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Carrington's #2
Christmas at Carrington's
Carrington’s Department Store – where life is sweeter…
Georgie Hart loves Christmas time at Carrington’s Department store. Running the luxury handbag department, Georgie adores helping customers in the hunt for the perfect gift for the perfect someone. And this year is no exception – now she has the hunky Tom, Mr Carrington himself, to spend the special day with.
But when Tom springs a surprise, Georgie’s plans are thrown into chaos. Carrington’s is getting a fresh lease of life in a hot new reality TV show, featuring formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper.
As the first show airs, Georgie is shown in a far from flattering light. Worse is to come when Kelly’s vile daughter appears to get her claws into Tom. Georgie fears this will be the worst Christmas ever, but Santa still has a little surprise for her stocking this year – she’ll just have to wait until Christmas to find out…
Georgie Hart loves Christmas time at Carrington’s Department store. Running the luxury handbag department, Georgie adores helping customers in the hunt for the perfect gift for the perfect someone. And this year is no exception – now she has the hunky Tom, Mr Carrington himself, to spend the special day with.
But when Tom springs a surprise, Georgie’s plans are thrown into chaos. Carrington’s is getting a fresh lease of life in a hot new reality TV show, featuring formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper.
As the first show airs, Georgie is shown in a far from flattering light. Worse is to come when Kelly’s vile daughter appears to get her claws into Tom. Georgie fears this will be the worst Christmas ever, but Santa still has a little surprise for her stocking this year – she’ll just have to wait until Christmas to find out…
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2013
46 people are currently reading
1393 people want to read
About the author
Alex Brown
26 books469 followersAlex Brown is an International No.1 bestselling author of fourteen books including A Postcard from Italy, the Carrington’s series, The Secret of Orchard Cottage, The Great Christmas Knit Off, The Wish, A Postcard from Paris and the Bridget’s Bicycle Bakery series. Her books are loved worldwide and have been translated into twenty languages.
Alex lives by the sea on the south coast of England with her family and two glossy black Labradors. When she isn’t writing, she can be found walking on the beach, binge-watching a boxset or enjoying a French martini cocktail. She loves chatting to her readers on social media @alexbrownbooks and you can sign up to her newsletter on her website www.alexbrownauthor.com to receive a free short story, The Beach Walk, and also be the first to hear about new books, free extracts and giveaways.
Alex lives by the sea on the south coast of England with her family and two glossy black Labradors. When she isn’t writing, she can be found walking on the beach, binge-watching a boxset or enjoying a French martini cocktail. She loves chatting to her readers on social media @alexbrownbooks and you can sign up to her newsletter on her website www.alexbrownauthor.com to receive a free short story, The Beach Walk, and also be the first to hear about new books, free extracts and giveaways.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
October 26, 2025
3,333 stars on my Grinch-o-Meter
I enjoyed it more 2nd time round, apart from the male-MC-goes-incommunicado business and its explanation, which in this day and age is "totes" ridiculous and unrealistic and is just the laziest of plotting at the end of the day.
Otherwise the whole story is nicely predictable with a typical chick-lit plot (he loves me... wait ... he doesn't, oh.. he does/I am so over him... wait!.. I am not!) but the characters are very likeable.
And author Alexandra Brown just really knows how to throw a proper Christmas-read-party. Very irresistible in a guilty-pleasure sort of way.
Take a rather grand, old-fashioned, yet provincial department store in an English seaside town:
add the Christmas shopping season:
mention the characters eating/drinking coffee, hot chocolate and cakes and stuff (so this does not affect my waist size)
make sure there's a happy ending and there you go.
I enjoyed it more 2nd time round, apart from the male-MC-goes-incommunicado business and its explanation, which in this day and age is "totes" ridiculous and unrealistic and is just the laziest of plotting at the end of the day.
Otherwise the whole story is nicely predictable with a typical chick-lit plot (he loves me... wait ... he doesn't, oh.. he does/I am so over him... wait!.. I am not!) but the characters are very likeable.
And author Alexandra Brown just really knows how to throw a proper Christmas-read-party. Very irresistible in a guilty-pleasure sort of way.
Take a rather grand, old-fashioned, yet provincial department store in an English seaside town:
add the Christmas shopping season:
mention the characters eating/drinking coffee, hot chocolate and cakes and stuff (so this does not affect my waist size)
make sure there's a happy ending and there you go.
September 15, 2019
Georgie Hart yg berpacaran dgn Tom Carrington yg tampan, pemilik toko Carrington’s. Tapi hubungan mereka mulai terganggu sejak kedatangan seleb TV Kelly Cooper. Hubungan Georgie dan Tom terputus dan Georgie mengira Zara, anak Kelly yg manja, mengincar Tom dan mereka bakal bertunangan.
Di tengah kekacauan hatinya, untung masih ada Sam yg menjadi teman curhat sekaligus teman bergosip bagi Georgie. Dia jg harus menata kembali kehidupannya sbg bintang youtuber gara-gara reality show yg dipimpin Kelly tsb.
Ini pertama kali saya membaca karya author dan sejujurnya kurang menyukai gaya tulisannya. Terlalu banyak hiperbola dan narasi yg diulang-ulang sehingga sarkasme yg sudah dibangun malah jadi kurang "gigit". Lagipula kurang fokus pada permasalahan utamanya mnrt saya, jadi romance-nya terkesan sangat tempelan banget. Jadi ini lebih ke pure chicklit mnrt saya.
Di tengah kekacauan hatinya, untung masih ada Sam yg menjadi teman curhat sekaligus teman bergosip bagi Georgie. Dia jg harus menata kembali kehidupannya sbg bintang youtuber gara-gara reality show yg dipimpin Kelly tsb.
Ini pertama kali saya membaca karya author dan sejujurnya kurang menyukai gaya tulisannya. Terlalu banyak hiperbola dan narasi yg diulang-ulang sehingga sarkasme yg sudah dibangun malah jadi kurang "gigit". Lagipula kurang fokus pada permasalahan utamanya mnrt saya, jadi romance-nya terkesan sangat tempelan banget. Jadi ini lebih ke pure chicklit mnrt saya.
May 19, 2025
Een kerstgerelateerd boek kan prima in mei, dacht ik zo. Nou, dat bleek ook zo te zijn, want kerst speelt niet echt een thema in dit boek. Anders dan de titel doet vermoeden. Ik werd verrast door een miscommunication-trope en een FMC dat constant binnen een halve seconde conclusies trekt. Hoewel ik de relatie tussen de FMC en haar beste vriendin en collega erg kon waarderen, blijft het daar ook wel een beetje bij. Gelukkig nam dat wel een flink deel van het boek in beslag. Daarom toch 2 sterren.
June 19, 2017
Khas chicklit banget :) lucu juga baca kisah Georgie yg masuk yutub, dapat barang gratisan dan tentunya romens super kentelnya dan lumayan banyak air mata.
January 8, 2015
So, I started this as a Christmas read on December 25th 2013. I got annoyed at about the 15% point so I put it aside (then I got a horrendous New Year's flu) and didn't pick it up again until the 2014 holiday season, completing it just now.
This series lost momentum for me with this book, and although entertaining, it was a disappointment that I felt didn't meet its potential. The disappointing factor is a result of a lot of 'telling' and not a lot of 'showing' as well as falling into the lack-of-communication plot device trap that drives me nuts!
Our dear heroine, Georgie Hart, the somewhat-more-grounded-Bridget-Jones-type who works as the Women's Accessories floor supervisor at Carrington's Department Store in Mulberry-at-Sea and has a fledgling relationship with the dashing Tom Carrington is thrust into the world of reality television in this holiday turn in the Carrington's series.
Carrington's is participating in a reality series with presenter and producer Kelly Cooper, whose daughter Zara tags along, and is quickly pegged as the evil villain in this tale. Eddie practically becomes a caricature of himself (or just a caricature of a queen) and barely gets past the 2-dimensional stage. Sam has a really sweet heartfelt storyline and you see the depth of her relationship with Georgie, but there's some heavy stuff that goes down with Georgie and her father and it seems, in an effort to keep things 'light', those issues get glossed over to facilitate an amenable resolution to all conflicts.
In Cupcakes at Carrington's, when we first meet Georgie, she is lonely, looking for love and trying to get her life on track and in Me and Mr Carrington we get a delightful novella that gives us a glimpse at Georgie's relationship with new found love Tom.
The problem with "Christmas at Carrington's" is that everything stalls. We see Tom in the beginning of the book, and then at the end of the book. The reality series provides a platform for the humourous situations that Georgie, her colleagues and the other supporting characters find themselves in, but essentially instead of there being any relationship progression between Tom and Georgie, Georgie spends the bulk of the book fretting and analyzing the nature of her relationship with Tom, making assumptions about things and never actually talking to him. This becomes a bit of a rehash of "Cupcakes" in that regard, with everything being resolved once the big 'misunderstanding' is sorted out and Georgie saving the day/store and finding love as an end result.
We don't even get to read about Georgie's Christmas as the story concludes on Christmas Eve, with a brief reference to Christmas Day and the general events that followed afterwards and the epilogue jumps 9-months and is about Eddie!! So I felt the reader was a bit short changed with this book.
I've already purchased Ice Creams at Carrington’s, but will wait until the warm weather to start reading it. I hope it meets its potential and we actually get to see Tom and Georgie's HEA.
This series lost momentum for me with this book, and although entertaining, it was a disappointment that I felt didn't meet its potential. The disappointing factor is a result of a lot of 'telling' and not a lot of 'showing' as well as falling into the lack-of-communication plot device trap that drives me nuts!
Our dear heroine, Georgie Hart, the somewhat-more-grounded-Bridget-Jones-type who works as the Women's Accessories floor supervisor at Carrington's Department Store in Mulberry-at-Sea and has a fledgling relationship with the dashing Tom Carrington is thrust into the world of reality television in this holiday turn in the Carrington's series.
Carrington's is participating in a reality series with presenter and producer Kelly Cooper, whose daughter Zara tags along, and is quickly pegged as the evil villain in this tale. Eddie practically becomes a caricature of himself (or just a caricature of a queen) and barely gets past the 2-dimensional stage. Sam has a really sweet heartfelt storyline and you see the depth of her relationship with Georgie, but there's some heavy stuff that goes down with Georgie and her father and it seems, in an effort to keep things 'light', those issues get glossed over to facilitate an amenable resolution to all conflicts.
In Cupcakes at Carrington's, when we first meet Georgie, she is lonely, looking for love and trying to get her life on track and in Me and Mr Carrington we get a delightful novella that gives us a glimpse at Georgie's relationship with new found love Tom.
The problem with "Christmas at Carrington's" is that everything stalls. We see Tom in the beginning of the book, and then at the end of the book. The reality series provides a platform for the humourous situations that Georgie, her colleagues and the other supporting characters find themselves in, but essentially instead of there being any relationship progression between Tom and Georgie, Georgie spends the bulk of the book fretting and analyzing the nature of her relationship with Tom, making assumptions about things and never actually talking to him. This becomes a bit of a rehash of "Cupcakes" in that regard, with everything being resolved once the big 'misunderstanding' is sorted out and Georgie saving the day/store and finding love as an end result.
We don't even get to read about Georgie's Christmas as the story concludes on Christmas Eve, with a brief reference to Christmas Day and the general events that followed afterwards and the epilogue jumps 9-months and is about Eddie!! So I felt the reader was a bit short changed with this book.
I've already purchased Ice Creams at Carrington’s, but will wait until the warm weather to start reading it. I hope it meets its potential and we actually get to see Tom and Georgie's HEA.
November 5, 2013
wow! What a sequel! In fact, i think i loved this even more than the original! I was lucky enough to get an advanced review copy of this novel and so i was able to marathon all of Alexandra Brown's writing in one go. I am so pleased I read her novels this way, but i definitely saved the best until last! This novel isn't the MOST Christmasy novel I've ever read so fans looking for tons of snow and Xmas trees, be warned there is simply a hint of Christmas in the air, this novel relies much more on the storyline of the reality TV show which is going on within Carrington's. The storyline also features a delicious amount of romantic angst between new couple Georgie and Tom which I loved but I found myself incredibly frustrated by, as if it were me involved in the angst and not them-amazing!
I really enjoyed all of the reality TV aspect of this novel. Characters Eddie and Annie really become your typical reality TV contestants and the storyline allows for much more mention of fabulous designer clobber, fabulous shoes and handbags and wrap dresses! Readers be warned, there is one storyline that runs through the novel and comes to a head about two thirds of the way through that had me in tears. I don't want to spoil it but just be warned. I could see it coming and so there was a certain amount of tension as well as tears, didn't spoilt the book in any way for me though!
Like any good sequel, its always fun to revisit old characters, its like catching up with old Friends really and it was really nice to catch up with Georgie, Sam and Tom. These characters haven't really changed at all, although i did find myself disliking Tom in some parts of this book, something which didn't happen with its predecessors... Georgie still has a tendency to put two and two together and make five hundred, but that is what's so lovable about her. She has a fabulous storyline reuniting her with her Dad, it was really nice to see the two of them building up their relationship again and i loved this part of the plot.
All in all this was a truly heartwarming sequel. I loved all the fun of the reality TV show, the plot twists and i really really liked the ending, everything turned out the way i wanted with a few surprises thrown in there too. At the end there are even some recipes from Sam which i am definitely going to have a go at making (whether they are diet friendly or not). If you are a fan of Alexandra Brown's or not, this should definitely be on your Xmas list and don't worry, this novel would work equally well as a standalone, although i do highly recommend reading them both together as I did!
I really enjoyed all of the reality TV aspect of this novel. Characters Eddie and Annie really become your typical reality TV contestants and the storyline allows for much more mention of fabulous designer clobber, fabulous shoes and handbags and wrap dresses! Readers be warned, there is one storyline that runs through the novel and comes to a head about two thirds of the way through that had me in tears. I don't want to spoil it but just be warned. I could see it coming and so there was a certain amount of tension as well as tears, didn't spoilt the book in any way for me though!
Like any good sequel, its always fun to revisit old characters, its like catching up with old Friends really and it was really nice to catch up with Georgie, Sam and Tom. These characters haven't really changed at all, although i did find myself disliking Tom in some parts of this book, something which didn't happen with its predecessors... Georgie still has a tendency to put two and two together and make five hundred, but that is what's so lovable about her. She has a fabulous storyline reuniting her with her Dad, it was really nice to see the two of them building up their relationship again and i loved this part of the plot.
All in all this was a truly heartwarming sequel. I loved all the fun of the reality TV show, the plot twists and i really really liked the ending, everything turned out the way i wanted with a few surprises thrown in there too. At the end there are even some recipes from Sam which i am definitely going to have a go at making (whether they are diet friendly or not). If you are a fan of Alexandra Brown's or not, this should definitely be on your Xmas list and don't worry, this novel would work equally well as a standalone, although i do highly recommend reading them both together as I did!
August 27, 2020
The second book in Brown’s Carrington series is sweet at times, yet annoying at others. The interplay between characters is humorous and often meaningful. However, the misunderstandings and poor communication get so frustrating it might cause readers much stress while waiting to see if poor Georgie can sift through the muddle to find the truth.
