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Her Christmas Secret: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Her life was right on track
Until her past came knocking…
Nothing ever rattles school principal Valerie Wilmington…until the child she gave up a decade ago, and allowed her mother to raise, now becomes her responsibility. Valerie wants desperately to be a good mom but struggles to connect with the daughter she barely knows. She finds solace in the contractor and single dad hired to renovate her school, Wade Griffin. As their children become fast friends, Wade helps Valerie navigate her new family’s first Christmas. But Wade’s been lied to before, and Valerie’s secret will change everything…
Until her past came knocking…
Nothing ever rattles school principal Valerie Wilmington…until the child she gave up a decade ago, and allowed her mother to raise, now becomes her responsibility. Valerie wants desperately to be a good mom but struggles to connect with the daughter she barely knows. She finds solace in the contractor and single dad hired to renovate her school, Wade Griffin. As their children become fast friends, Wade helps Valerie navigate her new family’s first Christmas. But Wade’s been lied to before, and Valerie’s secret will change everything…
208 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 24, 2024
15 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Gabrielle Meyer
80 books2,799 followersGabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 14, 2024
Good read and characters, I liked the old characters with the new.
December 1, 2025
A wonderful Christmas book. A young Christian school principal has her daughter she hasn't seen in a while left on her door by her mother who raised the girl as her own. She meets the man working on the kindergarten room and his children and they become good friends.
December 23, 2024
This sounded like an intriguing plot when I first heard what the book was about. But once I began reading it, I questioned whether it was a good fit for me because I was feeling so worried and uncomfortable about the lies of the past, the withheld truths of the present, and frustration with Valerie’s mom. However, I have really loved the books that I have read by this author, so I decided I needed to trust that she would get me through this in a way that I would enjoy. And she did!
This story was truly packed with emotion and heart. Yes, there were truths that Valerie withheld from Wade and everyone else as the book progressed. And, of course, as the reader I knew it was all going to come crashing down at some point. And it did. But, I was very impressed with the way every character grew emotionally as this story progressed. And then when things did happen, they owned up to what they had done wrong. I really enjoyed the way the author wrapped things up, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This story was truly packed with emotion and heart. Yes, there were truths that Valerie withheld from Wade and everyone else as the book progressed. And, of course, as the reader I knew it was all going to come crashing down at some point. And it did. But, I was very impressed with the way every character grew emotionally as this story progressed. And then when things did happen, they owned up to what they had done wrong. I really enjoyed the way the author wrapped things up, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 2, 2024
The Big secret…will it quench love?
I really enjoyed this book! Valerie has a secret and Wade trusts honesty. How can they hope for a relationship? Children are a big part of the story, and it takes place around Thanksgiving, the Christmas pageant and New Years too! Relationships, communication, families, baking, growing love, faith, tears, happiness are all part of this story, and I loved it! Hope you will too!
I really enjoyed this book! Valerie has a secret and Wade trusts honesty. How can they hope for a relationship? Children are a big part of the story, and it takes place around Thanksgiving, the Christmas pageant and New Years too! Relationships, communication, families, baking, growing love, faith, tears, happiness are all part of this story, and I loved it! Hope you will too!
January 14, 2025
Interesting premise with Valerie taking responsibility for the child she allowed her mother to raise. The struggles between her and her daughter were realistic and moving. I liked the sweet romance between her and Wade. I did think the ending was wrapped up a little too quick for the development of their relationship, but the rest of the story was a nice Christmas read.
November 26, 2025
4.5 stars
November 15, 2024
Everything is finally where it should be when it comes to principal Valerie Wilmington and now her world's about to be shaken up by her mother dropping off a child she had 10 years ago. Now she has to learn what it is to be a single mother but also learning to connect with her daughter that she passed off as her sister for so long. On top of that she's dealing with some construction issues when it comes to her school Wade Griffin is there to help and their children become best friends. As they work together and their children hang out there is an undeniable connection between the two.
I will say this book was a breath of fresh air when it comes to a romance that isn't steamy I just loved watching the connection between the two and kept hoping for the best the more I got to know the two. Valerie was trying to get past a mistake she made in the past and it was coming to bite her in the butt and while she wanted to let people know while her daughter was there an intern kind of impacted her relationship at least. Like the more you get to know the two and seeing how they got together it was clear this was going to be an issue so I was curious when the Secrets would come out and how much of an impact it would make. I love that they had such a detailed backstory that it was easy to connect to them and really want the best for them so you really can't help but want to root for the two. As for the Christmas spirit there was a little bit of it so if you're not like bam Christmas in your face this is a good book takes place during Christmas but it isn't over the top it does have for like a little Nativity scene but not much else. So this would be a good time to check out this book overall I really enjoyed it.
I will say this book was a breath of fresh air when it comes to a romance that isn't steamy I just loved watching the connection between the two and kept hoping for the best the more I got to know the two. Valerie was trying to get past a mistake she made in the past and it was coming to bite her in the butt and while she wanted to let people know while her daughter was there an intern kind of impacted her relationship at least. Like the more you get to know the two and seeing how they got together it was clear this was going to be an issue so I was curious when the Secrets would come out and how much of an impact it would make. I love that they had such a detailed backstory that it was easy to connect to them and really want the best for them so you really can't help but want to root for the two. As for the Christmas spirit there was a little bit of it so if you're not like bam Christmas in your face this is a good book takes place during Christmas but it isn't over the top it does have for like a little Nativity scene but not much else. So this would be a good time to check out this book overall I really enjoyed it.
July 4, 2024
This story is absolutely wonderful!!! This is honestly only the second book I have ever read by Gabrielle and it is becoming clear to me that she tells some of the best romance stories. This was just a page turner for me, and I felt myself really, really engaged in Wade and Valerie's story. The chemistry these two had from the very beginning and the way their kids just instantly took to each other (and the dog) was priceless!
Valerie is the principal of a Christian school that is in need of repairs and Wade is the just the man to make those repairs. But at the same time she meets Wade, she also takes in Hailey and it immediately impacts her life. But while she is trying to adjust to having Hailey around, she also has to adjust to the Wade and his kids that are slowly making their way into her life and heart. BUT Valerie has been hiding a secret from everyone, most of all Wade. And given the family man he is, she knows that that secret could break up the friendship and possible future they all are starting to dream of!
This story is just so wonderful. I will say Valerie's cooking skills, and the way Wade admires her in the kitchen and around the kids will make you want to up for game a bit! LOL! She is always cooking, baking, kind, loving and beautiful... And he is so patient, handsome, loving, and just SO him that you totally understand WHY they are SO drawn to each other. Their sweet moments will have you totally binge reading this book!
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin from giving me this early copy of this book. The review is all my own opinion.
Valerie is the principal of a Christian school that is in need of repairs and Wade is the just the man to make those repairs. But at the same time she meets Wade, she also takes in Hailey and it immediately impacts her life. But while she is trying to adjust to having Hailey around, she also has to adjust to the Wade and his kids that are slowly making their way into her life and heart. BUT Valerie has been hiding a secret from everyone, most of all Wade. And given the family man he is, she knows that that secret could break up the friendship and possible future they all are starting to dream of!
This story is just so wonderful. I will say Valerie's cooking skills, and the way Wade admires her in the kitchen and around the kids will make you want to up for game a bit! LOL! She is always cooking, baking, kind, loving and beautiful... And he is so patient, handsome, loving, and just SO him that you totally understand WHY they are SO drawn to each other. Their sweet moments will have you totally binge reading this book!
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin from giving me this early copy of this book. The review is all my own opinion.
December 1, 2025
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but there were things in it that I struggled with. Valerie gets pregnant at the end of high school and her mother decides to raise the baby while Valerie goes to college. I get that.
At some point, the decision was made to not tell the child that Valerie is her mother, but two other believe Valerie is an older sister. I even get that. Although I don’t agree with it.
Now 10 years has passed and Valerie‘s mother shows up on her doorstep with her daughter. She’s dropping her off so that the mom can go to Arizona and marry the man of her dreams. She’s made this decision unilaterally and not even talked to Valerie about it which is problematic for me. I feel horrible for this child. There’s no way if this really happened she wouldn’t have abandonment issues.
Also over these 10 years, Valerie has only seen her daughter once a year. So they have no relationship.
Then Valerie keeps it a secret from everyone because the child doesn’t want anyone to know that Valerie is her mother. While , I understand being sensitive to the child’s needs, this dragged on too long and wasn’t realistic.
Along the way, Valerie connects with Wade who is a single dad to two children, including a daughter, the same age as hers. The girls become fast friends and as a result Wade and Valerie find themselves together often.
At some point, the decision was made to not tell the child that Valerie is her mother, but two other believe Valerie is an older sister. I even get that. Although I don’t agree with it.
Now 10 years has passed and Valerie‘s mother shows up on her doorstep with her daughter. She’s dropping her off so that the mom can go to Arizona and marry the man of her dreams. She’s made this decision unilaterally and not even talked to Valerie about it which is problematic for me. I feel horrible for this child. There’s no way if this really happened she wouldn’t have abandonment issues.
Also over these 10 years, Valerie has only seen her daughter once a year. So they have no relationship.
Then Valerie keeps it a secret from everyone because the child doesn’t want anyone to know that Valerie is her mother. While , I understand being sensitive to the child’s needs, this dragged on too long and wasn’t realistic.
Along the way, Valerie connects with Wade who is a single dad to two children, including a daughter, the same age as hers. The girls become fast friends and as a result Wade and Valerie find themselves together often.
September 14, 2024
This is a clean romance about Valerie Wilmington, who got pregnant in HS . She chose to have her mother raise the girl as her own so she could pursue her dreams.
Nowadays, Valerie is a principal at a Christian school.
When her mother surprises Valerie when she drops 10 year old Hailey at Valerie’s door so she can move away with her new husband, both Valerie and Hailey find themselves navigating a bumpy ride. Add to the mix Wade Griffin, a single dad with two adorable kids, and we know the ride will be complicated, as well as enlightening and new for everyone.
When a future might be in their cards, lies of omission might end the blooming relationship . Will they recover from the lies or will each give love a chance?
This was an entertaining as well as thought provoking story. What would one do if faced with an unexpected teen pregnancy? How would it affect the biological mother and the child if she left the child for someone else to raise?
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harleqiun. The opinions expressed are solely my ow.
Nowadays, Valerie is a principal at a Christian school.
When her mother surprises Valerie when she drops 10 year old Hailey at Valerie’s door so she can move away with her new husband, both Valerie and Hailey find themselves navigating a bumpy ride. Add to the mix Wade Griffin, a single dad with two adorable kids, and we know the ride will be complicated, as well as enlightening and new for everyone.
When a future might be in their cards, lies of omission might end the blooming relationship . Will they recover from the lies or will each give love a chance?
This was an entertaining as well as thought provoking story. What would one do if faced with an unexpected teen pregnancy? How would it affect the biological mother and the child if she left the child for someone else to raise?
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harleqiun. The opinions expressed are solely my ow.
August 29, 2024
First Impressions
When Valerie Wilmington gets a curveball thrown into her perfectly organized life, it has her completely frazzled. Because of that, Wade Griffin's first impression of her isn't the most positive. However, Valerie's first impression of Wade isn't the best either. As their families spend time together, new impressions and feelings replace the initial ones, creating a whole new dynamic in their relationship. All is good and well until another curveball gets thrown in. And that one will take every effort to turn things around.
Valerie and Wade's story is lovely which was further enhance by sweet touch that the children added to it. The characters, storyline, and end result are all believable, which adds so much to the story. It is definitely well worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
When Valerie Wilmington gets a curveball thrown into her perfectly organized life, it has her completely frazzled. Because of that, Wade Griffin's first impression of her isn't the most positive. However, Valerie's first impression of Wade isn't the best either. As their families spend time together, new impressions and feelings replace the initial ones, creating a whole new dynamic in their relationship. All is good and well until another curveball gets thrown in. And that one will take every effort to turn things around.
Valerie and Wade's story is lovely which was further enhance by sweet touch that the children added to it. The characters, storyline, and end result are all believable, which adds so much to the story. It is definitely well worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
October 8, 2024
I’ve read Gabrielle Meyers’ Timeless series and absolutely loved them, so I had high expectations for this book. I don’t think I was the right audience for this book, or maybe the “romance inspired” genre isn’t for me. The story started out a little stilted, and the writing felt so different from the Timeless series that I had to double check it was the same author. But the story picked up and the writing got smoother as the book went along. The characters were likable, if a bit underdeveloped, and the end tied up in a nice bow. I would recommend as a cozy, easy Christmas read to those who enjoy slightly cheesy, clean, instant-love type stories. I didn’t dislike it but I probably wouldn’t reread.
**I received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.**
**I received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.**
October 12, 2024
Having enjoyed several books from Gabrielle Meyer, I was happy to see this new release. This Christmas time story did not disappoint. The characters and their reactions and emotions regarding unforeseen circumstances seemed to be spot-on to me. The author has captured well how one might react when the past comes to the present. I loved the friendship between the daughters of the two main characters and their matchmaking attempts. Her Christmas Secret is a captivating story of family, friendships and faith. Readers who enjoy contemporary romance will want to put this on their to be read list. I read a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.
December 17, 2024
Her Christmas Secret by Gabrielle Meyer ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is different then her other books. So you might thick twice as you start reading, but dont. Continue reading till the end. You will be surprised, as I was, its a good story. Clean romance with just kissing.
Valerie had a baby at 18 and decided to let her mother raise the baby so she could go to college. When grandma falls in love and decides to get married and move across the country. No longer able to continue caring for child she drops her off with Valerie. They have not been in contact with for some time, so they are known to town as sisters. The secret Valerie has kept for many years. What will happen when everyone learns the truth?
This book is different then her other books. So you might thick twice as you start reading, but dont. Continue reading till the end. You will be surprised, as I was, its a good story. Clean romance with just kissing.
Valerie had a baby at 18 and decided to let her mother raise the baby so she could go to college. When grandma falls in love and decides to get married and move across the country. No longer able to continue caring for child she drops her off with Valerie. They have not been in contact with for some time, so they are known to town as sisters. The secret Valerie has kept for many years. What will happen when everyone learns the truth?
June 25, 2024
Valerie and Wade are both single parents with struggles and secrets. Family is important to both of them, and they both work hard to be the best parents they can be. But to honor her daughter Hailey's wishes, Valerie keeps her biggest secret from Wade. Read this book to find out the rest of the story!
I have loved all the other books I've read by Gabrielle Meyer so was interested in this as soon as I saw it. If you're looking for a sweet Christmas love story, Her Christmas Secret will sure fit the bill!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 24 September 2024
I have loved all the other books I've read by Gabrielle Meyer so was interested in this as soon as I saw it. If you're looking for a sweet Christmas love story, Her Christmas Secret will sure fit the bill!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 24 September 2024
August 23, 2024
I was able to read this book through NetGalley. Gabrielle Meyer’s new book Her Christmas Secret is set in a small Minnesota town along the Mississippi River. Valerie is the principal of the small Christian school. She lives with her dog Annabelle in a Victorian house. She has a secret that is about to come out. Wade is a contractor whose company is hired to repair the kindergarten classroom. He is a single dad with two kids who attend the school. Valerie and Wade draw closer has Christmas comes. Will Valerie’s harm this new friendship? This book was a great read. I love Gabrielle’s stories about small town life. I encourage you to buy this book.
September 15, 2024
Gabrielle is amazing at setting up a conflict-ridden premise, and she doesn’t disappoint in Her Christmas Secret. This story intrigued me from the start, making me feel sorry for Valerie as well as curious about her past. The relationship between Valerie and Hailee is strained from the start and the author does a great job showing the progression of trust between the two. But of course, this was truly a romance between Valerie and Wade. There was a great push pull between them for the entire book. Loved the read! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 10, 2024
This is a wonderful book! It is just right for the season but can be enjoyed any time of the year! Valerie is a highly organized, dependable school principal who has a secret. Wade is a contractor, who has a young daughter at that same school. Valerie's mother unexpectedly drops off Valerie's secret daughter, who becomes fast friends with Wade's daughter. Wade and Valerie work together, but can they allow the relationship to become more, especially in light of secrets being revealed? Will Valerie's daughter adjust to her new mother and living situation?
I very much enjoyed this book and appreciate the publishers in allowing me to read it!
I very much enjoyed this book and appreciate the publishers in allowing me to read it!
September 1, 2024
It felt refreshing to read a Christmas book in August and Gabrielle Meyer did not disappoint. A heartwarming story complete with kids and dogs, it was engaging from page one. Will Valerie’s secret destroy any type of relationship she plans on having with Wade? I enjoyed how the book focused on family and faith. Definitely a must read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired. It is scheduled to be released September 24, 2024. All words are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired. It is scheduled to be released September 24, 2024. All words are my own.
July 5, 2024
I love this sweet, heartwarming story of family, friendship, and faith set in fictional Timber Falls, Minnesota. Relatable characters who were easy to connect with and cheer for drive the story. It was fun reconnecting with some of the characters from previous books in the Timber Falls series. With an intriguing plot, a charming small-town setting, and sweet romance, this is a touching, enjoyable Christmas read which can be enjoyed any time of year, and I highly recommend it. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 26, 2024
#HerChristmasSecret #NetGalley
A Christmas book with secrets that have caused hurt in the past and present. Valerie is a school principal
with a daughter, no one knows about it. When Valerie's mom drops ten year old Hailey off at Valerie's house,
she announces that she is heading to Vegas to get married. Valerie's life is turned upside down, but she
realizes it is time to make some changes. Valerie soon realizes how hard it is to be a single parent.
A Christmas book with secrets that have caused hurt in the past and present. Valerie is a school principal
with a daughter, no one knows about it. When Valerie's mom drops ten year old Hailey off at Valerie's house,
she announces that she is heading to Vegas to get married. Valerie's life is turned upside down, but she
realizes it is time to make some changes. Valerie soon realizes how hard it is to be a single parent.
January 4, 2025
An amazing story of past mistakes made right and forgiveness. I can't imagine the hardships of being an 18 year old single mom, but I have also given this mother/daughter/granddaughter option to my children. The only difference is I would still be grandma to the baby. This is a stand alone book but if you have read any of her other titles that take place in Timber Falls, you will recognize some names. Loved this quick and fun read!!
August 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. I liked that the plot was different than most. Valerie's secret was one that was unusual and would be hard to guess.
And Wade was such an unlikely match but the perfect one for Valerie. There were so many sweet moments with them and their children all together. It was such a positive, heart warming story. I'm so glad I read it!
And Wade was such an unlikely match but the perfect one for Valerie. There were so many sweet moments with them and their children all together. It was such a positive, heart warming story. I'm so glad I read it!
September 26, 2024
Sweet but quick holiday story all about love, family, and second chances. This one was a little too instalove for my taste. I would have enjoyed more character development and build up first. Thank you Gabrielle Meyer, NetGalley, and Harlequin - Romance publishing for this advanced reader copy. Publication Date: September 24, 2024.
November 9, 2024
Love love and love this story!! We may never understand why certain things happen in our lives the way that they do, but we can know that God is always working everything out. And that Christmas is the greatest example possible, it's nothing that we have done ourselves, He gives us His love, hope, and peace freely.
July 3, 2024
Enjoyed the Christmas Hallmark vibes of this sweet romance by Gabrielle Meyer. Valerie and Wade had hard pasts but learned to trust in second chances. Seeing the two families become one was very sweet. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC, this is my honest review.
April 17, 2025
~3.5, I love Meyer's writing so I rounded up. There is nothing spectacular about this novel, but it was well written and a good story. So thankful for the healing power of Christ and the love and mercy He shows on us.
September 26, 2024
Another nice little story
October 1, 2024
I enjoyed the unique plot of this story. Sweet Christmas romance.
October 1, 2024
This was a very sweet story about family and second chances. The children were so energetic and really made the story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews