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Bella's Countryside Christmas
An uplifting festive romance perfect for fans of Hallmark Christmas movies and authors such as Phillipa Ashley, Trisha Ashley, Sue Moorcroft, Rebecca Raisin and Donna Ashcroft.
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2024
128 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Claire Huston
5 books158 followersClaire Huston lives in Warwickshire, UK. She writes uplifting modern love stories about characters who are meant for each other but sometimes need help figuring that out.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 28, 2024
4⭐
Genre ~ cozy Christmas fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ September 18, 2024
Series ~ Haileybrook Village
Est Page Count ~ 331 (48 chapters)
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ brief fake relationship, small town, no steamage
Author Note: This is a “sweet” or “closed door” romance
Bella (36) and Jack (40) meet when she pretends to be his girlfriend at his ex-girlfriend's wedding. They have a great night together, but then Bella has to leave for a family emergency. Since they don’t live in the same town it’s not likely they’ll see each other again…or is it?
Bella moves from London to the quaint small town of Haileybrook for a job at a retirement home. Surprisingly Jack started working there just recently. It doesn’t seem like it’s fate though when Jack isn't too thrilled to see her.
It’s festive, but it’s not overly Christmasy. No gift giving, just decorations, mince pies and gingerbread house making. Perhaps a mistletoe or two. I’d definitely put this in the category of a Hallmark style movie, even though I never watch them. There’s a small mystery to solve and a smidgen of romance. There are a good mix of lovable and crazy characters to keep it interesting. I’m happy to know some of them (the good ones) already have their own book, so I’ll have to be sure to check them out.
Overall, a quick, easy and descriptive read. While the romance is not the main focus of the story you can’t help but fall in love with both Bella and Jack and root for their happily ever after.
Side note ~ this is marketed as a cozy Christmas romance, but the romance is super light, so I’m going with just cozy Christmas fiction
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ cozy Christmas fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ September 18, 2024
Series ~ Haileybrook Village
Est Page Count ~ 331 (48 chapters)
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ brief fake relationship, small town, no steamage
Author Note: This is a “sweet” or “closed door” romance
Bella (36) and Jack (40) meet when she pretends to be his girlfriend at his ex-girlfriend's wedding. They have a great night together, but then Bella has to leave for a family emergency. Since they don’t live in the same town it’s not likely they’ll see each other again…or is it?
Bella moves from London to the quaint small town of Haileybrook for a job at a retirement home. Surprisingly Jack started working there just recently. It doesn’t seem like it’s fate though when Jack isn't too thrilled to see her.
It’s festive, but it’s not overly Christmasy. No gift giving, just decorations, mince pies and gingerbread house making. Perhaps a mistletoe or two. I’d definitely put this in the category of a Hallmark style movie, even though I never watch them. There’s a small mystery to solve and a smidgen of romance. There are a good mix of lovable and crazy characters to keep it interesting. I’m happy to know some of them (the good ones) already have their own book, so I’ll have to be sure to check them out.
Overall, a quick, easy and descriptive read. While the romance is not the main focus of the story you can’t help but fall in love with both Bella and Jack and root for their happily ever after.
Side note ~ this is marketed as a cozy Christmas romance, but the romance is super light, so I’m going with just cozy Christmas fiction
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
January 7, 2025
I found myself laughing out loud over and over again as I was reading BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS by Claire Huston. I couldn't help it. Some of the conversations were just so funny and they made me feel like I was right there in the retirement center with all of these wonderful characters. If you are looking for a funny holiday tale, you must read BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS! As secret comes out, there are tears and then laughter. A story that starts out with fake dating is always fun and throw Christmas in the mix, what more could a reader ask for? What a holiday to remember right?
Open up a copy of BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS and you will find yourself surrounded by a mix of people. Bella sneaks out of a boring work conference and finds herself in the church she was supposed to be getting married in. This is where she meets Jack and almost gets taken out by a big Christmas tree! BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS is filled with crazy drama, love, happiness, tears, and second chances. Bella winds up spending the day with Jack, helping his friend with her wedding dress, going to the wedding, and watching a group of kids from the wedding. This is not what Bella had planned! But we all know how plans go. She sneaks away from Jack at the end if the night, not even saying goodbye. She arrives back in the countryside, one year later and finds out that Jack is working at the exact same place as Bella! Oh yeah, here we go!!
In BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS, all of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with Bella and Summer. I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Claire Huston does that to me each and every time. She has me longing to find friends just like her characters. The storyline is sweet and plays out smoothly, with the minor characters adding depth and dimension. There are some lovable and some not so lovable characters that make the story interesting and engaging. There is so much heart in Claire's writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. Claire Huston is the queen of writing heartfelt stories about women and family drama. If you are looking for a quick, funny, feel good story, you can’t go wrong with BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
Open up a copy of BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS and you will find yourself surrounded by a mix of people. Bella sneaks out of a boring work conference and finds herself in the church she was supposed to be getting married in. This is where she meets Jack and almost gets taken out by a big Christmas tree! BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS is filled with crazy drama, love, happiness, tears, and second chances. Bella winds up spending the day with Jack, helping his friend with her wedding dress, going to the wedding, and watching a group of kids from the wedding. This is not what Bella had planned! But we all know how plans go. She sneaks away from Jack at the end if the night, not even saying goodbye. She arrives back in the countryside, one year later and finds out that Jack is working at the exact same place as Bella! Oh yeah, here we go!!
In BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS, all of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with Bella and Summer. I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Claire Huston does that to me each and every time. She has me longing to find friends just like her characters. The storyline is sweet and plays out smoothly, with the minor characters adding depth and dimension. There are some lovable and some not so lovable characters that make the story interesting and engaging. There is so much heart in Claire's writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. Claire Huston is the queen of writing heartfelt stories about women and family drama. If you are looking for a quick, funny, feel good story, you can’t go wrong with BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
August 26, 2024
I was attracted by the blurb for this book – Christmas and romance – what’s not to like. Unfortunately, I enjoyed it so much I continued reading ‘just one more chapter’ until 3am when I finished the book!
When Bella escapes from a very boring conference, she goes to have a look at the church she would have got married in – if her engagement hadn’t come to an abrupt end! Inside the church she meets Jack, has a dangerous encounter with a tree, and finds herself pretending to be Jack’s girlfriend – well she couldn’t leave him the subject of pity – and he was very cute! After a brief kiss at the end of the evening Bella has to run off to help out her sister (the only character in the book I didn’t like) and they lose touch. A year later Bella returns to the village and a new job. Imagine her surprise when Jack is also working there, but isn’t happy about her disappearing act. Can Bella get him back o side? And maybe more??
Whilst there are a few enemies to lovers type books around, this one is so well written, with such believable characters, and a few plot twists, it makes for a wonderful story. Definitely one to read on a cold wintery evening. I really enjoyed it.
When Bella escapes from a very boring conference, she goes to have a look at the church she would have got married in – if her engagement hadn’t come to an abrupt end! Inside the church she meets Jack, has a dangerous encounter with a tree, and finds herself pretending to be Jack’s girlfriend – well she couldn’t leave him the subject of pity – and he was very cute! After a brief kiss at the end of the evening Bella has to run off to help out her sister (the only character in the book I didn’t like) and they lose touch. A year later Bella returns to the village and a new job. Imagine her surprise when Jack is also working there, but isn’t happy about her disappearing act. Can Bella get him back o side? And maybe more??
Whilst there are a few enemies to lovers type books around, this one is so well written, with such believable characters, and a few plot twists, it makes for a wonderful story. Definitely one to read on a cold wintery evening. I really enjoyed it.
September 24, 2024
Do you know those Christmas movies where the main characters meet in the beginning.
And one of them helps the other out by being their fake date?
They feel like two pieces of a puzzle making it whole.
But one of them has to leave they don’t know each other’s names or have a number or way to contact each other.
Then a year later they meat again?
Well take that movie and make it a book with a bit more to the story with some fun twists amazing group of retired woman.
A straight forward always there for when the people she loves need her female main character? That’s Bella for you!
And Jack we love Jack he is adorable and the rest you can see for yourself when you read this book come Christmas because if you love the romcom Christmas movies and the get all the feels with chemistry you feel zinging while reading the book.
Then this is for you!!
I honestly loved it so much I could re read it almost immediately.
It didn’t feel like i was reading a book most of the time I just felt part of the story and if I was there watching it all unfold. So good was the writing to me.
Rating:
🩶🩶🩶🩶🩶/5
I can’t write the entire scene which made me laughing out loud.
But i can say this was my favourite part:
‘And I may have given them the impression that you’re basically the Shakespeare of the erotic text message. Hence why so many women are suddenly giving you their numbers.’
‘Come on Jack! You didn’t have “gaining a reputation as the wordsworth of dirty talk” on your wedding bingo card?’
‘Does that mean our fictional sexting involved mentions of daffodils?’
So if you think well know i need more context or want to know more of this story? Read this book!
And one of them helps the other out by being their fake date?
They feel like two pieces of a puzzle making it whole.
But one of them has to leave they don’t know each other’s names or have a number or way to contact each other.
Then a year later they meat again?
Well take that movie and make it a book with a bit more to the story with some fun twists amazing group of retired woman.
A straight forward always there for when the people she loves need her female main character? That’s Bella for you!
And Jack we love Jack he is adorable and the rest you can see for yourself when you read this book come Christmas because if you love the romcom Christmas movies and the get all the feels with chemistry you feel zinging while reading the book.
Then this is for you!!
I honestly loved it so much I could re read it almost immediately.
It didn’t feel like i was reading a book most of the time I just felt part of the story and if I was there watching it all unfold. So good was the writing to me.
Rating:
🩶🩶🩶🩶🩶/5
I can’t write the entire scene which made me laughing out loud.
But i can say this was my favourite part:
‘And I may have given them the impression that you’re basically the Shakespeare of the erotic text message. Hence why so many women are suddenly giving you their numbers.’
‘Come on Jack! You didn’t have “gaining a reputation as the wordsworth of dirty talk” on your wedding bingo card?’
‘Does that mean our fictional sexting involved mentions of daffodils?’
So if you think well know i need more context or want to know more of this story? Read this book!
October 4, 2024
BELLA'S COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTMAS is set in Haileybrook. To escape a boring conference, she fakes illness and goes to the church where she should have been married, if she hadn't called it off. While there, she saves a nativity scene from guaranteed disaster, as well as helping a cute man by pretending to be his date. After a better-than-expected day/evening and a moment of connection complete with a kiss, she disappears to help her younger sister, leaving Jack all alone. Fast forward a year (give or take) and Bella is returning to Haileybrook, this time to live and work.
This was such a great story! It is gentle, with no unnecessary angst or drama, with a healthy dose of mystery. Character-led with cameos from characters out of other books, this was a story I didn't want to end. The people here were funny and likeable, especially the ones from the home!
The flow of the story was smooth and left me wanting to continue reading, even when I got to the chapter breaks. It has Christmassy vibes but doesn't rule the whole story. A fantastic read and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 25, 2024
This was such a great story! It is gentle, with no unnecessary angst or drama, with a healthy dose of mystery. Character-led with cameos from characters out of other books, this was a story I didn't want to end. The people here were funny and likeable, especially the ones from the home!
The flow of the story was smooth and left me wanting to continue reading, even when I got to the chapter breaks. It has Christmassy vibes but doesn't rule the whole story. A fantastic read and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 25, 2024
September 22, 2024
I've found a new favourite book place in Haileybrook and so hope that my visit to Bella isn't the only chance I get to visit!
Bella's Countryside Christmas was such a cosy, festive read and for me, was a fantastic introduction to Huston's writing style. The characters were simply wonderful, warm and worthy.
Bella and Jack's story is a book of two halves with the first being their first meeting and the second centering on their next meeting.
The book was a joy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
Bella's Countryside Christmas was such a cosy, festive read and for me, was a fantastic introduction to Huston's writing style. The characters were simply wonderful, warm and worthy.
Bella and Jack's story is a book of two halves with the first being their first meeting and the second centering on their next meeting.
The book was a joy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
December 7, 2025
Short review to come.
September 28, 2024
This was a sweet enchanting book. I liked it alot. A great contemporary romance. The author's usually makes you feel like your right part of the scenery , and thrilled with the stories
September 30, 2024
Finished reading: September 29th 2024
"That was it. She needed a Sarah-Connor-style life makeover. Without the guns. That seemed excessive. She'd probably skip the chin-ups too."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
October 22, 2024
The Blurb :
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
My Thoughts :
We meet Bella, whilist attending a works function in the Cotswolds, she decides to visit the church nearby in the village of Haileybrook where she had planned to get married at, that was until her relationship ended with Ethan and he called the wedding off.
As fate would have it she has an encounter with a falling Christmas tree and a handsome man named Jack.
Bella learns he is there to attend the wedding of his ex girlfriend Ashley and his date hasnt turned up, Bella comes to the rescue and agrees to be his date for the duration under the alias Helen Snow.
After having the best time, Bella has to rush off to help her sister Summer and doesnt get the chance to say goodbye to Jack or even exchange phone numbers.
Fast forward a year and having had enough of her London life and job, Bella is back in Haileybrook taking a new job of the Finance Manager at the Brookfield Park retirement complex.
Little does Bella know but Jack (known as John) also works there as a handy/oddjob man.
When they set eyes on each other once again, Bella is met with a frosty welcome and Jack seems to hold a grudge over what happened 12 months ago.
As they set about working together and helping the community can Bella explain why she left and will Jack warm up to Bella and the reasons behind her sudden departure?!.
I thoroughly enjoyed this festive treat, Claire Huston had a way with the characters to make us fall in love with them. Both Bella and Jack were lovely people and they certainly deserved their second chance. The community on a whole added depth to the story and who couldnt fall in love with Haileybrook.
I liked the way the first part of the story told us how they met and then the second part brings us upto present day.
The story is full of festive treats, lots of snow and cosy nights in front of the fire under a blanket.
This is one book you wont want to put down.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
My Thoughts :
We meet Bella, whilist attending a works function in the Cotswolds, she decides to visit the church nearby in the village of Haileybrook where she had planned to get married at, that was until her relationship ended with Ethan and he called the wedding off.
As fate would have it she has an encounter with a falling Christmas tree and a handsome man named Jack.
Bella learns he is there to attend the wedding of his ex girlfriend Ashley and his date hasnt turned up, Bella comes to the rescue and agrees to be his date for the duration under the alias Helen Snow.
After having the best time, Bella has to rush off to help her sister Summer and doesnt get the chance to say goodbye to Jack or even exchange phone numbers.
Fast forward a year and having had enough of her London life and job, Bella is back in Haileybrook taking a new job of the Finance Manager at the Brookfield Park retirement complex.
Little does Bella know but Jack (known as John) also works there as a handy/oddjob man.
When they set eyes on each other once again, Bella is met with a frosty welcome and Jack seems to hold a grudge over what happened 12 months ago.
As they set about working together and helping the community can Bella explain why she left and will Jack warm up to Bella and the reasons behind her sudden departure?!.
I thoroughly enjoyed this festive treat, Claire Huston had a way with the characters to make us fall in love with them. Both Bella and Jack were lovely people and they certainly deserved their second chance. The community on a whole added depth to the story and who couldnt fall in love with Haileybrook.
I liked the way the first part of the story told us how they met and then the second part brings us upto present day.
The story is full of festive treats, lots of snow and cosy nights in front of the fire under a blanket.
This is one book you wont want to put down.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
December 18, 2024
Having read and reviewed previous books by Claire Huston I decided to get in the festive spirit with her new Christmas book, Bella’s Countryside Christmas. This is part of Claire’s Haileybrook series but you do not have to read any of her previous books to enjoy this one; it is the village of Haileybrook that is the common denominator rather that the characters. Like a Cinderella story, Bella meets Jack at a church just before Christmas. Always wanting to help others she agrees to pretend to be his girlfriend at a wedding, and there is a definite spark between them. But Bella has to leave quickly to deal with a family problem and for Jack there is no glass slipper to use to find her. When Bella moves to Haileybrook a year later she is surprised that Jack treats her frostly rather than with the warm festive spirit.
What I love about Claire Huston’s books is her wonderful characters. She draws them with warmth and care, capturing their individual personalities, their predilictions and making them personable. I have read Claire’s other books so had met Bella briefley in Clues to You. Bella has split from her fiance, and is looking for a change and having falling in love with Haileybrook takes a job there. Bella is a the kind of person who goes out of her way to help others even, like getting involved with the Christmas Fayre and letting her sister stay when she just turns up out of the blue. What I loved most about her was her straight taking with no filter, which she uses on Jack. Jack himself is the epitome of tall, dark and handsome, if at times he cuts his nose off to spite his face.
This is not an over the top festive read, it is simply set at the lead up to Christmas over two years. I really enjoyed the setting and the Christmas holidays with the village and it’s residents busy with the Christmas Fayre which in it’s own gives the plot a twist as money and jewellery is going missing. We see Bella, Jack and the ladies from the retirement home become sleuths, trying to find the culprit bring a cosy crime layer to the plot. There are some wonderful witty moments in the book, from falling christmas trees to Santa suits and a heist to find another tree, that made me smile.
Bella’s Countryside Christmas is a wonderful festive read. Bella and Jack make for a great romantic duo, and I enjoyed watching how their relationship developed. With the added sleuthing to find the thief, the build up to the Christmas Fayre and the lovely ladies from the retirement home there were plenty of laughs and surprises along the way. If you are looking for a romantic festive read with warm, humour and spirit then treat yourself to this book this Christmas.
What I love about Claire Huston’s books is her wonderful characters. She draws them with warmth and care, capturing their individual personalities, their predilictions and making them personable. I have read Claire’s other books so had met Bella briefley in Clues to You. Bella has split from her fiance, and is looking for a change and having falling in love with Haileybrook takes a job there. Bella is a the kind of person who goes out of her way to help others even, like getting involved with the Christmas Fayre and letting her sister stay when she just turns up out of the blue. What I loved most about her was her straight taking with no filter, which she uses on Jack. Jack himself is the epitome of tall, dark and handsome, if at times he cuts his nose off to spite his face.
This is not an over the top festive read, it is simply set at the lead up to Christmas over two years. I really enjoyed the setting and the Christmas holidays with the village and it’s residents busy with the Christmas Fayre which in it’s own gives the plot a twist as money and jewellery is going missing. We see Bella, Jack and the ladies from the retirement home become sleuths, trying to find the culprit bring a cosy crime layer to the plot. There are some wonderful witty moments in the book, from falling christmas trees to Santa suits and a heist to find another tree, that made me smile.
Bella’s Countryside Christmas is a wonderful festive read. Bella and Jack make for a great romantic duo, and I enjoyed watching how their relationship developed. With the added sleuthing to find the thief, the build up to the Christmas Fayre and the lovely ladies from the retirement home there were plenty of laughs and surprises along the way. If you are looking for a romantic festive read with warm, humour and spirit then treat yourself to this book this Christmas.
October 16, 2024
Bella’s Country Christmas is described as ’an uplifting festive romance perfect for fans of Hallmark Christmas movies and authors such as Phillipa Ashley, Trisha Ashley, Sue Moorcroft, Rebecca Raisin and Donna Ashcroft.’
Trying to escape an awful December corporate event in Haileybrook for a while, Bella sought refuge in the village’s festively decorated church where, unbeknownst to her, a wedding was about to take place. The church holds unhappy memories for Bella as her own wedding should have been held there, but it wasn’t to be.
'Bella sighed as she shuffled up the side isle towards the tree. It would have been quicker to stroll up the main isle, but she didn’t dare. Her treacherous imagination might place her dad at her side, his chest puffed out, the proud father of the bride. And worse, if her gaze landed on the space in front of the altar, she might see Ethan waiting there, his eyes brimming with tears of joy above a wide smile. A smile she would probably never see again. A thought which delivered yet another blow to her dented heart.'
A near mishap with the church’s Christmas tree brought Jack into her orbit and when Bella learned he’d been stood up by his plus-one, in a Bella-like gesture, she offered to stand in. Bella and Jack clicked almost immediately and a spark was ignited. Unfortunately for Bella, an unexpected phone call from her sister meant she had to leave without explanation, which put paid to what might have been.
Fast forward twelve months and Bella has left her stressful job as an accountant and returned to Haileybrook to take up a position at Brookfield Park, the local retirement community, and hopefully to find a slower, more peaceful pace of life. She was more than surprised to find Jack working there too under a different name and was mystified and hurt when she realised he wasn’t too eager to resume their friendship.
Bella’s Country Christmas is a delightful story with a lovely twosome in Bella and Jack as well as an engaging cast of well fleshed out characters. Bella’s longed for change of pace didn’t quite work out as she hoped, despite the cosy cottage she was renting, with plenty to keep her busy including family dynamics, a Christmas Fair to help organise, a mystery to solve, an overbearing colleague. All that as well as trying to sort out her personal life. The village and its inhabitants are brought to life extremely well and are a diverse mixture, just as you would imagine. A lovely, cosy winter romance.
Trying to escape an awful December corporate event in Haileybrook for a while, Bella sought refuge in the village’s festively decorated church where, unbeknownst to her, a wedding was about to take place. The church holds unhappy memories for Bella as her own wedding should have been held there, but it wasn’t to be.
'Bella sighed as she shuffled up the side isle towards the tree. It would have been quicker to stroll up the main isle, but she didn’t dare. Her treacherous imagination might place her dad at her side, his chest puffed out, the proud father of the bride. And worse, if her gaze landed on the space in front of the altar, she might see Ethan waiting there, his eyes brimming with tears of joy above a wide smile. A smile she would probably never see again. A thought which delivered yet another blow to her dented heart.'
A near mishap with the church’s Christmas tree brought Jack into her orbit and when Bella learned he’d been stood up by his plus-one, in a Bella-like gesture, she offered to stand in. Bella and Jack clicked almost immediately and a spark was ignited. Unfortunately for Bella, an unexpected phone call from her sister meant she had to leave without explanation, which put paid to what might have been.
Fast forward twelve months and Bella has left her stressful job as an accountant and returned to Haileybrook to take up a position at Brookfield Park, the local retirement community, and hopefully to find a slower, more peaceful pace of life. She was more than surprised to find Jack working there too under a different name and was mystified and hurt when she realised he wasn’t too eager to resume their friendship.
Bella’s Country Christmas is a delightful story with a lovely twosome in Bella and Jack as well as an engaging cast of well fleshed out characters. Bella’s longed for change of pace didn’t quite work out as she hoped, despite the cosy cottage she was renting, with plenty to keep her busy including family dynamics, a Christmas Fair to help organise, a mystery to solve, an overbearing colleague. All that as well as trying to sort out her personal life. The village and its inhabitants are brought to life extremely well and are a diverse mixture, just as you would imagine. A lovely, cosy winter romance.
August 27, 2024
As I have previously enjoyed books by this author, I did not hesitate to choose Bella’s Countryside Christmas. Not normally a fan of Christmas-themed books, it was a relief to discover that the whole story did not take place around that time, only the ending. Jack and Bella meet in St Stephen’s church in the Cotswolds village of Haileybrook, just before the wedding of his ex, and as he has been stood up by his plus-one Bella offers to take her place. It is a particular form of torture, which I have never experienced myself, to voluntarily attend the wedding of someone you once loved. Certain that he is not imagining the connection between them, Jack is left distraught with no way of contacting Bella after she just disappears into the night following a phone call from her flighty younger sister.
Almost one year later, Bella is back in Haileybrook to start a new job at the local retirement community, Brookfield Park, as Finance Manager, when she discovers that Jack is the recently appointed Estate Manager there. There is so much more to this story than the fledgling relationship between Bella and Jack. The village is a hive of activity as the residents of the retirement community organise their Christmas fair, and everyone is roped in in some capacity. When jewellery and cash start to go missing, the narrative takes on a Richard Osman-like cosy crime feel as they have to put their heads together to unmask the thief.
The world-building here is excellent, the characters well drawn and believable, and the ending brings everything to a very satisfying festive conclusion. Both Jack and Bella have problematic relationships with their families to work through, but ultimately make the decisions that are right for them. Until I read the acknowledgements, I had not made the connection that some of the minor characters had appeared in the author’s earlier books. I suppose this is not surprising when you consider how many books I get through. Bella’s Countryside Christmas is so much more than a romance novel, but there is enough interaction between the main characters for their romance to be believable. I really liked this heartwarming story, and look forward to the author’s next book. I read Bella’s Countryside Christmas as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team #RBRT
Almost one year later, Bella is back in Haileybrook to start a new job at the local retirement community, Brookfield Park, as Finance Manager, when she discovers that Jack is the recently appointed Estate Manager there. There is so much more to this story than the fledgling relationship between Bella and Jack. The village is a hive of activity as the residents of the retirement community organise their Christmas fair, and everyone is roped in in some capacity. When jewellery and cash start to go missing, the narrative takes on a Richard Osman-like cosy crime feel as they have to put their heads together to unmask the thief.
The world-building here is excellent, the characters well drawn and believable, and the ending brings everything to a very satisfying festive conclusion. Both Jack and Bella have problematic relationships with their families to work through, but ultimately make the decisions that are right for them. Until I read the acknowledgements, I had not made the connection that some of the minor characters had appeared in the author’s earlier books. I suppose this is not surprising when you consider how many books I get through. Bella’s Countryside Christmas is so much more than a romance novel, but there is enough interaction between the main characters for their romance to be believable. I really liked this heartwarming story, and look forward to the author’s next book. I read Bella’s Countryside Christmas as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team #RBRT
September 8, 2024
I rarely read romance but I really enjoyed this book which is much more than a romance novel. I enjoyed the character of Bella, a woman who is successful in her career in finance but it has not brought her happiness in life. As a fellow successful woman in finance, all of Bella's frustrations and miseries were highly relatable to me. I understood perfectly her enthusiasm for life in a small town she visited and met a pleasant and good looking man. Every time I go on holiday, I fall in love with the place I'm visiting and wish I could move their permanently away from my job and career. Of course, I'm not as brave as Bella so I've never actually done it like Bella did.
Bella attends a work conference situated at a venue near where she had planned to be married before her romance failed. She sneaks off to visit the church she'd chosen and meets a lovely man as a result of an accident with a Christmas tree. She plays hooky from her conference dinner and volunteers to attend a wedding taking place that evening at the church with the lovely man. His Plus One hasn't materialised and Bella wants to help him out of an uncomfortable situation as the bride is his ex-girlfriend.
The lovely man, called Jack, falls hard for Bella and she likes him too but before they can exchange phone numbers after a delightful evening, Bella is called away by her flighty sister who is always needing financial assistance. One year later, Bella goes back to this same small town, this time with a job and a new life lined up.
This story is really delightful. The characters are beautifully drawn and I was very drawn into their lives and loves. The story revolves around a retirement village which I also found different and interesting. I liked the involvement of characters who were older. There are a couple in interesting sub-plots in this tale that keep everything ticking over nicely as the romance progresses.
A wonderful read that I highly recommend.
Bella attends a work conference situated at a venue near where she had planned to be married before her romance failed. She sneaks off to visit the church she'd chosen and meets a lovely man as a result of an accident with a Christmas tree. She plays hooky from her conference dinner and volunteers to attend a wedding taking place that evening at the church with the lovely man. His Plus One hasn't materialised and Bella wants to help him out of an uncomfortable situation as the bride is his ex-girlfriend.
The lovely man, called Jack, falls hard for Bella and she likes him too but before they can exchange phone numbers after a delightful evening, Bella is called away by her flighty sister who is always needing financial assistance. One year later, Bella goes back to this same small town, this time with a job and a new life lined up.
This story is really delightful. The characters are beautifully drawn and I was very drawn into their lives and loves. The story revolves around a retirement village which I also found different and interesting. I liked the involvement of characters who were older. There are a couple in interesting sub-plots in this tale that keep everything ticking over nicely as the romance progresses.
A wonderful read that I highly recommend.
September 18, 2024
I have read and enjoyed Claire Huston's previous books and was quite eager to read Bella's Countryside Christmas. Bella is staying about an hour away from Haileybrook for a work conference. She doesn't want to be at the conference or with the people she works with, so drives to the small village of Haileybrook to visit the local church where she was supposed to get married, before her fiancé canceled the wedding. While there she meets a handsome stranger, Jack, and finds herself offering to pretend to be his date, Helen Snow. They hit it off, but Bella has to leave quickly for a family emergency, and ends up back at the dreaded job she hates. Fast forward a year and she is starting a new job, in Haileybrook at the local retirement home. She is looking for a quiet life and remembered how much she loved the village. What she doesn't expect is that she will be working with Jack. With lots going on in this story, including Christmas activities and catching a thief, this story captivated me from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed Bella's Countryside Christmas. The characters were all wonderful, from the residents of the retirement home to the owners of the wedding venue. We do meet some of Bella's and Jack's families and learn a bit about how they ended up the way they did. Bella and Jack were great together from their initial meet cute, working together, dealing with "emergencies" at the Christmas Fair and more. I loved their banter, they were always making each other smile. Of course after disappearing a year earlier, Jack was hesitant to spend time with Bella, but she eventually wears him down. There is a mystery dealing with missing money and jewelry, that added a bit more to the story, but I did figure that part out early in the story. I really enjoyed the Christmas festivities, the snowy weather and all the talk of mince pies. This was a great holiday romance that I definitely recommend.
I really enjoyed Bella's Countryside Christmas. The characters were all wonderful, from the residents of the retirement home to the owners of the wedding venue. We do meet some of Bella's and Jack's families and learn a bit about how they ended up the way they did. Bella and Jack were great together from their initial meet cute, working together, dealing with "emergencies" at the Christmas Fair and more. I loved their banter, they were always making each other smile. Of course after disappearing a year earlier, Jack was hesitant to spend time with Bella, but she eventually wears him down. There is a mystery dealing with missing money and jewelry, that added a bit more to the story, but I did figure that part out early in the story. I really enjoyed the Christmas festivities, the snowy weather and all the talk of mince pies. This was a great holiday romance that I definitely recommend.
September 2, 2024
When Bella and Jack meet rescuing a Christmas crib together, actually he is in the area for his friend's Ashley's wedding, only trouble here is that Ashley is his ex ( and a bit of a bridezilla), Bella is actually supposed to be at a work conference, so after calming the bride down and being mistaken for Jack's new girlfriend Bella finds herself going along with the story and attending the wedding as his girlfriend. What could possibly go wrong? Especially when almost all the other females there seem to have eyes for Jack!
Jumping forward to one year later and Bella is just moving into the village of Haileybrook and has a job all lined up at Brookfield Park, a retiree home. Almost immediately after starting work there, she is asked to help with the upcoming Christmas fair, both with the organising and helping to run it. She is surprised when she finds Jack also works there, but the committee ladies said his name was John! What is going on? As Christmas approaches and Christmas parties and fairs take place, will it mean that Bella and Jack are bound to meet up? When so-called disasters call for their help, will they be able to locate a big enough tree to make a big impression on the ladies organising the fair. And with Summer (Bella's sister) in the picture, is she a help or hindrance?
It's a cosy Christmas story with a lovely location and likeable characters (and some annoying ones, too!). Reading it is like cuddling up with a big mug of hot chocolate (just like Bella loves) while reading about love, friendship, and Christmas.
A christmassy four star read from me.
Jumping forward to one year later and Bella is just moving into the village of Haileybrook and has a job all lined up at Brookfield Park, a retiree home. Almost immediately after starting work there, she is asked to help with the upcoming Christmas fair, both with the organising and helping to run it. She is surprised when she finds Jack also works there, but the committee ladies said his name was John! What is going on? As Christmas approaches and Christmas parties and fairs take place, will it mean that Bella and Jack are bound to meet up? When so-called disasters call for their help, will they be able to locate a big enough tree to make a big impression on the ladies organising the fair. And with Summer (Bella's sister) in the picture, is she a help or hindrance?
It's a cosy Christmas story with a lovely location and likeable characters (and some annoying ones, too!). Reading it is like cuddling up with a big mug of hot chocolate (just like Bella loves) while reading about love, friendship, and Christmas.
A christmassy four star read from me.
September 18, 2024
Given that its only just September and my family {namely my mam} know not to mention the 'C' word to me until at least after Halloween, for me there's always the worry that reading a 'Christmas' novel might feel a little, well, a little odd BUT given that the nights' are already drawing in {and my hottie bottie, Felicity speak for a hot water bottle, has already put in an appearance} reading this was akin to being cuddled wrapped in my favourite blanket.
A surprisingly enjoyable read; sweet but not so sweet as to be saccharine sickly sweet, PLUS with money and jewellery going missing from Brookfield Park, the retirement village where Bella works, there is also a cozy-crime element which added an equally enjoyable dimension to the story.
Wonderful, memorable characters that I'd love to see more of in future books. Bella's the type of person I'd like as a friend and as for Jack, what can I say about Jack? Hmm! Ideal boyfriend material??? And as for the 'old folk' of the retirement village, they add a wonderfully humorous element to the story.
All in all, if you are looking for a charming festive story to read this winter you could do a lot worse than to pick up a copy of Bella's Countryside Christmas.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Blog Tour of this book, agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own; no financial compensation was asked for nor given; threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
A surprisingly enjoyable read; sweet but not so sweet as to be saccharine sickly sweet, PLUS with money and jewellery going missing from Brookfield Park, the retirement village where Bella works, there is also a cozy-crime element which added an equally enjoyable dimension to the story.
Wonderful, memorable characters that I'd love to see more of in future books. Bella's the type of person I'd like as a friend and as for Jack, what can I say about Jack? Hmm! Ideal boyfriend material??? And as for the 'old folk' of the retirement village, they add a wonderfully humorous element to the story.
All in all, if you are looking for a charming festive story to read this winter you could do a lot worse than to pick up a copy of Bella's Countryside Christmas.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Blog Tour of this book, agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own; no financial compensation was asked for nor given; threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
September 25, 2024
In the next romance released by Claire Huston the story takes us to Haileybrook, an English village, at two consecutive Christmases. Escaping a horrendous corporate event, Bella explores a wedding venue where she ends up helping the best man, Jack, deal with problems including entertaining a bored group of children. Once everything is going well Bella and Jack begin to become better acquainted but an emergency call from Bella’s needy sister, Summer, causes her to leave suddenly, in the middle of a snowstorm.
We move to the following December when accountant, Bella has given up her successful job in London to take up a post in charge of the finances of a residential estate for Seniors. This job is in the same village she had briefly visited a year ago so she has high hopes for a less stressful life but at first, she finds some of her new colleagues are unexpectedly awkward and some of the residents are very demanding. Gradually she settles happily in her cottage even when her sister turns up unexpectedly and she deals very efficiently with mysterious thefts. The fact that she now finds herself working with Jack, whom she had warmed to the previous year, should have been a bonus but unfortunately he spends his time avoiding her.
I always enjoy reading Claire Huston’s romances, but this one is particularly enjoyable as it deals with complex family relationships as well as providing a very satisfactory conclusion. It will certainly put you into the mood for Christmas cheer.
We move to the following December when accountant, Bella has given up her successful job in London to take up a post in charge of the finances of a residential estate for Seniors. This job is in the same village she had briefly visited a year ago so she has high hopes for a less stressful life but at first, she finds some of her new colleagues are unexpectedly awkward and some of the residents are very demanding. Gradually she settles happily in her cottage even when her sister turns up unexpectedly and she deals very efficiently with mysterious thefts. The fact that she now finds herself working with Jack, whom she had warmed to the previous year, should have been a bonus but unfortunately he spends his time avoiding her.
I always enjoy reading Claire Huston’s romances, but this one is particularly enjoyable as it deals with complex family relationships as well as providing a very satisfactory conclusion. It will certainly put you into the mood for Christmas cheer.
September 25, 2024
An enjoyable and engaging festive romance just right for curling up with on a cold winters evening by the fire. This heartwarming story kept me happily turning the pages. Whilst running away from her awful job and recent heartache, Bella finds herself at a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook. Getting swept up in the festive spirit she agrees to act as a ‘fake date’ to a very handsome stranger called Jack. Jack and Bella’s connection was instant and they had a magical evening together, but then Bella had to leave in a hurry. Returning to Haileybrook a year later Bella is seeking a fresh start.
Looking forward to a quitter life with a cosy cottage and a new job close by Bella is preparing for a peaceful Christmas. However, she can’t help but wonder if Jack also has fond memories of their time together. Along with surprises by her family and small-town feuds Bella may not have the quiet Christmas she wanted after all. Especially when romantic dramas also disrupt Bella’s plans and force her to wonder if she really does want to be alone at Christmas.
I love the likeable and relatable characters, Bella and Jack and their chemistry came across in the narrative. The setting of Haileybrook came vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the story. The festive feel to this sweet romance left me feeling uplifted and with a smile!
Looking forward to a quitter life with a cosy cottage and a new job close by Bella is preparing for a peaceful Christmas. However, she can’t help but wonder if Jack also has fond memories of their time together. Along with surprises by her family and small-town feuds Bella may not have the quiet Christmas she wanted after all. Especially when romantic dramas also disrupt Bella’s plans and force her to wonder if she really does want to be alone at Christmas.
I love the likeable and relatable characters, Bella and Jack and their chemistry came across in the narrative. The setting of Haileybrook came vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the story. The festive feel to this sweet romance left me feeling uplifted and with a smile!
September 14, 2024
There is no magical formula for writing a romantic comedy, but if there were, this could be used as a template. The premise simply works, and the way everything comes together is perfect! Anyway, I’m supposed to be writing a review, not simply praising the author.
Broken-hearted Bella is unhappy in her role with a large accountancy firm and sneaks off during a corporate event in the run-up to Christmas. As the synopsis explains, she meets Jack and finds herself posing as his plus one at a wedding. From their initial meeting, there is an evident chemistry between Jack and Bella, but she lives in London, and he’s in the Cotswolds, so there’s no future for them.
Bella is an absolute treat of a character, and I definitely want a friend like her. Yes, she’s a trifle ditsy, but in an endearing way, her ditziness is far outweighed by her beautiful heart. She’s determined to make life better for everyone that she encounters, even those who are less than kind to her. Bella’s diminutive stature and playful nature mean she’s well-suited to helping with the kids at the wedding, leading to a few memorable moments with Jack.
Once Bella returned to Haileybrook and started working at the retirement village, the addition of the senior characters introduced a welcome dimension and some real comedic moments. This is an ensemble piece, and I enjoyed the variety of ages represented by the residents. While I am not even a vague fan of so-called cosy crime, I managed to take the mysterious thefts in my stride and didn’t find the references off-putting.
If you are looking for a well-executed Christmas book with a light dash of cosy crime and a generous helping of romantic comedy, look no further than Bella’s Countryside Christmas; it’s charming.
Broken-hearted Bella is unhappy in her role with a large accountancy firm and sneaks off during a corporate event in the run-up to Christmas. As the synopsis explains, she meets Jack and finds herself posing as his plus one at a wedding. From their initial meeting, there is an evident chemistry between Jack and Bella, but she lives in London, and he’s in the Cotswolds, so there’s no future for them.
Bella is an absolute treat of a character, and I definitely want a friend like her. Yes, she’s a trifle ditsy, but in an endearing way, her ditziness is far outweighed by her beautiful heart. She’s determined to make life better for everyone that she encounters, even those who are less than kind to her. Bella’s diminutive stature and playful nature mean she’s well-suited to helping with the kids at the wedding, leading to a few memorable moments with Jack.
Once Bella returned to Haileybrook and started working at the retirement village, the addition of the senior characters introduced a welcome dimension and some real comedic moments. This is an ensemble piece, and I enjoyed the variety of ages represented by the residents. While I am not even a vague fan of so-called cosy crime, I managed to take the mysterious thefts in my stride and didn’t find the references off-putting.
If you are looking for a well-executed Christmas book with a light dash of cosy crime and a generous helping of romantic comedy, look no further than Bella’s Countryside Christmas; it’s charming.
December 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this – perfect for a Christmas read. It’s great fun with just enough intrigue to lift it from a simple romcom into something more interesting, with some lovely characters to root for.
If I ever have to move into a retirement home, I’d love to live in the place where Bella works, but let’s get back to the beginning. Bella is escaping a failed relationship and a conference dinner with the company she works for. She hates her job and needs to get away for a bit. While hiding in the church in the pretty village of Haileybrook in the Cotswolds, she has an unfortunate encounter with a Christmas tree, followed by an embarrassing rescue by the handsome Jack. This results in her posing as his plus one and all seems fun and lighthearted. And maybe a bit romantic as well.
But when she has to rush off, it looks like Jack is just a distant memory. Until she returns to Haileybrook to take up a new position as finance manager at the retirement home.
We meet lots of new people in Bella’s Countryside Christmas plus a few from Claire’s other books like Elle, Kate and Lucinda. I particularly love the retirement home’s committee, or as I call them The Ladies with Lavender (see what I did there) and Iris, Wendy and co.
Another great story from Claire – probably my favourite though I said that last time! Many thanks to the author for an ARC.
If I ever have to move into a retirement home, I’d love to live in the place where Bella works, but let’s get back to the beginning. Bella is escaping a failed relationship and a conference dinner with the company she works for. She hates her job and needs to get away for a bit. While hiding in the church in the pretty village of Haileybrook in the Cotswolds, she has an unfortunate encounter with a Christmas tree, followed by an embarrassing rescue by the handsome Jack. This results in her posing as his plus one and all seems fun and lighthearted. And maybe a bit romantic as well.
But when she has to rush off, it looks like Jack is just a distant memory. Until she returns to Haileybrook to take up a new position as finance manager at the retirement home.
We meet lots of new people in Bella’s Countryside Christmas plus a few from Claire’s other books like Elle, Kate and Lucinda. I particularly love the retirement home’s committee, or as I call them The Ladies with Lavender (see what I did there) and Iris, Wendy and co.
Another great story from Claire – probably my favourite though I said that last time! Many thanks to the author for an ARC.
August 27, 2024
What a great read with a wonderful storyline.
We first meet Bella in a church, shortly before she becomes entangled in a Christmas Tree. Her hero in rescuing her is Jack. Very quickly he becomes someone she decides to help out by becoming his fake plus one at the wedding about to take place in the church.
A year later Bella moves to the same village she met Jack in. Except he's a bit frosty to her this time around. Bella has more than enough to keep her occupied though. She needs to settle into village life after her demanding London career and adjust to her new job at a retirement complex.
So many lovely characters in this book, as well as revisiting some of the ones we met in Claire's earlier books. This is a totally standalone novel though. I really liked the main character Bella, she was straight talking and just got on with everything, whilst being a nice person. Sometimes her internal voice was not in her best interest and I longed for her to see her way through what was happening.
Reflecting on the story, such a lot happens but in a very natural way. Each time I put the book down I couldn't wait to get back to it. It was like a little warm hug when you entered the pages.
We first meet Bella in a church, shortly before she becomes entangled in a Christmas Tree. Her hero in rescuing her is Jack. Very quickly he becomes someone she decides to help out by becoming his fake plus one at the wedding about to take place in the church.
A year later Bella moves to the same village she met Jack in. Except he's a bit frosty to her this time around. Bella has more than enough to keep her occupied though. She needs to settle into village life after her demanding London career and adjust to her new job at a retirement complex.
So many lovely characters in this book, as well as revisiting some of the ones we met in Claire's earlier books. This is a totally standalone novel though. I really liked the main character Bella, she was straight talking and just got on with everything, whilst being a nice person. Sometimes her internal voice was not in her best interest and I longed for her to see her way through what was happening.
Reflecting on the story, such a lot happens but in a very natural way. Each time I put the book down I couldn't wait to get back to it. It was like a little warm hug when you entered the pages.
September 20, 2024
An absolutely delightful Christmas read, I loved how festive this made me feel. The end of August and September has definitely been a very festive few reading weeks and with the weather mostly here in the UK it hasn’t largely felt unseasonally early for once !
I adored Bella, I connected with her so much and was willing her on throughout, hoping she’d get her HEA which she deserved (no spoilers here you have to read , but we all know we will get a happy ending) the banter between Bella and Jack was lovely and I enjoyed them working through their own family issues as well as misunderstandings.
I really do appreciate and love a great community in my books and Bella’s Countryside Christmas had such a heartwarming community and such a great cast of characters, you can’t help feel at home. I loved the humour of all the folk at the retirement home they were such legends.
If you’re after a Christmas story with romance, but much more than that, with Community, drama, a wonderful engaging story, then Bella’s Countryside Christmas will tick all the boxes and wrap a pretty festive ribbon on top.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2024
Bella's Countryside Christmas by Claire Huston
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
My Opinion
I took part in the cover reveal for this book and from seeing the cover I knew that this was a book I really wanted to read. Bella escapes from a work event and visits the wedding venue she was supposed to be getting married at before her big day was called off.
I thought that this was a well-written book and is going to make for a great addition to your festive reading list.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.
Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.
A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.
But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …
My Opinion
I took part in the cover reveal for this book and from seeing the cover I knew that this was a book I really wanted to read. Bella escapes from a work event and visits the wedding venue she was supposed to be getting married at before her big day was called off.
I thought that this was a well-written book and is going to make for a great addition to your festive reading list.
Rating 4/5
September 23, 2024
I love Christmas books and this one definitely ticked all the boxes, offering a small town Hallmark feel, that kept me turning the pages.
The setting of the book within the small village sounded so picturesque and I could almost imagine myself curled up on the couch within the quaint cottages. I really liked the retirement village aspect of the book and this added more depth to the story.
The characters within the book were so well written and it was easy to become invested within their goings on. I really liked the slow burn romance between Bella & Jack (who was just perfect 😍) and you could feel the sexual tension between them, but the romance progressed at a good rate and I loved the ending for them. There were so many side characters who definitely added to the story and I really did love them all.
The storyline of the book was so good and I liked how there were also some sub storylines occurring as well, especially within the retirement village and these offered some twists along the way. Who knew they could get up to so much trouble!
This was a perfect Christmas read, offering romance, family drama and laughs along the way. This was my first time reading one of Claire's books and her writing style has definitely drawn me in and I can't wait to read more.
The setting of the book within the small village sounded so picturesque and I could almost imagine myself curled up on the couch within the quaint cottages. I really liked the retirement village aspect of the book and this added more depth to the story.
The characters within the book were so well written and it was easy to become invested within their goings on. I really liked the slow burn romance between Bella & Jack (who was just perfect 😍) and you could feel the sexual tension between them, but the romance progressed at a good rate and I loved the ending for them. There were so many side characters who definitely added to the story and I really did love them all.
The storyline of the book was so good and I liked how there were also some sub storylines occurring as well, especially within the retirement village and these offered some twists along the way. Who knew they could get up to so much trouble!
This was a perfect Christmas read, offering romance, family drama and laughs along the way. This was my first time reading one of Claire's books and her writing style has definitely drawn me in and I can't wait to read more.
September 24, 2024
Thank you to @rachelsrandomresources for inviting us onto this book tour.
This was a lovely Christmas read. Bella arrives at a church that she should be getting married in a few days time but with no Fiance and trying to escape a horrid work conference she some how meets Jack and his friend and ex the bride and gets roped into being his plus one. She has a fantastic time and one year later she has left the hustle and bustle of London and her job she hated and returned to the little town that stole her heart with a new place to live and a new job what she doesn't expect is to run into Jack or John as he's known. Can they restart getting to know each other again or should she just keep her head down and concentrate on her new job and life.
This is such a magical book and after losing her ex Fiance having to always bale her younger sister summer out of trouble. Can she finally settle into a relaxing life. Its a lovely Christmas story plus the mystery of the missing money and belongings from the retirement center where she works to deal with. This was such a good Christmas feel good book and with a lovely bunch of old ladies thrown in for good measure a very easy read. Get that hot chocolate on and settle down to enjoy.
This was a lovely Christmas read. Bella arrives at a church that she should be getting married in a few days time but with no Fiance and trying to escape a horrid work conference she some how meets Jack and his friend and ex the bride and gets roped into being his plus one. She has a fantastic time and one year later she has left the hustle and bustle of London and her job she hated and returned to the little town that stole her heart with a new place to live and a new job what she doesn't expect is to run into Jack or John as he's known. Can they restart getting to know each other again or should she just keep her head down and concentrate on her new job and life.
This is such a magical book and after losing her ex Fiance having to always bale her younger sister summer out of trouble. Can she finally settle into a relaxing life. Its a lovely Christmas story plus the mystery of the missing money and belongings from the retirement center where she works to deal with. This was such a good Christmas feel good book and with a lovely bunch of old ladies thrown in for good measure a very easy read. Get that hot chocolate on and settle down to enjoy.
September 4, 2024
What a truly lovely story, I absolutely fell in love with Haileybrook, Jack and Bella from their first meeting.
After all it's not every day you agree to be a fake date at a wedding to help a man you have literally just met, while trying to ignore the fact you probably should be at a work conference - but that is exactly what happened to Bella.
And I loved their dynamic from the start, and some of what Bella did was so so amusing.
And then once we move onto the main part of the book set a year later, the book gets even better. I just loved every second of this story.
It's enjoyable, it's definitely festive with the Christmas fair, there are fabulous characters in the retirement home that Bella is now working in, and there is even a minor mystery to be solved. So much going on, never a dull moment and totally fabulous book.
This can easily be read as a standalone and I will definitely be keen to read more from this author in the future.
Thank you the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 4, 2024
Everyone loves an endearing romcom and the only thing better than that, is a Christmas romcom, set in the snow with lots of festive love and cheer. “Bella’s Countryside Christmas” fits this bill perfectly, with a satisfying conclusion and a feel good factor throughout to make you smile.
With a ‘Henry Cahill-esque’ main man and a feisty girl next door, this makes the perfect main cast for this lovely ‘will they, won’t they’ story and there are plenty of unique characters for everyone to enjoy reading about. The eccentric retirement home ladies, work tirelessly to raise money for charity and Bella’s adorable sister is the anchor she needs in her life for stability.
I also liked the nod to the author’s other series ‘Love in the Compton’s’ and I enjoyed the way the petty crime that was being committed during the story, was revealed at the end with a Poirot type scene, proving the culprit without a doubt.
I’ve read a Claire Huston novel before and truly loved it, so I knew a Christmas themed romance would be the Yuletide icing on the cake. Everyone loves a reading escape - this was mine - and I will be recommending this splendid book and talented author to my friends and fellow readers this Christmas time.
#BellasCountrysideChristmas - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With a ‘Henry Cahill-esque’ main man and a feisty girl next door, this makes the perfect main cast for this lovely ‘will they, won’t they’ story and there are plenty of unique characters for everyone to enjoy reading about. The eccentric retirement home ladies, work tirelessly to raise money for charity and Bella’s adorable sister is the anchor she needs in her life for stability.
I also liked the nod to the author’s other series ‘Love in the Compton’s’ and I enjoyed the way the petty crime that was being committed during the story, was revealed at the end with a Poirot type scene, proving the culprit without a doubt.
I’ve read a Claire Huston novel before and truly loved it, so I knew a Christmas themed romance would be the Yuletide icing on the cake. Everyone loves a reading escape - this was mine - and I will be recommending this splendid book and talented author to my friends and fellow readers this Christmas time.
#BellasCountrysideChristmas - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 18, 2024
Escaping from a conference that’s only confirming that she might be in the wrong job, Bella visits the church in Haileybrook where her marriage would have taken place if everything hadn’t gone so badly wrong – only to find another wedding about to take place, a bride needing help with her dress, and Jack badly in need of a plus one for the celebrations. He’s going to find the day especially difficult, and she’s more than happy to step in – and help the organisers too when some of the smaller guests get a little out of hand. Bella and Jack really hit it off, there’s an unforgettable kiss… and then she disappears into the night, without saying goodbye, needing to deal with a family emergency.
Their time together might just have been a lovely memory – until she decides to leave the job she hated and return to the Cotswolds, using her accountancy skills while working at Haileybrook’s retirement home, only to find that Jack also works there as a jack-of-all trades, much loved by all the residents. But he’s not particularly welcoming to Bella, still hurt by her abrupt departure – and they need to get to know and trust each other again before there’s any possibility of them having any kind of future together.
Bella herself is so lovely, playful and fun and so endearing, along with a heart of pure gold – and the sizzle of attraction between her and the lovely Jack gave me a fair bit of confidence that they’d get past their falling out. Those family issues haven’t gone away though, they’ve just come a little closer to home, adding additional complication to Bella’s life.
The book has a fantastic supporting cast – the local community, the residents at the home – with every character so beautifully drawn. And it’s almost Christmas, with a village fair to be organised, and all the shenanigans you might expect when individuals try to assert themselves as the ones in charge – and with a heavy snowfall and all the tinsel and sparkling lights I could possibly have asked for. And then, there’s a bit of a cosy mystery too – with accusations flying around, and some advice needed from the “experts” we met in the last book on how to unmask the perpetrator. Beautifully written, with a few emotional moments (and some unexpected twists and turns too), but also plenty of well-judged humour – and the romance at the book’s centre was absolutely everything I wanted it to be.
This was such an enjoyable read, and one I’d encourage everyone to add to their Christmas reading list – totally delightful!
Their time together might just have been a lovely memory – until she decides to leave the job she hated and return to the Cotswolds, using her accountancy skills while working at Haileybrook’s retirement home, only to find that Jack also works there as a jack-of-all trades, much loved by all the residents. But he’s not particularly welcoming to Bella, still hurt by her abrupt departure – and they need to get to know and trust each other again before there’s any possibility of them having any kind of future together.
Bella herself is so lovely, playful and fun and so endearing, along with a heart of pure gold – and the sizzle of attraction between her and the lovely Jack gave me a fair bit of confidence that they’d get past their falling out. Those family issues haven’t gone away though, they’ve just come a little closer to home, adding additional complication to Bella’s life.
The book has a fantastic supporting cast – the local community, the residents at the home – with every character so beautifully drawn. And it’s almost Christmas, with a village fair to be organised, and all the shenanigans you might expect when individuals try to assert themselves as the ones in charge – and with a heavy snowfall and all the tinsel and sparkling lights I could possibly have asked for. And then, there’s a bit of a cosy mystery too – with accusations flying around, and some advice needed from the “experts” we met in the last book on how to unmask the perpetrator. Beautifully written, with a few emotional moments (and some unexpected twists and turns too), but also plenty of well-judged humour – and the romance at the book’s centre was absolutely everything I wanted it to be.
This was such an enjoyable read, and one I’d encourage everyone to add to their Christmas reading list – totally delightful!
September 13, 2024
This festive romance feels like a story in two parts. There is the part where Bella first meets Jack and then their reunion a year later. Bella is re-evaluating what she wants from her career and is dissatisfied with her life in a high powered firm. Her decision to relocate confuses some in her family but she is quite sure that she needs a change.
There are plenty of new friends to make in Haileybrook of all ages and those friendships bring with them some funny moments but also a mystery which threatens Bella's new found happiness. This slow burn romance has many festive touches. Bella turns out to be an extremely loyal friend who is determined to see that a wrong is put right. If you are looking for a light read with festive details, romance, friendships and humour, this is the book for you this winter.
In short: second chances
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
There are plenty of new friends to make in Haileybrook of all ages and those friendships bring with them some funny moments but also a mystery which threatens Bella's new found happiness. This slow burn romance has many festive touches. Bella turns out to be an extremely loyal friend who is determined to see that a wrong is put right. If you are looking for a light read with festive details, romance, friendships and humour, this is the book for you this winter.
In short: second chances
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
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