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The Adair Family #3
The Christmas Dilemma
Skipping Christmas is easy. But it’s impossible to deny your heart…
Eli Adair is the first call whenever his family and friends need a hand. But this Christmas, he has no obligations, so he’s taking a break from the stress of big family celebrations. No presents under the tree. No stockings by the fireplace. No twinkling lights.
All he wants is to be home alone at Hillcrest House.
Travel nurse Audrey Elliott is returning to Christmas Tree Cove hoping for a big holiday celebration like the ones on her grandparents’ farm—all she has left of happier times before her mom’s condition lost those memories. Candy canes. Gingerbread houses. Holiday carols.
All Audrey wants is a place to call home for Christmas.
When a high school friend assures her there’s plenty of room at Hillcrest House, it seems like all her Christmas dreams are coming true until she discovers she’ll be living with Eli, the boy she’s never forgotten. Or the first kiss they shared.
Eli and Audrey are about to discover whether December is about reliving traditions—or making new ones.
Eli Adair is the first call whenever his family and friends need a hand. But this Christmas, he has no obligations, so he’s taking a break from the stress of big family celebrations. No presents under the tree. No stockings by the fireplace. No twinkling lights.
All he wants is to be home alone at Hillcrest House.
Travel nurse Audrey Elliott is returning to Christmas Tree Cove hoping for a big holiday celebration like the ones on her grandparents’ farm—all she has left of happier times before her mom’s condition lost those memories. Candy canes. Gingerbread houses. Holiday carols.
All Audrey wants is a place to call home for Christmas.
When a high school friend assures her there’s plenty of room at Hillcrest House, it seems like all her Christmas dreams are coming true until she discovers she’ll be living with Eli, the boy she’s never forgotten. Or the first kiss they shared.
Eli and Audrey are about to discover whether December is about reliving traditions—or making new ones.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
227 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Vance-Tompkins
11 books430 followersSarah Vance-Tompkins was born in a small town in northern Michigan. She spent every summer exploring the sugar sand beaches near Sleeping Bear National Park. She left her heart behind when she moved to Los Angeles to attend the University of Southern California. She received an MFA in Film Production and went on to work in feature film development in Hollywood. She has worked as a reporter for a weekly entertainment trade publication, and been paid to write obituaries, press releases, the directions for use on personal lubricant bottles, and breathless descriptions of engagement rings for an online jewelry store. She lives in a small town north of Los Angeles with her husband and three cats.
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October 5, 2025A story of grief & loss and finding a soulmate
Oh my - I cried, I laughed. I remembered my own Christmases past. Eli and Audrey have loved each other since their teens, but it was never verbalize, and family breakdown separated them. Eli lost his parents on Christmas Eve and has lost his Christmas spirit. When opportunity brings these two together again, they have another chance, but there are obstacles to overcome. As a reader, I was pulling for them all the way.
Oh my - I cried, I laughed. I remembered my own Christmases past. Eli and Audrey have loved each other since their teens, but it was never verbalize, and family breakdown separated them. Eli lost his parents on Christmas Eve and has lost his Christmas spirit. When opportunity brings these two together again, they have another chance, but there are obstacles to overcome. As a reader, I was pulling for them all the way.
November 4, 2023
The Christmas Dilemma is book 3 in the Adair Family series by Sarah Vance-Tompkins, a new to me author.
When dealing with the past at Christmas time for Eli it’s no celebration then Audrey comes back to town as this is the place of happy Christmas memories and seeing the one who got away…
Can these two find a way to mend the past, find/make new traditions and have the HEA they deserve….only time will tell.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from Tule Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When dealing with the past at Christmas time for Eli it’s no celebration then Audrey comes back to town as this is the place of happy Christmas memories and seeing the one who got away…
Can these two find a way to mend the past, find/make new traditions and have the HEA they deserve….only time will tell.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from Tule Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 14, 2024
Like reading a Hallmark movie! A very good Hallmark movie. Audrey Elliott, traveling nurse, returns to her hometown of Christmas Tree Cove, Michigan for a thirteen week nursing job and she is hoping for the Christmas from her memories. What she finds when she's reunited with the boy who gave her the unforgettable kiss of her lifetime is not at all what she had planned. Eli Adair is everything Audrey ever wanted but things never seem to go the way they should for the two of them. Will Christmas in Christmas Tree Cove be one to remember? Read this delightful book to find out! I loved the characters, the setting, and the story. 🎄💝
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers in exchange for my honest review.
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2023
I received an arc of The Christmas Dilemma from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This is the final book in The Adair Family series by Sarah Vance-Tompkins. The story is set in the lovely town of Christmas Tree Cove, Michigan that the author has created. The Adair family were long time residents of the town, living in a beautiful old home, Hillcrest House. The parents were killed in an accident on Christmas Eve many years earlier and the 4 siblings continued to struggle with their loss. I was glad that all the siblings were included in each of the book’s storylines. It was comforting to see them all in each book.
This book features Eli Adair. He was the only son with three sisters. We met him in the prior books. He returned home, opening a restaurant/bar and being a partner in a microbrewery chain. He bought the family home when it became too much for his older sister to manage. Only now he feels he is bleeding too much money to keep it going and he is no longer challenged with what he is doing. He has decided he is not going to celebrate Christmas this year, he’s taking a break - no decorations or town activities. Also, he plans to put the house up for sale in the new year. He is dreading telling his sisters.
We are also introduced to Audrey Elliott, a traveling nurse who used to live in Christmas Tree Cove until her parents divorced her senior year of high school. Audrey and Eli had been close in high school, sharing her first kiss and then she disappeared. She obtained a placement for a hospital nearby as she wanted to be immersed in a big Christmas celebration this year. Her mother has early dementia and lives in a facility a few hours from there.
As the book opens, Audrey learns her housing has fallen through so she reaches out to the Adairs to see if she can stay at their house. Eli’s sister didn’t tell him about Audrey staying with him so he’s very surprised. His old feelings for her return when he sees her again. Eli tells her upfront that he’s not celebrating Christmas this year and there won’t be any decorations in his home. She is devastated by the news and tries to find alternative housing for her stay. He finds out and they compromise enough that she agrees to stay. Her feelings for Eli also never went away but she knows starting something isn’t a good choice as she will be leaving for a new assignment in 13 weeks. Audrey visits her mom and spends time with Eli and his family. She is happy to be home. Eli also plans to put the house up for sale and isn’t sure what his future will be either. The two make a sweet couple and the reader is rooting for a HEA.
This was such a good book and series. I felt so comfortable with the characters. The Adair siblings and their significant others were such terrific characters. Sarah created a sweet community with lovely traditions and beautiful backdrop. I am sad the series is over. Maybe someday we will get to return to Christmas Tree Cove.
This book features Eli Adair. He was the only son with three sisters. We met him in the prior books. He returned home, opening a restaurant/bar and being a partner in a microbrewery chain. He bought the family home when it became too much for his older sister to manage. Only now he feels he is bleeding too much money to keep it going and he is no longer challenged with what he is doing. He has decided he is not going to celebrate Christmas this year, he’s taking a break - no decorations or town activities. Also, he plans to put the house up for sale in the new year. He is dreading telling his sisters.
We are also introduced to Audrey Elliott, a traveling nurse who used to live in Christmas Tree Cove until her parents divorced her senior year of high school. Audrey and Eli had been close in high school, sharing her first kiss and then she disappeared. She obtained a placement for a hospital nearby as she wanted to be immersed in a big Christmas celebration this year. Her mother has early dementia and lives in a facility a few hours from there.
As the book opens, Audrey learns her housing has fallen through so she reaches out to the Adairs to see if she can stay at their house. Eli’s sister didn’t tell him about Audrey staying with him so he’s very surprised. His old feelings for her return when he sees her again. Eli tells her upfront that he’s not celebrating Christmas this year and there won’t be any decorations in his home. She is devastated by the news and tries to find alternative housing for her stay. He finds out and they compromise enough that she agrees to stay. Her feelings for Eli also never went away but she knows starting something isn’t a good choice as she will be leaving for a new assignment in 13 weeks. Audrey visits her mom and spends time with Eli and his family. She is happy to be home. Eli also plans to put the house up for sale and isn’t sure what his future will be either. The two make a sweet couple and the reader is rooting for a HEA.
This was such a good book and series. I felt so comfortable with the characters. The Adair siblings and their significant others were such terrific characters. Sarah created a sweet community with lovely traditions and beautiful backdrop. I am sad the series is over. Maybe someday we will get to return to Christmas Tree Cove.
October 23, 2023
The Christmas Dilemma is a standalone holiday romance that brings all the fuzzy feels to warm you up. This is the third book of The Adair Family seriesthough I only just realised that it was part of a series just now as I started writing this review, so I can defintely endorse this book as a standalone.
This is one of those Christmas romances that covers all the sweet romance tropes - small town white Christmas, an MC heading back to the home town, the MC finding their high school crush/boyfriend and a possible second chance at romance.
Audrey Elliot is a travel nurse (a concept that is completely foreign to this Aussie), she has made her career as a nurse, travelling around the US to whatever hospital needs her. Her next assignment is just in time for Christmas. It brings her close to the place she had spent most of her childhood before her parents divorced and close to the aged care facility where her mother, who has dementia, now lives. When her accomodation falls through, Audrey must reach out to a friend she hasn't seen and barely talked to in years. That's how she ends up at Hillcrest House with the man that had once been her high school crush, and they had been on the verge of a relationship back in the day.
Eli Adair is a total Grinch. He doesn't want to celebrate Christmas and this year he is adamant that he won't celebration. Christmas, in his experience, does not bring joy, although he dearly loves his three sisters. For years he has been holding them and the grand family home they grew up in together. Now Eli wants a change and though he thinks he knows what he wants, Audrey sweeps back into his life and challenges Eli's thoughts on what his future may become.
Sweet and perfect romance to get you in the Christmas spirit, or ready for all those holiday romance movies that will be hitting our screens as December approaches. Audrey and Eli have wonderful chemistry that had me cheering for them, even if there were a couple silly misunderstandings. This book just made me happy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is one of those Christmas romances that covers all the sweet romance tropes - small town white Christmas, an MC heading back to the home town, the MC finding their high school crush/boyfriend and a possible second chance at romance.
Audrey Elliot is a travel nurse (a concept that is completely foreign to this Aussie), she has made her career as a nurse, travelling around the US to whatever hospital needs her. Her next assignment is just in time for Christmas. It brings her close to the place she had spent most of her childhood before her parents divorced and close to the aged care facility where her mother, who has dementia, now lives. When her accomodation falls through, Audrey must reach out to a friend she hasn't seen and barely talked to in years. That's how she ends up at Hillcrest House with the man that had once been her high school crush, and they had been on the verge of a relationship back in the day.
Eli Adair is a total Grinch. He doesn't want to celebrate Christmas and this year he is adamant that he won't celebration. Christmas, in his experience, does not bring joy, although he dearly loves his three sisters. For years he has been holding them and the grand family home they grew up in together. Now Eli wants a change and though he thinks he knows what he wants, Audrey sweeps back into his life and challenges Eli's thoughts on what his future may become.
Sweet and perfect romance to get you in the Christmas spirit, or ready for all those holiday romance movies that will be hitting our screens as December approaches. Audrey and Eli have wonderful chemistry that had me cheering for them, even if there were a couple silly misunderstandings. This book just made me happy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2023
Book 3 in the Adair family stories. Eli Adair the brother to three sisters , has no obligations to fulfil this year , he’s taking a break from the big family celebrations so it’s just him no presents ,no tree and no turkey , just how he likes it at Hillcrest House , the family home that he purchased from his sister when it got too much for her. He plans to sell in the New Year and doesn’t imagine it will go down well with his siblings……When travel nurse Audrey Elliott is returning to Christmas Tree Cove , Michigan ,in search of an holiday like the ones on her grandparent’s farm. She longs for those memories now lost by her mom’s early onset dementia. Her mom is in a nursing home. A good friend has assured her that there’s plenty of room for her to stay at Hillcrest when her housing plans falls through .Plus it’s only a few hours from her mother’s home, and she gets a position to work in the nearby hospital. Eli was surprised to say the least to see Audrey has been accommodated by his sister. They were both close when they were younger , he was even her first kiss before she had to leave town.. He tells her in no uncertain terms that Christmas isn’t to be tolerated this year at Hillcrest. No decorations , nothing! When he finds out that Audrey is desperately seeking alternative accommodation he relents halfway. They both crushed on each other way back and it’s obvious there’s a spark still there, but Audrey is leaving for a new placement in thirteen weeks …Besides with his plans to sell the homestead he isn’t sure where his wanderlust future will journey him. There’s a good mix of time spent with the Adair family and for Audrey a feeling of home. Is that homely feeling because or despite Eli? Lovely story, compelling to read and easy fluent writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
4 1/2 stars
This is the third book in the Adair Family series, but the first I've read in that series. No problem. It works well as a standalone.
Eli and Audrey are at odds over celebrating Christmas—The Dilemma. She wants a full-on holiday in her old hometown: trees, lights, music, cookies, and celebration. He plans to skip the holiday completely, finding it painful since his parents died one Christmas Eve. There’s been something between them since they were in high school and he kissed her, but then she moved away without a word when her parents decided to divorce.
Audrey’s back in Christmas Tree Cove for the holidays for the first time in years. She’s now a travel nurse and has signed up for a stint at a hospital in Traverse City, Michigan. Housing is a problem, so she reaches out to an old friend for help and finds herself sharing a house with Eli. It’s awkward given their history and their differing views on celebrating the holiday. Hillcrest House is a beautiful mansion on a hill overlooking the town and the water, and when Eli’s parents were alive, it was the show piece of town at Christmas.
This is a cute, sweet, and clean story. It shows how love can change your mind and your life. It includes themes of mistaken beliefs, miscommunication. It’s a lovely second-chance romance. My only complaint is that it was repetitive at times. Still, I could overlook that and enjoyed the story. Eli and Audrey and the others in their lives are delightful.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true an honest reactions to reading this book.
This is the third book in the Adair Family series, but the first I've read in that series. No problem. It works well as a standalone.
Eli and Audrey are at odds over celebrating Christmas—The Dilemma. She wants a full-on holiday in her old hometown: trees, lights, music, cookies, and celebration. He plans to skip the holiday completely, finding it painful since his parents died one Christmas Eve. There’s been something between them since they were in high school and he kissed her, but then she moved away without a word when her parents decided to divorce.
Audrey’s back in Christmas Tree Cove for the holidays for the first time in years. She’s now a travel nurse and has signed up for a stint at a hospital in Traverse City, Michigan. Housing is a problem, so she reaches out to an old friend for help and finds herself sharing a house with Eli. It’s awkward given their history and their differing views on celebrating the holiday. Hillcrest House is a beautiful mansion on a hill overlooking the town and the water, and when Eli’s parents were alive, it was the show piece of town at Christmas.
This is a cute, sweet, and clean story. It shows how love can change your mind and your life. It includes themes of mistaken beliefs, miscommunication. It’s a lovely second-chance romance. My only complaint is that it was repetitive at times. Still, I could overlook that and enjoyed the story. Eli and Audrey and the others in their lives are delightful.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true an honest reactions to reading this book.
November 6, 2023
This is book three in The Adair Family series and it is Eli and Audrey’s story. Eli and Audrey have history because years ago they were so close that they were due to start a relationship only for it all to be taken away from them. Audrey is a nurse and travels to different hospitals to help out when needed and her final one was before Christmas and near where she spent some of her childhood and was happy before it was all taken away and when her accommodation falls through she needs to find somewhere else to stay. Eli hasn’t had a easy life as there parents died in a car accident right on Christmas and Eli had to step up to look after and keep the family home plus being there for his sisters so this year he is doing what he wants and he is not going to embrace Christmas at all because it always brings back the time that they lost there parents so he just wants to be on his own and have peace and quiet. When Eli and Audrey meet again after so many years apart the attraction and chemistry is still as strong and with them both staying in the house together will it give them a chance to reconnect but it will not be easy as Eli wants to forget about Christmas and Audrey wants to embrace it so they are on opposite sides of the fence and will have many ups and downs and decisions to make but will they be the best one for them giving them a second chance of a relationship and hopefully a future together. This was a beautiful Christmas story about family, loss, hope, second chances and a bit of Christmas Magic in this small town sweet romance and I couldn’t put it down and had to keep turning the pages to see what the outcome would be. This is the first book that I have read by this author but definitely not the last as I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books in the future.
November 3, 2023
Every Christmas, it’s common to start reminiscing about the Christmas experience you had as a child. I remember bundling up in our warmest winter gear (I grew up in IL) and my parents taking us on a drive to check out all of the houses that were decked out for the holiday. We’d always get to open up our stockings or a smaller gift on Christmas Eve, saving the rest for the next morning. This second-chance Christmas book is perfect for everyone who wants a sweet romance with all the tidings of the special day!
Audrey and Eli have a history that started under a crab apple tree in Christmas Tree Cove. Even though she had to leave, she’s always held onto those childhood memories – especially her time with Eli. Eli has faced a hardship that leaves him feeling a little sad about the holidays. He’s essentially become the caretaker for his sisters and their family home. In that process, Eli loses a bit of himself and is grasping at things he can control to regain footing on stable ground.
Eli’s plans of a no-Christmas Christmas is derailed when he discovers that Audrey has a temporary assignment nearby and needs housing to stay with the job. Audrey quickly discovers that all of the Adair kids are harboring secrets and causing a bit of chaos for her and Eli’s reconnection. I love how they reconnect and start moving forward. Be sure to add this clean romance to your TBR for this season!
Audrey and Eli have a history that started under a crab apple tree in Christmas Tree Cove. Even though she had to leave, she’s always held onto those childhood memories – especially her time with Eli. Eli has faced a hardship that leaves him feeling a little sad about the holidays. He’s essentially become the caretaker for his sisters and their family home. In that process, Eli loses a bit of himself and is grasping at things he can control to regain footing on stable ground.
Eli’s plans of a no-Christmas Christmas is derailed when he discovers that Audrey has a temporary assignment nearby and needs housing to stay with the job. Audrey quickly discovers that all of the Adair kids are harboring secrets and causing a bit of chaos for her and Eli’s reconnection. I love how they reconnect and start moving forward. Be sure to add this clean romance to your TBR for this season!
November 2, 2023
I loved this sweet Christmas book and I was thrilled when I found out that it’s actually the 3rd book in a series of books about the Adair family. I definitely plan to start the series from the beginning (I’ve already bought the first book) but this book totally stands alone well.
I love the setting of a small town (Christmas Tree Cove) and a huge old family home that Eli has restored. Audrey is a traveling nurse and has requested an assignment to the area because she grew up here and she wants to try to get her Christmas spirit back. Although the family home he’s living in used to be well-known for over the top Christmas decorating, Eli hates Christmas now because his parents were killed on a Christmas Eve in a car accident.
He’s continued traditions for his 3 sisters who live in the area, but he’s sworn that this year there will be no Christmas at the house—no decorations, no music, nothing. Eli and Audrey were one another’s first kiss, right before she had to suddenly move away and they haven’t spoken since.
Worse, her housing in the area has fallen through and Eli’s sister has said she can stay at the family home—and she doesn’t know about Eli’s having sworn off Christmas. There are plenty of awkward moments, but things…progress nicely. It’s a really great story and I highly recommend it! I did receive an arc, but these opinions are my own.
I love the setting of a small town (Christmas Tree Cove) and a huge old family home that Eli has restored. Audrey is a traveling nurse and has requested an assignment to the area because she grew up here and she wants to try to get her Christmas spirit back. Although the family home he’s living in used to be well-known for over the top Christmas decorating, Eli hates Christmas now because his parents were killed on a Christmas Eve in a car accident.
He’s continued traditions for his 3 sisters who live in the area, but he’s sworn that this year there will be no Christmas at the house—no decorations, no music, nothing. Eli and Audrey were one another’s first kiss, right before she had to suddenly move away and they haven’t spoken since.
Worse, her housing in the area has fallen through and Eli’s sister has said she can stay at the family home—and she doesn’t know about Eli’s having sworn off Christmas. There are plenty of awkward moments, but things…progress nicely. It’s a really great story and I highly recommend it! I did receive an arc, but these opinions are my own.
July 27, 2024
The Christmas Dilemma by Sarah Vance-Thompkins
This story starts out with Eli and he is fixing up the family house. After their parents had died he left hsi bar in Michigan and came to help the family, his sisters.
Story is also following Audrey, an ER trauma nurse who is there in town for 13 weeks as a traveling nurse.
They had been together at one time but after her father’s death they left eh area and now her mom is in an assisted living in another area. She doesn't get to visit with her often and she doesn't even realize what the day is or the holiday.
Audrey remembers her time at the Christmas Cove area and when she was younger and hanging out with Eli and his sister.
She is not able to locate a place to stay but with Dancy's help she can stay at the family residency, even in the tower rooms.
Town is very magical and love hearing about all the festivities during the holiday.
Eli has told them all he will NOT be celebrating the holiday, no tree, lights or anything.
Who, if anybody can change his mind....
First time reading this author and the saga continues with another book about Morgan, Eli's sister.
This story starts out with Eli and he is fixing up the family house. After their parents had died he left hsi bar in Michigan and came to help the family, his sisters.
Story is also following Audrey, an ER trauma nurse who is there in town for 13 weeks as a traveling nurse.
They had been together at one time but after her father’s death they left eh area and now her mom is in an assisted living in another area. She doesn't get to visit with her often and she doesn't even realize what the day is or the holiday.
Audrey remembers her time at the Christmas Cove area and when she was younger and hanging out with Eli and his sister.
She is not able to locate a place to stay but with Dancy's help she can stay at the family residency, even in the tower rooms.
Town is very magical and love hearing about all the festivities during the holiday.
Eli has told them all he will NOT be celebrating the holiday, no tree, lights or anything.
Who, if anybody can change his mind....
First time reading this author and the saga continues with another book about Morgan, Eli's sister.
October 17, 2023
Eli Adair is the dashing man of the town who never seems to find anyone interesting enough to date. Audrey Elliot is a traveling nurse returning to Christmas Tree Cove. What nobody else knows? Back in high school, Eli and Audrey had a romance and the start of something spectacular when family events ripped them apart. Now meeting by fate, they have a chance at their second chance romance.
This book was very sweet. These are two level headed intelligent introverts that can melt your heart even as you want to shake them to talk already. I loved how passionate Audrey was about her work and I loved how deep we got into Eli's past. Christmas aversion because of family death is a real thing and I think it was addressed well and handled with care here. The moments these two get to be together were super cute and there is a fun supporting cast that fans of the Adair series will love to see. My favorite scene has to be trivia night. All hail Christmas trivia shenanigans.
Thank you for the advanced reader copy! So glad I got to read this early.
This book was very sweet. These are two level headed intelligent introverts that can melt your heart even as you want to shake them to talk already. I loved how passionate Audrey was about her work and I loved how deep we got into Eli's past. Christmas aversion because of family death is a real thing and I think it was addressed well and handled with care here. The moments these two get to be together were super cute and there is a fun supporting cast that fans of the Adair series will love to see. My favorite scene has to be trivia night. All hail Christmas trivia shenanigans.
Thank you for the advanced reader copy! So glad I got to read this early.
November 6, 2023
I liked that this was a beautiful, touching, heartfelt Christmas story. I was fascinated with Audrey;s job as a traveling nurse that moved every thirteen weeks to start a new job. Her latest job had her staying in Christmas Tree Cove where she had grown up and lived until her parents divorced.
Audrey had a need to return to the town and celebrate Christmas as her mom had early on-set dementia. Audrey ended up staying at Hillcrest House with Eli, the boy she had kissed under the crab apple tree before she moved away a long time ago. Of course they were both grown up now.
Eli had his own secrets he was keeping which added to the story. Eli had strong plans to skip Christmas this year which posed a dilemma for the two characters. I also liked wondering if anything would ever come between Audrey and Eli as Audry realized home was not a place but a person.
I liked Aubrey's sweet, understanding heart with her patients. She was sunshine on a cloudy day. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
Audrey had a need to return to the town and celebrate Christmas as her mom had early on-set dementia. Audrey ended up staying at Hillcrest House with Eli, the boy she had kissed under the crab apple tree before she moved away a long time ago. Of course they were both grown up now.
Eli had his own secrets he was keeping which added to the story. Eli had strong plans to skip Christmas this year which posed a dilemma for the two characters. I also liked wondering if anything would ever come between Audrey and Eli as Audry realized home was not a place but a person.
I liked Aubrey's sweet, understanding heart with her patients. She was sunshine on a cloudy day. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
October 15, 2023
This book was very good. Lots of misunderstandings, hurt feelings, a second chance at love and sisters that drove Eli mad. Eli and his sister's parents died on Christmas Eve awhile back. He had liked Audrey back in high school, but she disappeared suddenly, Now she was back and all those feelings are coming back. But he is very anti Christmas this year and she is having trouble dealing with it. They both thought the other was dating someone else and that caused some hurt feelings. Audrey was a traveling nurse and was very good at her job. They wanted her to stay, but she knew she couldn't if Eli was with someone else. It certainly took them awhile to figure out they were perfect for each other.
All the characters in the story were good and it was a hard book to put down. It's definitely on my reread list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
All the characters in the story were good and it was a hard book to put down. It's definitely on my reread list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2023
- Sweet, holiday romance
- Small-town
- Second-chance
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Close-knit family and friends
Audrey Elliot is a travel nurse who returns home to Christmas Tree Cove with the hopes of having a special Christmas like the ones from her childhood. Eli Adair just wants to skip Christmas and the painful memories that come with it this year. Eli and Audrey shared a first kiss back in high school, but due to a misunderstanding they haven't spoken since.
This was a really sweet Christmas romance. I felt connected to the characters from the first chapter and was really invested in seeing them find their way back to each other.
There was a lack of communication between Eli and Audrey, as well as Eli and his sisters, so I spent a lot of the book wishing they would just talk to each other. Even though the story feels cozy and light, the author did a nice job weaving in more difficult and emotional topics.
If you like Hallmark Christmas movies, then I think you will really enjoy this book!
Thank you to the author for a digital ARC!
- Small-town
- Second-chance
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Close-knit family and friends
Audrey Elliot is a travel nurse who returns home to Christmas Tree Cove with the hopes of having a special Christmas like the ones from her childhood. Eli Adair just wants to skip Christmas and the painful memories that come with it this year. Eli and Audrey shared a first kiss back in high school, but due to a misunderstanding they haven't spoken since.
This was a really sweet Christmas romance. I felt connected to the characters from the first chapter and was really invested in seeing them find their way back to each other.
There was a lack of communication between Eli and Audrey, as well as Eli and his sisters, so I spent a lot of the book wishing they would just talk to each other. Even though the story feels cozy and light, the author did a nice job weaving in more difficult and emotional topics.
If you like Hallmark Christmas movies, then I think you will really enjoy this book!
Thank you to the author for a digital ARC!
October 27, 2023
Madison is a nurse her life is spent doing temporary fill ins at different hospital all over the country. Since leaving Christmas tree cove she hasn't found her place to call home, hers moms failing memory she needs one more Christmas in the only place she felt was home. Elliott and his sisters still live in their home town, all his sisters are married, but Elliott still hasn't got over his school crush Madison and their one shared kiss. Since losing their parents on Christmas eve his life is lacking and he decides to give up on Christmas. Secrets galore are hidden in his family non of the siblings feel they can share them. Will Madisons unexpected return heal them all or will it all prove to much. If you all Hallmark films this is definitely one for you. I loved all the characters and how the story builds and keeps you hooked. I was lucky enough to get the bookk as an ARC copy and this is my own personal and honest opinion and review of the book.
November 2, 2023
The Christmas Dilemma (The Adair Family Book 3) by Sarah Vance-Tompkins is a sweet grinch story. It is not that this grinch’s heart is too small, he loves his family, it is just Christmas he doesn’t enjoy so for him this year he chooses not to celebrate. Perhaps he has never celebrated with the right person. Enter travel nurse Audrey Elliott who wants all the decorations, traditions and feels of the Christmas holiday. Sounds as if there would be nothing but conflict. However, it is a sweet, and lovely romance. Could easily be a great Hallmark movie.
Two wonderful characters with sad memories that must be address. This is the Christmas it happens making a loving present and a hope filled future. A story just in time to put you in the Christmas spirit. Well done, so read today.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Two wonderful characters with sad memories that must be address. This is the Christmas it happens making a loving present and a hope filled future. A story just in time to put you in the Christmas spirit. Well done, so read today.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 27, 2023
Eli is tired of Christmas, and he doesn’t feel like celebrating this year, so he makes a pact with her sisters about not getting any Christmas decorations, lights or carols in Hillcrest House.
Audrey is a travel nurse, and she gets a position in a hospital close to the facility where her mother is living. It is also close to Christmas Tree Cove, a place where she had her first kiss among other things. She needs to get involved in a Christmas celebration with a lot of people to help her feel what Christmas was like before her grandma died and her mother lost her memory.
Feelings, hurts, misunderstandings, losing beloved ones and Christmas time with celebrations where those who are no longer alive were missed a lot.
An emotional story that kept me reading until I finished the book. A story that was close to me. I understand both Eli and Audrey’s feelings as I had the same experiences as them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Audrey is a travel nurse, and she gets a position in a hospital close to the facility where her mother is living. It is also close to Christmas Tree Cove, a place where she had her first kiss among other things. She needs to get involved in a Christmas celebration with a lot of people to help her feel what Christmas was like before her grandma died and her mother lost her memory.
Feelings, hurts, misunderstandings, losing beloved ones and Christmas time with celebrations where those who are no longer alive were missed a lot.
An emotional story that kept me reading until I finished the book. A story that was close to me. I understand both Eli and Audrey’s feelings as I had the same experiences as them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
I loved this one! Eli Adair is determined to skip Christmas this year, due to the tragic loss of his parents years ago he just doesn’t want to celebrate. He is the sweetest guy who is always at the beck and call of his sisters while trying to juggle his own business.
Audrey Elliott is returning to to Christmas Tree Cove hoping to celebrate Christmas in a big way just like she did when she was younger at her grandparents home. Audrey is also dealing with her mother losing her memories and the heartbreak of watching her deteriorate.
Eli and Audrey end up living together in Hillcrest House after Eli’s sister tells Audrey it was fine. Eli has long had feelings for Audrey and they shared their first kiss.
This was a beautifully written story about second chances, strong, tight knit family wrapped up in a gorgeous small town Christmas setting which was magical.
Audrey Elliott is returning to to Christmas Tree Cove hoping to celebrate Christmas in a big way just like she did when she was younger at her grandparents home. Audrey is also dealing with her mother losing her memories and the heartbreak of watching her deteriorate.
Eli and Audrey end up living together in Hillcrest House after Eli’s sister tells Audrey it was fine. Eli has long had feelings for Audrey and they shared their first kiss.
This was a beautifully written story about second chances, strong, tight knit family wrapped up in a gorgeous small town Christmas setting which was magical.
November 2, 2023
The Christmas Dilemma ~ Christmas Tree Cove #3 by Sarah Vance-Tompkins.
Sarah is a new author to me and although this is book 3 in the Christmas Tree Cove series, when reading I felt that I knew the characters in the story.
I found this book to be written brilliantly with loveable characters in Eli and Audrey, the strong and believable storyline was fantastic and easy to follow and I didn't want the story to end.
The Christmas Dilemma was amazing, and I can't recommend this one highly enough! Absolutely perfect!"This book delivers the warm and fuzzy feelings of a good romance, which is why I couldn't put this book down
I highly recommend this book to all, and I will be reading more from Sarah.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Original, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
Sarah is a new author to me and although this is book 3 in the Christmas Tree Cove series, when reading I felt that I knew the characters in the story.
I found this book to be written brilliantly with loveable characters in Eli and Audrey, the strong and believable storyline was fantastic and easy to follow and I didn't want the story to end.
The Christmas Dilemma was amazing, and I can't recommend this one highly enough! Absolutely perfect!"This book delivers the warm and fuzzy feelings of a good romance, which is why I couldn't put this book down
I highly recommend this book to all, and I will be reading more from Sarah.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Original, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
November 4, 2023
Making New Memories Together . . .
Dealing with memories of Christmas past had become painful for Eli Adair with the loss of his parents. So this Christmas, he wants to spend it alone without any of the trappings or reminders of the Season. Audrey Elliott has had some pain with those memories as well, but she uses the good memories to bring joy. Now working as a travel nurse, Audrey is returning to Christmas Tree Cove hoping for a big holiday celebration. She also needs a place to stay for a few months so she can accept a job at a nearby hospital, and sharing a house with Eli brings them together again. Two people who have sad memories around the Christmas holiday, each handling it a different way. Can they help each other build new memories that bring back the love and joy of Christmas?
Dealing with memories of Christmas past had become painful for Eli Adair with the loss of his parents. So this Christmas, he wants to spend it alone without any of the trappings or reminders of the Season. Audrey Elliott has had some pain with those memories as well, but she uses the good memories to bring joy. Now working as a travel nurse, Audrey is returning to Christmas Tree Cove hoping for a big holiday celebration. She also needs a place to stay for a few months so she can accept a job at a nearby hospital, and sharing a house with Eli brings them together again. Two people who have sad memories around the Christmas holiday, each handling it a different way. Can they help each other build new memories that bring back the love and joy of Christmas?
November 7, 2023
A delightful short story on how to try and celebrate Christmas back in your old home town. Meeting your teenage crush is a bonus for Audrey who hopes there is a second chance to rebuild their lost love, but then finds out Eli is dating someone else.
Audrey, an agency nurse returns to Christmas Tree Cove to work at the local ER. Eli, cannot believe his luck when his sister offers a room to Audrey for her stay at Hillcrest House, where he was living now that he had completed it's renovations.
Mixed communications on who is dating who has Eli and Audrey refusing to give in to their true feelings.
Elli, who comes across as a shy nerdy type of guy is exactly what Audrey's heart needs and wants.
How do they find their way back together when there seems to be many obstacles in the way. A slow burn romance with all the feels.
Audrey, an agency nurse returns to Christmas Tree Cove to work at the local ER. Eli, cannot believe his luck when his sister offers a room to Audrey for her stay at Hillcrest House, where he was living now that he had completed it's renovations.
Mixed communications on who is dating who has Eli and Audrey refusing to give in to their true feelings.
Elli, who comes across as a shy nerdy type of guy is exactly what Audrey's heart needs and wants.
How do they find their way back together when there seems to be many obstacles in the way. A slow burn romance with all the feels.
November 6, 2023
Eli Adair is living at Hillcrest House and has decided that this year he is not celebrating Christmas. He is tired of all the responsibilities he has and is looking for a change.
Audrey Elliott is a travel nurse who is returning home for Christmas to Christmas Tree Cove looking for a big Christmas. She ends up staying at Hillcrest House. \
Will Eli get a Christmas free year? or will Audrey change his mind? What other secrets are going on around town?
I received this book from the publishing for free but was under no obligation to give a favorable review. The story is good. I thought it was a Christian book but apparently I was mistaken. There was some cussing but very little thankfully. No mention of God anywhere that I remember but overall a good story.
Audrey Elliott is a travel nurse who is returning home for Christmas to Christmas Tree Cove looking for a big Christmas. She ends up staying at Hillcrest House. \
Will Eli get a Christmas free year? or will Audrey change his mind? What other secrets are going on around town?
I received this book from the publishing for free but was under no obligation to give a favorable review. The story is good. I thought it was a Christian book but apparently I was mistaken. There was some cussing but very little thankfully. No mention of God anywhere that I remember but overall a good story.
November 1, 2023
I adore this series! Reading The Christmas Dilemma is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket and sipping a delicious hot chocolate. Sarah Vance-Tompkins has created a wonderful world in Christmas Tree Cove, one peopled with lovely folks and compelling backstories. The author provides just the right amount of background, and you really root for her characters. I enjoyed seeing Audrey and Eli fall in love. Eli wants nothing to do with Christmas, while Audrey wants a perfect, picture-book holiday. When they end up sharing the same house, sparks fly. This was so much fun and I look forward to more books in this series!
November 10, 2023
The Christmas Dilemma is the third book in The Adair Family series. It is also a stand-alone with a hea.
When they were younger Audrey and Eli were very close, so close they were about to start their relationship that would last forever. Circumstances prevented that and they each went in different directions. Until now.
This is a lovely book with great characters. It is heartwarming and festive and and has a great storyline. I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it. You will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When they were younger Audrey and Eli were very close, so close they were about to start their relationship that would last forever. Circumstances prevented that and they each went in different directions. Until now.
This is a lovely book with great characters. It is heartwarming and festive and and has a great storyline. I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it. You will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2023
Want a Christmas romance as warm as a cup of hot chocolate, as sweet as a sugar cookie? You'll enjoy this second chance romance, then.
Travel nurse Audrey Elliott is headed home to Christmas Tree Cove in Michigan for the holidays, and she wants a big holiday celebration, with all the trimmings. Local businessman, and obliging Jack-of-all-trades for his three sisters, Eli Adair, is ready for a break from Christmas and some of its unhappy memories, so this year he's swearing off decorating, festivities, music, and all that nonsense.
In the same house together, what could possibly go wrong?
There is kissing and longing, but no explicit sexytimes. And a happily ever after.
Travel nurse Audrey Elliott is headed home to Christmas Tree Cove in Michigan for the holidays, and she wants a big holiday celebration, with all the trimmings. Local businessman, and obliging Jack-of-all-trades for his three sisters, Eli Adair, is ready for a break from Christmas and some of its unhappy memories, so this year he's swearing off decorating, festivities, music, and all that nonsense.
In the same house together, what could possibly go wrong?
There is kissing and longing, but no explicit sexytimes. And a happily ever after.
October 15, 2023
Was so happy to get an advanced reader copy of this book!
I ADORED this second-chance Christmas romance set in Christmas Tree Cove. Loved getting to know Eli and Audrey and seeing how they complimented each other so well. They both cared so much for other people it was truly touching. I also enjoyed seeing the rest of the Adair siblings again. While Eli and Audrey aren't perfect, they are real and I was so happy to see them together. This book made me giggle with glee, sit on the edge of my seat and feel warm and cozy all over! Truly lovely story!! Highly recommend this book!!
I ADORED this second-chance Christmas romance set in Christmas Tree Cove. Loved getting to know Eli and Audrey and seeing how they complimented each other so well. They both cared so much for other people it was truly touching. I also enjoyed seeing the rest of the Adair siblings again. While Eli and Audrey aren't perfect, they are real and I was so happy to see them together. This book made me giggle with glee, sit on the edge of my seat and feel warm and cozy all over! Truly lovely story!! Highly recommend this book!!
October 15, 2023
I read this book on holiday in the sunshine by the sea, yet I felt the joy of Christmas and family in every word. Sarah has created the perfect holiday feel book. It brought me all sorts of memories and joy, and I loved everything from the drama to the second-chance romance.
I shed a few tears, too, as Christmas can be painful for many people, and the characters of Christmas Tree Cove are not immune to this but hope and love are at the heart of everything. I recommend this book highly. Get yourself some love this Christmas.
I shed a few tears, too, as Christmas can be painful for many people, and the characters of Christmas Tree Cove are not immune to this but hope and love are at the heart of everything. I recommend this book highly. Get yourself some love this Christmas.
October 29, 2023
The Adair family of Christmas Tree Cove is anticipating the coming holiday season with all of its warmth and family times spent together.
I wish there were more Adair siblings so there could be more stories about them and their home town, Christmas Tree Cove. They are relatable and the idyllic Northern Michigan town has embedded itself in my heart.
Traveling nurse Audrey Elliott has asked for an assignment at the hospital near her hometown of Christmas Tree Cove over the winter holiday season. She’s looking to revisit and relive some of her precious holiday memories at Red Trillium Farm.
Eli Adair has lived at Hillcrest House in Christmas Tree Cove his entire life and has memories of his own. He’s tired of the sad reminders of the season so he decides to skip Christmas this year.
The two of them have history together, as well. Will they make more? Read this heart-warming, genuine story to find out.
N.B. I was given a copy of this title in return for an honest review. The words within are my own.
I wish there were more Adair siblings so there could be more stories about them and their home town, Christmas Tree Cove. They are relatable and the idyllic Northern Michigan town has embedded itself in my heart.
Traveling nurse Audrey Elliott has asked for an assignment at the hospital near her hometown of Christmas Tree Cove over the winter holiday season. She’s looking to revisit and relive some of her precious holiday memories at Red Trillium Farm.
Eli Adair has lived at Hillcrest House in Christmas Tree Cove his entire life and has memories of his own. He’s tired of the sad reminders of the season so he decides to skip Christmas this year.
The two of them have history together, as well. Will they make more? Read this heart-warming, genuine story to find out.
N.B. I was given a copy of this title in return for an honest review. The words within are my own.
November 2, 2023
Christmas Tree Cove is a magical place at Christmas and Audrey is excited to be able to return to her childhood home at Christmas for her traveling nurse job. Her first (and best) kiss happened there with Eli. Wonders of wonders, she is invited to stay in Eli’s family home by his sister, an old friend of Audrey. Eli now lives in the home and feelings grow between them but they both think the other is dating someone.
A super cute book of love growing in a season of love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A super cute book of love growing in a season of love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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