Georgie Hart and Tom Carrington are just beginning to settle into their fledgling relationship. Things are going well, until Georgie turns on the television and finds herself “starring” in a reality show about the department store — and Tom knew about it and kept it a secret. As Georgie and her friends attempt to make the best of the situation in order to help the store, the producer’s daughter gets between Georgie and Tom and causes their relationship to head toward rocky ground.
Georgie Hart and Tom Carrington are just beginning to settle into their fledgling relationship. Things are going well, until Georgie turns on the television and finds herself “starring” in a reality show about the department store — and Tom knew about it and kept it a secret. As Georgie and her friends attempt to make the best of the situation in order to help the store, the producer’s daughter gets between Georgie and Tom and causes their relationship to head toward rocky ground.
January 29, 2014
I have to admit, I was and still am really disappointed of this book - I expected it to be a nice and fun christmas read... First of all, it's not very christmas-y at all, in fact christmas is only ever mentioned at the beginning of each chapter where the reader is told how much time there is left until christmas. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are not part of the story either. Concerning the main character, Georgie... isn't she annoying? Jumping to conclusions all the time, expecting the worst case scenario and pitying herself - that's not my favourite type of character. This book might entertain a lot of readers, but for me it turned out to be frustrating and disappointing.
December 18, 2015
Recensione sul blog ---> http://www.leggereromanticamente.com/...
October 17, 2016
warm and fuzzy :D
July 12, 2017
I didn't realize there were other books before this one, so I'm reading them out of order. This was a light, fun, easy read and I enjoyed it enough to get the previous books and start on them.
December 18, 2020
Well... It does what you expect to be honest... If what you're after is christmasy schmaltzy fluff ... Then this is the book for you. And to be honest it's exactly what I wanted! Disengage brain, suspend a lot of critical disbelief and just dive into a big comfy sugar coated predictable plot and simple one dimensional characters. It's a good Christmas feel good read by the fire with a big glass of Bailey's!
November 19, 2017
Didn't enjoy the plot or the way the romance was handled, it just frustrated me!
2/5 Christmassness I guess. Bleh.
2/5 Christmassness I guess. Bleh.
December 16, 2022
The writing was light and entertaining and I enjoyed being on the journey with the main character. The misunderstandings throughout were interesting and I really felt for her. There were also a couple of emotional moments which I think added to the story.
It was written from the point of view of the main character which drew me in to the story and made me feel part of the journey. There was a good amount of description that was cleverly weaved in so you could easily picture what was going on.
There was a fast pace to the story, with things constantly going on. The chapters were a mix of lengths which helped with the pacing and kept my interest. I enjoyed the titles on each of the chapters and I felt that they also helped to move the story on.
The characters were great. The friendship shone through when the main character was having a time of it, and they added entertainment to the story.
Lastly the settings. I loved the setting of an old fashioned shopping department. There is something cosy about reading about them especially as they are being rarer.
Overall an enjoyable Christmas story.
✨For a longer review see my book blog✨ https://budgettalesblog.wordpress.com/
It was written from the point of view of the main character which drew me in to the story and made me feel part of the journey. There was a good amount of description that was cleverly weaved in so you could easily picture what was going on.
There was a fast pace to the story, with things constantly going on. The chapters were a mix of lengths which helped with the pacing and kept my interest. I enjoyed the titles on each of the chapters and I felt that they also helped to move the story on.
The characters were great. The friendship shone through when the main character was having a time of it, and they added entertainment to the story.
Lastly the settings. I loved the setting of an old fashioned shopping department. There is something cosy about reading about them especially as they are being rarer.
Overall an enjoyable Christmas story.
✨For a longer review see my book blog✨ https://budgettalesblog.wordpress.com/
December 4, 2013
Also posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
I was really looking forward to reading this book for many reasons. First off, my twitter feed throughout November was full of great comments about it, secondly, the sparkly reviews from my friends/chick lit bloggers whose judgments I absolutely trust.
With Christmas being just around the corner, I thought it was the perfect time to read this Christmassy read and boy oh boy did I have high expectations.
But you know what? Not only was I not disappointed in Alexandra's writing but this book actually exceeded all my expectations. 'Christmas at Carrington's' is the sequel to 'Cupcakes at Carrington's' but it can be easily read as a stand alone too. We get together with Georgie, Sam and Eddie again and see what lies in store for them (no pun intended).
Carrington's is a family firm spanning 3 generations and a store everyone in Mullberry-On-Sea feel connected to. The customers are treated with respect and addressed by name and the staff is like one big happy family.
Well, at least it was before Kelly Cooper and her cameras enter the picture. The idea of setting a reality show in a department store is really brilliant, I personally find it very unique. It does give the story a whole new dimension. Literally over night, Georgie who's running the Women's Accessories section in Carrington's becomes a celebrity and a national TV star. Of course, at first she doesn't enjoy being so exposed and loudly objects the idea of turning a well respected and traditional store into a TV circus, but soon she's starts to get into this whole glamorous life. She even gets to write a fashion column, something she always wanted to do. But fame has a price, right? Georgie is really a wonderful character, and despite being thrown in many awkward situations, she is pretty down-to-earth and positive person. Everyone would love to have her as a BFF, she's nice, kind, caring and full of understanding. I cheered for her, I laughed with her, I sympathized with her, she's definitely a memorable character everyone would love.
I loved the romance elements which fitted the story perfectly. Tom Carrington is gorgeous, smart, sexy..simply breath taking. BUT what I enjoyed the most was the friendship between Georgie and Sam. I could feel they deeply care for each other and support each other no matter what. This is not a sad book, it's actually very fun and uplifting, but there's few scenes in the book where I literally cried like a baby, I was that emotionally invested. I totally DIDN'T expect to cry, but it was stronger than me really. These scenes are pretty powerful and well written (and address a more serious topic), and give the book a deeper dimension. I'm sure many women out there will understand what I say, once they read this book.
Overall, this is definitely a great and enjoyable book. It will get you in a festive mood super speedy, make you laugh and deeply care about these fantastic characters, and flip through pages to see what will happen to Georgie and if she's gonna get her HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am certainly looking forward to part 3, which I heard will be released in June 2014. Full of sparkle and heart, this is a must read for all chick lit and romance fans.
December 25, 2020
Title: Christmas At Carrington's
Author: Alexandra Brown
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: 7th November 2013
Blurb
A deliciously indulgent read and the follow up to Cupcakes at Carrington’s. Set in Carrington’s Department Store this is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan.
Carrington’s Department store is thrown into a spin when the staff learn that a hot new reality TV show is to be filmed in-store, featuring the formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper. Georgie Hart, in charge of Luxury Handbags, is reluctant, but quickly realises that the show could give Carrington’s a new lease of life. With Christmas around the corner, she’s also hoping that the season will deliver her the perfect Christmas present, in the form of Tom, the store’s dishy boss.
When the film crew arrive, things start to go wrong. One of Tom’s old flames, Zara, is working on the show and then, to top things off, Tom and Zara are sent off to Paris and New York for a spot of extra filming. When Georgie settles down in front of the box to watch the first show, worse it to come – Georgie is shown in a far from flattering light and she is horrified to learn what Tom has been up to.
Georgie fears this is turning out to be the worst Christmas ever, but Santa might have a got a little surprise in store for her stocking this year – but she’ll just have to wait until Christmas to find out!
Verdict
Yay it's soo great to catch up with Georgie, Eddie && Mr Tom Carrington again!
What a fantastic read!!! Firstly the cover of this fab book was just ever cute and so festive which I just loved very much!
I am a newly big fan of Alexandra Brown's books and I loved her debut book Cupcake at Carringtons, it was just ever so fabulous, So I was just excited when I knew there was going to be another book in the series tehe!
We soon catch up with Georgie's relationship with the ever so handsome Mr Tom Carrington who is just ever yummy hehe!
When Georgie sees herself on telly on this show by Kelly Cooper...things are simply not going to be right straight away for Georgie, 1. She was shown as a clown in which she was very embarrassed about and 2. Her Mr perfect hadn't told her she was going to be on telly which makes her angry and goes charging into work the next morning to find the famous Kelly Cooper and her daughter Zara.
I think we all know fans of the Carrington's series knew this book was going to blow us away again with plenty of laughter and drama and just being able to catch up with my favourite characters again was just so amazing :)
I was so gutted for Sam(Georgie's best friend) I just hope she does find some great happiness eventually. She is still the fabulous baker though with her yummy cakes which always make me drool when I'm reading.
I just loved the whole book once again, once again I felt like I was right there along Georgie and all the drama's, chaos, laughter, the tears that was happening in the book, either way with these fab books you are just going to fall in love with all the characters and that they are your new best friends!
I do recommend everyone to go grab a copy as it is so wonderful!
I cannot wait for Ice Creams at Carrington's which is out in the summer June 2014. I am soo happy!
Alexandra Brown deserves the fab 5 star rating from me for all the chaos that goes on in the Carrington department store and for making the most wonderful characters ever.
Author: Alexandra Brown
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: 7th November 2013
Blurb
A deliciously indulgent read and the follow up to Cupcakes at Carrington’s. Set in Carrington’s Department Store this is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan.
Carrington’s Department store is thrown into a spin when the staff learn that a hot new reality TV show is to be filmed in-store, featuring the formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper. Georgie Hart, in charge of Luxury Handbags, is reluctant, but quickly realises that the show could give Carrington’s a new lease of life. With Christmas around the corner, she’s also hoping that the season will deliver her the perfect Christmas present, in the form of Tom, the store’s dishy boss.
When the film crew arrive, things start to go wrong. One of Tom’s old flames, Zara, is working on the show and then, to top things off, Tom and Zara are sent off to Paris and New York for a spot of extra filming. When Georgie settles down in front of the box to watch the first show, worse it to come – Georgie is shown in a far from flattering light and she is horrified to learn what Tom has been up to.
Georgie fears this is turning out to be the worst Christmas ever, but Santa might have a got a little surprise in store for her stocking this year – but she’ll just have to wait until Christmas to find out!
Verdict
Yay it's soo great to catch up with Georgie, Eddie && Mr Tom Carrington again!
What a fantastic read!!! Firstly the cover of this fab book was just ever cute and so festive which I just loved very much!
I am a newly big fan of Alexandra Brown's books and I loved her debut book Cupcake at Carringtons, it was just ever so fabulous, So I was just excited when I knew there was going to be another book in the series tehe!
We soon catch up with Georgie's relationship with the ever so handsome Mr Tom Carrington who is just ever yummy hehe!
When Georgie sees herself on telly on this show by Kelly Cooper...things are simply not going to be right straight away for Georgie, 1. She was shown as a clown in which she was very embarrassed about and 2. Her Mr perfect hadn't told her she was going to be on telly which makes her angry and goes charging into work the next morning to find the famous Kelly Cooper and her daughter Zara.
I think we all know fans of the Carrington's series knew this book was going to blow us away again with plenty of laughter and drama and just being able to catch up with my favourite characters again was just so amazing :)
I was so gutted for Sam(Georgie's best friend) I just hope she does find some great happiness eventually. She is still the fabulous baker though with her yummy cakes which always make me drool when I'm reading.
I just loved the whole book once again, once again I felt like I was right there along Georgie and all the drama's, chaos, laughter, the tears that was happening in the book, either way with these fab books you are just going to fall in love with all the characters and that they are your new best friends!
I do recommend everyone to go grab a copy as it is so wonderful!
I cannot wait for Ice Creams at Carrington's which is out in the summer June 2014. I am soo happy!
Alexandra Brown deserves the fab 5 star rating from me for all the chaos that goes on in the Carrington department store and for making the most wonderful characters ever.
January 12, 2016
Recensione completa su
Café Littéraire
I grandi magazzini Carrington sono un pezzo di storia del piccolo paesino di Mulberry-On-Sea.
E per Georgie Hart non sono solo il posto in cui lavora come commessa nel reparto accessori donna, ma anche uno dei luoghi legato alla sua infanzia e al ricordo di sua madre e il posto in cui ha finalmente trovato l'amore! Non uno qualunque, ma quello che lei pensa possa essere la sua vera anima gemella, nonché proprietario dei grandi magazzini!
Tutto sembra andare per il verso giusto e, neanche a farlo apposta, si sta avvicinando il Natale, il periodo dell'anno che Georgie preferisce, quello in cui il mondo sembra riscoprire la magia e si tinge di mille lucine colorate. Il momento dell'anno in cui Carrington mostra il suo lato più magico.
La vita però di rado segue la strada più prevedibile e questa volta, c'è da dirlo, ha preso proprio una svolta inaspettata.
I grandi magazzini Carrington diventano, a sorpresa di tutti, l'ambientazione per un nuovo reality televisivo.
I riflettori si accendono e tutto viene distorto dalle loro luci false e illusorie.
Realtà e finzione si mischiano creando non pochi malintesi.
Lustri e lustrini non tardano ad ammaliare tutti, Georgie compresa che, inizialmente scettica, non tarda a farsi trascinare nel mondo dello showbiz.
Ogni moneta però ha due facce e i problemi non tardano ad arrivare, e presto Georgie si troverà pronta a dover ridesiderare l'anonimato e il sogno ormai sbiadito di trascorrere il primo Natale assieme all'uomo dei suoi sogni.
Sogni... esatto. Perché la protagonista di queste pagine sembra non avere in testa altro che le sue fantasticherie.
Si è prefigurata il suo Natale perfetto, con il suo uomo perfetto e, anche se i fatti continuano a dimostrarle che quello non è affatto un uomo da sognare, che non è assolutamente un uomo da desiderare, lei non vuole altro perché così ha deciso, quindi così deve andare. Punto e basta.
Il reality, come un'impietosa lente d'ingrandimento, non fa altro che mettere in evidenza la superficialità dei protagonisti. Georgie, Eddie, Tom, sono tutti burattini nelle mani di un burattinaio esperto che si diverte a manipolare le loro vite.
Ed è proprio questo aspetto che non sono riuscita a mandare giù di questa lettura.
La pochezza dei personaggi è fastidiosa e opprimente, basti pensare a Georgie che rappresenta l'emblema della ragazza semplice e insicura che sbava dietro al belloccio di turno.
Lo svolgimento della trama è scontato e banale. Le incomprensioni che si accavallano pagina dopo pagina tra i due "innamorati" sono talmente sciocche da risultare decisamente irritanti, e le giustificazioni che ne vengono date nelle ultime pagine sono poco credibili e noiose.
Il lieto fine a tutti i costi non fa che confermare la banalità di queste trecentoventi pagine.
Uniche note positive di questo libro sono l'ambientazione originale in cui si svolge - i grandi magazzini appunto - e l'atmosfera natalizia fatta di profumi e dolciumi a cui è impossibile resistere.
Ma, purtroppo, una bella cornice non basta a fare di un brutto schizzo un bel quadro.
I grandi magazzini Carrington sono un pezzo di storia del piccolo paesino di Mulberry-On-Sea.
E per Georgie Hart non sono solo il posto in cui lavora come commessa nel reparto accessori donna, ma anche uno dei luoghi legato alla sua infanzia e al ricordo di sua madre e il posto in cui ha finalmente trovato l'amore! Non uno qualunque, ma quello che lei pensa possa essere la sua vera anima gemella, nonché proprietario dei grandi magazzini!
