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Snowy Mountain Christmas
"Sharon Sala is a consummate storyteller. If you can stop reading then you're a better woman than me."—DEBBIE MACOMBER, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Christmas is a great time to be snowed in with the woman who saved your life in this heartwarming, small town holiday romance from New York Times bestselling author Sharon Sala.
One minute, Trey Austin is driving through torrential rain; the next, he's being rescued from a car wreck by an angelic woman with the courage to brave the storm. Her face was the last thing he saw before he lost consciousness. No one got her name—but she lost one shoe stuck in the mud. It's Trey's only clue, so he takes to the internet, hoping against hope that he'll find his angel.
Just when he's almost given up, Trey gets a message from Hailey Beaumont, owner of a cozy bed and breakfast in Colorado, and he instantly knows he's found her. Without hesitation, Trey heads to the mountains to meet Hailey just in time to spend an unforgettable Christmas snowed in with his dream girl, who, when finally in front of him, is even more special than he remembers.
Christmas is a great time to be snowed in with the woman who saved your life in this heartwarming, small town holiday romance from New York Times bestselling author Sharon Sala.
One minute, Trey Austin is driving through torrential rain; the next, he's being rescued from a car wreck by an angelic woman with the courage to brave the storm. Her face was the last thing he saw before he lost consciousness. No one got her name—but she lost one shoe stuck in the mud. It's Trey's only clue, so he takes to the internet, hoping against hope that he'll find his angel.
Just when he's almost given up, Trey gets a message from Hailey Beaumont, owner of a cozy bed and breakfast in Colorado, and he instantly knows he's found her. Without hesitation, Trey heads to the mountains to meet Hailey just in time to spend an unforgettable Christmas snowed in with his dream girl, who, when finally in front of him, is even more special than he remembers.
288 pages, Paperback
Published October 8, 2024
187 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Sala
279 books2,300 followersBiography
Sharon Sala is a Native Oklahoman and still lives within a two hour drive of where she was born.
First published in 1991, she is a New York Times/USA Today, best-selling author with a 135 plus books published in seven different genres, including Romantic suspense, Mystery, Young Adult, Western, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Industry Awards include:
Eight-time RITA finalist. (Romance Industry award)
The Janet Dailey Award.
Five-time Career Achievement winner from RT Magazine.
Five time winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award.
Five time winner of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence.
Heart of Excellence Award.,
Booksellers Best Award.
Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award RITA, presented by RWA.
Centennial Award from RWA for recognition of her 100th published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
November 1, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ holiday romance
Setting ~ Colorado
Publication date ~ October 8, 2024
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 287 (18 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 8 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Tyler Darby
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ insta love, found family, no 3rd act breakup, minimal steamage
Trey & Marley meet when she drags him from his overturned vehicle. When he wakes up he’s on a mission to find the woman that saved his life. He gets the media involved and it’s deemed a Cinderella story since he only has the shoe she left at the scene to identify her.
Everything moves quickly when he finds her. I don’t love instalove, but I do believe in when you know you know. I liked them both together and separately. She has a take no crap attitude and he was so sweet with a secret career that he’s kept hidden for years. Love the found family she has and hated the awful relationship he has with his.
Overall, an enjoyable Christmas Time Hallmarky Cinderella~ish story.
Side note ~ love how Marley said Sharon Sala was her favorite author. Way to toot your own horn 😂
Narration notes:
Well, first things first, I'm not thrilled there's only 1 male narrator for multiple POV. I hate when I have to concentrate a little harder on who’s talking. With that said he does have a pleasant voice.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ holiday romance
Setting ~ Colorado
Publication date ~ October 8, 2024
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 287 (18 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 8 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Tyler Darby
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ insta love, found family, no 3rd act breakup, minimal steamage
Trey & Marley meet when she drags him from his overturned vehicle. When he wakes up he’s on a mission to find the woman that saved his life. He gets the media involved and it’s deemed a Cinderella story since he only has the shoe she left at the scene to identify her.
Everything moves quickly when he finds her. I don’t love instalove, but I do believe in when you know you know. I liked them both together and separately. She has a take no crap attitude and he was so sweet with a secret career that he’s kept hidden for years. Love the found family she has and hated the awful relationship he has with his.
Overall, an enjoyable Christmas Time Hallmarky Cinderella~ish story.
Side note ~ love how Marley said Sharon Sala was her favorite author. Way to toot your own horn 😂
Narration notes:
Well, first things first, I'm not thrilled there's only 1 male narrator for multiple POV. I hate when I have to concentrate a little harder on who’s talking. With that said he does have a pleasant voice.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
October 7, 2024
Snowy Mountain Christmas by Sharon Sala
Contemporary holiday romance.
Trey Austin is driving through a torrential rain storm on a country road when lightning flashes, nearly hitting the car. Avoiding the strike, he ends up flipping the car and falling into a ditch where the water is rising rapidly. He’s saved by a woman that cuts him from his seat belt and is somehow able to drag him out of the car and ditch to higher ground where she’s able to call for help. Trey doesn’t get her name at the time, but he’s given one of her shoes that she lost in his rescue. Trey goes public, pleading with anyone that might have information on who his savior was.
Hailey Beaumont owns a bed and breakfast in Colorado that is being remodeled and updated before opening again. She reaches out to Trey when she sees his messages to confirm it was her on the side of the road and he immediately travels to the inn to meet her. There is a snowstorm on the way and Trey arrives in time to spend the holiday with Hailey where they fall in love.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and an audiobook which is narrated by Tyler Darby. The performance is easy to listen to and engaging at the same time. The tension of an emergency is heard and felt as well as the joy of spending the holiday season with loved ones. There were specific voices for Trey and Hailey as well as the handyman neighbor and others. The holiday warmth comes through clearly making the audiobook my preferred method of reading for this story.
I did speed up the playback to 1.5 which more closely matches my reading and conversation speed.
Slightly spiritual in that she hears the voices of angels.
Warm and comforting holiday story. He’s a loner but with her, he feels complete. A beautiful and sweet romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. This author is an auto buy for me.
Contemporary holiday romance.
Trey Austin is driving through a torrential rain storm on a country road when lightning flashes, nearly hitting the car. Avoiding the strike, he ends up flipping the car and falling into a ditch where the water is rising rapidly. He’s saved by a woman that cuts him from his seat belt and is somehow able to drag him out of the car and ditch to higher ground where she’s able to call for help. Trey doesn’t get her name at the time, but he’s given one of her shoes that she lost in his rescue. Trey goes public, pleading with anyone that might have information on who his savior was.
Hailey Beaumont owns a bed and breakfast in Colorado that is being remodeled and updated before opening again. She reaches out to Trey when she sees his messages to confirm it was her on the side of the road and he immediately travels to the inn to meet her. There is a snowstorm on the way and Trey arrives in time to spend the holiday with Hailey where they fall in love.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and an audiobook which is narrated by Tyler Darby. The performance is easy to listen to and engaging at the same time. The tension of an emergency is heard and felt as well as the joy of spending the holiday season with loved ones. There were specific voices for Trey and Hailey as well as the handyman neighbor and others. The holiday warmth comes through clearly making the audiobook my preferred method of reading for this story.
I did speed up the playback to 1.5 which more closely matches my reading and conversation speed.
Slightly spiritual in that she hears the voices of angels.
Warm and comforting holiday story. He’s a loner but with her, he feels complete. A beautiful and sweet romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. This author is an auto buy for me.
November 1, 2024
REVIEW TO COME😍💕⛄!!!!!!!!!
September 28, 2024
Sweet, wholesome, inspiring - in short, everything you could want in a Christmas story. I won't say that it was perfect, but it was very good. I felt that the writing kept me at a distance from the characters and their story, but that only slightly diminished the feel-good story for me. Sometimes we are born with a great family and sometimes we have to make one for ourselves, with a little help along the way.
Marley Corbett was on a trip to the Ozark hills of Arkansas when her Angels told her to take a different road. Marley had learned never to question these voices and this time she was in time to rescue a man who had been in an auto accident.
Trey Austin had no idea what had happened, but the voice of an Angel told him he was going to be okay, and that help was on the way. Later, in the hospital, he finds out that she left before anyone got her name leaving behind a single red shoe. That wasn't good enough for Trey who is determined to find her and thank her for saving his life. A nationwide search is launched for Cinderella.
Marley was so busy reopening her Colorado lodge after renovations that she wasn't paying attention to the internet, tv or the news. Finally, she sees the story and contacts Trey who drops everything to head to Colorado and his Angel. The attraction is instant and when they get snowed in, the seeds of true love are planted and grow. But there is no smooth road for these two. Marley has an enemy who is a bubble off center and Trey's relationship with his parents has left some deep scars.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Marley Corbett was on a trip to the Ozark hills of Arkansas when her Angels told her to take a different road. Marley had learned never to question these voices and this time she was in time to rescue a man who had been in an auto accident.
Trey Austin had no idea what had happened, but the voice of an Angel told him he was going to be okay, and that help was on the way. Later, in the hospital, he finds out that she left before anyone got her name leaving behind a single red shoe. That wasn't good enough for Trey who is determined to find her and thank her for saving his life. A nationwide search is launched for Cinderella.
Marley was so busy reopening her Colorado lodge after renovations that she wasn't paying attention to the internet, tv or the news. Finally, she sees the story and contacts Trey who drops everything to head to Colorado and his Angel. The attraction is instant and when they get snowed in, the seeds of true love are planted and grow. But there is no smooth road for these two. Marley has an enemy who is a bubble off center and Trey's relationship with his parents has left some deep scars.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
October 15, 2024
SNOWY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS has a very unique storyline. Trey puts a story out on social media about finding the woman who saved his life and soon he becomes known as The Cinderella Man. Sharon Sala digs deep into the lives of her characters and delivers an emotionally amazing read. She knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart-tugging author. Knowing I have many of them to read brings me so much joy and happiness to know they are waiting for me! She has the most beautiful covers! Check them out!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
You can read my complete review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
You can read my complete review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
August 15, 2024
I received a free copy of, Snowy Mountain Christmas, by Sharon Sala, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Trey was in a car accident an is looking for the good samaritan that helped him. This is an enjoyable read, about finding the person that helped you, when you really needed help.
August 11, 2024
Trey is looking for the woman who assisted him when he had an accident. He us a writer who enjoys his quiet life. When he meets Marley, he likes her immediately. A great holiday read that i could not put down.
October 3, 2024
A sweet feel good romance. A modern take on the Cinderella story, with guardian angels not fairies. Trey is famous and rich, but a loner and keeps his identity a secret. When he is in a terrible car accident on a deserted backroad, he is saved by a woman but knows nothing about her. The deputy did give him his only clue, a red shoe. So he comes out of his private world and hits the social media looking for his Cinderella.
Hailey, also known as “Bug”, always heard angels speak to her. So when she gets the message to go left she does. And just in time as there before her is an overturned car and water in the ditch rapidly rising. She manages to get him out and call 911. Once he was in safe hands, she just disappears.
Love the setting and that one should determine their own life. A bit corny in parts but a sweet Christmas read. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own. #SnowyMountainChristmas
Hailey, also known as “Bug”, always heard angels speak to her. So when she gets the message to go left she does. And just in time as there before her is an overturned car and water in the ditch rapidly rising. She manages to get him out and call 911. Once he was in safe hands, she just disappears.
Love the setting and that one should determine their own life. A bit corny in parts but a sweet Christmas read. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own. #SnowyMountainChristmas
December 26, 2024
Great read it had a little bit of everything- some mystery and intrigue, complicated back stories, forced proximity by way of snowed in scenario (always a fav) and loved the Cinderella bits (heard the author say she wanted to call it a Cinderella Christmas- that would of been a much better title imo. Recommend!
December 4, 2025
It was alright. Some genre-related incredulities, like meeting, proposing, and pregnant is a few weeks. Not everything made sense, like Trey telling no-one he is Chapel Hill, and the film producer who wants to find Trey for something contacting CH's agent.
Also, being modest about your millionaire father does not rhyme with telling new acquaintances about it in a few days. Twice.
The narrator lacked emotional range and several chapters had sub-standard audio quality.
Also, being modest about your millionaire father does not rhyme with telling new acquaintances about it in a few days. Twice.
The narrator lacked emotional range and several chapters had sub-standard audio quality.
November 9, 2024
There's a lot wrong with this book. The writing is simplistic, and the dialog isn't great. The author tries to cram too many tropes into one plot. From insta-love to weird point of view changes, this isn't my usual thing. But it's also a sweet, don't have to think too much about it romance that was perfect after reading several darker/horror books. Think Hallmark Christmas movie but with spice. I won't be running out to read all of Sala's backlist, but I would consider future books by her when needing a little treat.
January 14, 2025
A snowed-in mountain inn holiday romance for a pair of relative strangers is just the sort of Christmas savory I enjoy. I’m on friendly terms already with Sharon Sala’s snug and cozy contemporary romances from her Blessings, Georgia series so I was delighted to take up this festive, heartwarming standalone.
Trey goes off the road during bad weather and would have died in the accident if a woman hadn’t cut him free of the seat belt and drug him to safety. The loner feels a spontaneous connection, but is disappointed to discover that he has no name, but just a lost shoe from his rescuer. His social media campaign efforts catch like wildfire and the woman herself eventually responds leading him to her Colorado mountain inn and a Christmas he’ll never forget.
Marley’s had some troubles, but when her guiding angels leader her down an alternate road to save a fellow traveler, she willingly goes. She doesn’t stick around and misses the early inquiries while her inn is undergoing renovations. But, she catches sight of the guy’s quest and is amply rewarded for responding when the attractive stranger shows up on her doorstep as good as a wrapped gift.
Trey’s not had good luck with family and hides his writing career. He’s been content to live an isolated existence so is a bit overwhelmed that he’s making this connection with Marley. Marley’s something of his opposite and has her found family and friends as wells as a call it like she sees it attitude going for her, but she’s also got someone out to get her which keeps. The quick connection and romance between the pair is sweet, but I liked how this bit of suspense added some tart tones to give all the sugar some balance.
Not trying too hard and great for a simple relaxing holiday romance escape to read during the hectic season. Sharon Sala’s characters and setting were charming and the romance had a little spice with the sweet. One for contemporary holiday romance fan’s book stack.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 1.26.24.
Trey goes off the road during bad weather and would have died in the accident if a woman hadn’t cut him free of the seat belt and drug him to safety. The loner feels a spontaneous connection, but is disappointed to discover that he has no name, but just a lost shoe from his rescuer. His social media campaign efforts catch like wildfire and the woman herself eventually responds leading him to her Colorado mountain inn and a Christmas he’ll never forget.
Marley’s had some troubles, but when her guiding angels leader her down an alternate road to save a fellow traveler, she willingly goes. She doesn’t stick around and misses the early inquiries while her inn is undergoing renovations. But, she catches sight of the guy’s quest and is amply rewarded for responding when the attractive stranger shows up on her doorstep as good as a wrapped gift.
Trey’s not had good luck with family and hides his writing career. He’s been content to live an isolated existence so is a bit overwhelmed that he’s making this connection with Marley. Marley’s something of his opposite and has her found family and friends as wells as a call it like she sees it attitude going for her, but she’s also got someone out to get her which keeps. The quick connection and romance between the pair is sweet, but I liked how this bit of suspense added some tart tones to give all the sugar some balance.
Not trying too hard and great for a simple relaxing holiday romance escape to read during the hectic season. Sharon Sala’s characters and setting were charming and the romance had a little spice with the sweet. One for contemporary holiday romance fan’s book stack.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 1.26.24.
December 17, 2024
0/5⭐️ DNF
From the very start, this book felt like an exercise in unnecessary detail and bizarre writing choices. The author seems determined to fill the pages with fluff, describing completely irrelevant tasks that do nothing to serve the plot or develop the characters. Rather than adding value or depth, these moments read like filler that makes the book a chore to get through.
If that wasn’t enough, the metaphors are downright cringeworthy. At one point, the author compares a flipped car in a ditch to “a sausage lying in a bun.” Seriously? It’s hard to believe that metaphor made it past the editors.
I forced myself to push through to 15% before I honestly couldn’t anymore. The slow pace, irrelevant details, and questionable writing style made it a drag, and I can’t in good faith recommend it to anyone.
From the very start, this book felt like an exercise in unnecessary detail and bizarre writing choices. The author seems determined to fill the pages with fluff, describing completely irrelevant tasks that do nothing to serve the plot or develop the characters. Rather than adding value or depth, these moments read like filler that makes the book a chore to get through.
If that wasn’t enough, the metaphors are downright cringeworthy. At one point, the author compares a flipped car in a ditch to “a sausage lying in a bun.” Seriously? It’s hard to believe that metaphor made it past the editors.
I forced myself to push through to 15% before I honestly couldn’t anymore. The slow pace, irrelevant details, and questionable writing style made it a drag, and I can’t in good faith recommend it to anyone.
October 15, 2024
Honestly, if I hadn't received this on NetGalley, I would have probably DNF'd this.
There is so much about angels in this book that it was absolutely obnoxious. It also felt like a super copout because the "angels" literally told the FMC everything so she never really had to work for much. Must be nice to never have to struggle or worry about much. She was very much a Mary Sue.
Also, there was so much about how the guy was "SO BIG" and how she was "SO SMALL LIKE HALF HIS SIZE" that it got annoying.
I really didn't like this, and I also didn't like the male narrator for the entire book. It really made it challenging to understand whose perspective we were in.
Also, not much Christmas cheer.
There is so much about angels in this book that it was absolutely obnoxious. It also felt like a super copout because the "angels" literally told the FMC everything so she never really had to work for much. Must be nice to never have to struggle or worry about much. She was very much a Mary Sue.
Also, there was so much about how the guy was "SO BIG" and how she was "SO SMALL LIKE HALF HIS SIZE" that it got annoying.
I really didn't like this, and I also didn't like the male narrator for the entire book. It really made it challenging to understand whose perspective we were in.
Also, not much Christmas cheer.
October 10, 2024
This had the feel good vibes to it but also some scary things to work though. If I’m being honest though, I did not like the FMC. Her attitude felt like way too much, like the female version of “short man’s syndrome.” I also felt like his relationship with his parents and the stuff that was discussed about their relationship wasn’t really worth being part of the book. That whole piece was frustrating. On top of that, the “attempted murder” felt really cringey. It started off great but the more it went on the crazier it got and not in a good way.
October 10, 2024
This was very sweet.
November 16, 2024
A light romance, easy to read, happily ever after included.
October 4, 2024
This was a bit too sappy and insta-love for me. I don't want to spoil, but this takes the insta-love and following commitment to a whole new level. Yikes. I was cringing the whole time. I also cringed due to the author name dropping herself.
I mean, if you are a fan of Hallmark movies you may enjoy it. Very much insta-love with a bit of divine intervention.
The whole "suspense" portion was ridiculous and forced. There is no reason for this man to go to this level. The history is insufficient.
Tyler Darby narrates the audiobook. I appreciate that a male was chosen for the sole narrator in a romance book, but with multiple POVs, it'd have been better with multiple narrators. Tyler Darby did ok- a few minor mispronunciations, but no other complaints.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
I mean, if you are a fan of Hallmark movies you may enjoy it. Very much insta-love with a bit of divine intervention.
The whole "suspense" portion was ridiculous and forced. There is no reason for this man to go to this level. The history is insufficient.
Tyler Darby narrates the audiobook. I appreciate that a male was chosen for the sole narrator in a romance book, but with multiple POVs, it'd have been better with multiple narrators. Tyler Darby did ok- a few minor mispronunciations, but no other complaints.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2025
I recently picked up “Snowy Mountain Christmas” as a free offering from my favorite romance bookstore, and I can confidently say it was one of the cutest, feel-good holiday reads I've ever encountered!
Marley and Trey’s story unfolds in the most unusual and suspenseful meet-cute, which immediately drew me in. I loved the dynamic between them—especially how Trey, our Prince Charming, is on a mission to find his Cinderella after she heroically saves his life. The instant connection they share is heartwarming and magical, perfectly capturing the essence of holiday romance.
The writing beautifully evokes the cozy atmosphere of the snowy mountain setting, and of course, the happy-ever-after ending is the cherry on top of this delightful cozy romance, leaving me with all the warm fuzzies.
If you're looking for a charming, quick, and uplifting read then check this one out for the perfect blend of romance, suspense, and cozy vibes that will leave you smiling long after you've turned the last page.
Marley and Trey’s story unfolds in the most unusual and suspenseful meet-cute, which immediately drew me in. I loved the dynamic between them—especially how Trey, our Prince Charming, is on a mission to find his Cinderella after she heroically saves his life. The instant connection they share is heartwarming and magical, perfectly capturing the essence of holiday romance.
The writing beautifully evokes the cozy atmosphere of the snowy mountain setting, and of course, the happy-ever-after ending is the cherry on top of this delightful cozy romance, leaving me with all the warm fuzzies.
If you're looking for a charming, quick, and uplifting read then check this one out for the perfect blend of romance, suspense, and cozy vibes that will leave you smiling long after you've turned the last page.
October 27, 2024
This was a cute clean romance that takes place during the holidays. Trey is traveling down a backroad during a severe thunderstorm when he has a wreck. Marley is also traveling down the same road when she comes upon the wreck and saves his life. Once he is healed he starts a search for the unknown woman who saves his life. I don’t want to give away the rest of the book but there are several things that happen that could prevent their HEA.
December 18, 2024
Excellent audio for the Holiday season that doesn't involve crying.
December 22, 2025
Why did I finish this
January 3, 2025
Are you kidding me? Saccharine sweet and without a discernible plot, I was considering just giving up. But then the main character named Sharon Sala as her favorite writer in a bizarre moment that had me looking back to see if maybe I had the author of this book wrong. I did not, and that was the point at which this became a dnf.
August 30, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
This book was a really cute low-key Cinderella story, and the whirlwind romance between Trey and Hailey was very sweet. The author created a really rich picture of everyone’s life while still moving the story forward, I felt like I could actually go up to Colorado and stay at Corbett Lodge it was so fully formed in my mind. However, at some points the dialogue felt unnatural or weirdly formal for two people who were falling in love (even if they were still getting to know each other). Overall though, the characters were really well developed and I was pleased with everyone's HEA!
This book was a really cute low-key Cinderella story, and the whirlwind romance between Trey and Hailey was very sweet. The author created a really rich picture of everyone’s life while still moving the story forward, I felt like I could actually go up to Colorado and stay at Corbett Lodge it was so fully formed in my mind. However, at some points the dialogue felt unnatural or weirdly formal for two people who were falling in love (even if they were still getting to know each other). Overall though, the characters were really well developed and I was pleased with everyone's HEA!
November 18, 2024
Why was the size of the main character such a focus in this book. "Little" shoe; her "slight" frame, blah blah blah. It mentioned in the book at one point she was 5'4". By the way the author described "BUG", which also was annoying, I thought she was 4'. Not for me.
October 12, 2024
Thank you to Sharon Sala, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for allowing me to listen to a free eaudio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I've always wanted to give Sharon Sala a try; I've actually been collecting her books for years without having read her, because I'm a hoarder like that. This title popped up on NetGalley and I thought, the time is now!
And it was okay. For sure the fluffiest bit of fluff I've read in a while. Trey and Marley got very familiar very quickly; they knew each other for a day or two, had sex, then suddenly they were unofficially engaged and Trey was moving in. I actually completely missed whenever that moment happened---one minute they were starting to get it on and I skipped ahead a bit because I wasn't in the mood to listen to that, and next thing I knew Marley was telling Trey which drawers he could use and the word "permanent" was being tossed around. I was so thrown off that I checked to make sure I hadn't accidentally skipped a few chapters instead of a few minutes. Nope, just instalove.
Relative, this book really didn't have much plot. Trey and Marley experienced absolutely zero conflict in their relationship. Absolutely zero internal conflict. Well, Trey seemed depressed at the very very beginning because he was lonely, but that didn't last long, definitely not long enough to be called an arc. Marley missed her parents but wasn't hung up on it. They were both very self-confident and comfortable in their own bodies and life courses. All the conflict was external---Trey's parents, Trey's secret authorship, Marley's shoehorned-in stalker guy, the media circus.
I can't decide if I'm mad about it or not; on one hand, it was very relaxing to be in the heads of characters who aren't stressing over self doubts or emotional problems. They had their shit together, and it was . . . comforting. On the other, it didn't make for a very exciting or satisfying story. It should have been boring, but the characters were likeable enough to keep me interested in them.
Then there were the angels. There's a bit of a Christian element and theme to the story that was in no way hinted at in the NetGalley listing, which is annoying. The angels send Marley verbal messages that steer her in the right direction in life. Why Marley is so privileged, I have no idea. It does make her come across like a Mary Sue, in a way---thank god the angels warned you to go to the bathroom, or you'd have puked in bed and made a gross, undignified mess. Thank god the angels gave you the secret to Anders's emotional PTSD, or you'd have had to earn his respect the hard way. Thank god you've got the angels helping you cut corners, Marley, or you'd actually have to struggle.
And then there was the time when Marley named Sharon Sala as her favorite author of romantic suspense. I'll just leave that there for you to think about.
So yeah, I wasn't much impressed. Probably what I liked most about this book was Tyler Darby's excellent narration. There were times when he pronounced or inflected something strangely, but nothing super annoying or distracting.
I've always wanted to give Sharon Sala a try; I've actually been collecting her books for years without having read her, because I'm a hoarder like that. This title popped up on NetGalley and I thought, the time is now!
And it was okay. For sure the fluffiest bit of fluff I've read in a while. Trey and Marley got very familiar very quickly; they knew each other for a day or two, had sex, then suddenly they were unofficially engaged and Trey was moving in. I actually completely missed whenever that moment happened---one minute they were starting to get it on and I skipped ahead a bit because I wasn't in the mood to listen to that, and next thing I knew Marley was telling Trey which drawers he could use and the word "permanent" was being tossed around. I was so thrown off that I checked to make sure I hadn't accidentally skipped a few chapters instead of a few minutes. Nope, just instalove.
Relative, this book really didn't have much plot. Trey and Marley experienced absolutely zero conflict in their relationship. Absolutely zero internal conflict. Well, Trey seemed depressed at the very very beginning because he was lonely, but that didn't last long, definitely not long enough to be called an arc. Marley missed her parents but wasn't hung up on it. They were both very self-confident and comfortable in their own bodies and life courses. All the conflict was external---Trey's parents, Trey's secret authorship, Marley's shoehorned-in stalker guy, the media circus.
I can't decide if I'm mad about it or not; on one hand, it was very relaxing to be in the heads of characters who aren't stressing over self doubts or emotional problems. They had their shit together, and it was . . . comforting. On the other, it didn't make for a very exciting or satisfying story. It should have been boring, but the characters were likeable enough to keep me interested in them.
Then there were the angels. There's a bit of a Christian element and theme to the story that was in no way hinted at in the NetGalley listing, which is annoying. The angels send Marley verbal messages that steer her in the right direction in life. Why Marley is so privileged, I have no idea. It does make her come across like a Mary Sue, in a way---thank god the angels warned you to go to the bathroom, or you'd have puked in bed and made a gross, undignified mess. Thank god the angels gave you the secret to Anders's emotional PTSD, or you'd have had to earn his respect the hard way. Thank god you've got the angels helping you cut corners, Marley, or you'd actually have to struggle.
And then there was the time when Marley named Sharon Sala as her favorite author of romantic suspense. I'll just leave that there for you to think about.
So yeah, I wasn't much impressed. Probably what I liked most about this book was Tyler Darby's excellent narration. There were times when he pronounced or inflected something strangely, but nothing super annoying or distracting.
October 10, 2024
Snowy Mountain Christmas is bestselling author Sharon Sala’s latest novel, a Christmas-themed standalone romantic suspense. It utilizes a Cinderella trope and contains multiple references to angelic guidance.
Trey Austin is a bestselling mystery author who lives anonymously because he writes under the pseudonym Chapel Hill. While on a research trip in Arkansas, he gets caught in a storm and is involved in an accident. His vehicle lands upside down in a ditch and he is rendered unconscious. A small female passerby spots his vehicle and bravely rescues him, losing a red shoe in the mud. When emergency responders arrive, they dismiss her without even getting her name.
27-year-old Marley/Ladybug/Bug Corbett runs her family’s lodge outside Colorado Springs since her parents’ deaths four years earlier. Family friends Jack and Wanda Wallace help her out and have become surrogate parents. Marley loves cooking and spends two weeks in Arkansas collecting recipes while the lodge undergoes renovations. When she starts home during a torrential storm, she feels guidance from an angel to take a particular road and then sees a wrecked vehicle. She rescues a handsome unconscious man and then calls 911. After she returns home, she is sexually harassed by a former school classmate, Jared Beckett.
As Trey recovers at his home in Phoenix, he writes about his accident and the mysterious angelic rescuer. His posts on social media become viral and are then shared on the national news. Eventually he receives an email from Marley and decides to travel to Colorado to meet her in person. They get snowed in and quickly fall in love. However Marley is in danger from Jared, who wants to end her life because she rejected him. Trey has to reveal his alter ego and deal with emotional childhood trauma from neglectful parents.
Sharon Sala’s stories are based on her dreams, and her descriptive writing style makes it easy for the reader/listener to visualize the action. She consistently writes strong, engaging characters who readers would want to know in real life. Her characters may have had some bad luck, but they are courageous and hardworking. Snowy Mountain Christmas is not only about romantic love; it also shows how families can be created by love between friends. The reader feels the love between Marley and the Wallaces, and Trey and his agent, Meredith Bernstein. In all of this author’s books, the villains get what they deserve. Snowy Mountain Christmas contains a sweet Christmas romance between unforgettable characters. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars!
Tyler Darby did an outstanding job narrating Snowy Mountain Christmas. He performed authentic Southern accents for the Arkansas characters, and both his male and female voices were perfect.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) of the ebook from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. After purchasing the paperback, I received an advance review copy (ARC) of the audiobook from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for free.
Trey Austin is a bestselling mystery author who lives anonymously because he writes under the pseudonym Chapel Hill. While on a research trip in Arkansas, he gets caught in a storm and is involved in an accident. His vehicle lands upside down in a ditch and he is rendered unconscious. A small female passerby spots his vehicle and bravely rescues him, losing a red shoe in the mud. When emergency responders arrive, they dismiss her without even getting her name.
27-year-old Marley/Ladybug/Bug Corbett runs her family’s lodge outside Colorado Springs since her parents’ deaths four years earlier. Family friends Jack and Wanda Wallace help her out and have become surrogate parents. Marley loves cooking and spends two weeks in Arkansas collecting recipes while the lodge undergoes renovations. When she starts home during a torrential storm, she feels guidance from an angel to take a particular road and then sees a wrecked vehicle. She rescues a handsome unconscious man and then calls 911. After she returns home, she is sexually harassed by a former school classmate, Jared Beckett.
As Trey recovers at his home in Phoenix, he writes about his accident and the mysterious angelic rescuer. His posts on social media become viral and are then shared on the national news. Eventually he receives an email from Marley and decides to travel to Colorado to meet her in person. They get snowed in and quickly fall in love. However Marley is in danger from Jared, who wants to end her life because she rejected him. Trey has to reveal his alter ego and deal with emotional childhood trauma from neglectful parents.
Sharon Sala’s stories are based on her dreams, and her descriptive writing style makes it easy for the reader/listener to visualize the action. She consistently writes strong, engaging characters who readers would want to know in real life. Her characters may have had some bad luck, but they are courageous and hardworking. Snowy Mountain Christmas is not only about romantic love; it also shows how families can be created by love between friends. The reader feels the love between Marley and the Wallaces, and Trey and his agent, Meredith Bernstein. In all of this author’s books, the villains get what they deserve. Snowy Mountain Christmas contains a sweet Christmas romance between unforgettable characters. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars!
Tyler Darby did an outstanding job narrating Snowy Mountain Christmas. He performed authentic Southern accents for the Arkansas characters, and both his male and female voices were perfect.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) of the ebook from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. After purchasing the paperback, I received an advance review copy (ARC) of the audiobook from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for free.
October 5, 2024
Audio 8h 57m
When the angels talk, you listen. Well, you listen if you're smart. Fortunately, Marley is smart. She's also heard the angels talking since childhood, so it's nothing new or scary when one tells her to turn left instead of right during a horrible storm. Because she listened, she saves Trey Austin's life. No one gets her name and all Trey has to go on as to her identity is her shoe found in the mud. He begins an internet search for the unidentified Cinderella that goes viral. Hence begins this modern tale of Cinderella, albeit there's much more to it.
I'm not going to detail the plot as part of the delight is uncovering bits of information and background for the characters as they do. Neither comes without baggage, of course, though of very different kinds. Marley is all about family and friends who are family and the traditions of running her fourth generation lodge, especially at Christmas. Yet, she has a stalker. Trey is estranged from his family which showed him little love or attention, yet is highly successful, so they are coming from different spots here. Yet, he has a closely guarded secret. I liked them both as well as Marley's friends and helpers Jack and Wanda. Marley is strong and outspoken, seemingly ready to tackle anything or one, often with her angels help. I loved the touch of angels in this holiday romance that has a bit of mystery and magic. Whether you believe or not, you'll have to admit after reading the story that we'd all wish our angels spoke to us or, maybe to be more exact, that we knew what they so often try to tell us. Corbett Lodge, owned and operated by Marley sounds delightful, and I really liked Trey's, hmm, let's just say long time helper for now. Trust me, all will be revealed as the book progresses. We get multiple points of view although they were usually easy to transition to as the speaker, or maybe thinker, was usually quickly identified in text. This gives us insight into the characters and what is important and priorities in their lives. All this with the trademark Sharon Sala heartwarming tale makes a winner.
The narrator of the audio version I had was Tyler Darby. The pace seemed a bit slow to me initially but as I gradually fell into the flow of the story, it seemed appropriate and provided contrast to times when, well, characters weren't so soft-spoken and mellow. Chapters were simply announced and there usually seemed to be a time frame indicated early on when some time passed. My sincere thanks to #DreamscapeMedia for allowing me this early listen to this delightful "Snowy Mountain Christmas". It was a thoroughly enjoyable listen.
When the angels talk, you listen. Well, you listen if you're smart. Fortunately, Marley is smart. She's also heard the angels talking since childhood, so it's nothing new or scary when one tells her to turn left instead of right during a horrible storm. Because she listened, she saves Trey Austin's life. No one gets her name and all Trey has to go on as to her identity is her shoe found in the mud. He begins an internet search for the unidentified Cinderella that goes viral. Hence begins this modern tale of Cinderella, albeit there's much more to it.
I'm not going to detail the plot as part of the delight is uncovering bits of information and background for the characters as they do. Neither comes without baggage, of course, though of very different kinds. Marley is all about family and friends who are family and the traditions of running her fourth generation lodge, especially at Christmas. Yet, she has a stalker. Trey is estranged from his family which showed him little love or attention, yet is highly successful, so they are coming from different spots here. Yet, he has a closely guarded secret. I liked them both as well as Marley's friends and helpers Jack and Wanda. Marley is strong and outspoken, seemingly ready to tackle anything or one, often with her angels help. I loved the touch of angels in this holiday romance that has a bit of mystery and magic. Whether you believe or not, you'll have to admit after reading the story that we'd all wish our angels spoke to us or, maybe to be more exact, that we knew what they so often try to tell us. Corbett Lodge, owned and operated by Marley sounds delightful, and I really liked Trey's, hmm, let's just say long time helper for now. Trust me, all will be revealed as the book progresses. We get multiple points of view although they were usually easy to transition to as the speaker, or maybe thinker, was usually quickly identified in text. This gives us insight into the characters and what is important and priorities in their lives. All this with the trademark Sharon Sala heartwarming tale makes a winner.
The narrator of the audio version I had was Tyler Darby. The pace seemed a bit slow to me initially but as I gradually fell into the flow of the story, it seemed appropriate and provided contrast to times when, well, characters weren't so soft-spoken and mellow. Chapters were simply announced and there usually seemed to be a time frame indicated early on when some time passed. My sincere thanks to #DreamscapeMedia for allowing me this early listen to this delightful "Snowy Mountain Christmas". It was a thoroughly enjoyable listen.
October 7, 2024
Snowy Mountain Christmas by Sharon Sala is another wonderful story that takes place in the Colorado mountains. Trey Austin, is doing research for a book he is writing, and makes a wrong turn leading him into a torrential storm, causing a devasting car crash. Trey loses conscious, and opens his eyes as he is close to drowning, but he is being rescued by a woman with filled with courage to try and save him; her face was the last thing he saw.
Marley Corbett was also heading into the same storm, and discovers Trey’s car wreck. This tiny woman was determined to rescue Trey and eventually she manages to pull him out, and waits for the help to arrive. Marley is exhausted and drained, and once the ambulance arrives, she continues to her home in Colorado.
Marley owns a B&B, having grown up in a family with lots of love, enough money and hard work in her business. Trey grew up in a house with nannies, tons of money and no parental love or attention. Where Marley is happy, with lots of friends, who also help run the B&B; Trey is bitter about his parents with no love.
When Trey begins to heal, he is determined to find his savior, with no clues who or where she is. He decides to use social media in getting help to find his “Cinderella”. When time has passed a bit, Marley will see an interview showing Trey looking for his Cinderella girl; she calls the number and introduces herself as the woman who saved his life. Trey is thrilled and heads to the mountains to meet Marley.
Trey arrives and meets Marley, and with a major snow storm, they spend lots of time together. Trey finds himself falling for his dream girl; Marley also falls hard for Trey, as they made a great couple. She also learns about Trey’s parent’s not being around him during his childhood years; as well as him being a well-known anonymous author. In time, Trey will get his agent to reveal his real name, since his books will be become a series. Trey and Marley open themselves up to the public, since she was indeed the Cinderella girl. I really liked a number of secondary characters, which included Marley’s Inn friends, and of course Meridith (Trey’s agent).
Snowy Mountain Christmas was a delightful, heartwarming fun, and wonderful Christmas story. I really loved Trey and Marley together. There was so much fun throughout, with moments of emotions, love, laughter and heartfelt times in this modern Cinderella story. Snowy Mountain Christmas was so very well written by Sharon Sala. I wholly suggest you read this book, as you can never go wrong reading anything by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Marley Corbett was also heading into the same storm, and discovers Trey’s car wreck. This tiny woman was determined to rescue Trey and eventually she manages to pull him out, and waits for the help to arrive. Marley is exhausted and drained, and once the ambulance arrives, she continues to her home in Colorado.
Marley owns a B&B, having grown up in a family with lots of love, enough money and hard work in her business. Trey grew up in a house with nannies, tons of money and no parental love or attention. Where Marley is happy, with lots of friends, who also help run the B&B; Trey is bitter about his parents with no love.
When Trey begins to heal, he is determined to find his savior, with no clues who or where she is. He decides to use social media in getting help to find his “Cinderella”. When time has passed a bit, Marley will see an interview showing Trey looking for his Cinderella girl; she calls the number and introduces herself as the woman who saved his life. Trey is thrilled and heads to the mountains to meet Marley.
Trey arrives and meets Marley, and with a major snow storm, they spend lots of time together. Trey finds himself falling for his dream girl; Marley also falls hard for Trey, as they made a great couple. She also learns about Trey’s parent’s not being around him during his childhood years; as well as him being a well-known anonymous author. In time, Trey will get his agent to reveal his real name, since his books will be become a series. Trey and Marley open themselves up to the public, since she was indeed the Cinderella girl. I really liked a number of secondary characters, which included Marley’s Inn friends, and of course Meridith (Trey’s agent).
Snowy Mountain Christmas was a delightful, heartwarming fun, and wonderful Christmas story. I really loved Trey and Marley together. There was so much fun throughout, with moments of emotions, love, laughter and heartfelt times in this modern Cinderella story. Snowy Mountain Christmas was so very well written by Sharon Sala. I wholly suggest you read this book, as you can never go wrong reading anything by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
September 22, 2024
I'll admit it up front--I'm a fan of Sharon Sala's novels, and her latest, Snowy Mountain Christmas, is another gem of a feel-good novel from start to finish, and aside from the location, it could easily have fit into her Blessings, Georgia series. If you're looking for a heartwarming holiday read, this is it, and it gets 5 stars from this satisfied reader.
Marley Corbett is driving home to Colorado from Arkansas, where she was collecting old family recipes to use at the inn she inherited--she's the fourth generation to run it. She drives right into a thunderstorm and is about to turn right at a fork in the road when one of her angels (yes, she's seen angels all her life) indicates that she should turn left. That's where she finds Trey Austin, who lost control of his car when lightning hit a tree right next to him. His car is off the road, lying on its hood, he's unconscious and trapped upside down and the water is rising--if tiny Marley doesn't do something and fast, he'll drown. She manages to get him out and up out of the ditch and calls for help--waiting in the freezing rain and trying to keep Trey out of the elements as best she can. When help finally arrives, and takes Trey to the hospital, Marley lets them take over, and is so cold and shocked that she returns to her car, unaware that she's left one little red shoe behind. And yes, this is most definitely a modern day Cinderella story, and I absolutely loved it.
Once Trey is back on his feet, he wants to thank the mystery woman who saved his life, but she left the scene before anyone found out who she was, so he takes to social media, looking for the gal who left her shoe behind, and his story goes viral, soon becoming a national obsession, but it's weeks and weeks of false leads until he finds her, and it's when he does that this Cinderella story just gets better and better--and that's even before Marley learns the secret he's been harboring for over a decade--and no, I'm not telling.
There's also some suspenseful moments in this novel as we discover that Marley has an evil, obsessed stalker who doesn't take no for an answer, and he's just waiting to catch her alone.
In addition, what a wonderful array of secondary characters Ms. Sala has created, and what a fabulous holiday read she's written. Told from multiple points of view, a literary device I've come to love, this is one sweet, charming, holiday romance, and I highly recommend it. Ms. Sala just might have you believing in angels too.
I read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
Marley Corbett is driving home to Colorado from Arkansas, where she was collecting old family recipes to use at the inn she inherited--she's the fourth generation to run it. She drives right into a thunderstorm and is about to turn right at a fork in the road when one of her angels (yes, she's seen angels all her life) indicates that she should turn left. That's where she finds Trey Austin, who lost control of his car when lightning hit a tree right next to him. His car is off the road, lying on its hood, he's unconscious and trapped upside down and the water is rising--if tiny Marley doesn't do something and fast, he'll drown. She manages to get him out and up out of the ditch and calls for help--waiting in the freezing rain and trying to keep Trey out of the elements as best she can. When help finally arrives, and takes Trey to the hospital, Marley lets them take over, and is so cold and shocked that she returns to her car, unaware that she's left one little red shoe behind. And yes, this is most definitely a modern day Cinderella story, and I absolutely loved it.
Once Trey is back on his feet, he wants to thank the mystery woman who saved his life, but she left the scene before anyone found out who she was, so he takes to social media, looking for the gal who left her shoe behind, and his story goes viral, soon becoming a national obsession, but it's weeks and weeks of false leads until he finds her, and it's when he does that this Cinderella story just gets better and better--and that's even before Marley learns the secret he's been harboring for over a decade--and no, I'm not telling.
There's also some suspenseful moments in this novel as we discover that Marley has an evil, obsessed stalker who doesn't take no for an answer, and he's just waiting to catch her alone.
In addition, what a wonderful array of secondary characters Ms. Sala has created, and what a fabulous holiday read she's written. Told from multiple points of view, a literary device I've come to love, this is one sweet, charming, holiday romance, and I highly recommend it. Ms. Sala just might have you believing in angels too.
I read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
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