The Battle Begins

Holly Well Springs #5

by Vivian Porter

Enter the world of Holly Well Springs... where the Christmas spirit lives on.
Amid the fierce battle for the future of Holly Well Springs, a new romance is beginning to bloom.
Belle, a lively, fun-loving photographer from Texas, has headed back to Holly Well Springs for her best friend Hannah’s wedding. But this time, her reason for showing up out of nowhere has nothing to do with the town that celebrates Christmas all year long.
Jesse, the lawyer grandson of Holly Well Springs’s resident Santa Claus, Kris, hasn’t been home in years. But with the town threatened by the mysterious Astext Construction Company that is poised to change everything about Holly Well Springs, he’s back and ready to defend the town from every threat.
Things are tricky enough with Jesse’s father defending the other side of the lawsuit, but Jesse just can’t get his mind off the spunky brunette from Texas, the first woman to truly catch his eye. Belle and Jesse weren’t looking for romance, but will they find the love of their lifetimes in Holly Well Springs?
Or will the secret threat from Texas and the new, terrifying danger from the magic realm destroy their future before it even begins?

212 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 27, 2023

About the author

Vivian is a Contemporary Romance writer that travels the US with her family in hopes of visiting with readers and experiencing all the US has to offer.
She loves the idea of sexy "Hallmark-like Inspirational Romance" stories, so that's what she writes. That combined with some great resources on the location of the books (thanks to her visiting these places) will hopefully give you a quick getaway from the comfort of your couch.
She loves coffee, Game of Thrones, and making a difference whenever possible. A theme in her books is love is around every bend in the road. Hopefully, you'll enjoy this journey through the US in her debut series, "All Roads Lead to Love."

Reviews

[Lottie Hildenbrand · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet wrap up for the cliffhanger from the previous book! I don’t want to include any spoilers, but I will say I thought the ending was great, including a surprise that was quite unexpected and very heartwarming! There was delightful interaction between the characters throughout the book, with a good bit of suspense as well. This book is not a standalone; you should read the others in the series first.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book five in A Holly Well Springs Novel Series and it is Jesse and Belle’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Jesse who is a lawyer had returned to Holly Well Springs and is determined to win against the large corporations that wants to destroy the magical town and he is also up against his father who is the lawyer for the corporation so let the games begin and the best man win. Belle had been going through so much stress with her job and all the deadlines and after she saw something that she shouldn’t have she had been told to get away and go somewhere where she can’t be found and that place is Holly Well Springs and that way she will be able to spend time with her best friend Hannah and also help her with the wedding planning and hopefully the danger will not be able to find her and while there Belle will be able to do some freelance work. When Jesse and Belle meet there attraction and chemistry is instant and they also have a strong connection but with the threat and future of the town in jeopardy and evil forces on it’s way it is going to take everything and everyone including the people of the town to come together to win this battle and then maybe Jesse and Belle can hope that the magic of the well will be able to work for them just like it had for all the others so that they can get the happiness and future that they deserve. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with everything that is going on and how hard they will all have to come together to win the light against the dark and it was so emotional at times that I was in tears but I still couldn’t put this book down as it was a real page turner and totally addictive and I can’t wait to see what the next generation are going to do next and what an emotional ending.

[Mimi Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Kringle has returned to Holly Well Springs to surprise his grandparents Kris and Christine who are the patriarchs of the town and the epitome of all things Christmas, but the move is fortuitous because Gran,is diagnosed with cancer, and Pops needs James to take their place in leadership. Not long after, older brother Jesse leaves his current law practice to resettle to his hometown to battle the land developer who intends to build a casino complex right next to Holly Well Springs. And adding fuel to the fire, the developer is represented by none other that their father their brother!

Hannah, another member of the next generation, is missing her best friend Belle, so she is surprised when she sees her at the entrance to the engagement party of two Holly Wells Springs residents. But for Belle, it is like coming home. Then she and Jesse meet for the first time, and the world tilts. But the plot thickens they learn the name of the developer who presents imminent danger for his town’s very existence. Alex Batton, an evil prince.

This novel has a complex cast of characters, which encourages reading the entire series, especially to understand the history and culture of Holly Well Springs, but, at the same time, this CAN be read as a standalone because Vivian Porter provides enough details for readers to completely appreciate the plot. And what a thrilling tale it is, fraught with danger, intrigue, plain old fashion hatred, and, of, course, true love. Don’t miss this next installment of the magical best selling series, which includes a cliffhanger conclusion!

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily offer my honest opinion.

[Ally Doby (Schleicher) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth installment of this series and told in multiple first person POVS. Once again, Vivian Porter brings us a book that will suck you into a world of magic, secrets, danger and finding love.

I was so happy to finally get to know Sachee, Kris and Christine’s background as well what the future for them holds now that the Next Generation is ready to take over. I enjoyed meeting another one of Kris’ grandsons and learning how their departure from Holly Wells Springs affected him. I was also happy to see Belle again while she found her home in Holly Wells. I loved seeing all the couples bantering and working together to save their town.

Since the third of Kris’ grandsons was introduced and made his comeback into town, I’m excited to see who he will fall in love with. I’m also excited to see how these couples come together again to defeat the danger that still threatens their magical town.

I received an advanced readers copy via BookFunnel/the author. These thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily after reading for my own personal enjoyment.

[Jean M · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest story in this series continues with the fight to save the Well and includes Jesse and Belle’s love story. There is more background to how Sachee became protector of the Well and the introduction of the love of her life. Thrown in was the introduction of Nix, a cheery little bird who originally belonged to Sachee. This adds a bit of lightheartedness to balance out the darker parts of the story.
The characters draw me in and I felt for the decision which Kris and Christine would have to make regarding their future.
It really does sound like the next generation are becoming key characters in the series as the older ones step aside. I just don’t know how the boys will manage without their grandparents. There is also the enigma surrounding their parents to be resolved too.
The whole story is so beautifully written and I love the way the characters one by one find their true love.
I can’t wait for the next story in the Holly Well Springs series, I love this series and the books always finish with me wanting the next.

[Vicki Wayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story of Jesse and Belle. These two clearly have a huge spark of undeniable chemistry, and just can't help the attraction, despite the chaos that seems to have erupted around them. There are a few new characters introduced in this book, and although it is really a continuation of a series, there's no reason that the reader can't pick this book up in the middle of it, as the author does a great job of catching the reader up.

Although the books in the past have hinted at a little bit of fantasy, it was never really the 'star' of the book...more like added color that kept the stories interesting. This book, however, went full force into the world of fairies and epic battles both in the real world and the fairy realm. I love that we finally get some good history of Sachee, as well as Michael, Kris and Christine. This story arc allowed us to enjoy TWO romances in one book!

If you haven't yet read any of these books in the Holly Well Springs series - I highly recommend reading them - you won't be disappointed!

[Judy25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse Kringle, Kris and Christine's grandson, returns to the magical town of Holly Well Springs to represent the town in a lawsuit, with the opposing attorney being his own father and boss. He meets Belle Wilson, a photographer from Texas, who is in town visiting her BFF, Hannah. They only have eyes for each other, but the book ends happily for now, with an extremely strong indication of a follow up book to come. It's a good read if you're into the mystical realm. It is a very well=written book with very few typos. The love all the people in this close-knit community have for one another is very evident throughout the story. I recommend this to all the tender-hearted, feel good readers out there.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the latest in the series of Holywell Springs, the Christmas Town! This answers lots of questions, but I’m hoping it’s not the last we hear from this town. The battle to save the town continues, while more damaged hearts meet and heal each other. If you believe, or want to believe, in Christmas, dairies, magic and live, this series is for you. You need to read the rest of the series to understand all that is going on, but it is worth the read! I received this as an ARC in return for this review, I have read the other books in the series and found this book process the backstory to the town, but should be read after the rest of the series

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. This story is emotional 🥲- I’ve loved reading about all the people who live in Holly Well Springs. This story revolves around Jesse and Belle. She returns for her best friend Hannah's wedding and meets Jesse, the grandson of Kris Kringle and a lawyer. Jessie currently represents Holly Well Springs against the Astext Construction Company as they want to build on Holly Well Springs’ border. In a bit of a strange turn, Jessie’s father, is representing the construction company. Jesse dislikes working for his father and so returned to Holly Well Springs. I really enjoyed this book. It’s twisty and compelling.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words left about this book. That ending has left me in tears, but I still can’t quite decide if they’re sad or happy. Almost nothing in this story was what I was expecting it to be, and I’m having difficulties figuring out how to explain what an amazing feat that was without giving away all of the surprise revelations. I adored seeing all the Happy Ever Afters that this book brings about. And now, I’m not sure what’s going to happen next in Holly Well Springs, but I can’t wait to find out.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.

[Nuhaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.

The 5th book in the series of "A Holly Well Springs Novel" and I love it. The chemistry between Jesse and Belle is amazing, despite all the ups and downs it was worth to keep reading. It was such a fairytale to live the moment and this book is full of surprises. Seeing all the couples get together was another plus of this book. It is better to read all the books in order to better understand its background and I can not wait for more in this series. Highly recommended!

[Susanh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Holly Well Springs love story

Jesse grew up in Holly Well Springs until his father moved his family away. He felt as lost as his brother James but dared not show it. Now he’s back to help the town fight off a casino that would ruin their beloved town.

Belle returns to Holly Well Springs for her safety. When she reveals her predicament, her friends rally around her. But who is this new man in town that she’s so attracted to? And what about the battle over the casino?

[Ann Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely enchanting story in a wonderful series. Jesse and Belle had an incredible chemistry and were so likeable. Love Sachee and a surprising new romance and I loved how we learnt more of her past as well as Kris and Christine. An amazing read as the characters battle to save the Well from evil. So beautifully written. You can't help falling in love with this series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy.

[Marilyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the conclusion to the cliffhanger and now we get answers! We have a man return to his hometown and help his grandparents. A young woman comes and is best friends with a resident and she finds someone special! And a fight about a casino that pulls at all of them! What a twisted storyline! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[SEng · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment Holly and Jesse meet, they feel an instant connection. There are so many surprises, a lot of drama, and fun in this heartwarming romance. There is some suspense that keeps things interesting. I enjoyed every minute of this story. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Holly Wells Springs. The town is fighting against a greedy construction company. Belle is in town for her friend's wedding. Jesse returns to town to defend the town against the invader. Belle and Jesse meet and sparks fly. There is plenty of steam and drama to keep you glued to the book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a read that no just couldn’t put down.
The storyline was well written and read smoothly.
At times it was a little emotional but that is what made
it such a brilliant read.
The characters have great chemistry.
The only thing I will say it finishes up on a bit of a cliffhanger though.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Jeannine Wickliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evil is faced

So much is happening in Holly well Springs. Kris and Christine's grandsons, James and Jesse have returned, and are falling in love with the town and the women they meet. The evil is drawing closer and they find out who is behind it. Can the new generation if protectors be strong enough to protect the well?

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a brilliant read.
Plenty of drama and so much emotion and hearts drawn together in this magical town.
Will they be able to save the town and the well from evil.
A must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg loved this book. Jesse is bound and determined to keep the well hidden and protected but he also never expected to find Belle the one women set his heart on fire. Will they be able to save the well from the darkness of evil before it's too late?

[Lisa H · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good installment to the Holly Well Springs community.

Jesse is back in town and representing the town to stop the casino.
Belle is a photographer and visiting Hannah.
Solid read.
Recommend.
4.5

[Angela Mcmanus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another wonderful story so beautifully written. It did wrap up the cliffhanger from the previous book.
But it still left questions as to what happens next in Holly Well Springs. That make you wanting the next book ASAP. I couldn't put this book down. I highly recommend it.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohmigod—what a masterpiece! The Battle Begins is such an amazing read, you will not be able to put it down. The storyline is incredible; the characters are amazing as always; the plot twists and turns will definitely keep you flipping those pages; and the HEA is simply stunning. I couldn’t put this one down! I encourage you to grab your copy today…you’ll be glad you did. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally mesmerized!) ❤️❤️

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good story that was well written and enjoyable this is book 5 of the series and it wrapped it all up in a tiny little bow. Worth the time to read all 5.

[debrah burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing read thank you Vivian portter

I would highly recommend this author I have loved every book so far and now I am beginning book 6.