
Books and Authors mentioned: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, The Lincoln Lawyer by John Romano [based on] The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly; The Boy Who Cried Wolf by Aesop, Cinderella by Charles Perrault, Lessons from a Jilted Bride by Dianna Houx
Songs for the soundtrack: "Wedding Song (There Is Love)" by Noel Paul Stookey
Memorable Quotes: “I understand it’s unlikely to pass code in its current condition,” Grant stated. “We need to know how much, or specifically, how little we need to do to get it up to snuff.” “Bare minimum?” Doug asked. When Grant nodded, he took a look around. “All of the appliances need to be replaced. Counters too. These days, inspectors want to see stainless steel; these old Formica tops no longer cut it. Plumbing needs to be updated to this century.” “That doesn’t sound so—” Grant started to reply but was cut off. “Unfortunately, I’m not finished. The wood floor needs to be replaced as well. I’m seeing signs of wood rot, which often means termites are not far behind. If there’s a concrete slab underneath, you can take it down to that and leave it if it’s in good condition. If not, you’ll want to put in tile. You’ll also need a proper ventilation system, adequate dry and cold storage, lighting, and a food handlers license.” “Is that in addition to the license the health inspector grants?” asked Molly. “Yes, the health inspector will give the establishment a license. It is up to each individual using the kitchen to get a food handlers license.” “Is it possible for all of this to be done in, oh, let’s say, two weeks?” asked Grace. Doug laughed. “You’re joking, right?”
Holiday Countdown #5
+201-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-200
Genre: Holiday > Fourth of July, Advent Novel, Family, Novella, Romance, Domestic Fiction
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for suggestive language
Featuring: Series Reading Order List, June, Grandmother, Tourism, Bed & Breakfast Inn, Guests, Wedding Planning, Renovations, Relationships, Family Dynamics, Drama, Characters and Storylines From Previous Books, Fake Dating, Drama, Gossip, Sabotage Mystery, Vicenarian, Sex - Insinuated; Afterword - Letter from Author, Link to Lessons from a Jilted Bride to get Evie and Jake's Backstory; Series List with Blurbs
My rating: 📆🇺🇸🎆👰♀⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 49 of 201 Fifteen Days till 4th of July Chapter 6 - I want to love it, but it is a bit dull. There are some moments, but the continuity is a bit lacking; it's all over the place.
Countdown to 4th of July had a pretty slow start, but once the momentum picked up, the story actually turned into something substantial. That said, I did have an issue with the plot being spread a bit too thin—not to mention it being slightly ridiculous. Ultimately, my biggest disappointment was the distinct lack of actual Independence Day activities for a holiday-themed book.
Thankfully, the brief fake-dating storyline saved the day and was easily the highlight of the entire story.
I still feel like this series hasn't quite found its footing. Instead of focusing on and perfecting her B&B endeavors, Grace seems to be constantly taking on entirely new projects in every single book. While I'm pausing for now, I'll pick this series back up when Halloween rolls around for Book 6.
Recommend to others: Sure. It's a cozy read, and if you're easily entertained, it's quite funny.
Holiday Countdown
1. Countdown to Christmas (2022)
2. Countdown to Valentine's Day (2023)
3. Countdown to Easter (2023)
4. Countdown to Mother's Day (2023)
5. Countdown to 4th of July (2023)
6. Countdown to Thanksgiving! (2024)
7. Countdown to Halloween (2023)
8. Countdown to Christmas Eve! (2025)
9. Countdown to New Beginnings (2025)
10. Countdown to a Wedding (2025)
11.Countdown to Mardi Gras! (2026)
Books and Authors mentioned: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, The Lincoln Lawyer by John Romano [based on] The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly; The Boy Who Cried Wolf by Aesop, Cinderella by Charles Perrault, Lessons from a Jilted Bride by Dianna Houx
Songs for the soundtrack: "Wedding Song (There Is Love)" by Noel Paul Stookey
Memorable Quotes: “I understand it’s unlikely to pass code in its current condition,” Grant stated. “We need to know how much, or specifically, how little we need to do to get it up to snuff.” “Bare minimum?” Doug asked. When Grant nodded, he took a look around. “All of the appliances need to be replaced. Counters too. These days, inspectors want to see stainless steel; these old Formica tops no longer cut it. Plumbing needs to be updated to this century.” “That doesn’t sound so—” Grant started to reply but was cut off. “Unfortunately, I’m not finished. The wood floor needs to be replaced as well. I’m seeing signs of wood rot, which often means termites are not far behind. If there’s a concrete slab underneath, you can take it down to that and leave it if it’s in good condition. If not, you’ll want to put in tile. You’ll also need a proper ventilation system, adequate dry and cold storage, lighting, and a food handlers license.” “Is that in addition to the license the health inspector grants?” asked Molly. “Yes, the health inspector will give the establishment a license. It is up to each individual using the kitchen to get a food handlers license.” “Is it possible for all of this to be done in, oh, let’s say, two weeks?” asked Grace. Doug laughed. “You’re joking, right?”
July 1, 2026
This was such a nice holiday story about characters that are becoming like family. I especially enjoy Grace and Cole who are both just working so hard at their livelihood and trying to make time for their personal lives. Plus there is always new people in each book that are new plus familiar characters we really enjoy!
July 2, 2026
Book Review
Book Review
Author Dianna Houx
Published June 29, 2023
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another cute holiday short story!
Grace and her close friends bought this old hotel and wanted to turn it into a new one. They worked hard and renovated it! Grace had a painting party!
A couple, two of Graces’s friends wanted to have a 4th of July wedding! With the wedding came quite a bit of drama!
As time went on the new hotel got built and the couple had a very nice 4th of July wedding!!
The couple and guests went to a lake after eating and watched the fireworks!
I really enjoyed this book!
Book Review
Author Dianna Houx
Published June 29, 2023
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another cute holiday short story!
Grace and her close friends bought this old hotel and wanted to turn it into a new one. They worked hard and renovated it! Grace had a painting party!
A couple, two of Graces’s friends wanted to have a 4th of July wedding! With the wedding came quite a bit of drama!
As time went on the new hotel got built and the couple had a very nice 4th of July wedding!!
The couple and guests went to a lake after eating and watched the fireworks!
I really enjoyed this book!
May 15, 2025
A wonderful series
From the first book through this one, I have enjoyed the development of the characters and town. You become part of their families because the author is absolutely fantastic. I hope this series continues.
From the first book through this one, I have enjoyed the development of the characters and town. You become part of their families because the author is absolutely fantastic. I hope this series continues.
June 25, 2025
Love these characters
Another great addition to this holiday series. These characters have become family. Poor Grace is way overworked and again under attack. But Cole and her friends step up. A fun read!
Another great addition to this holiday series. These characters have become family. Poor Grace is way overworked and again under attack. But Cole and her friends step up. A fun read!
October 8, 2025
4th of July
Really a great series… very addictive… finished Countdown to 4th of July and now ready for Countdown to Halloween… my favorite holiday!!
Truly recommend this Holiday Countdown Series!!
Really a great series… very addictive… finished Countdown to 4th of July and now ready for Countdown to Halloween… my favorite holiday!!
Truly recommend this Holiday Countdown Series!!
January 14, 2026
Such an exciting book. Pour grace, how much can she take? Not only does she have the B&B to take care of now she has an unfinished update on a hotel with 50 guests to take care of . Grace and her friends are running around and going crazy with all of the chaos these people are creating. Awesome job by Dianna Houx. If you want to read an entertaining series I highly recommend this series.
March 24, 2026
Entertainment Galore
An entertaining story but not as enjoyable a book as the previous ones in the series. This one has the main character being taken full advantage of by her partners!
An entertaining story but not as enjoyable a book as the previous ones in the series. This one has the main character being taken full advantage of by her partners!
July 5, 2026
Countdown to 4th of July by Dianna Houx ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Count down to the 4th
Great holiday short story. Perfect to read on the 250th birthday of America.
Two friends buy an old hotel. They finish it in time for a lovely 4th of July wedding.
Count down to the 4th
Great holiday short story. Perfect to read on the 250th birthday of America.
Two friends buy an old hotel. They finish it in time for a lovely 4th of July wedding.
January 14, 2025
I listened to this book on audio. It was read by AI and this made it less enjoyable.
June 30, 2025
Almost too much chaos in this one for me, but as always, I enjoyed this book. This series is such a fun way to read throughout the year!
July 4, 2025
Very cute fun small town no spice friendship wholesome life lessons sprinkled in. Recommend for a lite July 4th read.
August 7, 2025
I loved this book a lot crazy but so good now on to the next book for this series
January 17, 2026
Great Read
A 4th of July wedding puts Grace into a tailspin. So much to do at the B&B and the hotel. Graces stress level is high.
A 4th of July wedding puts Grace into a tailspin. So much to do at the B&B and the hotel. Graces stress level is high.
February 20, 2026
Winterwood is gearing up for the 4th of July. Read to celebrate.
April 1, 2026
Good book. I enjoyed it.
April 26, 2026
Beautiful
July 4, 2026
Having fun with this series this year.
July 6, 2026
I’m stuck on this crazy series. Pretty unrealistic, but it’s fun following all these friends.
Read
April 29, 2026Stopped chapter 9 page 83 41%
Tedious is the word that comes to mind. Also not as well written as Murder She Wrote or Laura Childs teashop mysteries... or...
Maybe better if I'd read in order?
Kindle unlimited
only 127 ratings on amazon
Tedious is the word that comes to mind. Also not as well written as Murder She Wrote or Laura Childs teashop mysteries... or...
Maybe better if I'd read in order?
Kindle unlimited
only 127 ratings on amazon
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews