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Christmas At the Snow Covered Inn

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The perfect Christmas romance to curl up with in front of the fire. Fans of Sarah Morgan, Karen Swan and Jenny Hale will be hooked from the very first page.

Interior designer Ria Porter wasn't expecting a white Christmas this year. But her latest job has landed her on location at a beautiful inn, nestled in the mountains and forests of New Hampshire. Ria can't believe her luck and is determined to make this project her best work yet.

Successful businessman Hayden Reynolds has hired Ria in a mission to save his grandfather's inn. But as Hayden and Ria soon realise, it will take more than a new coat of paint to heal the rifts that have torn his family apart.

But as the snowflakes continue to settle on the trees and the inn comes back to life, Hayden and Ria might be about to discover a whole new future this Christmas, that could change their lives forever...

Pour yourself a mug of hot chocolate and settle down with some mince pies for this charming, cosy Christmas romance!

ebook

Published October 12, 2023

24 people are currently reading
127 people want to read

About the author

Lucy Coleman

16 books273 followers
Lucy Coleman always knew that one day she would write, but first life took her on a wonderful journey of self-discovery for which she is very grateful.

Family life and two very diverse careers later she now spends most days glued to a keyboard, which she refers to as her personal quality time.

'It's only when you know who you are that you truly understand what makes you happy - and writing about love, life and relationships makes me leap out of bed every morning!'

If she isn't online she's either playing with the kids, whose imaginations seem to know no bounds, or painting something. As a serial house mover together with her lovely husband, there is always a new challenge to keep her occupied!

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5 stars
121 (13%)
4 stars
251 (27%)
3 stars
357 (38%)
2 stars
139 (15%)
1 star
57 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for kayleigh.
135 reviews
November 28, 2023
This was excruciating to finish. One of the most boring books I have ever read; the dialogue was like drilling a nail gun into my skull over and over again. The characters were flat as flat could be. Only good part was the amount of food the dad made- I want him to cook for me.
Profile Image for Amanda B.
656 reviews41 followers
December 12, 2023
2.5⭐️ An okay Christmas tale, although not keen on the audio version, so stuck to the ebook. Maybe that spoiled it for me...
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,092 reviews123 followers
September 11, 2023
I received a free copy of, Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn, by, Lucy Coleman, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Ria Porter is an interior designer, she is working on an inn in New Hampshire. Hayden Reynolds grandparents owned the inn where Ria is working. Sparks fly while working together to improve the inn. I would imagine New Hampshire is beautiful in the winter as it is in the fall. all the snow and the mountains, so beautiful. I really enjoyed this story.
Profile Image for Dakoda Kay.
5 reviews
December 3, 2023
DNF.
This book was so incredibly BORING! It’s very rare when I don’t finish a book. But this one dragged & nothing ever really happens. I’m disappointed because the Title Details makes it sound very good & it’s very well written. But this book fell super flat!
I even bought this book on audible hoping having it read to me would help keep me interested… NOPE!
Normally if I get distracted during one of my audible books, I’ll rewind it 30 seconds or more to see what I missed. But with this one, I realized very quickly I hadn’t ever missed anything. So eventually I just stopped rewinding.
It got to the point that I didn’t even want to know what happens because I didn’t care. The characters weren’t great. They were very whiny & boring too. So I actually returned this book. This book was super expensive. And it’s not even worth the space in my phone if it were a FREE download. I wish I wouldn’t have wasted any time on it.
Profile Image for Jaime.
168 reviews
December 6, 2023
"Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn" was like watching snow melt – painfully slow and utterly uneventful. I usually finish every book I start, but this one tested my commitment to that principle. It was so dull that I considered organizing my sock drawer for entertainment. Despite being free, I can't help but feel I overpaid for the time I wasted. If boredom had a manual, this book would be it.
Profile Image for Deborah.
415 reviews
December 7, 2023
I am so bored. 10% into the story and there's no story.
2 reviews
December 15, 2023
This was like reading a Hallmark Christmas movie as a book. The littlest things were “traumatic”, there was no character development, and the storyline was super predictable. Reading the dialogues was painful, as there was never any context before the quotes to allow you to know who was about to talk. It was easy to get lost with who was talking, especially if it was a dialogue with more than 2 people. The only reason I gave 2 starts instead of 1 is because I managed to make it through the book - I reserve the 1 star reviews for those books that are so bad that I can’t muster my way through them.
95 reviews
November 29, 2023
Slow, repetitive, oddly deep descriptions on interior design that were just boring, predictable yet slow plot. I've never seen the phrase "in situ" used so frequently and randomly. I rarely DNF, but I considered it with this one.
Profile Image for Helen Shirley.
164 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2023
Quite a nice little Christmas story as the plot was fairly unique.

I enjoyed the characters of Nathan and Ria and how they clearly had a love for each other from first sight and how family-oriented they were. I enjoyed reading about their respective interior design qualities and how they managed to turn The Inn on the River around.

The relationship between Nathan's parents was definitely believable and completely understandable based on what they were dealing with.

I wish that there had been more descriptive narrative around the whole area of the White Mountains, not just snow, mountains, and a hidden river!

I liked that the editing was good, and I only identified two minor proofing errors! I also enjoyed the lack of: swearing, abusive language, and detailed sex scenes!!

For me, I'd attribute losing half a star as some of the story skipped so quickly, whereas some seemed to drag,. The the other 1½ was lost due to the amount of dialogue. I don't think I've read a book where the majority is conversation between two people and less description. I think I felt a bit cheated that I wasn't able to deduce things for myself as every little thing was being spelt out in dialogue! I nearly gave the book up after first commencing as it seemed it was never going to stop being a conversation!!

I really wanted to give this book four stars, but unfortunately, I just couldn't justify it when I aligned it against others.
773 reviews
November 18, 2023
Lucy Coleman books a bit hit or miss for me, and this one is a miss - I managed just over 100 pages but this one is not for me. If you like reading about scenery, food and interior decorating then fine, but I wanted a book about people and relationships, friendship, family and community. These things may develop later but I have lost interest and find it hard to muster the enthusiasm to find out.
Profile Image for Dee.
542 reviews9 followers
October 12, 2023
⭐️ 3 ⭐️

The book is set in snowy New Hampshire, which provides a breathtaking backdrop to the story and perfectly sets the festive scene.
 
Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn is well written, but I did find the plot a little dull and repetitive; I found myself skim-reading just to get to the end.
 
The characterisation is good, but Hayden’s character came across as more female than male, and I thought his voice sounded more like an older woman than a man. I didn’t sense a spark or any chemistry between Hayden and Ria, and to me, their dialogue didn’t flow or feel authentic.

I’m sure lots of people will love this cosy Christmas read; unfortunately, it was missing the magic for me.
 
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Profile Image for Book Escapes Babs.
652 reviews26 followers
October 22, 2023
This gorgeous story is packed with real warmth and depth of emotion as we follow Ria and Hayden to the mountains of New Hampshire. The premise is essentially simple, but the execution is skilled. I felt all manner of emotions as the story built momentum and headed for what I thought was a natural conclusion. I should have known that you can’t make assumptions with this author.
Told with two first-person characters, I did take a moment to figure out who was speaking as that wasn’t always clear. That said, I was reading into the early hours, which could explain a lot. As the synopsis explains, the story follows the relationship between successful businessman, Hayden Reynolds and exceptional interior designer, Ria Porter. Together, they are on a mission to restore and update the Inn on the River. Having been in Hayden’s family for generations, it is now being run by his parents.
I found that this story was beautifully constructed with characters that I could completely identify with. The trials that they each faced were a natural part of human life. The doubts that arise from taking on a new challenge and realising that your partner may not be fully supportive of you- choices are both real and terrifying. Lucy Coleman handles the storytelling with a skilled and empathetic hand.
I honestly loved Ria’s character and was absolutely invested in her finding happiness. Her strength of spirit as she rebuilt her life in the face of her failed relationship will resonate with so many readers. Hayden also deserved some joy as he carried the wounds from his earlier choices. But, of course, when two people are battle-scarred from past relationships, it’s never just about meeting someone new.
There is a terrific supporting cast, and I developed a real soft spot for Frank, the grieving farmer who was always available to help. My favourite character would have to be the Inn. I know that it’s an inanimate participant, but I loved reading the wonderful descriptions and could almost imagine being there. A special mention to the breathtaking scenery that equally played a part.
It was a pleasure to shift gear and enjoy a trip to New Hampshire. This story was packed with warmth and a wonderful, beautifully executed story. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Judi Fox.
115 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2023
I am reading this because it's December, and I like to read sappy holiday stuff this time of year. But this book - I've never really read so much yammer yammer, yada yada. After half a chapter of soul-baring conversation, the narrator will then explain what was shared. It's like the author suspects we dozed off during the confessionals, and had to sum up.

Hayden has hired Ria to come with him from the UK to New Hampshire to renovate his parents' - actually his grandparents' - rustic inn. His mother wants it sleek and modern. His father wants things the way they are, worn out and cluttered. The bottom line is - his mother doesn't want to be there, but she prefers making everyone miserable rather than say so to anyone but the designer. There are pages describing rooms before, and after, and who likes and doesn't like it which way.

Ria has to run interference. She knows what everybody's issues are, but can't tell who needs to know. The mother suddenly wants, in the dead of a frozen, snowed under, New Hampshire December, live Christmas trees dug from the frozen earth. When asked what brought that on, she whispers that she'll explain later. Almost immediately she says trees are living things and it's sad to cut them down. They are always talking around each other, not to each other.

And my kindle tells me it was 62% into the book when the woman asks the man she's working for where his office is. With all the yammering, it's never come up.

Then there are things like the kiss that took place between Ria and Hayden in a secluded, romantic setting, where the adult couple are basically sleeping feet apart. They stop at one, and then moon over it for days, talking with friends across the pond about what it meant. Adults, not 14 year olds. 2/3 through the book, there are 2 more rather chaste kisses. Ria lies in wait for Hayden and pulls him into her room for a kiss, and he says, conflicted - this doesn't feel right does it? And changes the subject. When nature decides the time is right, the author spends about 2 lines describing their passion, and 4 paragraphs describing a snack or a quilt.

I finished it, it all worked out, and now we can move on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Karen.
346 reviews6 followers
October 25, 2023
So far this festive season, I’ve been to Canada with Jo Thomas and Norfolk with Sue Moorcroft.
Where would Lucy Coleman take me, I wonder, as I delved into the covers of Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn?
It starts with a plane journey, so we are definitely going abroad, in the company of businessman Hayden Reynolds and interior designer Ria Porter, whom he has hired to refresh and update the family’s ailing hospitality business in – New Hampshire!
Yes, we’re crossing the Atlantic to the USA, and guaranteed a white Christmas, at the very least.
Hayden and Ria have never met but get along well from the first. However, when they get to The Inn on the River, it becomes clear all is not well with Hayden’s parents’ relationship. Mason, American –born, wants to keep the inn as old-fashioned as his father and grandfather before him did. Eve recognises it needs a refresh if they are to make it successful once more.
As Hayden and Ria set to work, their own relationship develops. But is it wise to mix business with pleasure?
This story had all the ingredients needed for a cracking Christmas read. Thwarted romance and family conflict simmering beneath a blanket of all things festive keeps the reader engrossed, even as they’re enjoying Christmas fairs, seasonal retreats to romantic snow-covered cabins, the decoration of halls that have seen better days – it is all there.
I felt Hayden and Ria’s story took some time to get going – there was so much emphasis on Mason and Eve’s challenges, that their son and his potential love interest fell into the background. I’d have liked to see a little more sexual tension between them in the first part of the story.
But once it does explode, it does it with panache – right down to shooting stars in the starry sky above the frozen winter wonderland, and it is worth waiting for.
Profile Image for Markie.
474 reviews34 followers
August 9, 2023
"Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn" by Lucy Coleman sounds like a heartwarming Christmas romance that's perfect for cozying up by the fire during the holiday season. The novel seems to capture the essence of a festive love story that will resonate with fans of authors like Sarah Morgan, Karen Swan, and Jenny Hale.

The story follows Ria Porter, an interior designer who finds herself unexpectedly working on a project at a charming inn nestled in the mountains and forests of New Hampshire. As Ria immerses herself in her work, she becomes determined to create something truly special for the inn.

Hayden Reynolds, a successful businessman, hires Ria to help him save his grandfather's inn. However, as they work together, they realize that their task involves more than just a physical renovation—it also means mending the emotional wounds that have torn Hayden's family apart.

Set against the backdrop of a snowy landscape, "Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn" appears to weave a tale of love, healing, and the magic of the holiday season. As the inn undergoes its transformation, Ria and Hayden's relationship evolves, and they may discover a new future that could change their lives forever.

If you enjoy heartwarming and festive stories that focus on family dynamics, romance, and the spirit of Christmas, this novel seems like a delightful choice. It promises to offer a charming and cozy experience, perfect for enjoying alongside your favorite holiday treats.
Profile Image for Kirsty (BookBlogger).
2,035 reviews63 followers
December 4, 2023
Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn by Lucy Coleman

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Interior designer Ria Porter wasn't expecting a white Christmas this year. But her latest job has landed her on location at a beautiful inn, nestled in the mountains and forests of New Hampshire. Ria can't believe her luck and is determined to make this project her best work yet.

Successful businessman Hayden Reynolds has hired Ria in a mission to save his grandfather's inn. But as Hayden and Ria soon realise, it will take more than a new coat of paint to heal the rifts that have torn his family apart.

But as the snowflakes continue to settle on the trees and the inn comes back to life, Hayden and Ria might be about to discover a whole new future this Christmas, that could change their lives forever...

Pour yourself a mug of hot chocolate and settle down with some mince pies for this charming, cosy Christmas romance!

My Opinion

This was a pleasant read. As the snow falls in New Hampshire, Lucy Coleman will leave you with that warm feeling that comes from a great festive novel. From the descriptions, the inn sounds like a winter wonderland. A light-hearted festive read, that will help you get into the spirit of Christmas.

Rating 4/5
1,995 reviews
Read
January 9, 2025
This was a wonderful Christmas story with great characters and an interesting plot. I enjoyed reading it.

Amazon synopsis:
After a messy breakup, interior designer Ria Porter has been dedicated to her job. Now one of the best in the business, she's been hired to work on a beautiful inn nestled in the snow-covered mountains of New Hampshire. A career-making opportunity she couldn't refuse, Ria's determined to make it her finest work yet.

Successful businessman Hayden Reynolds has carved his own path in life. But this December he is flying back home on a mission to save his grandfather's beloved inn.

Between interfering family members and a tight deadline, Ria's got her hands full. The last thing she needs is Hayden distracting her with his good looks and kind heart. But as they work together to bring the inn back to life, Ria finds her resolve thawing and it harder to keep things professional.

With Christmas Eve approaching, Ria has a decision to make. She can keep her focus on her work or she can allow herself to dream, letting this beautiful place open up a future she never thought possible...
Profile Image for Valerie  Brown.
630 reviews7 followers
December 3, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
I found this book had a lovely festive atmosphere with the snow, decorations - some natural, some not - and the setting of the inn surrounded by mountains and trees was delightful. I thought the story of bringing the inn up to date with modern, bright and easy-to-care for fittings whilst maintaining its original character was interesting and I enjoyed reading the detail of colours, furniture and fabrics.
A lot of the narrative was dialogue, rather than 'telling' so it was a bit harder to engage with the characters as I didn't know what they were thinking, i.e. some of the reasons for their behaviour, although this underlined Ria's position as she tried to untangle the family relationships and actions. I disliked Hayden's mother, Evie, as she seemed completely selfish about her desire to throw everything out and leave, ignoring the fact that it had been her husband's family home with memories attached.
I would definitely say this is not a normal festive romcom, but I was absorbed by it, it was nice not just have a simple, easy read with a predictable outcome.
Profile Image for Joanna Lambert.
Author 6 books41 followers
October 8, 2023
Businessman Hayden Reynolds hires interior designer Ria Porter, to revamp his grandfather’s inn. Set in New Hampshire, in an idyllic spot surrounded by mountains and forest, Ria falls in love with the place and wants to create something unique and special.
However, she soon realises there is more to this assignment than simply breathing new life into the building. It is also about repairing the fractures within the family.
The setting is gorgeous – mountains, forest and snow, with the inn providing a wonderful cozy backdrop. A great place to for Lucy to weave a story of romance, family tangles and the opportunity for positive change. It’s a great festive story and one of those books that is perfect for curling up next to a warm fire with a hot chocolate - or something stronger - and losing yourself in.
I would like to thank the author, Embla Publishing and Netgalley for an ARC of Christmas at the Snow Covered Inn in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Debbie Lesley.
510 reviews12 followers
November 23, 2023
Sweet little book in which wealthy British businessman, Hayden, hires interior designer Ria to redesign and update his parents’ inherited inn in New Hampshire. I did like the way the author described the way Ria designed each room, ordering supplies from Hayden’s home furnishing stores. Describing the way they methodically went through the rooms of the old inn, choosing colors and new names for the rooms was interesting.

Of course, there is conflict simply through the fact that Hayden’s parents did not ask for this generous gift from their son and it was difficult at first to graciously accept this gift. Ria, as decorator, ended up often playing counselor and peacemaker.

Being in the White Mountains of New England was a different experience for Ria who as missing the holidays with her family but getting to enjoy the snow and cold weather not seen in England.

A little romance, lots of understanding , and of course, a happy ending ,ales for an easy light holiday read.
Profile Image for Gayle.
349 reviews
July 19, 2024
This is a book with an English setting and characters and that gives it a bit of charm that our American books do not have. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. I was disappointed at the normalization of premarital sex and it is for that reason I do not plan to read any more of Lucy Coleman's books. I read this one free on Amazon Prime and it was a great time filler while traveling the Interstate. But there are too many other books out there waiting to be read to spend time reading books that normalize sin. I have enough trouble resisting sin without adding to its temptations by using books that normalize it as entertainment. While not graphic and not occurring until the last ¼ of the book, it just doesn't do anything to edify or enrich my character which needs all the help it can get. It reminds me of movies that contain a load of profanity and yet the story is enthralling. I'm grateful I grew up when television edited out bad language and sex scenes weren't included.
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,667 reviews12 followers
October 20, 2023
This was my first venture into a Coleman book and I'm now certainly looking to reading more from her now. I loved this book, obviously because it was a festive one and I love anything Christmas, and because the story was so cozy and cute - perfect for this time of the year with the colder nights drawing in.

New England in the snow was just the start of the scene setting for me, when we made it to the Snow Covers Inn it stole my heart and I wanted to be there so bad, it sounded gorgeous and once Ria had worked her magic, I wanted to be spending Christmas there myself.

It's a family orientated, character driven read, the characters are credible and the story is narrated from both Ria and Hayden's POV.

A heart-warming festive fiction feast that's full of Christmas magic, romance and food to die for!

It's enjoyable, entertaining and I really enjoyed my time at the Snow Covers Inn.
Profile Image for Denise.
226 reviews1 follower
October 21, 2023
This book offers a gentle and heart warming read that doesn't rely on constant chapter-ending excitement but instead tells a captivating story.

The story is told from the viewpoints of Ria, a self-employed interior designer, and Hayden, the CEO of a chain of home improvement stores, the story unfolds as Ria embarks on the task of renovating Hayden's grandparents' Inn nestled in the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire. Ria's tasked with renovating Hayden's grandparents' Inn in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. They meet for the first time on their flight to the Inn.

The snowy setting of the Inn sounds idyllic and there's a bit of a foodie theme running through the book with lots of delicious sounding meals.

It's got the Hallmark film feel, a feel good cosy Christmas read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Embla Books for the ARC.
Profile Image for Ritu Bhathal.
Author 6 books154 followers
August 8, 2023
Ria is an interior designer flying out to a snowy village in New Hampshire, USA, to complete a very important job.
Hayden is the man who employed her to help his parents update an old family business.
The inn in question is beautiful, set with a gorgeous wintery backdrop; however, it has lost its edge, which Lucy is set on finding again.
But she ends up not only helping to redecorate the inn but help with some family issues that have cropped up too.
Meanwhile, Hayden finds this trip back home eye-opening, and there appears to be something happening in his heart, as well...
A simple, festive love story with an inevitable happy ending.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for an ARC.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,120 reviews64 followers
October 27, 2023
This book has something for everyone. It gives us hope, romance, family relationships, marital woes and the desire to make the inn shine again set in the most wonderful scenery. Hayden has hired an interior designer to rescue the inn and she soon comes to realise that there is more to this job, than just her usual artistic flair. She has to tread sensitively, trying to bring his parents into the dream vision and that all their memories won't be erased as the inn has a new breath of life. You could just see each room come to life again and smile at the battle to declutter but maintain everything that lived there before!
Will everything work out well and please everyone- you need to read this one!
Profile Image for beereadsxo.
95 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2023
my thoughts :
4⭐️
- loved
- the dialogue was funny, captivating and relatable
- basically Christmas in a book 😍
- genuinely captures the thoughts and feelings around the festive time and exuded them from every page
- the perfect festive romance

If you love romances and you love Christmas this is perfect for you. The exploration into family dynamics also hit home a lot and really cemented how feelings are heightened around the holidays.
The snowy backdrop of New Hampshire was eloquently described and immersed you into the very scene.

Grab yourself a blanket, a hot chocolate and sit by the fire because you won’t be able to put this one down!

Thanks to @lucycolemanauthor @emblabooks @thebookdealer for this opportunity 💕
Profile Image for Kimberly Sullivan.
Author 8 books133 followers
December 30, 2023
I was in the mood for some light Christmas reading - and a Christmas romance in a secluded New England location seemed to fit the bill. Even better, after picking it up, I realized this story was centered around an inn in the White Mountains of New Hampshire - the same location where my own grandfather lived and where I spent many vacations as a child.

The novel started well, but flatlined mid-way. This is the story of Hayden, a wealthy British-American who hires Rya, an interior designer from London, to come save his parents' flailing inn. The dialogue, the tension and the day-to-day fixing up rooms in an inn weren't enough to carry this story through its middle ... a shame, because the novel started and ended well.
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,105 reviews10 followers
September 30, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Christmas in the Snow Covered Inn" on a hot and sunny day in Australia. The author's vivid description of the Inn and the winter wonderland around it transported me there. Despite being sick, I read it all in one day and was entertained until the very end.

Hayden hired Ria, a successful interior designer, to travel from the UK to the white mountains of New Hampshire, USA, to help renovate his late grandfather's Inn. The goal is to have a grand re-opening on Christmas Eve and Ria is in charge of the final decor changes. Hayden first met Ria on their plane trip to New Hampshire and they will be spending the next three weeks together.

Will Ria's job go smoothly? Will they be ready for the big party? And what will be the state of Hayden's parents' marriage by the end of the refurbishment? These are all questions that remain to be answered by the end of this story.
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