Southern Snow

Sugartree Romance #1

by B.R. Goodwin

For the last three years, Georgia has called the quirky southern town of Sugartree home, dutifully moving back to manage her parent’s coffee shop after her father suffered a heart attack and finding contentment in her busy schedule and the occasional shenanigans of her three younger siblings. When Lakeland Lovett, troubled son of the local pastor, wafts through the door of Good Start Coffee like a tantalizing cup of hot chocolate, Georgia promises herself she won’t fall prey to his charms and annoyingly perfect face again. She’s not the girl she was in high school who foolishly put her trust and heart in his careless hands. She knows better now, and more importantly, she knows Lake… at least she thinks she does. But with Lake strutting around Sugartree, driving Georgia crazy all over again with his pesky nicknames, dumb dimples, and swoon-worthy attention laser focused on her, she starts to find any promises to maintain her distance from Lakeland Lovett harder to preserve, and Georgia begins to see him, and her life in Sugartree, in a whole new way.

Genres: Christmas, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian Romance, Christian, Clean Romance, Contemporary

210 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

B.R. Goodwin is a Georgia native, married to her college sweetheart, and the mother of three wild animal children she adores. When she isn’t writing Christian Fiction, she’s reading, hiking, bee-keeping, soccer mom-ing, homeschooling, or planning her family’s next big adventure while drinking copious amounts of tea and coffee.

Above all else, the heartbeat of everything she does in life, friendship, and writing is with an eye to sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone she meets.


She recently dove head & heart first into the contemporary rom-com genre and is having the time of her life cackling at her own jokes and dreaming up swoon-worthy storylines for her characters.

Reviews

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Southern Snow by B. R. Goodwin is a small‑town, heartwarming Christmas romance about Georgia Remillard, who has returned to her quirky southern home of Sugartree to help run her family’s coffee shop after her father’s heart attack, and the unexpected second‑chance spark that reignites between her and Lakeland Lovett, the once‑careless boy she knew in high school whose return to town challenges her careful promises to steer clear of him. This story weaves faith, forgiveness, and festive cheer into a gentle, character‑driven romance that feels like settling into your favorite warm blanket on a chilly evening.

Right from the start I was drawn to Georgia’s earnest warmth: she’s the type of protagonist whose steadfast love for her family and community felt instantly familiar and grounding, even before Lake strolls back into her life with that same pesky smile and irresistible charm. Their chemistry is playful, but beneath the witty banter lies real, heartfelt growth as both characters confront their past, lean into grace, and rediscover what it means to trust, to forgive, and to see each other with fresh eyes.

The setting of Sugartree during the holiday season brings an inviting sense of Christmas magic without relying on sentiment alone; the community’s traditions and the layers of faith woven through the narrative gave me such a soothing, uplifting feeling that I found myself genuinely invested in their journey. It felt both comforting and meaningful, full of laughs, tender moments, and the kind of hope that stays with you.

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I adored how Southern Snow clasped together themes of second chances, faith, and small‑town charm in such an affectionate, authentic way. The characters felt alive and endearing, and the romance built with a genuine sweetness that made my heart smile. If I could wish for one thing more, it would be a bit deeper emotional intensity at the story’s core, but overall this cozy, spirited read left me glowing with holiday warmth and gratitude for every page.

[Toni Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by Ms. Goodwin and it won't be my last. I enjoyed so many things about this novel. 1) the faith message was fantastic 2) all the Christmas feels and the sweet moment of "Southern Snow" 3) the secondary characters alternated between making me laugh and wanting to read their own stories 4) the hero and his faith journey 5) the heroine because I can so relate

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. A review was not requested nor required or influenced in any way.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a big romcom reader but the combination of the wonderful faith message and the phenomenal narration made me absolutely fall in love with this book.

[Anne (In Search of Wonder) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐

A cute Christmas rom-com that is also the start of a series. Lovable characters, great small southern town setting and strong faith elements. So glad I met the author at a local book festival and picked up this one!

[kellie♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5

Absolutely adorable. Innocent. Pure. Sweet. Wholesome. Genuine. This book felt like a breath of fresh air. I loved this romance, specifically for the Christian aspect and Christian characters!

I really liked how this book kept God at the center. When Georgia was saying yes to everything and stacking her to-do list to feel worthy, Lake was there to remind her that she can’t earn her worth/God’s favor! God gives us His favor as a gift! He loves us no matter how many things we complete on our to-do list. Lake was speaking the truth and leading Georgia to use her gifts and talents wisely. I also really enjoyed reading Lake’s testimony, how he came to believe in the Lord and how he relies on Him to this day. So inspiring!!! All in all, a beautiful story glorifying God! What more could I want?!

[Stephanie Leonardi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute honor to read this second chance, slow burn, Christmas romcom written by a friend of mine! This book will be released November 1!

Georgia gave up her career and moved back home after her father suffered from a heart attack, to help run the family coffee shop.

Lakeland Lovett, troubled son of the town pastor, comes walking back into Georgias life again, with this annoyingly perfect face. Georgia promises herself not to fall into his careless hands again after their rocky past in high school.

But, even with all their banter, nicknames and swoon worthy flirting, Georgia begins to see Lake in a different light and allows to let him into her life.

If you’re looking for a cozy Christmas read with a solid Christian message- you won’t want to miss this book!! ♥️

[Jamie (The Kansan Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to Sugartree, Gerogia where you can go to the local coffee shop, Good Start Coffee. Here you will find a close knit family. The oldest of the siblings is running the place. Georgia has been back in Sugartree for the last three years helping her parents out. One day a blast from the past walks in to order his usual hot chocolate. There is a past between Lakeland and Georgia. Can they let it go and start over?

Super cute family and super cute read. I loved the banter between Lake and Georgia. I loved his nickname for her. I would say that if you are needing something for a quick cute read that is enjoyable, look no further than this series.

Also, includes a cameo from a cute fat cat named Gus!

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

An adorable Christmas rom-com full of southern charm and important Christian themes!

I have to confess to being a bit confused by the flashbacks between past and present along with solidifying which siblings were which. However, my brain is a potato right now, so that’s probably a me thing. 🙈

There was much to love about this story, but the message for me was the shining star. Georgia tries to do it all to be “enough” for God, while Luke’s past has made it hard for people to see how much he’s changed. It was so well done! Plus, I love the potential for other love stories between side characters!!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this sweet rom-com and both main characters. The Christmas theme and small-town ambiance were perfect, and the characters and story had depth and an enjoyable arc. Faith elements were intertwined into each character's growth in a realistic manner, and the second-chance love story was so well done.

I also enjoyed the large cast of supporting characters, cozy family tradition vibes, and the humor peppered throughout.

Definitely looking forward to more stories from these families and this town.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐

Southern Snow is a sweet Christmas read. I loved the faith content in it as well as how sweet and kind and faith centered the male love interest was. I would be OK if someone like him entered my life 😁.
I listened to the audiobook and I think I would have enjoyed it better physically. As through the book we are getting flashbacks of the past in high school, and it was hard to follow in the audiobook because there was no points of direction for the flashbacks.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars!

This is a very cute Second Chance Rom Com. I loved Georgia and Lakeland. Thought they were very cute together and I loved their personalities. I also enjoyed the siblings on both sides. Lots of cute moments and I liked the Christian message. I did have trouble following the flashback chapters. I kept getting lost on what was flashback and what was present but could have been just me. Also, a little too much focus on Lakeland's body for me. Overall, I thought this was a cute story and has lots of Southern charm!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story--- with so many of the aspects that I love in a holiday romance!

First of all, we get a second chance romance which I happen to love. The story goes back and forth from the present time to their high school days, giving us a glimpse of their history. The author did such a great job of balancing this and revealing just enough of the past at the right point in the story to keep me intrigued. We know that something happened between the two of them, but we find out slowly as the story progresses exactly what that was. Past or present, the chemistry between Georgia and Lakeland was really great and I found myself really invested in their story. It later has another of my favorite tropes- 'he takes care of her'--- which honestly gets me every single time.

Of course, you can't have a holiday romance without all the Christmas tradition and charm, and this one certainly had that too. Each chapter started with a Christmas song (including artist) to make up a playlist for the book. Being a huge Christmas music listener, I definitely recognized many of these versions and it really just helped draw me into the story further and added some more Christmas fun for me. The family and town dynamics were really great to and only further added to that smalltown holiday charm.

Perhaps the thing I loved most about this story is the faith element! I love seeing more CF romcoms, and especially in a holiday read like this one. It had all the humor and fun that I love in a romcom, but I loved seeing how these characters' faith shaped their lives... such a beautiful part of this story, and I absolutely loved that aspect of it.

Truly, there was so much to love about this book! If you're looking for a faith filled romance this holiday season, you'll definitely want to check this one out!

**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! It was cute, witty, the romance was so sweet and somehow I felt like I was a part of the family by the end. The light heartedness and how good natured the characters were truly made me feel more positive and like I could also help out at a soup kitchen or volunteer and make a difference. I haven’t read a book in a long time that made me reflect on myself with such positive energy and reading this book gave me a lot of hope for what I could bring to my future. And in that future, I will be exclusively speaking in a southern accent because it’s fun! Can’t wait to read the next one!

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun, cute story with strong faith elements. Loved the second-chance romance and the witty banter. I also loved how close the siblings are!

[Ursi Engebretsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me laugh so much I had to read passages aloud to my siblings--but it was sweet, heartwarming, and appropriately serious in places too. The enemies-to-lovers romance was great--so much banter and so many nicknames! And I liked the way the teenage flashbacks were placed throughout the story. Georgia and Lake were great, as were the rest of the Remillard family and the town of Sugartree!

[Jennifer H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!!! Georgia came back home and left her fancy job to take care of her parent’s coffee shop after her dad had a heart attack. Then Lake comes back to town. He was a “bad boy” in high school and she wasn’t about to let him back into her life. Or would she? You need to read this book to find out!!!!

[Donna Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun quirky, laugh out loud and tears story. You will swoon over this romance, and fall in love with the Remillard family and friends like they are your own! A Great book!

[Eliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imperfect characters reuniting and finding their second chances

[Holly Ducarte · Rating 3 out of 5]

Keep in mind this review comes from me not reading the romance-comedy genre much because it’s admittedly not my favourite. All that said, I thought this story was cute and I wanted to support BR Goodwin, as she is just a sweet person and lovely presence on Instagram. Georgia was my favourite character and her family dynamic was charming. The Christmassy vibes were on every page and I appreciated mostly the Christian themes and messages within. I can tell the author put her heart and soul into delivering a story that reminds us all that Christmas isn’t about the hustle and bustle. It’s about taking time to truly hear what God wants for us. And that we shouldn’t judge one another without knowing the full story. Sadly, I didn’t really jive with Lakeland. But I appreciated the redemptive arc of his character and how he did in fact grow throughout. For those who adore comfy, cute, romantic reads about Christmas then, please check this story out.

[Emily Grullon · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading some dark suspense I needed a light, heartfelt book, and you can't go wrong with a Christmas book! I was a bit confused for a minute then I realized there were flashbacks of the couple from high school which made it all the sweeter. A sweet love story and some Jesus, it was perfect even for April!

[Brittney (booksta.britt) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lakeland + Georgia

How adorable was this book?! I loved this one! I cannot wait to start book 2 in this series!


Favorite quotes -

“Now, stop being so adorably frustrating and drink this dang medicine so you can get better, and I can… God-willing… at some point, Georgia, show you how adorable I really think you are.”

“I believed I was who they said I was. It took me moving to the other side of the country, and going through Regen, to really learn who God says I am in Him… It wasn’t until then that I learned to see myself truly. To see my worth in Christ alone. To find purpose.”

“Yeah, that’s true. I do want friendship, Peaches. I want to laugh with you and fight our little word battles. I want to drive you kind of crazy.”

[Carrie Cotten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet, swoony and faith filled rom-com is the perfect read for the start of the holiday season. The absolute charming blend of wit and flirty banter make these characters come to life and get you cheering for them to find their happy ever after.
A must read for anyone who loves rom coms with a great faith message.

[Maureen Chritzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging Story

B.R. Goodwin is a new-to-me author. I read the first two books of this series backwards, but it didn't affect my enjoyment.

I enjoy series that focus on families and friend groups, and this one is very good. If you like stories that weave faith, laughter, struggles, siblings/family, friends, and romance, give this series a try.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this book. Such a great series.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is amazing I it is a sweet romcom. can’t wait for the rest

[funkelbunt.liest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Southern Snow is a really cute Christmas rom com and since I’m not a seasonal reader I didn’t mind reading it in March.

Georgia is a very sweet and kind young woman, working in her parent’s coffee shop since her father had a heart attack, when Lakeland Lovett enters her life again.

I think Georgia is the kind of person everybody just loves. She’s just so genuinely caring and loving and nice. Even though she tears up a bit too easily for my taste, I can’t help but root for her.

It’s a different story with Lakeland. I don’t dislike him, but for me his whole bad boy reputation he had in High School doesn’t really add up with what we learn in retrospect. For one he could and should have reached out to Georgia and we also never learn why he has this reputation, when it seems like he isn’t who everyone thinks he is. So it’s a bit difficult to figure him - the High School version - out and what he actually saw in and felt for Georgia and why he had this bad image.
It also doesn’t add up with the Lakeland we see about seven years later, but that is due to the fact that he truly started following Christ.

“And what, Georgia? Can’t people change? Is God not able to make a blind man see ad the lame walk? How much greater of a miracle would it be to see Lakeland Lovett following Christ instead of his own wayward heart?”

This is actually the part that I liked the most about the book, how Lakeland was a new person and that he truly started living for the Lord, how he wasn’t blind to his own mistakes in the past but also didn’t shy away from telling Georgia a hard truth - that we can’t buy God’s gifts or grace, that we’re saved - totally undeserved - through faith alone.

There are a lot of reminders of the gospel and prayers throughout the story, but also a lot of funny moments, especially with Georgia’s siblings, more especially if you count the cat…

I am not a romantic person at all, which might sound strange coming from someone devouring like all the romance novels, but it’s 100% true. But I really really loved the little gifts from Lakeland. It’s so not his good looks (why do men in novels always have to be “too handsome”? I am so ready to read about a totally average looking guy… Just a side note…) but these sweet little but thoughtful gestures that make me swoon. (Totally having hearts in my eyes right now.)

So I enjoyed the story, the characters and the faith messages a lot.
I would have given the book 5 stars, but for me the back and forth and a few too many characters for a rather short novel were just too much. We jump from senior year High School to seven years later every now and then, but there are mentionings of other events (like the father’s heart attack, College, moving back…) throughout the book and in both timelines there are quite a lot of side characters and I had to go back a few times to make sure who was the person in the scene and what was actually happening. I was sometimes really confused and that didn’t really help me get into the story.

But I absolutely recommend this book. It’s sweet, funny and full of faith!

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing find courtesy of November’s Bell Pepper Romance Event.

This is rom/com at its best. Full of small town charm and witty banter and, oh my goodness, Georgia and her siblings are a riot of fun! Flying quips, teasing tomfoolery and heartwarming loyalty. I almost feel like those scenes were the best but then I think of Lakeland and…swoon!

The teenage crush with a bad boy reputation is back home to make amends and Georgia’s the girl he left behind. She’s not about to forget the past and he’s just as determined to show her the future could be different. Sometimes I wanted to shake the pig-headedness out of her because Lake is so…well, I could list all the reasons why he makes the best kind of book boyfriend, but then I’d give the whole plot away. Trust me, the man is kind and thoughtful with an attention to detail that should have clued Georgia in early on, but, she’s busy trying to hold onto her grudge in a misplaced attempt at safeguarding her heart. Silly girl!

I appreciated the significant faith threads woven organically throughout the story. Reconciliation. Redemption. Forgiveness. Grace. With a multi-faceted approach that touches the lives of both Lake and Georgia and those close to them.

And Christmas is definitely centre-stage in this holiday romance which adds to all the cozy, heartwarming vibes and makes it the best kind of festive read.

I listened to the audible edition and thoroughly enjoyed Grace Woods’ narration. She brought out the Southern charm and lightheartedness in the story, making this a Christmas ‘read’ I will happily listen to again in the years ahead.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/11/28/s...

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Southern Snow" by B.R. Goodwin is an absolute gem of a read, a must for anyone seeking an engaging and heartwarming story.

The dynamic between Georgia, her lively siblings, and the enigmatic Lakeland Lovett is the beating heart of the story. B.R. Goodwin skillfully weaves a narrative that is not only filled with romantic tension but also brimming with humor and playful banter. I found myself chuckling out loud while reading on my daily commute, earning more than a few curious glances from fellow bus riders who were undoubtedly intrigued by the source of my entertainment.

What truly sets "Southern Snow" apart is its ability to leave you feeling full and content yet craving more. The richly developed characters and their intricate relationships promise a wealth of stories to come. B. R. Goodwin has written a book with a beautiful message of faith, forgiveness, grace, and redemption that runs through the narrative. "Southern Snow" is a clean read, making it suitable for readers of all ages, including young adults. As a full-grown man, I can attest that I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to my daughter or anyone looking for a heartwarming and wholesome story.

I received an early copy of this book...all opinions of this review reflect my own personal thoughts

[Latisha Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my word. This book was so adorable. I loved every second of it. The characters were so well-done and loveable. The setting was warm and cozy. And the chemistry and banter were off the charts.

Lakeland Lovett has my heart and I loved seeing how sweet he was to Georgia.

This is the kind of book I've been looking for and struggling to find. A light romcom with all the feels, but doesn't skimp on the faith! The faith wasn't heavy-handed or cheesy. It was woven in so naturally and I loved the character's faith arcs. Perfection.

Favorite things:

"Peaches"
Coffee mug (seriously, swooned so hard....IYKYK)
Matchmaking families
Griffin & Theo
Leo
The faith!
The banter
Christmas vibes
"...purple" (IYKYK)
Flashbacks
Second Chances
Reformed "bad boy"
He takes care of her

Okay, I have to stop or I'll give away spoilers. Just know that if you love faith-filled, laugh-out-loud books with all the Christmas vibes and swoony redeemed bad boy hero, then you NEED to read this.

*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Charissa James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this story! The banter between Georgia and Lake flew off the page from the beginning and kept me hooked until the end. He broke her heart in high school when he unexpectedly left town without a word, but now he's back with a flirty smile on his face. The story of Lake's faith journey was very encouraging and felt so realistic. Georgia's journey to finding her worth in Christ instead of others was wonderful to read, too. I really enjoyed the Remillard family. Having read the other three books in this series, it was neat to go back to book one and see what the siblings were like before they got their own love stories. They were, of course, still the rambunctious, crazy group they've always been. Reading the books in this order opened my eyes to some of the setups for different characters even from the very beginning. Also, the Christmas festivities gave the story a fun, happy vibe all the way through. There are parties and decorating and gifts that make this the perfect romcom for your annual holiday read.