Tutto sembra andare per il verso giusto e, neanche a farlo apposta, si sta avvicinando il Natale, il periodo dell'anno che Georgie preferisce, quello in cui il mondo sembra riscoprire la magia e si tinge di mille lucine colorate. Il momento dell'anno in cui Carrington mostra il suo lato più magico.
La vita però di rado segue la strada più prevedibile e questa volta, c'è da dirlo, ha preso proprio una svolta inaspettata.
I grandi magazzini Carrington diventano, a sorpresa di tutti, l'ambientazione per un nuovo reality televisivo.
I riflettori si accendono e tutto viene distorto dalle loro luci false e illusorie.
Realtà e finzione si mischiano creando non pochi malintesi.
Lustri e lustrini non tardano ad ammaliare tutti, Georgie compresa che, inizialmente scettica, non tarda a farsi trascinare nel mondo dello showbiz.
Ogni moneta però ha due facce e i problemi non tardano ad arrivare, e presto Georgie si troverà pronta a dover ridesiderare l'anonimato e il sogno ormai sbiadito di trascorrere il primo Natale assieme all'uomo dei suoi sogni.
Sogni... esatto. Perché la protagonista di queste pagine sembra non avere in testa altro che le sue fantasticherie.
Si è prefigurata il suo Natale perfetto, con il suo uomo perfetto e, anche se i fatti continuano a dimostrarle che quello non è affatto un uomo da sognare, che non è assolutamente un uomo da desiderare, lei non vuole altro perché così ha deciso, quindi così deve andare. Punto e basta.
Il reality, come un'impietosa lente d'ingrandimento, non fa altro che mettere in evidenza la superficialità dei protagonisti. Georgie, Eddie, Tom, sono tutti burattini nelle mani di un burattinaio esperto che si diverte a manipolare le loro vite.
Ed è proprio questo aspetto che non sono riuscita a mandare giù di questa lettura.
La pochezza dei personaggi è fastidiosa e opprimente, basti pensare a Georgie che rappresenta l'emblema della ragazza semplice e insicura che sbava dietro al belloccio di turno.
Lo svolgimento della trama è scontato e banale. Le incomprensioni che si accavallano pagina dopo pagina tra i due "innamorati" sono talmente sciocche da risultare decisamente irritanti, e le giustificazioni che ne vengono date nelle ultime pagine sono poco credibili e noiose.
Il lieto fine a tutti i costi non fa che confermare la banalità di queste trecentoventi pagine.
Uniche note positive di questo libro sono l'ambientazione originale in cui si svolge - i grandi magazzini appunto - e l'atmosfera natalizia fatta di profumi e dolciumi a cui è impossibile resistere.
Ma, purtroppo, una bella cornice non basta a fare di un brutto schizzo un bel quadro.
January 18, 2016
il confine dei libri
Salve a tutte ragazze, visto che siamo in prossimità delle feste, oggi ho pensato di parlarvi di un romanzo arrivato nelle nostre librerie il 17 Novembre scorso, ambientato proprio durante il magico periodo del Natale. Si tratta di "Natale da Carrington" di Alexandra Brown, edito da Harlequin Mondadori. Vi dico subito che la mia scelta è caduta su questo romanzo perché, da brava shoppinista quale sono, è ambientato in uno dei miei posti preferiti: il grande magazzino! Cosa c'è di meglio di quell'aria natalizia che aleggia nei negozi, pieni di luci, sorrisi, musica, gente che corre alla ricerca del regalo perfetto e, magari, la neve fuori che cade leggiadra, tingendo tutto di bianco? E la storia della nostra protagonista, Georgie Hart, parte proprio da qui... Georgie ama il Natale, ma il Natale da Carrington ha per lei qualcosa di davvero speciale. Da piccola, infatti, era solita passare queste giornate nei magazzini Carrington in compagnia della madre, passeggiare nelle loro luccicanti corsie, provare abiti, accessori, fare acquisti o semplicemente stare insieme alla madre. Sono questi ricordi felici che la spingono, sin dall'adolescenza, ad iniziare a lavorare nel negozio. Ora, giovane donna ventisettenne, gestisce il reparto accessori donna del grande magazzino, è fidanzata con l'affascinate Tom (nonché grande capo!), ed è circondata da amici che le vogliono bene. Insomma, vi starete chiedendo, cosa può chiedere di più dalla vita? (No, non è l'amaro Lucano...) Bè, magari partecipare ad un reality televisivo! Superato lo shock della prima puntata, durante la quale di Georgie si conoscerà solo il lato B (insomma, non tutte le donne amano metterlo in mostra!), in men che non si dica si lascia travolgere dalle novità che tutto ciò comporta: trucco e parrucco nuovi di zecca, vestiti super firmati e all'ultima moda, incontri con le star del momento e, ahimè, l'entrata in scena della sua acerrima nemica Zara, figlia della conduttrice dello show, che si è messa in testa di conquistare il fedelissimo (?) Tom. Insomma, tra clienti da soddisfare, problemi vecchi e nuovi da risolvere, dolci in cui annegare il dispiacere e una presentatrice che ricorda tanto il Gordon Ramsay dei centri commerciali, Georgie avrà molto su cui lavorare per scoprire ciò che il Natale ha in serbo per lei... È una lettura che non mi ha conquistato subito a dire la verità, ma andando avanti il racconto inizia a prendere quel ritmo che ti coinvolge, che ti diverte, e a volte ti fa arrabbiare perché a tanto sentir nominare cupcake, torte e tortine ti viene una voglia pazzesca di mangiarli, peccato che attorno a te non ci sia nulla che assomigli a ciò! Non è "il libro" di Natale, ma è quello ideale per chi vuol passare qualche ora in compagnia di un libro e un buon thè, immersa nell'atmosfera natalizia di uno scintillante centro commerciale, in mezzo a pacchetti e lustrini e personaggi divertenti! Alla prossima e buon Natale a tutte! Alessandra
Salve a tutte ragazze, visto che siamo in prossimità delle feste, oggi ho pensato di parlarvi di un romanzo arrivato nelle nostre librerie il 17 Novembre scorso, ambientato proprio durante il magico periodo del Natale. Si tratta di "Natale da Carrington" di Alexandra Brown, edito da Harlequin Mondadori. Vi dico subito che la mia scelta è caduta su questo romanzo perché, da brava shoppinista quale sono, è ambientato in uno dei miei posti preferiti: il grande magazzino! Cosa c'è di meglio di quell'aria natalizia che aleggia nei negozi, pieni di luci, sorrisi, musica, gente che corre alla ricerca del regalo perfetto e, magari, la neve fuori che cade leggiadra, tingendo tutto di bianco? E la storia della nostra protagonista, Georgie Hart, parte proprio da qui... Georgie ama il Natale, ma il Natale da Carrington ha per lei qualcosa di davvero speciale. Da piccola, infatti, era solita passare queste giornate nei magazzini Carrington in compagnia della madre, passeggiare nelle loro luccicanti corsie, provare abiti, accessori, fare acquisti o semplicemente stare insieme alla madre. Sono questi ricordi felici che la spingono, sin dall'adolescenza, ad iniziare a lavorare nel negozio. Ora, giovane donna ventisettenne, gestisce il reparto accessori donna del grande magazzino, è fidanzata con l'affascinate Tom (nonché grande capo!), ed è circondata da amici che le vogliono bene. Insomma, vi starete chiedendo, cosa può chiedere di più dalla vita? (No, non è l'amaro Lucano...) Bè, magari partecipare ad un reality televisivo! Superato lo shock della prima puntata, durante la quale di Georgie si conoscerà solo il lato B (insomma, non tutte le donne amano metterlo in mostra!), in men che non si dica si lascia travolgere dalle novità che tutto ciò comporta: trucco e parrucco nuovi di zecca, vestiti super firmati e all'ultima moda, incontri con le star del momento e, ahimè, l'entrata in scena della sua acerrima nemica Zara, figlia della conduttrice dello show, che si è messa in testa di conquistare il fedelissimo (?) Tom. Insomma, tra clienti da soddisfare, problemi vecchi e nuovi da risolvere, dolci in cui annegare il dispiacere e una presentatrice che ricorda tanto il Gordon Ramsay dei centri commerciali, Georgie avrà molto su cui lavorare per scoprire ciò che il Natale ha in serbo per lei... È una lettura che non mi ha conquistato subito a dire la verità, ma andando avanti il racconto inizia a prendere quel ritmo che ti coinvolge, che ti diverte, e a volte ti fa arrabbiare perché a tanto sentir nominare cupcake, torte e tortine ti viene una voglia pazzesca di mangiarli, peccato che attorno a te non ci sia nulla che assomigli a ciò! Non è "il libro" di Natale, ma è quello ideale per chi vuol passare qualche ora in compagnia di un libro e un buon thè, immersa nell'atmosfera natalizia di uno scintillante centro commerciale, in mezzo a pacchetti e lustrini e personaggi divertenti! Alla prossima e buon Natale a tutte! Alessandra
November 4, 2020
Love this series light-hearted and fun
November 8, 2013
I LOVE Alexandra Brown’s books – and if you haven’t already then please check out the rest of the Carrington’s books too – Cupcakes At Carrington’s, and Me and Mr Carrington!
Christmas is fast approaching and in the Carrington’s Department Store Georgie is very excited about the upcoming festivities. Georgie is such a lover of handbags and enjoys helping her customers find the perfect special gift. And to make this Christmas more special, she has the handsome Mr Carrington himself to spend it with. But Georgie’s in for a shock, she learns that Carrington’s is to feature in a reality TV show and get a fresh lease of life from retail guru Kelly Cooper. As the first episode airs, Georgie isn’t shown in a flattering way, and things are even more worse when Kelly’s daughter Zara tries to get her claws into Tom. How will Carrington’s fare in the show? And will Georgie get the Christmas she’s been dreaming of?
I LOVED Christmas At Carrington’s so much! I wanted to scoop it up into a big hug, it is that delightful and enjoyable!
The characters are all back for the festive season, the lovable Georgie is spectacular in this! From the opening page it felt as though I was back with a best friend, and I found myself rooting for Georgie all the way throughout. I laughed with her, I cringed with her, I even shed a tear with her too! Eddie is a firm favourite among many and he is back with a bang too…I loved his scenes and his witty lines had me CRYING with laughter. I particularly enjoyed that Georgie’s friend Sam had more of a front role in this book, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her more, as well as salivating over the gorgeous cakes she makes! And of course there is the gorgeous Mr Tom Carrington himself!
I loved the idea of the show – what a brilliant dimension to add to the story! It was fun, quirky and I liked that I didn’t know what way the story would go next!
On another note, I liked that Alexandra took on more serious topics in this book as well, and it was so very well written and she deserves a medal for writing those scenes with such care and feeling. I don’t want to spoil anything but it made me emotional, I could really feel the characters feelings personally and it had me weeping a little too.
Christmas At Carrington’s is the PERFECT book to buy this winter! It is full of romance, friendship, family, a bit of drama and some Christmas cheer – not to mention those beautiful handbags! So buy this STUNNING novel and enjoy!
Christmas is fast approaching and in the Carrington’s Department Store Georgie is very excited about the upcoming festivities. Georgie is such a lover of handbags and enjoys helping her customers find the perfect special gift. And to make this Christmas more special, she has the handsome Mr Carrington himself to spend it with. But Georgie’s in for a shock, she learns that Carrington’s is to feature in a reality TV show and get a fresh lease of life from retail guru Kelly Cooper. As the first episode airs, Georgie isn’t shown in a flattering way, and things are even more worse when Kelly’s daughter Zara tries to get her claws into Tom. How will Carrington’s fare in the show? And will Georgie get the Christmas she’s been dreaming of?
I LOVED Christmas At Carrington’s so much! I wanted to scoop it up into a big hug, it is that delightful and enjoyable!
The characters are all back for the festive season, the lovable Georgie is spectacular in this! From the opening page it felt as though I was back with a best friend, and I found myself rooting for Georgie all the way throughout. I laughed with her, I cringed with her, I even shed a tear with her too! Eddie is a firm favourite among many and he is back with a bang too…I loved his scenes and his witty lines had me CRYING with laughter. I particularly enjoyed that Georgie’s friend Sam had more of a front role in this book, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her more, as well as salivating over the gorgeous cakes she makes! And of course there is the gorgeous Mr Tom Carrington himself!
I loved the idea of the show – what a brilliant dimension to add to the story! It was fun, quirky and I liked that I didn’t know what way the story would go next!
On another note, I liked that Alexandra took on more serious topics in this book as well, and it was so very well written and she deserves a medal for writing those scenes with such care and feeling. I don’t want to spoil anything but it made me emotional, I could really feel the characters feelings personally and it had me weeping a little too.
Christmas At Carrington’s is the PERFECT book to buy this winter! It is full of romance, friendship, family, a bit of drama and some Christmas cheer – not to mention those beautiful handbags! So buy this STUNNING novel and enjoy!
December 27, 2015
QUATTRO E 1/2
Recensione sul sito LA FENICE BOOK
Buon Pomeriggio miei cari! Le feste sono passate ma il clima natalizio è ancora nell'aria...Oggi vi parlo di un romanzo del quale adoro l'autrice; il suo modo di scrivere è irriverente, leggero, spontaneo e scorrevole, tutto nei suoi racconti affascina e travolge.
Vi parlai alcune settimane fa di Amiche, segreti e bollicine scritto dalla bravissima Alexandra Brown, nel suo primo romanzo della serie aveva incluso vari elementi rilevanti e aveva reso lo stesso, un romance perfetto, compatto e dolce al punto giusto. Ebbene oggi ci troviamo a parlare del secondo romanzo della Carrington's series e ancora una volta ritroviamo gli stessi protagonisti del primo.
Se nel precedente romanzo avevamo lasciato la nostra protagonista Georgie (adoro questo nome) innamorata del suo Tom (il socio di maggioranza dei Magazzini Carrington) qui le cose si capovolgeranno e sarà un'impresa ardua riuscire a trovare un punto d'incontro tra i due. Tutto appare difficile e a mettergli i bastoni fra le ruote ci saranno due "arpie" che condurranno un reality show per risollevare le sorti del grande Magazzino Carrington. Tom scomparirà e Georgie sarà sommersa da mille dubbi e domande.
Il Carrington’s Café rimane sempre uno dei miei posti preferiti, con il suo stile, la sua accoglienza e l'eleganza di altri tempi, come uno dei vagoni dell'Oriente Express, lo rende unico e inimitabile. Sam la proprietaria e amica di Georgie, dopo la morte del padre si ritrova ad avere una bella notizia ma non vi svelerò quale.
Tutto appare confuso ma piano piano il groviglio e l'incredulità vengono dissipati lasciando il posto alla bellezza dei Magazzini, alla frivolezza dei personaggi, alla tradizionale storia che si dissipa e si allarga lasciando nel cuore lo spirito del Natale. Un romanzo romantico e allegro.
Naturalmente come nel precedente vengono affrontati temi forti, ecco cosa mi piace di questa autrice che tocca temi importanti, non appesantendoli, non rendendoli dolorosi e compassionevoli ma infila nelle parole tutta la forza dei protagonisti lasciando che affrontino i propri problemi a modo loro. Ogni singolo spigolo di essi viene fuori e si rivela spontaneo e necessario.
Un Romance che lascia il segno. Dopotutto chi non vorrebbe lavorare in un posto così?!
Recensione sul sito LA FENICE BOOK
Buon Pomeriggio miei cari! Le feste sono passate ma il clima natalizio è ancora nell'aria...Oggi vi parlo di un romanzo del quale adoro l'autrice; il suo modo di scrivere è irriverente, leggero, spontaneo e scorrevole, tutto nei suoi racconti affascina e travolge.
Vi parlai alcune settimane fa di Amiche, segreti e bollicine scritto dalla bravissima Alexandra Brown, nel suo primo romanzo della serie aveva incluso vari elementi rilevanti e aveva reso lo stesso, un romance perfetto, compatto e dolce al punto giusto. Ebbene oggi ci troviamo a parlare del secondo romanzo della Carrington's series e ancora una volta ritroviamo gli stessi protagonisti del primo.
Se nel precedente romanzo avevamo lasciato la nostra protagonista Georgie (adoro questo nome) innamorata del suo Tom (il socio di maggioranza dei Magazzini Carrington) qui le cose si capovolgeranno e sarà un'impresa ardua riuscire a trovare un punto d'incontro tra i due. Tutto appare difficile e a mettergli i bastoni fra le ruote ci saranno due "arpie" che condurranno un reality show per risollevare le sorti del grande Magazzino Carrington. Tom scomparirà e Georgie sarà sommersa da mille dubbi e domande.
Il Carrington’s Café rimane sempre uno dei miei posti preferiti, con il suo stile, la sua accoglienza e l'eleganza di altri tempi, come uno dei vagoni dell'Oriente Express, lo rende unico e inimitabile. Sam la proprietaria e amica di Georgie, dopo la morte del padre si ritrova ad avere una bella notizia ma non vi svelerò quale.
Tutto appare confuso ma piano piano il groviglio e l'incredulità vengono dissipati lasciando il posto alla bellezza dei Magazzini, alla frivolezza dei personaggi, alla tradizionale storia che si dissipa e si allarga lasciando nel cuore lo spirito del Natale. Un romanzo romantico e allegro.
Naturalmente come nel precedente vengono affrontati temi forti, ecco cosa mi piace di questa autrice che tocca temi importanti, non appesantendoli, non rendendoli dolorosi e compassionevoli ma infila nelle parole tutta la forza dei protagonisti lasciando che affrontino i propri problemi a modo loro. Ogni singolo spigolo di essi viene fuori e si rivela spontaneo e necessario.
Un Romance che lascia il segno. Dopotutto chi non vorrebbe lavorare in un posto così?!
December 15, 2014
Yay, we are back in Mulberry-on-Sea with Georgie J at Carringtins!!!
I couldn’t wait to read this story, I loved Cupcakes at Carrington’s and also Alexandra Brown’s short story after that.
Georgie Hart is a wonderful character full of energy, sweetness and much more. She works at Carrington’s on the Women’s Accessories Department. She loves her job and it’s always a pleasure to read about her workplace. Georgie is dating gorgeous and sexy Tom Carrington, the boss. The two of them are really sweet and adorable together. I think they have a great connection and their scenes were full of great moments and sweetness.
Well, everything changes when a film crew arrives and wants to feature Carrington’s and especially Georgie and Eddie. It seems that they show Georgie in a rather bad light. Tom knew all about that shoe and didn’t tell her, lots of misunderstandings and fast decisions lead to an end of their relationship. And a supposedly old flame of Tom is all involved in the show. Tom has to travel around for the show and there is no time to talk. I felt really bad for Georgie, because she was really trying and just wanted him back. I was glad that she had her best friends Sam and Eddie there with her. The best friends a girl could wish for. We also learn more about their stories, which was great. Sam goes through a tough time as well and Georgie never left her side – an admirable friendship.
Lots of drama and misunderstandings seem to make everything worse in Georgie’s life. Did Tom really send this message?! And the show changed her life as well. Tis book is not only full of great written drama, but also full of humour and refreshing moments. I couldn’t put this book down!!!! I just wanted Tom and Georgie to talk about it all and hopefully find back together.
It’s the perfect Christmas book as well, very festive and sweet, including family, friends and love.
I loved the last scene and especially where it was set and then also the epilogue.
Alexandra Brown is a brilliant writer, with a great and fresh voice!!!
November 9, 2013
Hot off the digital presses, I couldn't wait to read this next instalment in the Carrington's series, and I was not disappointed.
When last we met Georgie and her friends (in Cupcakes at Carrington's and Me and Mr Carrington), life was looking pretty darn good--particularly for Georgie. Her finances we're under control, her relationship with her dad was restored, and best of all, love was blossoming with the ever so dreamy young CEO of Carrington's Department Store, Tom Carrington. Well, Christmas at Carrington's would have been a nice but pretty dull book if everything had stayed like that. But they don't, so get ready for another great read.
Imagine Georgie's shock when she sits down to see the pilot episode for the new Kelly Cooper undercover reality series, only to see her big bottom being shown on national television as she bops along to a Beyoncé song. Turns out that Carrington's is the new target for a reality make over, with the larger than life Kelly Cooper determined to bring the store into the 21st Century, and to make Georgie a reality star--whether she likes it or not.
It doesn't take long before reality clashes with faux reality leading to misunderstandings and misdirection. And lurking under the surface, a plot is afoot that could spell the end of Carrington's completely.
I thoroughly enjoyed Christmas at Carrington's. It was a delightful pre-Christmas present, and even included some Christmas recipes from Georgie's best friend, Sam, at the end of the book (including Georgie's favourite red velvet cupcake). The only downside is that now I have to try and be patient until the next book in the series is released. Write fast, please, Alexandra.
When last we met Georgie and her friends (in Cupcakes at Carrington's and Me and Mr Carrington), life was looking pretty darn good--particularly for Georgie. Her finances we're under control, her relationship with her dad was restored, and best of all, love was blossoming with the ever so dreamy young CEO of Carrington's Department Store, Tom Carrington. Well, Christmas at Carrington's would have been a nice but pretty dull book if everything had stayed like that. But they don't, so get ready for another great read.
Imagine Georgie's shock when she sits down to see the pilot episode for the new Kelly Cooper undercover reality series, only to see her big bottom being shown on national television as she bops along to a Beyoncé song. Turns out that Carrington's is the new target for a reality make over, with the larger than life Kelly Cooper determined to bring the store into the 21st Century, and to make Georgie a reality star--whether she likes it or not.
It doesn't take long before reality clashes with faux reality leading to misunderstandings and misdirection. And lurking under the surface, a plot is afoot that could spell the end of Carrington's completely.
I thoroughly enjoyed Christmas at Carrington's. It was a delightful pre-Christmas present, and even included some Christmas recipes from Georgie's best friend, Sam, at the end of the book (including Georgie's favourite red velvet cupcake). The only downside is that now I have to try and be patient until the next book in the series is released. Write fast, please, Alexandra.
December 16, 2013
I needed something to put me into the Christmas mood and Christmas at Carringtons fitted the bill nicely.
This is the second book in the Carringtons series with a novella in between,but don't worry if you haven't read the first two just dive into this and you'll soon catch up.
Georgie is a lovely girl who's had quite a rough time in her youth but she now has the love of her life Tom Carrington to call her own,or does she? A reality show is taking place at the store and Georgie has been filmed without her knowledge and made to look a fool. She is so mad at Tom for not warning her in advance that their relationship is put on hold and the horrible Zara is waiting in the wings to steal Tom.
We catch up with her bests friends Sam and Eddie and find out how they deal with becoming reality stars.
Georgie also has some problems adapting to her father's new life and finding out some truths from the past.
There are some fun scenes in this book as Kelly who's presenting the reality show engages actors to cause problems and make complaints. The staff have full celebrity makeovers and have to handle fame.
I found this to be a good fun read especially as I'm watching Liberty of London's reality show on TV it made me think of what actually goes on during the making of those kind of shows.
Alexandra Brown is doing well with her Carringtons series and a little bird told me there's another due out in June,I can't wait to see what Georgie, Sam and Eddie will be up to then.
This is the second book in the Carringtons series with a novella in between,but don't worry if you haven't read the first two just dive into this and you'll soon catch up.
Georgie is a lovely girl who's had quite a rough time in her youth but she now has the love of her life Tom Carrington to call her own,or does she? A reality show is taking place at the store and Georgie has been filmed without her knowledge and made to look a fool. She is so mad at Tom for not warning her in advance that their relationship is put on hold and the horrible Zara is waiting in the wings to steal Tom.
We catch up with her bests friends Sam and Eddie and find out how they deal with becoming reality stars.
Georgie also has some problems adapting to her father's new life and finding out some truths from the past.
There are some fun scenes in this book as Kelly who's presenting the reality show engages actors to cause problems and make complaints. The staff have full celebrity makeovers and have to handle fame.
I found this to be a good fun read especially as I'm watching Liberty of London's reality show on TV it made me think of what actually goes on during the making of those kind of shows.
Alexandra Brown is doing well with her Carringtons series and a little bird told me there's another due out in June,I can't wait to see what Georgie, Sam and Eddie will be up to then.
August 27, 2016
Christmas at Carrington's is the sequel to Cupcakes at Carrington's (see my review here) and we pick up again with Georgie and the majority of the characters from Cupcakes and they're being flung into the world of reality tv.
There's some drama, some funny parts, some sad, a villain you'll love to hate and of course the romance (and the cupcakes). It has the potential to be a great chick lit novel, so why didn't I love it? I didn't look forward to reading it and could easily put it down. Unfortunately, it was just a bit flat for me, a little samey and predictable, liked it but didn't love it. I got so bored with Georgie towards the end and fed up of the constant endless assumptions, I just didn't care whether Tom came in to whisk her away or not. I do love the cover though!
Although this is a follow up novel you could read this as a standalone. Even though the characters first appear in Cupcakes at Carrington's this one does explain who's who and their background stories.
There's a nice touch at the end of the book which includes some of the recipes mentioned in the book. Great if you love baking!
For Cupcakes and die hard chick lit fans but not for me sorry :(
There's some drama, some funny parts, some sad, a villain you'll love to hate and of course the romance (and the cupcakes). It has the potential to be a great chick lit novel, so why didn't I love it? I didn't look forward to reading it and could easily put it down. Unfortunately, it was just a bit flat for me, a little samey and predictable, liked it but didn't love it. I got so bored with Georgie towards the end and fed up of the constant endless assumptions, I just didn't care whether Tom came in to whisk her away or not. I do love the cover though!
Although this is a follow up novel you could read this as a standalone. Even though the characters first appear in Cupcakes at Carrington's this one does explain who's who and their background stories.
There's a nice touch at the end of the book which includes some of the recipes mentioned in the book. Great if you love baking!
For Cupcakes and die hard chick lit fans but not for me sorry :(
February 2, 2014
This book is very easy to get into and read. Sets a cosy atmosphere and has plenty of things happening to keep your interest. However, have only rated it 4 stars as it doesn't get my heart as do books by other authors. It's certainly worth a read particularly if you're in need of a light read. Have to say the occasional swear word is superfluous as it doesn't add anything to the character and doesn't add to the plot. Also there are a lot of "Oh My God's", which are, also, not necessary. I know lots of people say it a lot so it makes it modern but I think other expressions could have been used. Also part of the plot is predictable.
However, having worked in retail, I did enjoy the descriptions of the shop and its goods etc, which were, for me , the best bits. I shall read "Cupcakes at Carrington's now to see how this compares.
However, having worked in retail, I did enjoy the descriptions of the shop and its goods etc, which were, for me , the best bits. I shall read "Cupcakes at Carrington's now to see how this compares.
January 5, 2016
A deliciously indulgent read and the follow up to Cupcakes at Carrington’s. Set in Carrington’s Department Store this is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan.
Carrington’s Department store is thrown into a spin when the staff learn that a hot new reality TV show is to be filmed in-store, featuring the formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper. Georgie Hart, in charge of Luxury Handbags, is reluctant, but quickly realizes that the show could give Carrington’s a new lease of life. With Christmas around the corner, she’s also hoping that the season will deliver her the perfect Christmas present, in the form of Tom, the store’s dishy boss.
I didn't read book one but now I want to! This reminded me of a Sophie Kinsella book and I loved the reality show and the bitchy Zara. It was original and fun. It didn't put me in the Christmas spirit but that's okay!
Carrington’s Department store is thrown into a spin when the staff learn that a hot new reality TV show is to be filmed in-store, featuring the formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper. Georgie Hart, in charge of Luxury Handbags, is reluctant, but quickly realizes that the show could give Carrington’s a new lease of life. With Christmas around the corner, she’s also hoping that the season will deliver her the perfect Christmas present, in the form of Tom, the store’s dishy boss.
I didn't read book one but now I want to! This reminded me of a Sophie Kinsella book and I loved the reality show and the bitchy Zara. It was original and fun. It didn't put me in the Christmas spirit but that's okay!
December 17, 2015
Questa sì che è una lettura natalizia come piace a me! Il Natale emana da ogni pagina con luci, profumi e atmosfere a dominare la scena in un enorme centro commerciale che fa da sfondo alle vicende: un luogo come quelli dive adoro passare il tempo libero in attesa del grande giorno!
E in più si fa notare la storia originale e coinvolgente. Pensate di ritrovarvi vostro malgrado al centro di un popolare reality, con tutto quello che questo comporta: fama inattesa, proposte di lavoro, vestiti e accessori di lusso a gratis... ma sono queste le cose che rendono felici davvero? Ovviamente no, soprattutto quando l'amore ci mette lo zampino.
Divertente, imprevedibile, frizzante e molto natalizio questo è di sicuro uno dei libri che consiglio per questo Natale :)
E in più si fa notare la storia originale e coinvolgente. Pensate di ritrovarvi vostro malgrado al centro di un popolare reality, con tutto quello che questo comporta: fama inattesa, proposte di lavoro, vestiti e accessori di lusso a gratis... ma sono queste le cose che rendono felici davvero? Ovviamente no, soprattutto quando l'amore ci mette lo zampino.
Divertente, imprevedibile, frizzante e molto natalizio questo è di sicuro uno dei libri che consiglio per questo Natale :)
December 27, 2013
When a tv company decide to makeover and film Carrington's Department Store, ladies accesories salesperson Georgie suddenly finds herself catapaulted into the limelight. But not everything goes according to plan, and Georgie has to try and mend her broken romance with Mr Carrington himself.
I found it hard to engage with the characters in this book, finding their situations a little silly and the language used, 'totes', 'natch' 'merch' for example, more suited to a younger audience. The rather predictable ending wasn't really worth plodding on with the story for.
*I received this book free to review through Goodreads
I found it hard to engage with the characters in this book, finding their situations a little silly and the language used, 'totes', 'natch' 'merch' for example, more suited to a younger audience. The rather predictable ending wasn't really worth plodding on with the story for.
*I received this book free to review through Goodreads
November 28, 2018
Its not a bad book and there will be lots of love out there for this one. It has Lots of action, a pacy narrative and love abounds everywhere - its just a bit saccharine for me
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