The Warmth of Snow

Heartwarming Christmas #3

by Heidi Eljarbo

There must be a way to thaw a heart long frozen. Can she help him, or does he have other plans?

Sweden 1810.
August Brandell, the count of Linborg, has returned home after four years of war against the French Empire under the direction of Napoléon Bonaparte. Wounded and downtrodden, he is a meager shadow of the man he used to be.
One day, a lovely young woman comes calling. She’s strong and bright and, unlike the rest, seems unaffected by his wealth and unfortunate disability. He soon discovers he wants more than a sweet friendship, but a life of caring for him would not be fair to such a beautiful soul. Oh, how dearly, deeply he loves her and secretly wants her to stay, but he cannot and will not ask such a sacrifice from her…especially not when it’s out of pity for him.

Erica Gustava Ebbesdotter has primarily been left to herself since she was orphaned at an early age. Although grateful to her aunt and uncle for taking her in, they pay her no attention and even keep her in the dark about her parents.
Hearing about Count Brandell’s unfortunate fate on the battlefield, she knocks on the door at Castle Linborg to leave him a card of encouragement.
Meeting Count Brandell changes Erica’s entire world. Falling for him is utterly unexpected. Soon, he fills her heart, but he is far above her station. How can a man like him see beyond her less refined clothes and past? Worst of all, he is already betrothed.

This is a sweet and wholesome historical romance—a hauntingly beautiful tale of two hearts meant to be together.

Perfect for fans of Regency romances from Julianne Donaldson, Sarah M. Eden, Jennie Goutet, Laura Beers, and Sally Britton.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christmas, Romance, Historical Romance, Fiction, Regency

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2023

About the author

HEIDI ELJARBO grew up in a home full of books, artwork, and happy creativity. She is the author of historical novels filled with courage, hope, mystery, adventure, and sweet romance during challenging times. She’s been named a master of dual timelines and often writes about strong-willed women of past centuries.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She lives with her husband on a charming island and enjoys walking in any kind of weather, hugging her grandchildren, and has a passion for art and history.

Her family’s chosen retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summer and ski the vast white terrain during winter.

Heidi’s favorites are her family, God's beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.


If you would like to know more, please visit:

Official Author Website:
https://www.heidieljarbo.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheidie...
https://no.pinterest.com/heidieljarbo/

Reviews

[Kremena Koleva · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Warmth Of Snow е нежна шведска приказка в духа на класиките на Шарл Перо, Братя Грим и Ханс Кристиян Андерсен. И по стил и по сюжет, и по атмосфера тя внушава вяра, че всяка трудност може да се понесе по - лесно, ако духът ни не затъва в отчаяние и самосъжаление. Ведрия характер и доброто сърце привличат вниманието, а понякога дори на най - точния човек.

* " Това, което се опитвам да кажа, е, че ако една отровна ситуация се развихри по начин, който доминира в живота ни, може би си струва да се борим, за да обърнем внимание на въпроса. "

А осъзнавайки собствените си слабости и недостатъци, съвсем инстинктивно ние се стремим към ярките лъчи на добротатата и красотата. За да се отпуснем в топлотата на добрите и чистосърдечни хора. И дори може да придобием част от оптимизма им, че хората
" идват при нас във всякакви форми и размери ."
Зимният студ във Швеция, войните на Наполеон , физическите и емоционални болки от бойните действия, политическите ходове на държавните глави и нищетата и жертвите сред обикновените хора са фона на книгата. 1810 година е време на Наполеоновите походи в Европа, на принцове, крале и регенти , на пищни балове и опустошени земи. Но приближаващите коледни празници носят усещането, че въпреки всички трудности, намеси на злобни хора и раздели, героите ще получат своето коледно чудо. За да е истински духа на приказките!

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers the readers a magical and breathtakingly beautiful adult fairy tale, with a Count, a poor young orphan and the family who controls and berates her. Erica Ebbesdotter is carefree, loving and kind in spite of the years of maltreatment at the hands of her guardians. Her desire is to bring beauty and love into the world in whatever small way she can, so she decides to make and hand deliver scenic postcards. She takes one such card to the reclusive and war-torn hero, Count Brandell of the Linborg Castle. The way those two interact is an extremely powerful story and a heartwarming romance in the making. The plot is paced just perfectly for the sweet story that it tells and the characters are all expertly crafted and designed to fit into the story and into the historical research that is evident throughout this brilliantly written tale. This is an enchanting look at Sweden in the early 1800’s, the daily life and customs and the way the people survived Napoleon’s wars with good spirits, camaraderie, family and faith. The glimpse into the lives of the characters is insightful and captivating. In fact, the whole story is one that is filled with emotional depth and thought-provoking drama. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Castle Linborg and the remarkably compelling characters, but I was most drawn to the old housekeeper Stina, one who had a great deal of love and wisdom to give and wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to the lord of the castle. This book offers and enchanting and quick read for the holiday season or anytime the reader needs an encouraging lift of spirits from people rising to high expectations and helping others along the pathway of life. What a satisfying and compelling story that is as delightful as it is completely engrossing.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as a member of her advance review team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Warmth of Snow is a heartwarming and enchanting story. It’s cute, sweet, magical, and unique with similarities to a Beauty and the Beast story, with its own sweetness and treasure.

I connected with Erica rather quickly and admired her positivity. The Count is easy to empathize with and his physical and emotional wounds give him depth. Together, the attraction is palpable, and I appreciate the way they interact.

The snowy setting adds a delightful backdrop, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that’s perfect for putting me in the Christmas spirit of giving, sharing, and kindness. With themes of love, acceptance, and compassion, this is such a satisfying quick read!

First Line: Time is a peculiar thing.
Series: Heartwarming Christmas book 3
Genre: Christmas Romance
Author: Heidi Ejarbo
Page Count: 178

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this was such a sweet story and a bit reminiscent to elements in Beauty and the Beast which I absolutely loved. I say elements because this is not a retelling by any means but as you are reading it you can see things that could compare to the Disney classic.

This is not a lengthy story but it sure does pack a great storyline. Erica is a great character. While she seems meek she is definitely nothing of the sort. She lives with horrendous family members who treat her like garbage. The Count is the perfect leading man. He is coarse and rough around the edges at times but never with Erica.

Overall the story moves rather quickly but it was very enjoyable. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be adding her to my TBR author list. She writes a very sweet clean romance.

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Kara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Just Read Tours and Heidi Eljarbo for sending me a copy of The Warmth of Snow! All thoughts expressed in this review reflect my honest opinion.

The Warmth of Snow was a solid 3🌟 book for me. This Christmas love story reminded me of a fairy tale - heroine Erica is sweet and caring, despite her sad history and upbringing by cruel relatives. She befriends August, who, in addition to being the village's Most Eligible Bachelor (aka Prince Charming equivalent), is convalescing after a serious war injury. It doesn't take him long to fall for Erica's kindhearted nature, and it's easy to see that a happily ever after won't be too far off for this couple!

My favorite aspect of this story was the opportunity to learn more about Swedish history. I really enjoyed all the passages that delved into historical events and Swedish politics. I wanted more of this!

Unfortunately, the outplay of the story itself fell flat for me. The dialogue did not feel authentic, and the conflicts resolved far too easily to be believed. Eljarbo had a very clear plot outline for this, which is good, but the story progression felt like it was simply driving to each plot point methodically without actually crafting and finessing the story, almost as if checking plot points off a list. I think this story could have done well with more editing and more plot and character development. It has a good structure, but doesn't meet its full potential.

I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to read The Warmth of Snow! This was a sweet story concept with a lot of potential, and it was a cute book to read leading up to Christmas.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance is my least read genre but this story immediately pulled me in. I love that this story was set in Sweden in the 1800s…I don’t believe I’ve ever “visited” Sweden in a book before. The castle was also a wonderful setting.

Stina always made me smile, she was a great matchmaker. The love story was so sweet and the progression of their relationship was fun to witness.I enjoyed the exploration of social standing and class in this time period.

I highly recommend this lovely Christmas story!

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

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Warmth of Snow is a well-written story about Erica Ebbesdotter who lives at Holst Manor in 1810, Sweden. She lives there with her aunt and uncle, who took her in when her parents died. Although, grateful, she feels lonely despite being surrounded by family.

The story is full of secrets, mystery, and healing. It kept me intrigued the whole time as I followed Erica's life. Her life becomes complicated when she becomes friends with Count August Brandell of Castle Linborg. The count is dealing with his own ghosts from the war and a war injury.

The story was full of surprises, characters that kept me engaged, and beautiful descriptions that brought me into the storyline. A lovely inspirational and uplifting story of courage, faith in God, and a happy ending. Everything you would want in a historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. A positive review is not required and all my opinions are my own.

[Rachelle LeBlanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Warmth of Snow by Heidi Eljarbo is set in 1810 Sweden.

Short Summary:

August Brandell is the Count of Lindborg who was injured in the war against the French Empire. He has a bleak outlook on life and uses a wheelchair.

Erica Ebbesdotter is an orphan who was taken in by her aunt and uncle. They forced her to sleep in the attic and used her. Erica still has a positive outlook on life and helps the elderly and widowed in town.

Every year she hand paints cards during the holidays. Her aunt and friend both mentioned bringing one to Count Brandell. Erica decided since he was mentioned twice she would. It leads to friendship then love and Erica finally getting answers about her parents.

My thoughts:

The Warmth of Snow was a loose Cinderella retelling with Erica being raise by her aunt and uncle who had two son. They all treated Erica unfairly even making her live in the attic.

I loved August and Erica’s story. The impromptu visit Erica paid August lead to a solid friendship then love. Erica’s bright outlook on life changed him in a good way. I really liked the slow building of their relationship.

I liked the relationship between August and his staff. Some of my favorite scenes featured Stina, his housekeeper. She loved to meddle in his life but only because she loved him like a son and had stepped in to show him the ropes of being a count when his parents dead.

I really loved The Warmth of Snow and will definitely reading it again. Thank you Heidi Eljarbo and JustReadTours for a complimentary copy.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story reminded me a little bit of the fairy tale Cinderella. We have a young woman whose parents died when she was young, and she was taken in by her aunt and uncle. Though neither they nor her cousins treated her well at the manor, for one thing she was banished to the attic room. She was belittled and never looked upon kindly or really even loved by them. There is some mystery about her birth and who her parents really were and indeed, who she really is.

The count is not a mean or too grumpy of a man. He has seen the horrors of war and has lost the use of his legs due to a war wound. He is not sure how to deal with his nightmares and he wonders if he really ever will be whole again.

I liked the setting of this story. It takes place in Sweden in 1810 and touches on the history of the Napoleonic wars and how it affected Sweden. I have not read a lot of stories in this setting so this one was refreshing. I also liked the title as it gives the whole story a regal, holiday, and mysterious vibe.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute. Cute. Cute. The Warmth of Snow was a delightful Christmas book to start off the Christmas season. This is my first book by this author, and it certainly won’t be the last. Not only does this book have a beautiful cover, the storyline and romance inside are just as beautiful.

To me, this felt like a Cinderella and possibly a Beauty and the Beast retelling. The storyline between Erica and her family reminded me of Cinderella. And the storyline with August and how he kept to himself in his castle because of his injuries reminded me of Beauty and the Beast. That being said, I thought the author did very well with writing this story! The characters were well written and perfect for this story.

I loved every character in this book, but Stina was probably my favorite. I loved how she cared for August like a mother and helped him find happiness by making him realize how much he loved Erica. Like I said before, the characters and romance were both well written. You never know what to expect when reading a new to you author. I can honestly say that I loved this book. The Warmth of Snow is a short read, perfect for the Christmas season! I can’t wait to read more books by this author in the future!

[Yvette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book where almost immediately you have the random, unexpected though of “Oh, this is charming” and cannot think of a better word to describe it, even after it ends? This was my experience with Heidi Eljarbo’s The Warmth of Snow, the newest story in her Heartwarming Christmas novella series.

With an intriguing setting, Sweden in 1810, and characters that quickly endear or repulse, Eljarbo’s storytelling pulls the reader in and doesn’t let go. As love blossoms, betrayals and doubts, expectations and the wounds of war, along with long-held family secrets complicate matters and add the perfect touches of adversity and drama.

August and Erica’s story, heartwarming and gently crafted, is reminiscent of classic literature and somehow, though it only spans two months, feels larger than it’s novella length. The Warmth of Snow by Heidi Eljarbo earns my “highly recommended.”

This review refers to a finished paperback that I voluntarily read and reviewed, with thanks to the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this heartfelt historical romance novel. I loved that it was a shorter read but that there will still so much to the story and that everything was answered and wrapped up in the end. Erica was taken in by her aunt and uncle when she was orphaned and she has never really felt accepted and the questions about her parents are never answered. But following in her fathers love of art, she has made some cards that she is handing out to bring some joy to others. Having one card left, it is suggested she drop one by Castle Linborg. This one small act of kindness is about to change her life in the most unexpected way. This painted card is just what may get her the answers she has always sought and also be the saving grace for the count of Linborg. I would recommend this as a heartfelt holiday read! Really enjoyed this one. Thank you to JustRead Tours for the invite and to the author for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet and wholesome historical romance has such a lovely cover. It really sets the stage for a magical reading experience. We have a Cinderella type who visits a very tame version of the Beast. He's intrigued by the lady who has ideas and gumption. She's intrigued by the man who went to war and came home injured. With a match making servant, they are drawn together.

I noticed some timeline issues and some missing words. Both were distracting for me and kept removing me from the story. There was quite a bit of telling when I really wished to see more character interaction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

When love blossoms like a fragile flower through the icy veneer of those who have long since abandoned hope, can it endure the biting chill of their despair, or will it wither away, yielding to the unforgiving harshness that surrounds it?

The Count of Linborg is back in his castle after four years of war, but he has brought back with him a hardened heart and closed himself off from the world. August Brandell is but a shell of his former self, confined to a chair and without the use of his legs.

Castle Linborg stands, dreary and hostile, in limbo. People stay away, for fear of a frosty reception, and rumours spread about what state the once joyful and eager Count is in. However, curiosity and bravery bring forth a young woman who wants only to spread her positivity. Could the hand-painted card, offered forth without expectations of reciprocation, be the turning point that allows life to bloom forth from the castle once more?

"The Warmth of Snow (Heartwarming Christmas)" by Heidi Eljarbo invites readers into a stirring tale of second chances and the transformative power of love. This enchanting novel explores how love, even in the harshest circumstances, inspires hope, healing, and the courage to overcome adversity.

Despite being ever grateful to her aunt and uncle, Erica Gustava Ebbesdotter finds herself in a difficult position. Orphaned at a young age, she was raised by her aunt and uncle, but they have remained emotionally distant and have made it clear that, once she turns five-and-twenty, her inheritance will no longer cover her place in their household. Their coldness hasn’t embittered her; instead, the lack of attention has allowed Erica the freedom to spread her cheery disposition to others. She manages to remain optimistic, her natural joy standing in contrast to the rejection she’s faced. Erica emerges as a genuinely likeable protagonist, her positivity shining through the pages and endearing her to both the reader and the story's characters.

August is a complex character. Before going to war, he was open and engaging, often conversing with people around him. However, he returned home a shadow of his former self: weary, in pain, and haunted. Limited by his legs, he can barely show his face and is close to giving up—until Erica enters his life with a hand-painted card, simply aiming to share joy. There is an instant connection, as both are intrigued yet hesitant. August’s higher social status contrasts with Erica’s dependence on her family’s support. His limitations raise doubts about a future together, but their mutual support fosters trust and a growing friendship, subtly deepening into romance as they start to lower their guards.

While love and connection are central, dark undertones drive the story forward. Choices push characters down different paths. Deceit and mistrust pave the way for Erica, whose future hangs in the balance. Her aunt and uncle reveal little about her parents, and Erica remembers little, having lost them when young. Her inheritance has covered her expenses since their deaths. Lately, her aunt and uncle’s behaviour has grown more peculiar. August shares Erica’s desire for truth. Withholding information and the need to connect with her parents propel Erica forward. Her guardians begin to show their true colours. The novel delivers not only a beautiful love story and a battle against adversity, but also the uncovering of family secrets long hidden. Sometimes the story takes on a fairy-tale quality, with love nearly magical and challenges reminiscent of classic tales. This novel captivates its audience as powerfully as those beloved stories.

With so many threads, "The Warmth of Snow (Heartwarming Christmas)" by Heidi Eljarbo remains well-rounded, revealing and resolving everything at a well-measured pace despite its brevity. The story never feels rushed, nor is anything overlooked, making it an ideal read for those seeking drama, secrets, and heartfelt love, all wrapped in a concise and satisfying narrative.

Review by Ellie Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have recently awakened a hunger to find out more about my ancestry. There is a lot of mystery when it comes to where I come from and I want to shine a light on the past to find a deeper meaning within myself. Reading The Warmth of Snow reminded me that I can still be true to who I am without knowing the past, but that finding out the truth can lead to new life beyond my imagination.

Erica’s story is one of tragedy that gives serious Cinderella or Ever After vibes. She is an orphan that has been taken in by her evil aunt and uncle for nefarious reasons and subjected to verbal and emotional mistreatment, a fact that made my heart ache. Erica is such a sweet soul and does not deserve such treatment, and reading about the abuse is heartbreaking.

Austin is no stranger to heartbreak himself, having just returned from war with a debilitating disability, as he is no longer able to walk, and because of this he carries a heavy air of depression at his lot in life. A chance meeting puts him in the presence of Erica, who is a ray of sunshine in his darkness, and in one another they find what each other needs.

I loved this book so much! There is a sense of familiarity that surrounded my senses as I read this novel, like there was an invisible and instant connection between myself and this narrative, invoking something deep within me. There is something truly magical when you feel this kind of connection with a story, almost like it’s your own in some ways.

Heidi Eljarbo is one of my favorite authors as she has such a talent with connecting readers with her characters, making them almost become one as they traverse the characters unique journey together. I identified with both Austin and Erica in some form or fashion, further connecting me to their story, and I couldn’t get enough, so much so that I practically read this novel in one sitting.

This is a story of two souls that bring out the best in one another, showing that together you can overcome any adversity victoriously with love, and it is one I cannot recommend enough.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Diane Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I love the title of this book juxtaposing cold snow with warmth. Erica, a young woman orphaned young and raised by her aunt and uncle who obviously despises her, is able to rise above her circumstances with a positive attitude, joyful personality, and kindness toward others that she rarely experienced from others herself. The author has woven a beautiful story painting gorgeous scenes and complex personalities with her words. There is a mystery surrounding Erica’s past that she has been forbidden to know. Due to Erica’s kindnesses to the people in her local Swedish village during Napoleon’s aggressive campaigns, she discovers a mysterious soulmate from the aristocratic class who needs her joyful personality to heal him of his war wounds. The story evolves with Erica facing challenges and aggression from her adoptive family and finding intrigue, solace and much needed comfort during her visits with her newfound friend. I loved this story and highly recommend it as one that contains all the elements which make reading worthwhile and enjoyable.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful heartwarming Christmas romance.
Erica, an orphan who doesn't know much about her past except a couple of small items left to her after her parents death, is trying to live a life of goodness and kindness despite the circumstances she has grown up with under her relatives care.
In the journey of spreading her kindness her paths cross with a count living at the Castle Linborg, a count who in earlier years was found to be a kind man but through service in wars, was found to be a changed and different person spending his time within the walls of his own home.
A friendship evolves, but is it more?
There are mysteries which need to be solved, hearts that needs mending and forces that works against them.
I curled up underneath a blanket and read this book in one go as I could not put it away before knowing how it would end, enjoying every page of the story. I really loved it.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1950, Walt Disney released the masterpiece film Cinderella. I loved that movie in my childhood and then my children's childhood. That must be the reason I loved "The Warmth of Snow" by Heidi Eljarbo. The story brings back all my wonderful memories of Cinderella. Like Cinderella, Erica is under the care of jealous, conniving and cruel relatives. Like Cinderella, she is kind, caring and concerned for all, regardless of their station in society. The story is well written with plenty of suspense to keep the reader engaged. There is even a prince, but in this story, he is a count. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My favorite from Eljarbo so far. I receive a complimentary copy from the author for my honest review.

[Robert Yokoyama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like the way the two main characters romantically connect, and I like and how the physically disabled male character is portrayed in this book. I like how the character of Erica learns about the character of character of August by reading his personal memoir. I think that reading a person's memoir is an excellent way to learn about an individual's personality. I like Erica romantically connects with August by reading about his courage and compassion during Norway's war against French forces in the early 19th century. I also love the disabled male character struggles to move, yet he learns to accept his disability to find love. The Warmth of Snow gives me hope that I can find a woman who will look beyond my disability too.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, feel good read. This story was set in the early 1800s, and follows a Duke injured from war and a woman dealing with unkind family members who raised her. I love that this wasn't just a love story, but also had some mystery to what was truly going on.

Some situations happen too quickly and I wish I would've seen more growth with their relationship, but it didn't spoil the overall story for me. I also hate to say that editing seemed to be rushed, as I noticed a bit of mistakes that were slightly distracting--which I've never had a problem with before with Heidi's books.

(I did receive an ARC in return for my honest review.)

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This was a sweet story, perfect for Christmas! I did think the instalove was a bit unbelievable, especially on his part, since he was depressed and miserable up until then. And some of their dialogue was a bit stilted. But I did like how their relationship built and progressed, and the minor characters were really good (his housekeeper, her elderly friend, etc.). I liked the Cinderella-ish part of her story, and I thought the ending was very sweet. Nice, quick holiday read!

Content: clean.


I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[GuiltyPleasures · Rating 4 out of 5]

Erica and August—she’s a lovely young woman whose every thought is of helping others. She is a woman of noble character, even though her aunt and uncle who took her in when her parents died are unscrupulous. August is a Swedish Count who was injured while serving his country during war against Napoleon; he returned in a wheelchair. So when Erica stopped by his estate to drop off a card she’d painted, the housekeeper let her in. The two young people were immediately drawn to one another. Despite misunderstandings and a separation, the two grew closer and married. A heartwarming, faith-filled story.

[Sandy McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart-warming Regency romance

Erica is orphaned at an early age, and is living with an aunt and uncle who are not particularly kind to her.
Count August of Castle Linborg is living a solitary life after being injured during the Napoleonic war of the early 1800s.
When the two meet, neither have any idea that this encounter will alter both of their lives.
Set in Sweden, this charming and beautifully written Regency romance is an ideal read for Christmas, or any other time of the year.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and have no hesitation in recommending it to lovers of this genre.

[Lori Hooten · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
Have you ever known someone that just has a peace about them, no matter the circumstances? Erica brings that peace to the story of who she is and how she brings love and encouragement to those around her.

Erica was orphaned at a young age and taken in by family, who are unlike her in any way. Erica is peace, hope, and love wrapped up in a lovely young lady. She is made all the lovelier by her heart and actions. We meet her as she takes handmade paintings to folks who need some joy in their lives. One such person is Count Brandell and when Erica walks into the room to deliver her card, lives change. Her hope and joy brings something needed into the life of the Count, who was wounded at war and struggling with depression.

As the story progresses, Erica and August (Count Brandell) form a friendship that is unlike anything either had ever known. And it changed each of them. The story of this friendship growing and changing is one of hope and love that can only come from open trust and sharing life. It is a beautiful story.

While there is clearly some religious influence in the story, set in 1810, it is not a major focus of the story. The personal convictions of doing right, helping others, and being kind, regardless of circumstance, flowed through the story and brought smiles. This was a joyful story that really touched me. A prominent theme was snow bringing hope and warmth to life. Snow often brings newness and change to not only the landscape but the people whose lives are affected by it. Many dislike the snow but if you embrace it, it can bring hope and warmth. Snow shows up in many of the important scenes in the story and I love how it is incorporated into the story and the title.

I am pleased to recommend this title and story. In fact, I can see it being one to bring out in those dark and dreary days of winter to shed hope and light into the world. It is a joyful story full of hope and warmth and love.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover of this book is gorgeous and made me want to read this book based off the cover alone. The story though did not disappoint either! I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Erica and August and the mystery elements of Erica’s past made the story even more compelling. This was my first read by Heidi Eljarbo but it won’t be my last!

[Ann Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written!

This inspiring story of finding love and hope was so well done and it is amazingly inspirational for everyone to read. Two young people who have faced tragedy and adversity learn to help each other and grow a trust and love .

[Gail · Rating 2 out of 5]

Warmth of Snow

I am so happy I received this gift. Great characters and a great story. When two finally get together love is in the air and the truth is found. You need to read this book.

[Laura Pearson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inconsistencies such as she already standing then the text says she stood. First horses are pulling the sleigh, then during the same episode only one horse is pulling the sleigh.

The text says the H is leaving. Never said anything about selling.

[Kristin]

DNF @ 23% 12/7/23

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, although not set in uk I imagined it to be , it was good easy read that I really enjoyed.