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Ice Flowers
Vermont, 1933
Nettie Baker wants one thing for Christmas, to make her grandmother happy, and she’s determined to do it despite having just lost her job. But her gran’s only wish is for Nettie to find love. Sadly, that isn’t going to happen. Nettie has met every single man in town, and there simply isn’t anyone left to fall in love with. Everyone thinks she’s a little crazy anyway for her fascination with snowflakes. But when the handsome Ray Norwood returns to town and asks for piano lessons, her grandmother’s wish seems less out of reach.
Ray Norwood hasn’t been home in years. The memories and mistakes of the past are best left untouched, but his mother and sister-in-law beg him to return home for Christmas and make peace with his brother. He’ll give them two weeks. Then it’s straight back to Boston. At least, that was his plan until the beautiful Nettie Baker captivates him with her kindness and the unique, faith-filled way she sees the world. But is the spark that kindles between them enough to overcome past hurts and start a new life?
Ice Flowers is a sweet Christmas romance perfect for the holiday season and those looking for a message about the Savior's birth.
Nettie Baker wants one thing for Christmas, to make her grandmother happy, and she’s determined to do it despite having just lost her job. But her gran’s only wish is for Nettie to find love. Sadly, that isn’t going to happen. Nettie has met every single man in town, and there simply isn’t anyone left to fall in love with. Everyone thinks she’s a little crazy anyway for her fascination with snowflakes. But when the handsome Ray Norwood returns to town and asks for piano lessons, her grandmother’s wish seems less out of reach.
Ray Norwood hasn’t been home in years. The memories and mistakes of the past are best left untouched, but his mother and sister-in-law beg him to return home for Christmas and make peace with his brother. He’ll give them two weeks. Then it’s straight back to Boston. At least, that was his plan until the beautiful Nettie Baker captivates him with her kindness and the unique, faith-filled way she sees the world. But is the spark that kindles between them enough to overcome past hurts and start a new life?
Ice Flowers is a sweet Christmas romance perfect for the holiday season and those looking for a message about the Savior's birth.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2023
4 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Shelly E. Powell
8 books36 followersAs soon as Shelly Powell was old enough to write, she was crafting stories to share with family and friends. Her earliest works featured princesses and mermaids, which she willingly portrayed on the makeshift stages of home and school. Although her interests have expanded since then, she still finds writing to be a thrilling process and a unique way to connect with others. Shelly loves a happy ending but also believes in happy beginnings. She hopes to write many stories in the years to come. Shelly enjoys running, yoga, drawing, and spending time with her sweet husband and amazing kids. Stay tuned because she has more projects in the works…
You can connect with Shelly on Facebook or Instagram @shellypowellauthor.
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You can connect with Shelly on Facebook or Instagram @shellypowellauthor.
Join her newsletter on her website or find her on Bookbub to get the latest book news--
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/shell...
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 14, 2023
What a delightful and charming Christmas story!
Nettie Baker loves spending her time watching snowflakes and sketching details of snowflakes that catch her eye. Nettie loses her job as a music teacher right before Christmas, but she is still determined to give her grandma the best Christmas gift ever. When Nettie discovers that Grandma’s only wish for a Christmas gift is to see Nettie find love, Nettie isn’t quite so sure about that. Especially since the people in the town of Mansfield, Vermont think she’s nutty.
Ray Norwood left Mansfield years ago to pursue his law career and found himself in Boston. After his heart was broken by a past love, he avoided coming back home to Mansfield at any cost. That is until his mother writes to him, pleading with him to come for Christmas, and this time, he does. Little did he know that love was waiting for him in Mansfield or that he would be so captivated by Nettie Baker, snowflakes and all.
I was so happy, excited, and giddy reading this story. I absolutely loved how Ray and Nettie’s relationship developed, and how each took the time to learn about what each other loved-music, snowflakes, and their families. I also loved the aspects of faith and remembrance of the true meaning of Christmas sprinkled throughout.
I highly recommend this lovely Christmas story and cannot wait to read other stories by this author!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book but I am leaving my thoughts and review voluntarily and happily.
——
“Before I realized who you were, I thought of you as the snowflake girl. The way you admired the snowflake on my scarf completely caught me off guard. In a good way. I’d never seen anyone so enchanted by a snowflake before.”
Nettie walked without saying anything.
He decided it was now or never to make certain she understood the direction of his feelings.
“And from that moment on, I’ve been enchanted with you.”
Nettie Baker loves spending her time watching snowflakes and sketching details of snowflakes that catch her eye. Nettie loses her job as a music teacher right before Christmas, but she is still determined to give her grandma the best Christmas gift ever. When Nettie discovers that Grandma’s only wish for a Christmas gift is to see Nettie find love, Nettie isn’t quite so sure about that. Especially since the people in the town of Mansfield, Vermont think she’s nutty.
Ray Norwood left Mansfield years ago to pursue his law career and found himself in Boston. After his heart was broken by a past love, he avoided coming back home to Mansfield at any cost. That is until his mother writes to him, pleading with him to come for Christmas, and this time, he does. Little did he know that love was waiting for him in Mansfield or that he would be so captivated by Nettie Baker, snowflakes and all.
I was so happy, excited, and giddy reading this story. I absolutely loved how Ray and Nettie’s relationship developed, and how each took the time to learn about what each other loved-music, snowflakes, and their families. I also loved the aspects of faith and remembrance of the true meaning of Christmas sprinkled throughout.
I highly recommend this lovely Christmas story and cannot wait to read other stories by this author!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book but I am leaving my thoughts and review voluntarily and happily.
——
“Before I realized who you were, I thought of you as the snowflake girl. The way you admired the snowflake on my scarf completely caught me off guard. In a good way. I’d never seen anyone so enchanted by a snowflake before.”
Nettie walked without saying anything.
He decided it was now or never to make certain she understood the direction of his feelings.
“And from that moment on, I’ve been enchanted with you.”
December 14, 2023
I give ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(5/5 stars)
“Don’t think of everything that could go wrong. Right now, focus on everything that could go right.”
Vermont, 1933
Genuine, Talented, Intelligent Nettie Baker wants one thing for Christmas, to make her grandmother happy, and she’s determined to do it despite having just lost her job. But her gran’s only wish is for Nettie to find love.
But when the handsome warm, attentive listener Ray Norwood returns to town and asks for piano lessons, her grandmother’s wish seems a less out of reach.
Ray Norwood hasn’t been home in years. Memories and mistakes of the past are best left untouched, but his mother and sister-in-law beg him to return home for Christmas and make peace with his brother. His plan is is to give them two weeks. Then it’s straight back to Boston.
But, the beautiful enchanting Nettie Baker captivates Ray with her kindness and the unique, faith-filled way she sees the world.
“Her presence renewed him, like breathing for the first time, reminding him of who he once was and who he could still be. And she had no idea how amazing she was.”
Ice Flowers is such a sweet Christmas romance with uniquely wonderful characters. It is perfect for the holiday season and those looking for a message about the Savior’s birth. Despite being set during the Depression, this story conveys such a sense of hope and peace. Thank you @shellypowellauthor for my own dear copy. This book is well-worth the read!
“Every part of her, head to toe, bloomed and sparked and simmered before settling into a comfortable warmth that perfectly suited her. He was the spice to her cider, and she was going to hang onto him.”
#iceflowers
#shellypowell
#bookworthreading
#aquickbutdelightfulstory
#bookstagram
#bookstagramer
#readersneedtoreadthisbook
#snowflakes
“Give people a chance to see what you see.
Maybe then, you’ll see what I see in you.”
“Don’t think of everything that could go wrong. Right now, focus on everything that could go right.”
Vermont, 1933
Genuine, Talented, Intelligent Nettie Baker wants one thing for Christmas, to make her grandmother happy, and she’s determined to do it despite having just lost her job. But her gran’s only wish is for Nettie to find love.
But when the handsome warm, attentive listener Ray Norwood returns to town and asks for piano lessons, her grandmother’s wish seems a less out of reach.
Ray Norwood hasn’t been home in years. Memories and mistakes of the past are best left untouched, but his mother and sister-in-law beg him to return home for Christmas and make peace with his brother. His plan is is to give them two weeks. Then it’s straight back to Boston.
But, the beautiful enchanting Nettie Baker captivates Ray with her kindness and the unique, faith-filled way she sees the world.
“Her presence renewed him, like breathing for the first time, reminding him of who he once was and who he could still be. And she had no idea how amazing she was.”
Ice Flowers is such a sweet Christmas romance with uniquely wonderful characters. It is perfect for the holiday season and those looking for a message about the Savior’s birth. Despite being set during the Depression, this story conveys such a sense of hope and peace. Thank you @shellypowellauthor for my own dear copy. This book is well-worth the read!
“Every part of her, head to toe, bloomed and sparked and simmered before settling into a comfortable warmth that perfectly suited her. He was the spice to her cider, and she was going to hang onto him.”
#iceflowers
#shellypowell
#bookworthreading
#aquickbutdelightfulstory
#bookstagram
#bookstagramer
#readersneedtoreadthisbook
#snowflakes
“Give people a chance to see what you see.
Maybe then, you’ll see what I see in you.”
January 1, 2024
“There’s a reason we celebrate Christ’s birth. Among His many miracles, He also conquered death. God keeps his promises, Ray, so I look forward to the miracles that are yet to come.”
——
It’s 1933 and Nettie Baker has just lost her position at the local school teaching music and is facing hard times ahead, especially thinking about caring and providing for her Gran, who is getting up in years and having a harder time getting around. Gran only wishes for Nettie to be happy and to fall in love but in their small town in Vermont it’s very unlikely since Nettie knows everyone already and has been dubbed “Nutty Nettie” for carrying around a sketch book with her so she can draw snowflakes at a moments notice.
However, when Ray Norwood returns home for Christmas to help his family with their struggling farm he happens to “run” into Nettie and their connection is instant. Instead of thinking she is “nutty” Ray thinks anything but. Ray does all he can to find out more about sweet Nettie and starts piano lessons at her home so he can get to know her better. Although their two lonely hearts feel an irresistible pull towards each other, Ray is only in town for a short time and must return home to Boston. Ray is also carrying around some heavy things from his past. Can Ray and Nettie overcome their past and present hurts and troubles to pave a new path for love?
This is a lovely historical story that is centered around Christ, miracles, family, and second chances. Both Ray and Nettie had fallen victim by their towns gossiping tongues to rumors that weren’t entirely true and I loved that their stories were redeemed in the end. Strong faith is presented and there is a second chance love story that is so touching! I also loved Nettie’s fascination for snow flakes and the beautiful analogy that was used for how different and special each snow flake is and consequently, each person to God. Lastly, I loved Nettie’s scarf ministry- how thoughtful and would even be a good ministry for today!
No content warnings. 🤗
December 14, 2023
What a heartwarming and delightful Christmas historical romance! This beautiful story had so much heart and depth.
Ray returns home for the first time in years and only plans to stay for a few weeks, long enough to help his family and hopefully repair things with his brother. But as he gets to know their neighbor Nettie, he begins to fall for her and wonders if his plans need to change...
Nettie is hoping for a happy Christmas despite losing her job and worrying about her grandmother being sick but does not expect the handsome Ray to walk into her life and claim her heart. But how is a future between them possible when so much stands in their way?
What to Love:
1930s Vermont setting
Dual POV
Hero returning home
The "ice flowers
Christmas/winter vibes
Piano lessons
Cutting down the tree
That first kiss
Healing family rifts
The adorable epilogue
This book was the epitome of cozy Christmas vibes! Despite being set during the Depression, the story conveyed a sense of hope and peace. Well-developed, endearing characters drew me in and made me want to stay, and the romance between Ray and Nettie filled my heart with happy sighs. Though this is not a Christian fiction, the inclusion of the true meaning of Christmas and what it means to the characters was an unexpected but delightful addition to the story. I enjoyed every single thing about this story and recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical Christmas romances!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Ray returns home for the first time in years and only plans to stay for a few weeks, long enough to help his family and hopefully repair things with his brother. But as he gets to know their neighbor Nettie, he begins to fall for her and wonders if his plans need to change...
Nettie is hoping for a happy Christmas despite losing her job and worrying about her grandmother being sick but does not expect the handsome Ray to walk into her life and claim her heart. But how is a future between them possible when so much stands in their way?
What to Love:
1930s Vermont setting
Dual POV
Hero returning home
The "ice flowers
Christmas/winter vibes
Piano lessons
Cutting down the tree
That first kiss
Healing family rifts
The adorable epilogue
This book was the epitome of cozy Christmas vibes! Despite being set during the Depression, the story conveyed a sense of hope and peace. Well-developed, endearing characters drew me in and made me want to stay, and the romance between Ray and Nettie filled my heart with happy sighs. Though this is not a Christian fiction, the inclusion of the true meaning of Christmas and what it means to the characters was an unexpected but delightful addition to the story. I enjoyed every single thing about this story and recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical Christmas romances!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
December 24, 2023
‘In the Bleak Midwinter, a song Ray hadn’t heard in years. The violins and cellos swayed and swelled, tugging on Ray’s forgotten memories of Christmases when it had been easier to have faith. “What does this song make you think of, Nettie?” “Snowflakes,” she said through a smile. “Lots and lots of snowflakes and the thousands of miracles I see every day.”’
This story is poignant and beautiful-the Great Depression timeline really put Christmas into perspective. I loved the theme of finding beauty, joy and hope in the small things that are all around us.
This story is well written and will hit you about very core. Nettie and Ray’s character arcs were so different, yet so complimentary. I loved the faith aspect in this book. I loved the tie-ins to all the Christmas songs. I loved the true, genuine Christmas feelings and the excitement and emotional pull of being with your loved ones…even those who aren’t with us anymore.
It’s truly stunning and heartfelt.
This will be a Christmas re-read every year. I loved everything about it!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: loss of loved ones, tough times, finding faith, Christmas, kisses only.
This story is poignant and beautiful-the Great Depression timeline really put Christmas into perspective. I loved the theme of finding beauty, joy and hope in the small things that are all around us.
This story is well written and will hit you about very core. Nettie and Ray’s character arcs were so different, yet so complimentary. I loved the faith aspect in this book. I loved the tie-ins to all the Christmas songs. I loved the true, genuine Christmas feelings and the excitement and emotional pull of being with your loved ones…even those who aren’t with us anymore.
It’s truly stunning and heartfelt.
This will be a Christmas re-read every year. I loved everything about it!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: loss of loved ones, tough times, finding faith, Christmas, kisses only.
December 13, 2023
Jeanette (Nettie) , occasionally called “Nutty Netty” by townsfolk, lives in a small town in VT and has just lost her job teaching music at the elementary school. Ray Norwood hasn’t been home in years. He’s avoided the pain of the memories being home brings up. Can the 2 find a happily ever after? Can the pain from the past and the present be forgiven and tucked away?
What a sweet read this book was!
It’s a clean happily ever after story!
Shelly did a wonderful job developing the characters, writing their story, and making it come to life!
Her descriptions of VT, and the wintry weather one experiences there were very well done and accurate!
I loved Nettie and her Gran! I was a little nervous about the triangle between Nettie, Marvin and Ray, but I’m very happy with how it resolved!
What a sweet read this book was!
It’s a clean happily ever after story!
Shelly did a wonderful job developing the characters, writing their story, and making it come to life!
Her descriptions of VT, and the wintry weather one experiences there were very well done and accurate!
I loved Nettie and her Gran! I was a little nervous about the triangle between Nettie, Marvin and Ray, but I’m very happy with how it resolved!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2025
A little too innocently sweet for me. The good nature of Nettie is unbelievably contrived and she came across as too much of a doormat versus what I believe was supposed to be a turn-the-other-cheek sort of demeanor.
One thing that drove me nuts is how every character constantly said her name in nearly every spoken sentence where it wasn’t even necessary to say it. I was tired of reading the word “Nettie”.
It’s a cute no-spice Christmas Christian romance and is an easy read but at times felt like it was written by a 12yo.
I liked the incorporation of what the meaning of Christmas is supposed to be. Ray and Nettie’s grandmother were very likable characters
One thing that drove me nuts is how every character constantly said her name in nearly every spoken sentence where it wasn’t even necessary to say it. I was tired of reading the word “Nettie”.
It’s a cute no-spice Christmas Christian romance and is an easy read but at times felt like it was written by a 12yo.
I liked the incorporation of what the meaning of Christmas is supposed to be. Ray and Nettie’s grandmother were very likable characters
December 24, 2023
4.5
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the setting being in the depression and how they made gifts and were creative in their giving. I loved the religious tie ins to Christmas, and the snowflake analogy. I’m a big fan of Snowflake Bentley and from the beginning thought Nettie reminded me of him. I was tickled when he was brought into story.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the setting being in the depression and how they made gifts and were creative in their giving. I loved the religious tie ins to Christmas, and the snowflake analogy. I’m a big fan of Snowflake Bentley and from the beginning thought Nettie reminded me of him. I was tickled when he was brought into story.
December 16, 2023
Cozy Christmas Story
This was a lovely story. Perfect for cuddling in a warm blanket and reading on a snowy night. Nettie and Ray were super cute together.
This was a lovely story. Perfect for cuddling in a warm blanket and reading on a snowy night. Nettie and Ray were super cute together.
December 29, 2023
Christmas Miracles
This book is a joy. Great lessons on believing in ourselves and not gossip about others. Christmas Miracles are real.
This book is a joy. Great lessons on believing in ourselves and not gossip about others. Christmas Miracles are real.
didn-t-finish
January 6, 2024I just had a hard time connecting the characters in this one
June 17, 2025
This book is so cute! I relate a lot to Nettie, and Ray brings out the absolute best in her! I think her love of snowflakes is adorable, as well as Ray faking his piano skills! I love this book!
December 27, 2025
This is a warm and cozy Christmas story. I liked how it incorporates both the historical context and Christmas time in the story.
September 30, 2024
This story is about comparing individual snowfakes to falling in love. Under the right conditions love can develop in the most unlikely places.
July 6, 2024
4.5 stars!!!
If you love an easy, simple and selfless historical Christmas romances then this is it for you!!!
-First off both MC’s were so selfless!(one of my fav types of novels to enjoy)
-Second off it didn’t seem difficult or overly frustrating when issues(other courters)would arise-it wasn’t repetitive to the very end.
-Third off I love how Jesus became the focus after all.
Miracles happen all the time and we need to love the ice flowers even when times seem so hard!!! Look for the little things.
If you love an easy, simple and selfless historical Christmas romances then this is it for you!!!
-First off both MC’s were so selfless!(one of my fav types of novels to enjoy)
-Second off it didn’t seem difficult or overly frustrating when issues(other courters)would arise-it wasn’t repetitive to the very end.
-Third off I love how Jesus became the focus after all.
Miracles happen all the time and we need to love the ice flowers even when times seem so hard!!! Look for the little things.
March 5, 2025
I Love this book! I bought it because I want to be able to recommend it to people and give them a copy of it. It's so cute, and I love how Ray (The main character) grows his Faith throughout the book. He finds a Baby Jesus in the snow, and it helps him so much! I love how Nettie finds joy in the smallest things, and how she sees the world through God's eyes. "If he took so much care to make each and every individual snowflake, just think of how much care he put into each of us." I love this book! It is so cute and I 10/10 totally recommend!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews